- Author
- Custer, R. L. P.
- Title
- Detector Actuated Automatic Sprinkler System: A Preliminary Evaluation. Final Report. January-February 1974
- Coporate
- National Bureau of Standards, Gaithersburg, MD
- Report
- NBS TN 836, July 1974, 27 p.
- Distribution
- Available from Government Printing Office Available from National Technical Information Service
- Keywords
- bedding | detectors | fire safety | sprinkler systems | automatic sprinkler systems
- Abstract
- An investigation was conducted to evaluate the capabilities of a detector actuated automatic sprinkler system to protect individuals who are intimately associated with the first materials ignited such as bedding materials. Tests were conducted in a simulated nursing home bedroom. Systems response was evaluated for both smoldering and open flaming ignition sources. It was determined that barring electrical or mechanical failure the system could be nearly 100 percent effective with smoldering fires. The effectiveness with open flaming fires was difficult to evaluate. Although these fires were extinguished with minimum damage in times as short as 36 seconds the possible effects of flammable blankets and sleepwear were not tested. It was estimated that perhaps one third of the potential victims of open flaming fires might be saved. Although these tests were limited in scope, some tentative design criteria for detector actuated sprinkler systems are presented and possible alternatives offered.