Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- Conix quick selector
- 2. Objectives
- 3. Codes & Standards
- 4. Classification of Fire Systems
- 5. Components of a Fire System
- 6. Types of Sprinkler Systems
- 7. Hydrant System Design Parameters
- 8. QA/QC Checklist
- 9. Typical BOQ Items
- 10. Testing & Commissioning
- 11. Maintenance & Documentation
- 12. Common Failures (quick scan)
- Disclaimer
1. Introduction
Fire-fighting systems are engineered networks of pipes, pumps, hydrants, sprinklers, detectors, and suppression systems designed to control and extinguish fires, protect life and property, and ensure code compliance.
These systems must be designed in coordination with architectural layouts, structural beams, HVAC ducts, and electrical trays.
Conix quick selector
- Hydrant system: MS Class C risers ≥ 100 mm, outlet pressure ≥ 3.5 kg/cm², spacing ≤ 45 m (internal) / ≤ 60 m (external)
- Pumps: Main + jockey + standby diesel; auto-start via pressure switch; provide test header
- Sprinklers: Select wet/dry/pre‑action/deluge per hazard; layout as per IS 15105; integrated with alarm
- Detection: Addressable system (smoke/heat/MCP); integrate with BMS and FA panel; zoning per NBC
2. Objectives
- Detect fire early (detection system)
- Contain and suppress fire quickly (active protection)
- Limit fire spread (passive protection)
- Ensure safe evacuation
- Comply with NBC, NFPA, and IS standards
3. Codes & Standards
Code | Description |
NBC Part 4 | Fire and life safety in buildings |
IS 3844 | Installation of internal fire hydrants and hose reels |
IS 13039 | External hydrants and yard hydrants |
IS 15105 | Automatic sprinkler systems |
IS 15325 | Fire detection and alarm systems |
IS 2189 | Selection and maintenance of fire detection systems |
IS 10910 | Plastic tanks for water storage |
NFPA 13 / 20 / 72 | International standards for sprinklers, pumps, alarms |
4. Classification of Fire Systems
Category | Description | Typical Application |
Active Fire Protection (AFP) | Systems that detect and fight fire | Hydrant, sprinkler, alarm systems |
Passive Fire Protection (PFP) | Systems that resist spread | Fireproof coatings, compartment walls |
Special Suppression Systems | For sensitive areas | Clean agent, foam, CO₂ systems |
5. Components of a Fire System
Component | Function |
Fire Water Tank | Stores water as per occupancy hazard (IS 3844) |
Fire Pumps | Main, jockey, and standby diesel pump |
Hydrant Network | External yard and internal hydrants |
Sprinkler System | Automatic discharge based on heat detection |
Fire Detection & Alarm | Smoke, heat, and flame detectors integrated with panels |
Fire Hose Reels & Cabinets | Manual first-response systems |
Valves & Accessories | NRVs, gate valves, pressure gauges, landing valves |
Piping System | MS “C” class pipe (IS 1239 / 3589) with red enamel paint |
Special Suppression | Clean agent / FM200 / NOVEC 1230 for data centers |
6. Types of Sprinkler Systems
Type | Description | Suitable For |
Wet Pipe System | Water always in the pipes | Residential, office, malls |
Dry Pipe System | Air in pipes, water released on activation | Cold storage, outdoor |
Pre‑action System | Dual activation (detector + sprinkler) | Server rooms |
Deluge System | All heads open, water floods area | Transformers, aircraft hangars |
7. Hydrant System Design Parameters
Parameter | Standard Requirement |
Minimum pressure at hydrant outlet | 3.5 kg/cm² |
Pump capacity | 2,850 LPM (typical for large buildings) |
Jockey pump | Maintains pressure (~180 LPM) |
Diesel pump | Standby power supply |
Fire water tank capacity | As per NBC, based on occupancy risk |
Hydrant spacing | ≤ 45 m (internal) / ≤ 60 m (external) |
Riser diameter | ≥ 100 mm (minimum) |
8. QA/QC Checklist
Inspection Item | Frequency | Acceptance Criteria |
Verify pump head and flow | During testing | Meets design capacity |
Pipe hydrostatic testing | Before painting | 1.5 × working pressure |
Sprinkler head spacing | Pre‑commissioning | As per IS 15105 layout |
Pressure gauge calibration | Quarterly | ± 2% accuracy |
Flow switch testing | Commissioning | Alarm activation confirmed |
9. Typical BOQ Items
Item No. | Description | Unit | Measurement |
1 | Fire hydrant system (MS Class C piping, valves, painting, testing) | m | Per running meter |
2 | Automatic sprinkler system (upright / pendent type) | Nos | Per head installed |
3 | Fire detection and alarm system (addressable type) | Lot | Complete system |
4 | Fire pump set (main + jockey + diesel) | Set | Complete installation |
5 | Fire hose reel cabinet (MS, glass fronted, with accessories) | Nos | Per cabinet |
10. Testing & Commissioning
- Hydrostatic test for 2 hrs @ 1.5 × design pressure
- Flow test for all hydrants and sprinklers
- Pump auto‑start test via pressure switch
- Alarm system verification (smoke, heat, manual call points)
- Integrated testing with BMS/fire panel
11. Maintenance & Documentation
- Monthly pressure check of pumps and hydrants
- Annual calibration of detectors and alarms
- Record test certificates, O&M manuals, and logbooks
12. Common Failures (quick scan)
- Missing isolation valves during floor handovers
- Dry pump suctions due to low tank levels
- Corrosion and blockage of MS piping
- Absence of fire‑stopping around penetrations
Disclaimer
Conix is an industry initiative & a neutral resource, compiled from industry references and best practices. It is not brand-specific. Always cross-check with project requirements and local codes before finalizing specifications.