Technology - Security
You can rely on Gottschalk! The planning and installation of sprinkler systems are subject to the strictest regulations. The VdS Cologne or FM check thoroughly to see that they are observed. Only firms which can prove their competence receive a full licence for the installation of sprinkler systems. One of these is the Gottschalk Company. Gottschalk Sprinkler Systems have proved their worth for many years in all branches of economic life.
The sooner you contact us about planning sprinklers for your building project, the better it will be. Extensive cooperation with architects, civil engineers, contractors and authorities in the past have proven again that sprinkler protection can be installed much more effectively and economically the earlier the sprinkler expert is called in.
In principle, a sprinkler installation consists of a circuit of connected sprinkler heads, joined by an alarm unit to the water supply. The alarm unit consists of a valve in the main water pipe which opens when the pressure on the inflow side of the valve is greater than that in the sprinkler circuit. A differential pressure is created in the case of one or more sprinkler heads opening. When the valve opens, an alarm signal is given. There are three different forms of sprinkler systems.
The wet sprinkler system is the simplest method. When the installation is connected to the water supply, the water flows through the non-return valve of the alarm unit into the sprinkler circuit, so that the whole sprinkler system is filled with water under pressure. If the security seal of a sprinkler has melted or broken, the water flows out immediately. The wet system can only be installed in premises where the temperature remains above the freezing point.
A deluge system consists of the sprinkler circuit with open sprinkler heads, which are normally connected by control and alarm valves to the water supply. At certain points, in or near the object to be protected, pneumatic or electric fire detectors are installed. The moment a detector registers an excessive increase in temperature, the valve in the control unit is automatically opened. In this way, water flows from all sprinkler heads simultaneously. A deluge system is especially suitable for installation in premises where a fire could spread quickly.
Dry-Pipe Systems
In the Dry-Pipe System, the sprinkler circuit contains compressed air instead
of water when not functioning, the air pressure holds the valve closed against
the external water pressure. The necessary pressure is supplied by an air
compressor. When one or more sprinklers open, the air pressure in the pipes
drops and the water flows into the sprinkler circuit. This system has been
especially developed for premises where the temperature can go below the freezing
point of water like outdoor areas.
The alarm check valve will activate either the water motor gong, a pressure switch, or both. The valve, simple in its design, senses flow through the sprinkler system and keeps the alarm sounding while the flow is constant. It is available in 4, 6 or 8" sizes. In large multiple system installations the individual valve and its alarm system will aid in location of the fire. Flow from a single head is sufficient to unseat the valve and sound the alarm.
The dry-pipe valve performs the same function as the alarm check valve, but its designed to release the flow of water into a dry-pipe system. Sturdily constructed this valve has only two moving parts (clapper and latch) and is therefore very reliable. Designed to open when air pressure reaches about 1/6 of the water pressure, this valve also "sounds the alarm" as long as there flow out of the sprinkler system.
