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Title Page
Initiating Devices
Title Page
Index
Intended This document is intended for new hire Building Systems Sales Reps and
audience Project Engineers.
In this text This text is divided into five sections covering the following topics.
1
About this PictureBook, Continued
How to use this This PictureBook differs from the previous ones in that it is part PictureBook,
Picturebook part workbook. To complete this book, follow the directions throughout each
of the sections.
After you’ve completed all of the activities, proceed to complete the short
quiz at the end of the book, and review the answers provided in the Answer
Key. If you answered any questions incorrectly, go back to the individual
sections, refer to the code books and texts, and review the specific
requirements or descriptions.
Bring any remaining questions with you to the Fire Alarm Applications
Workshop.
2
Section One
Facility Types and Building Requirements
Overview
Introduction This section focuses on the types of facilities as defined by NFPA 101 (Life
Safety Code), and their specific requirements as they relate to Fire Alarm
systems.
3
Classifications of Occupancies
Directions For the following classes of occupancies, identify the types of facilities
that fall within each category. Refer to NFPA 101, Chapter 4.
Educational
Health Care
Residential
Mercantile
Business
4
Classification of Occupancies, Continued
Directions (continued)
Storage
Mixed Occupancies
5
Detection, Alarm & Communication Requirements
Note: Refer to the individual NFPA 101 chapters for each classification.
Classification _______________________________
#1
Initiation: Initiation:
Notification: Notification:
6
Detection, Alarm & Communication Requirements, Continued
Classification _______________________________
#2
Initiation: Initiation:
Notification: Notification:
7
Detection, Alarm & Communication Requirements, Continued
Classification _______________________________
#3
Initiation: Initiation:
Notification: Notification:
8
Detection, Alarm & Communication Requirements, Continued
Classification _______________________________
#4
Initiation: Initiation:
Notification: Notification:
9
Detection, Alarm & Communication Requirements, Continued
Classification _______________________________
#5
Initiation: Initiation:
Notification: Notification:
10
Detection, Alarm & Communication Requirements, Continued
Classification _______________________________
#6
Initiation: Initiation:
Notification: Notification:
11
Building Service and Fire Protection Equipment
Directions Refer to NFPA 101, Chapter 7, “Building Service and Fire Protection
Equipment.” Complete the table below.
Chart Identify the key sections contained within NFPA 101, Chapter 7.
Section Title
Section 7-1
Section 7-2
Section 7-3
Section 7-4
Section 7-5
Section 7-6
Section 7-7
12
Fire Detection, Alarm and Communications Systems
Directions Refer to NFPA 101, Section 7-6 to answer the following questions. Identify
the appropriate sub-section, then note the specifics or requirements as stated
by that code.
Sprinkler What are the requirements of a sprinkler system that provide automatic
system detection and alarm system initiation?
requirements
Section of Code Requirements
Complete If a complete smoke detection system is required, which locations must have
smoke detection automatic smoke detection?
required
Section of Code Requirements
13
Fire Detection, Alarm and Communications Systems, Continued
Partial smoke If a partial smoke detection system is required, which locations must have
detection automatic smoke detection?
required
Single station If single station smoke detectors are required, describe the requirements and
smoke detectors operating environment.
required
Section of Code Requirements
14
Section Two
Types of Initiating Devices
Overview
Introduction This section covers the two types of initiating devices: manual fire alarm
boxes and automatic fire detectors.
Resources l Code of Federal Regulations 28 CFR, Part 36, July 26, 1991
required l Fire Alarm Signaling Systems Handbook, Chapter 3
l NEMA Guide for Proper Use of System Smoke Detectors, April 1992
l NFPA 72, Chapter 5
15
Manual Fire Alarm Boxes
Directions Refer to NFPA 72, 1996, Chapter 5-8 to answer the following questions. For
each question,
Mounting Specify the requirements for mounting a manual fire alarm box. Compare with the
ADA requirements.
16
Manual Fire Alarm Boxes, continued
Distribution Describe the requirements for distributing manual fire alarm boxes.
