A fire sprinkler or sprinkler head is the component of a fire sprinkler system that discharges water when the effects of a fire have been detected, such as when a predetermined temperature has been exceeded. Fire sprinklers are extensively used worldwide, with over 40 million sprinkler heads fitted each year. In buildings protected by properly designed and maintained fire sprinklers, over 99% of fires were controlled by fire sprinklers alone.
A fire sprinkler mounted on a ceiling
Standard spray sprinkler head with a blue bulb indicating a high release temperature
The liquid in the glass bulb is color coded to its show temperature rating.
A fire sprinkler system is an active fire protection method, consisting of a water supply system providing adequate pressure and flowrate to a water distribution piping system, to which fire sprinklers are connected. Although initially used only in factories and large commercial buildings, systems for homes and small buildings are now available at a cost-effective price.
A glass bulb type sprinkler head will spray water into the room if sufficient heat reaches the bulb and causes it to shatter. Sprinkler heads operate individually. Note the red liquid in the glass bulb.
A sign warns hotel guests not to hang items from fire sprinklers
Garage sprinkler system in New York City
Dry pipe sprinkler system supply main with corrosion debris caused by oxidation
