Activation
Fire valves are activated when a fire is detected, either by a manual pull station or an automatic system, such as a smoke or heat detector. When activated, the valve opens, allowing the flow of water, foam, or gas to the sprinkler heads or nozzles.
Types of fire valves
There are several types of fire valves, each serving a specific purpose within a fire protection system. Some common types include:
Gate valves
These are manually operated valves with a wheel or lever to control the flow of water. They can be used to isolate sections of a fire protection system during maintenance or repairs.
Butterfly valves
These are used to control the flow of water or foam in a fire protection system. They consist of a circular disc mounted on a rotating shaft, which can be turned to open or close the valve.
Check valves
These one-way valves allow water to flow in one direction only, preventing backflow in a fire protection system.
Pressure reducing valves
These valves regulate the pressure of water in a fire protection system, ensuring that the pressure remains within safe limits.
Deluge valves
These are used in deluge systems, where all sprinkler heads or nozzles are open and the valve controls the flow of water to the entire system. Deluge valves can be activated by a fire detection system or manually.
Operation
Once activated, the fire valve allows the flow of water, foam, or gas to the sprinkler heads or nozzles, which then discharge the extinguishing agent onto the fire. The valve remains open until the fire is extinguished or the valve is manually closed.
Maintenance and inspection
Regular inspection, testing, and maintenance of fire valves are crucial to ensure their proper operation in the event of a fire. This includes checking for leaks, corrosion, and ensuring the valves open and close smoothly.