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ORDER KIT TODAYLegislation
The South African local standard, SANS 10287 (SABS 0287), does not provide information for sprinkler head testing. IFR Africa has adopted FM Global and UL standards for testing of water-based fire protection systems.
These standards require building owners to have their installed sprinklers tested at specified intervals by a specialist laboratory using a Thermal Wind Tunnel and calibrated equipment.
Sprinklers manufactured before 1920
IFR Africa does not test sprinklers manufactured before 1920.
These sprinklers must be replaced as required by local sprinkler rulebooks and most other international standards.
IFR Africa tests sprinklers from field installations as a service to inspection agencies, the sprinkler industry, the insurance industry, and property owners. IFR Africa’s reports on the results of these tests will benefit those parties to assess the effectiveness of the sprinkler system or the need to replace sprinklers currently in use.
Methodology
With samples from the installation site, an experienced representative will conduct a Thermal Wind Tunnel Test in accordance with UL 199, FM 2000 and FM 2008.
During this test, each sprinkler’s Response Time Index (RTI) is measured and electronically recorded.
A report is then submitted to the client with the results.
Sprinkler Testing
UL 199, FM2000 and FM2008 requires that all types of fire sprinkler systems are to be tested for their response time, which is defined as the amount of time it takes for the sprinkler to release water after being exposed to a defined temperature and airflow. Sprinklers that fail this test must be replaced with new ones that meet the minimum requirements.
Why do sprinklers fail?
IFR Africa tests sprinkler response times to ensure that the sprinkler operates within a specified time when exposed to a defined temperature and airflow.
Standards
- Procedure based on UL 199 Section 31.2, FM 2000 (4.28) and FM 2008 (4.28)
IFR Africa is undergoing the accreditation process for ISO/IEC 17025 – Mechanical Testing of Automatic Field Sprinklers and ISO 9001 – Quality Management Systems.
