Application of the Tyco Fire Products Application of the Tyco Fire Products Extended Coverage Extra Hazard and High Piled Storage Sprinklers Tyco Fire and Building Products has developed

Application of theTyco Fire Products

Extended Coverage ExtraHazard and High Piled

Storage Sprinklers

EC-25 EC-17 Pendent EC-17 PendentRecessed

Tyco Fire Products – Research and Development Center 1467 Elmwood Avenue • Cranston, RI 02910 – USA • Tel: 401-781-8220 • Fax: 401-781-7317

September 2007

Application of the Tyco Fire ProductsExtended Coverage Extra Hazard and High Piled Storage Sprinklers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

Comparative Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Sprinkler Performance Comparison for the Protection of Group A Plastic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Spacing Value . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Operating Pressures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Factory Mutual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Underwriters Laboratories (UL)Full Scale Fire Test for Application of the Tyco EC-25 Sprinkler for Retail Stores . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Home Depot, Sam’s and similar stores . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Wal-Mart and like stores . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

Best Buy and like stores . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

Target and like stores . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Office Depot and similar stores . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Bed Bath and Beyond and similar stores . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

Application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

Retrofit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

James E. Golinveaux . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

Contents

2

Application of the Tyco Fire ProductsExtended Coverage Extra Hazard and High Piled Storage Sprinklers

Tyco Fire and Building Products has developed and introduced therevolutionary technology of Extended Coverage sprinklers for Extra Hazardand Storage Occupancies. The Model EC-25 and the EC-17 provide thecomplete package for the higher density, extended coverage needs of thefire sprinkler industry. Without being specific to model and type, a few of theimmediate benefits of technology are as follows:

• Better Fire Protection – Shown in full scale fire tests.

• Fewer Branch Lines – Spacing up to 15 ft (4,57 m) vs. 12 ft (3,66 m) (12.5 ft in a 25 ft bay).

• Fewer Sprinklers – Area of coverage up to 196 sq ft (18,21 m2)vs. 100 sq ft (9,29 m2).

• Lower Operating Pressures – Minimum 7 psi (0,48 bar), calculated by S x L rules, not (square) EC coverage’s.

• Fusible Solder Link Technology – less susceptible to damage.

• FM Approval – EC-25.

• UL Listed – EC-25 & EC-17.

• Specific Application Protection – Retail Applications.

• Retrofit of existing 130 sq ft (12,08 m2) installations – Systems thatwere installed using 130 sq ft (12,08 m2) may now be upgraded tostorage protection above 0.25 gpm/sq ft density (10,19 mm/min).

The EC-25 and EC-17 sprinklers are “Control-Mode Extended CoverageSprinklers” for Extra Hazard and High Piled Storage occupancies inaccordance with NFPA 13 2002 and later editions. Their use is especiallyadvantageous as a means of protecting occupancies requiring anarea/density application of water while providing better fire protection thanstandard spray sprinklers.

3

New technologies are tested against baseline performance. The base testingfor virtually all of the density/area curves for high piled storage were donewith K5.6 (80) sprinklers in the early 70’s. Current laboratory protocolincludes more stringent pass/fail criteria than existed in these baseline tests.The early 70’s testing was used to develop the current density/area curvesused in NFPA 13. New technologies such as the EC-25 and EC-17 sprinklers must duplicate the same testing with equal or better results.Tables 1 thru 5, and Figures 1 and 2, are examples of the enhanced (better)fire protection provided by both the EC-25 and EC-17 sprinklers.

