External water spray system
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An external water spray system (EWSS) is a
Usage
The types of systems vary greatly from a single
Usage depends on type of risk and belief of effectiveness. Copper piping is used to withstand high temperatures that may be experienced during a fire front or for higher reliability[citation needed] for in ceiling installations. External PVC piping is used where failure with exposure to high radiant heat is acceptable[citation needed], as at the time the system is considered have "done its job". This is a matter of personal judgment.
Issues
There is a lack of scientific research regarding EWSS. Other issues that may affect the effectiveness of an EWSS:
- Sprinkler performance in high wind conditions typical in a bushfire
- Home design
- Home location
- Slope
- Surrounding vegetation
- If defended by occupiers
- Preparation (if prepared for defense)
- If intended for remote (unattended) defense
- Available water supply
- Ember attack
- Fire front (radiant heat)
- Adjacent building or vegetation fire
Types
- Roof impact sprinkler
- Gutter sprays
- Window spray / deluge
Commercial sprays designed for EWSS are available[citation needed], but most systems use commonly available irrigation sprinklers/sprays.
Research
External spray systems for buildings are well documented for protection from fires in adjacent buildings[citation needed]. However, up there is little published scientific research on scientific information pertaining to the effectiveness of EWSS under varying wildfire conditions.[1]
See also
- Active fire protection
- Passive fire protection
- Fire protection
- Fire protection engineering
- Architectural engineering
References
External links
