Air Venting for Fire Sprinkler Systems With Trapped Air

Fire Protection/Life Safety
Wet Pipe Systems

Air trapped in fire sprinkler systems is not something businesses think about when fire sprinkler systems are being installed in their facility. The topic of trapped air within a wet fire sprinkler system should be discussed when installing when servicing, and when removing the system. The air trapped in fire sprinkler systems can increase the effects of pipe corrosion, which can reduce the lifespan of the sprinkler system and piping.

How to Reduce the Amount of Air Trapped in a Fire Sprinkler System?

Installing a sprinkler system air vent can reduce the amount of trapped air in the pressurized pipe. These vents can be installed on wet pipe sprinkler systems and will remove as much trapped air from the system as possible. 

What is the NFPA-13 Standards Sole Purpose in 2021?

The industry benchmark for design and installation of automatic fire sprinkler systems, NFPA 13 addresses sprinkler system design approaches system installation, and component options to prevent fire deaths and property loss.

Is Removing Air Trapped in Fire Sprinkler Systems Required by NFPA-13 Fire Sprinkler Code?

The NFPA-13, 2016 Edition added a new requirement for a sprinkler system air vent to be provided on wet pipe systems installed using metal pipe. Below are the code specifics:

  • 7.1.5 Air Venting – A single air vent for a fire sprinkler system, with a connection conforming to 8.16.6 shall be provided on each wet pipe system utilizing metallic pipe.
  • 8.16.6 Air Venting – The vent required by 7.1.5 shall be located near a high point in the system to allow air to be removed from that portion of the system.

One of the following fire sprinkler system air vent options can be used:

  • Manual Valve - This option includes a manually activated valve piped to an accessible location. Each time the sprinkler system is inspected or tested, these valves are to be opened manually to exhaust air and then closed manually once the air is exhausted. Air that collects in the piping between inspection periods will not be exhausted and will remain in the piping until the next inspection

  • Automatic Air Vent – A fire sprinkler system automatic air vent will discharge air that migrates to the high point of the system automatically and will close as soon as the air is exhausted. The automatic vents remain active at all times and will not allow air to collect at the high point of the system. Regular maintenance of a fire sprinkler system automatic air vent is required per the manufacturer’s specifications
  • Other approved means

Interested in more tips on reducing air and pipe corrosion in your wet pipe fire protection systems?  Contact our fire sprinkler system team at 800.532.4376.

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