Comparative Testing

Table 1 – 20 ft (6,10 m) High Rack Storage of Class II in a 30 ft (9,14 m) High BuildingStandard Spray K5.6 (80) and K11.2 (161) Sprinklers Spaced at 100 ft2 (9,29 m2) Versus EC-25Sprinklers Spaced at 196 ft2 (18,21 m2)

TEST SERIES # 74

SPRINKLER K5.6 K11.2 EC-25TEST DATE 11/13/69 11/29/93 4/25/00COMMODITY Class II Class II Class IIARRANGEMENT Rack Rack RackCEILING HEIGHT (ft) 30 30 30STORAGE HEIGHT (ft) 20 20 20IGNITION LOCATION 4 4 4PRESSURE (psi) 43 11 8.5GAS PEAK TEMP (F) 829 631 682GAS 1 MINUTE PEAK (F) 765 570 462STEEL PEAK TEMP (F) NM 308 138STEEL 1 MINUTE PEAK (F) NM 306 137# OPEN SPRINKLERS 18 9 4DENSITY (gpm/sq ft) 0.37 0.37 0.37PALLETS CONSUMED 41 5 1

4

Table 2 – 15 ft (5,57 m) High Palletized Storage of Group A Plastic in a 25 ft (7,62 m) High BuildingStandard Spray K8 (115) and K11.2 (161) Sprinklers Spaced at 80 ft2 (7,43 m2) Versus EC-25 SprinklersSpaced at 196 ft2 (18,21 m2)

TEST SERIES SP 18

SPRINKLER K8 K11.2 EC-25TEST DATE 11/29/73 12/6/93 5/16/00COMMODITY Group A Group A Group AARRANGEMENT Palletized Palletized PalletizedCEILING HEIGHT (ft) 25 25 25STORAGE HEIGHT (ft) 15 15 15IGNITION LOCATION 4 4 4PRESSURE (psi) 36 19 22GAS PEAK TEMP (F) 2004 1509 506GAS 1 MINUTE PEAK (F) 1818 1377 282STEEL PEAK TEMP (F) NM 203 133STEEL 1 MINUTE PEAK (F) NM 196 132# OPEN SPRINKLERS 24 16 2DENSITY (gpm/sq ft) 0.6 0.6 0.6PALLETS CONSUMED 20 2 6

Table 3 – 19 ft (5,79 m) High Palletized Storage of Group A Plastic in a 30 ft (9,14 m) High BuildingStandard Spray K5,6 (80) Sprinklers Spaced at 100 ft2 (9,29 m2) Versus EC-17 Sprinklers Spaced at196 ft2 (18,21 m2) and 150 ft2 (13,36 m2)

TEST SERIES #65

SPRINKLER K5.6 EC-17 EC-17TEST DATE 05/09/69 08/11/06 03/05/07COMMODITY Class II Class II Class IIARRANGEMENT Rack Rack RackSPACING 10 x 10 14 x 14 10 x 15CEILING HEIGHT (ft) 30 30 30STORAGE HEIGHT (ft) 19 19 19IGNITION LOCATION 4 2 2PRESSURE (psi) 29 12.3 7.2GAS PEAK TEMP (F) 1680 633 819GAS 1 MINUTE PEAK (F) NM 507 505STEEL PEAK TEMP (F) NM 167 167STEEL 1 MINUTE PEAK (F) NM 162 140# OPEN SPRINKLERS 45 6 5DENSITY (gpm/sq ft) 0.30 0.30 0.30PALLETS CONSUMED 22 NM NM

Here is where0.30gpm/ft2

(12,22 mm/min)for 4500 ft2

(418,1 m2)design areacomes from

in NFPA

Look at thedifference in

number ofactivated

sprinklers! Less than 1500 sq ft (139,4 m2)

5

Table 4 - 15 ft (4,57 m) High Rack Storage of Group A Plastics in a 25 ft (7,62 m) High BuildingStandard Spray K8 (115), K11.2 (161) and K16.8 (242) Sprinklers Spaced at 100 ft2 (9,29 m2) VersusEC-25 Sprinklers Spaced at 196 ft2 (18,21 m2)

