Alarm valves serve as check valves by maintaining the water pressure above the clapper and preventing reverse flow from sprinkler lines. Alarm valves are created to sound a gong bell or activate a pressure switch during a sustained flow of water, such as that required by an open sprinkler, causing an alert.
Why Would You Utilize Alarm Check Valves In A Sprinkler System?
Many check valves and other parts are found in a wet sprinkler system. Any sprinkler system intended to put out a fire should include alarm valves throughout. Contrary to certain common misconceptions, alarm check valves are not intended to stop backflow. These alarm check valves’ main purpose is to hold back the water pressure in the sprinkler system until it is required, even if they may help prevent water from the sprinkler system from running backward to the source or a reservoir and potentially contaminating the water supply. An alarm check valve can be opened or activated by a water gong either manually or electronically. Water will flow through the system after the alarm check valves are opened, turning on the sprinkler system as necessary to douse a fire.
Basics Of An Alarm Check Valve
A valve will help with water regulation in a web standpipe system at the most fundamental level. Alarm check valves can be found underground, although the majority are located above ground, frequently in structures like buildings and high-rises. Water corrodes naturally, therefore if it sits idle for a long time, it could cause pipes to erode. The alarm check valves help to lessen corrosion by restricting the pressure inside the pipes until it is required. Once the system is activated, the alarm check valves will open, allowing full water pressure to enter the system.
High-rise buildings and other structures with extensive plumbing systems are another application for these alarm check valves. In other words, the system’s water flow would be automatically regulated. If any part of the system needs repair, the technician must either manually close valves (a difficult and time-consuming process the larger the building structure), or drain the entire system to the point where maintenance is needed (i.e. Cutting or replacing piping or other valves). If check valves were utilized in an electronically controlled system, this wouldn’t be necessary.
Neglecting Alarm Risks Associated With Check Valves
If you don’t employ alarm check valves in a sprinkler system, one of two things could happen. The sprinkler system would either need to have manual valve openings or run continuously at full pressure, which may be problematic if there were surges or corrosion. Even if they are not mandated by law, alarm check valves should be taken into account when designing, installing, or changing a sprinkler system. The safety of the entire system will increase with the valve quality, protecting both the occupants of the building and the investment made in it.