17
Automatic Fire Detectors
Directions Refer to NFPA 72, Chapter 5 to answer the questions on the following pages
as they relate to the four (4) types of automatic fire detectors. Specify the
appropriate section of code and the stated requirements for:
18
Heat Sensing Fire Detectors
3 Operating There are 3 operating principles that apply to heat detectors: fixed
principles temperature, rate compensation and rate-of-rise.
19
Heat Sensing Fire Detectors, Continued
Bi-metallic
process
Figure 4-1
Description
Strip Type
Disc Type
(Figure 4-2)
20
Heat Sensing Fire Detectors, Continued
Snap disc
operation
Figure 4-2
21
Heat Sensing Fire Detectors, Continued
Example 3:
Fusible alloy
Section of Code Description/Function
Example 4:
Heat-sensitive
(line-type)
detector
Figure 4-3
22
Heat Sensing Fire Detectors, Continued
23
Heat Sensing Fire Detectors, Continued
Example: Spot
type rate
compensation
detector
Figure 4-4
Reference Refer to the Fire Alarm Signaling Systems Handbook, pages 51-52, for
specifics.
Description
Reference Refer to the Fire Alarm Signaling Systems Handbook, pages 53-54.
25
Heat Sensing Fire Detectors, Continued
Operating
principle: Spot-
type pneumatic
rate-of-rise
detector
Figure 4-5
26
Heat Sensing Fire Detectors, Continued
Example:
Combination
R-o-R/fixed
Figure 4-6
Description
27
Heat Sensing Fire Detectors, Continued
Example:
Combination
R-o-R/Fixed
Figure 4-7
Locations for Heat detectors are typically used in the following locations:
heat detectors
28
Smoke Sensing Fire Detectors
Directions Refer to NFPA 72, 1996, Appendix A-1-4 to answer the following questions
as they relate to the four (4) classifications of smoke sensing fire detectors:
l ionization
l photoelectric light scattering
l photoelectric light obscuration
l Cloud Chamber
29
Ionization Smoke Detectors
Directions Figures 4-8 and 4-9 show how an ionization smoke detector works.
Referring to both NFPA 72, 1996, Appendix A-1-4 and the Fire Alarm
Signaling Systems Handbook, pages 58-60, answer the questions on the
following.
Principle of
operation:
ionization
smoke detector
Figure 4-8
30
Ionization Smoke Detectors, Continued
Principle of
operation:
ionization
smoke detector,
continued
Figure 4-9
31
Ionization Smoke Detectors, Continued
32
Photoelectric (Light-Scattering) Smoke Detectors
Figure 4-10
Figure 4-11
Continued on next page
33
Photoelectric (Light-Scattering) Smoke Detectors, Continued
34
Photoelectric (Light-Scattering) Smoke Detectors, Continued
Cautions in Photoelectric smoke detectors should not be used where moisture, steam, or
using heavy concentrations of dust or lint is likely to be present. Name 6 to 8
photoelectric possible locations.
detector
Moisture or Steam Dust or Lint
35
Photoelectric (Light Obscuration) Smoke Detectors
Photoelectric
light
obscuration
smoke detector
Figure 4-12
Figure 4-13
Continued on next page
36
Photoelectric (Light Obscuration) Smoke Detectors, Continued
Detector type Which type of detector is typically used as a light obscuration detector?
37
Air Sampling Detectors
Directions Below is an illustration of an air sampling detector. Refer to the Fire Alarm
Signaling Systems Handbook, pages 43, and 62-63, and answer the question
listed below.
Air sampling
detector
Figure 4-14
Thermal Below is a table listing different materials and the correlated air temperature
particulate at which point the materials produce invisible submicron particles.
point in air
Material Temperature (F)
PVC Insulation 290
Motor Oil SAE-30 310
Pine Board 320
Silicone Rubber 335
RTV 340
Acrylon Carpeting 340
Wool Carpeting 360
Vinyl Tile 370
Polyethylene 410
Non-metallic Cable Wire Insulation 420
Bond Writing Paper 500
Teflon 610
Polystyrene 710
39
Air Sampling Detectors, Continued
Example Below is a VESDA (Very Early Smoke Detection Apparatus) air sampling
detector.
