Systems

Wet System

Wet sprinkler systems are the most common type of fire protection. Applications for wet systems typically include medical offices, dormitories, and distribution warehouses. In a wet sprinkler system, the entire system is filled with water. In the event of a fire, each individual head that reaches a specified temperature activates and flows water to contain the fire.

Dry System

Dry sprinkler systems are almost as common as wet systems and can be integrated within the same building which is connected to a wet system. These systems utilize compressed air inside the piping system to “hold back” the water until it’s needed upon activation. These systems are used in attic areas, the parking garage, or anywhere fire protection is needed and the potential for freezing temperatures exists. Again, in the event of a fire, each individual head that reaches a specified temperature activates. The air is evacuated and allows water to flow through the head and contain the fire. Rowe only uses superior products and takes pride in superior methods of installation in these situations to eliminate any concerns associated with dry systems.

Pre-Action System

The pre-action system is a variation of a dry sprinkler system and is used in an area where water is required more immediately than with a dry system.  The piping is filled with compressed air to “hold back” the water. However, the valve holding back the water can also be actuated by a signal. Electronic sensors throughout the building can send a signal to the valve and release water in the event of a fire. Therefore, water is waiting at every head immediately upon activation. 

Deluge System

A deluge system is another variation of the dry sprinkler system. No water is contained in the sprinkler piping but there is no compressed air. A valve, which is activated by electronic sensors, “holds back” the water. All of the heads are open and upon actuation of the valve, all sprinkler heads flow water regardless of the fire location. 

Antifreeze System

Antifreeze systems are a specific application system that is combined with a wet system. Anywhere a wet system is located in an unheated environment, water may freeze and pipes can burst.  Anti-freeze is added to the water in these areas and the systems are segregated to prevent freezing. These systems can be found in covered porch entrances at the doctor’s office or hotel, the loading dock in the back of your grocery store, or an area inside a wet system building where there could be a potential freeze. Typically, these systems are used where freezing is an issue and you do not want the additional cost of a dry system.  Rowe will guide you in the search to find the best options to suit your fire protection needs.

Foam System

This type of fire suppression system delivers a chemically based foam onto a fire to separate the fuel from the air. The foam consists of a foam concentrate, water, and air (bubbles). These systems are specifically applicable in areas where flammable liquids are present. Typical installations are found in aircraft hangers, petrochemical industrial environments, and offshore/marine facilities.