Description
In quarter 3, Elite Fire Protection is currently focusing on Fire Protection – from Start to Finish.
This month, our theme is the design phase of projects to kick start projects on the right track.
In this case study, we highlight the importance of following design phases and gaining approval prior to installation of fire protection systems to ensure a successful project.
Background
In January 2024, Elite Fire Protection was awarded a project in Gauteng for design, supply and installation for a mineral processing equipment manufacturer.
The client required fire protection in its 4000m2 warehouse. The client distributed an invitation to tender to various companies with the aim to select a contractor to complete a project for fire sprinkler installation, pumps and tanks.
| Project | Fire Protection Systems |
| Size | 4000m2 |
| Scope | Fire Sprinkler Systems |
| Discipline | Design, Supply & Installation |
Phase 1: Consideration for Type of Design
The client initially had a tree fire sprinkler system designed, however, due to the services running within the void area, it was decided in collaboration with the fire consultant and the client that a grid system would be more suitable for this project.
Moving ahead with a tree system would have resulted in clashes and an ineffective fire sprinkler system.
Considering the type of goods stored at the warehouse, the system of choice is a wet sprinkler system at 20mm/min design density.
Phase 2: Submission of Designs for Approval
Hydraulic calculations are a crucial stage of fire sprinkler system designs. This process considers factors such as:
- Hazard classification,
- occupancy type,
- and local regulations
Hydraulic calculations based on a grid system determine the size of the pumps and tanks for the system to operate effectively.
Sizes are dependent on:
- Correct flows and pressures of the pump
- Correct volume of water storage tanks.
Incorrect hydraulic calculations can increase the risk of the fire sprinkler system failing to extinguish potential fires.
Once designs are completed, we then proceed to the approval stage with the Fire Consultant.
Phase 3: Post approval
Once fire sprinkler designs have been reviewed and then approved by all parties, the designs move into the fabrication lists phase.
Fabrication lists are a detailed set of documents that specify all the materials, components, and assemblies required for the construction and installation of a fire protection system, typically a fire sprinkler system.
Challenges
If the Fire Sprinkler Company has not received or does not have access to the updated structural and architectural layouts, it can greatly affect the designs, as well as costs for high value items such as piping and sprinkler heads.