Figure 4-15
40
Air Sampling Detectors, Continued
Figure 4-16
41
Air Sampling Detectors, Continued
Figure 4-17
42
Air Sampling Detectors, Continued
Process
(continued)
Figure 4-18
43
Air Sampling Detectors, Continued
Process
(continued)
Figure 4-19
44
Flame (Radiant Energy) Sensing Fire Detectors
Directions Refer to NFPA 72, 1996, Appendix A-5-4.2 to answer the questions listed
below. Describe “radiant energy” and the two types of detectors. Cite
the specific code that applies.
Radiant energy
Section of Code Description
Flame detector
Section of Code Description
Spark/ember
detector
Section of Code Description
45
Flame (Radiant Energy) Sensing Fire Detectors, Continued
Figure 4-20
46
Flame (Radiant Energy) Sensing Fire Detectors, Continued
Figure 4-21
47
Flame (Radiant Energy) Sensing Fire Detectors, Continued
Figure 4-22
48
Gas Sensing Fire Detectors
Definition Gas sensing fire detectors are fire detectors that sense gases produced by
burning substances, and are referred to as fire-gas detectors.
Notes l This document does not discuss nor directly reference fire-gas detectors
as Simplex currently does not manufacture nor sell them.
l For further explanation of fire-gas detectors, refer to NFPA 72, 1996,
Chapter 5-5, where they are classified as “Other Fire Detectors.” Because
these are highly specialized devices, an accurate analysis of the
environment and the desired detection platform must be carefully
reviewed.
49
50
Section Three
Detector Placement
Overview
Introduction This section discusses the location and spacing of spot-type heat and smoke
detectors and beam detectors.
51
Wall and Ceiling Placement for Spot-Type Detectors
Description Below is an illustration of the code requirements for the wall or ceiling
placement of spot-type detectors.
Figure 4-23
Explanation Spotting a detector in a center position is not always possible. In the event a
smoke detector must be placed near or on a wall, you must take care in
positioning the device. A triangle shaped dead air space is formed where the
wall and ceiling intersect, interfering with a detector’s capability to function
properly (see Figure 4-23). For this reason, no part of the ceiling spot
detector should be within 4 inches of the wall. If the detector is listed for
wall mounting, no part of the detector should be within 4 nor more than 12 inches
from the ceiling.
52
Smooth Ceiling Spacing for Spot-Type Detectors
Description The figure below illustrates a method for calculating detector spacing in
rectangular areas.
Figure 4-24
Explanation The circular pattern shown in Figure 4-24 shows the typical coverage pattern
of a spot detector listed for 900 square feet. Since most rooms are square or
rectangular and not round, different room sizes have been incorporated into
the circle of coverage. As you can see, the typical 900 square feet pattern is
within the circle of coverage and is actually less than what the detector can
monitor. All these different rectangular patterns fit into the circle ensuring
even the furthest corner of the room is covered. This is why spacing between
devices in corridors can be larger than in general purpose rooms which
provide a footprint shaped closer to a square.
Figure 4-25
Explanation Figure 4-25 shows a top view of a room that measures 120 feet square. The
detectors are placed at their listed spacing “S” (which usually measures 30
feet). The first detector is placed in the corner of the room at 1/2 the listed
spacing from each wall, which calculates at 15 feet from the wall. As in
Figure 4-24, the actual coverage of the detector is more than the 30 feet
square inside. By applying simple mathematics and multiplying the listed
spacing by .7, we determine that the radius of the circle is a little more than
21 feet (e.g., 30 feet x .7 = 21 feet). Consequently, the distance from the
corner of the room to the first detector can be no more than the radius of the
coverage circle.
54
Corridor Ceiling Spacing for Spot-Type Detectors
Figure 4-26
Reference l NFPA 72
l NEMA Guide, p. 22-23
Explanation Figure 4-25 represents a top view of a corridor 82 feet long and 10 feet wide.
Since a smoke detector covers a circular pattern with a radius of 21 feet, the
detectors can be spaced 41 feet apart and still cover the entire corridor. This
is possible because the corridor is only 10 feet wide. Refer back to Figure 4-24
to see how this is accomplished. Also notice that the detector actually
covers less square footage in this application which is 410 square feet.
55
Spacing for Sloped Ceilings
Description Below is an illustration of the code requirements for the location and spacing
of spot-type detectors on sloped ceilings.
Figure 4-27
Explanation Figure 4-27 shows how to apply spot detectors in a peaked ceiling
application. The key here is to start the detector mounting within 3 feet of
the peak measured horizontally from a vertical line dropped from the peak.
Using the manufacturer’s specified spacing, this horizontal measurement is
continued down the slope of the ceiling. If you ever have this application, do
NOT measure down the slope of the ceiling.
56
Spacing for Shed Ceilings
Description Below is an illustration of the code requirements for the location and spacing
of spot-type detectors for shed ceilings.
Figure 4-28
Explanation As depicted in Figure 4-28, a shed ceiling requires the first detector to be
mounted within 3 feet of the high end of the ceiling, also measured
horizontally from a vertical line dropped from the peak. Again, using the
manufacturer’s listed spacing along the horizontal line, place detectors down
the slope until they are 1/2 the specified spacing to the opposite wall.
57
Side Wall Diffuser
Figure 4-29
Explanation A smoke detector should never be placed within 10 feet of a wall mounted
supply air vent. The supply vent could keep smoke away from the detector
preventing early warning of the fire.
58
Ceiling Diffuser
Figure 4-30
Explanation A smoke detector should never be placed within 3 feet of a ceiling mounted
supply air vent. The supply vent could keep smoke away from the detector
preventing early warning of the fire.
59
Spacing for Beam Detectors
Description Below is an illustration of the code requirements for the spacing and location
of beam detectors. This is a typical beam detector with a typical listed
spacing and should not be used for actual application. Always follow the
manufacturers’ recommended spacing.
Figure 4-31
60
Spacing for Beam Detectors, Continued
Locations List some common applications (possible locations) for beam detectors.
61
Beam vs. Spot Type Coverage - A Comparison
Figure 4-32
Explanation Figure 4-32 shows how many spot detectors would be required to cover the
same square footage as the beam detector on the previous page. It would
require two rows of 11 spot detectors to cover the same area if each was rated
for 900 square feet.
62
Flame Detector Placement
Figure 4-33
Explanation As illustrated above, a flame detector’s coverage pattern is cone shaped with
an angle of about 80o. When laying out this device, you must take care to
provide complete coverage of the protected area. It is highly recommended to
contact experts in this field for design help.
63
Flame Detector Placement, Continued
Figure 4-34
64
Section Four
Detectors for Smoke Control
Overview
Introduction This section focuses on detectors that are specifically used for activating
smoke control and their requirements as specified by code.
65
Code Requirements for Smoke Control
Directions Answer the following questions on the control of smoke spread by referring
to NFPA 72, Chapter 5, NFPA 90A, Chapter 4, and the NEMA Guide.
Smoke control Identify the types of initiating devices and equipment that are used for smoke
equipment control. (Refer to Chapter 5.)
Definition Define “duct smoke detector.” Use the NEMA Guide, Section 1.
Section Definition
Purpose of duct Describe the purpose of duct smoke detection. Include any exceptions
smoke detection or notes that might clarify its purpose. Refer to the NEMA Guide, Section 2.
Section Purpose
66
Code Requirements for Smoke Control, Continued
Smoke density Describe the consequences as smoke travels away from a fire source. Refer
and detection to Sections 3.2.2 and 3.2.3 of the NEMA Guide.
Section Consequences
Detection Which of the smoke detectors you have covered up to this point can better
capabilities detect the large, cool, and light colored smoke particles?
67
Code Requirements for Smoke Control, Continued
Duct detector
Figure 4-35
68
Code Requirements for Smoke Control, Continued
In-duct
detector
Figure 4-36
69
Code Requirements for Smoke Control, Continued
Duct detection Describe how duct and in-duct detectors work. Refer to Section 4 of the
process NEMA Guide.
Air duct Can duct detectors be used for open area detection? (Refer to NFPA 72, 1996
detectors Chapter 5-10.)
Detection for What requirements are there for duct smoke detectors in the event an
protective approved protective signaling system is installed in a building? (Refer to
signaling system NFPA 90A, 4-4.4.)
70
Code Requirements for Smoke Control, Continued
Detection On the other hand, in the event a protective signaling system is not installed
without in a building, what requirements exist for duct smoke detectors? Note any
protective exceptions. (Refer to NFPA 90A, 4-4.4.)
signaling
system
Section of Code Requirements
Fan control What is required of smoke detectors upon detecting the presence of smoke?
Note any exceptions.
71
72
Section Five
Monitoring Automatic Extinguishing Systems
Overview
Introduction This section describes the codes and provisions as outlined in NFPA 72,
Chapter 5.
73
Sprinkler Waterflow Alarm - Initiating Devices
Directions Specify the appropriate NFPA 72 chapter and sections, and the requirements
that apply to Sprinkler Waterflow Alarm Initiating Devices.
Figure 4-37
74
Sprinkler Waterflow Alarm - Initiating Devices, Continued
Directions Describe how the vane type waterflow switch works. Refer to pages 80-83 in
the Fire Alarm Signaling Systems Handbook.
Notes
75
Supervisory Signal - Initiating Devices
Directions Explain each of the following supervisory signal-initiating devices. Cite the
section of code for each one.
Control valves
Section of Code Requirements
Pressure
sources
Section of Code Requirements
76
Supervisory Signal - Initiating Devices, Continued
Water level
Section of Code Requirements
Water
temperature
Section of Code Requirements
Room
temperature
Section of Code Requirements
77
78
Initiating Devices - Quiz
Directions: Below are several multiple choice items for each statement or
question. Circle the appropriate letter that best matches each item.
1. According to the NFPA, which of the following are supervisory signal initiating devices?
a. electronic devices
b. water temperature switches
c. water level indicators
d. a and b
e. b and c
2. In new health care occupancies, fire alarm pull stations in patient sleeping areas are
not required if:
3. Where a “partial smoke detection system” is required by another section of code, automatic
detection of smoke shall be provided in common areas, such as:
a. corridors
b. cafeterias
c. equipment rooms
d. a and b
e. a and c
4. A rate-of-rise detector is different from a fixed temperature detector in that the first:
79
5. Typically heat detectors are used in:
a. mechanical rooms
b. janitorial closets
c. storage rooms
d. a and b
e. all of the above
a. flaming fires
b. cool smoke
c. smoldering fires
d. a and b
e. b and c
7. The distinct advantage that an air sampling system has over heat and smoke detectors is its:
9. Return system smoke detectors in closed air distribution systems are not required when the:
80
10. Photoelectric detectors are best used in duct applications due to their ability to:
13. In the event of waterflow in a sprinkler system, an alarm signal shall be provided within:
a. 30 seconds
b. 45 seconds
c. 50 seconds
d. 60 seconds
e. 90 seconds
14. Per NFPA 72, what is the proper mounting distance for a wall mounted detector from its upper
edge to the ceiling?
a. 2 to 10 inches
b. 4 to 10 inches
c. 2 to 12 inches
d. 4 to 12 inches
e. 6 to 12 inches
81
15. How close can a ceiling detector be mounted to a wall?
a. 2 inches
b. 4 inches
c. 6 inches
d. 8 inches
e. 12 inches
16. When spacing multiple detectors in a large room, it is best to start by ______ where “S” is the
recommended spacing:
a. beginning in the middle of the room and work to the outside using “S” as the spacing
between detectors
b. beginning in the middle of a wall, come in .7s and work to the outside using “S” as the
spacing between detectors
c. beginning in the corner of the room, come in 1/2s from each wall and work across the room
using “T” as the spacing between detectors
d. beginning in the corner of the room, come in 1/2s from each wall and work across the room
using “S” or “s” as the spacing between detectors
e. b and c
17. By spacing detectors farther apart than normal in a corridor application, you are:
82
19. Smoke detectors should not be located within how many feet of a ceiling supply air vent:
a. 2 feet
b. 4 feet
c. 6 feet
d. 8 feet
e. 10 feet
20. Beam detectors have the following advantages over conventional spot type detectors:
83
Answer Key
1. e 2. c 3. e 4. c 5. e
6. e 7. b 8. d 9. b 10. b
84
INDEX
85