This testresulted in 0.6 gpm/ft2

(24,4 mm/min)for 4000 ft2

(371,6 m2)design area,

which is in NFPA

TEST SERIES RSP7

SPRINKLER K8 K11.2 EC-25 EC-25TEST DATE 10/22/75 3/26/92 5/3/00 6/6/00COMMODITY Group A Group A Group A Group AARRANGEMENT Rack Rack Rack RackCEILING HEIGHT (ft) 25 25 25 25STORAGE HEIGHT (ft) 15 15 15 15IGNITION LOCATION 4 4 1 1PRESSURE (psi) 55 29 22 7GAS PEAK TEMP (F) 1957 817 294 264GAS 1 MINUTE PEAK (F) 1877 612 152 189STEEL PEAK TEMP (F) NM 163 89 132STEEL 1 MINUTE PEAK (F) NM 159 88 131# OPEN SPRINKLERS 29 4 1 3DENSITY (gpm/sq ft) 0.6 0.6 0.6 0.6+PALLETS CONSUMED 26 2 1 4

Table 5 - 20 ft (6,10 m) High Rack Storage of Group A Plastics in a 25 ft (7,62 m) High Building Comparison with Obstructed Construction (All of this testing done with EC-25)

This iscomparative

testing with baysin-between the

sprinklerscreating empty

pockets, theystill did great.

UNOBSTRUCTED OBSTRUCTED

SPRINKLER EC-25 EC-25 EC-25TEST DATE 5/9/00 5/23/00 5/26/00COMMODITY Group A Group A Group AARRANGEMENT Rack Rack RackCEILING HEIGHT (ft) 25 25 25STORAGE HEIGHT (ft) 20 20 20IGNITION LOCATION 4 4 4PRESSURE (psi) 22 22 22GAS PEAK TEMP (F) 955 1194 1369GAS 1 MINUTE PEAK (F) 570 733 955STEEL PEAK TEMP (F) 151 201 270STEEL 1 MINUTE PEAK (F) 150 193 269# OPEN SPRINKLERS 4 3 3DENSITY (gpm/sq ft) 0.6 0.6 0.6PALLETS CONSUMED 1 2 3

OBSTRUCTION DEPTH None 9 inch 15 inch

6

0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

1400

1600

1800

2000

K8 K11 EC-25

Figure 1 – Temperature Control

GAS PEAK TEMP

GAS 1 MINUTE PEAK

STEEL PEAK TEMP

STEEL 1 MINUTE PEAK

Temp(f)

Sprinkler Type

18

41

95 4

1051015202530354045

K5.6 K11 EC-25

Figure 2 – Commodity Damage and Number of Sprinklers Activated in Test

# OPEN SPRINKLERS

PALLETS CONSUMED

# of OpenSprinklers

andPallet LoadsConsumed

Sprinkler Type

Sprinkler Performance Comparison for the Protection of Group A Plastic

This wasconsidered

a success inthe 1970s!

Fewersprinklersand lowercommodityloss equalsless firedamage!

7

The spacing rules in NFPA 13 for EC Extra Hazard and Storage sprinklersare in Table 8.8.2.1.2 in the 2007 edition (Chapter 8.8.2 for the 2002 edition).The 15 ft (4,57 m) (new in the 2007 edition) maximum spacing of this ECtechnology offers even greater flexibility in optimizing the number ofsprinklers in a bay, as well as the location of outlets on the branch lines,especially if used with welded or mechanical tee fittings. Even when the 15ft (4,57 m) allowance does not save a branch line, the ability to space the ECat 12 ft (3,66 m) along the branch lines results in typical 24 ft (7,32 m)branch line pipe lengths with 2 outlets. Standard sprinklers having the 100ft2 (9,29 m2) spacing maximum result in spacing along the branch lines at 8'-0" or 8'-3" (2,44 or 2,51 m), requiring 3 outlets and the possibility of non-typical branch line pipe lengths.

Table 6 summarizes the spacing allowance for EC technology in ExtraHazard and High-Piled Storage Occupancies. Table 7 and Figures 3 and 4show how typical bay dimensions allow savings in branch lines when usingthis EC technology.

Spacing Value

Table 6 – Summary of NFPA 13 Table 8.8.2.1.2

Protection Areas and Maximum Spacing (Extended Coverage Upright and Pendent Spray Sprinklers)

Light Hazard Ordinary Hazard Extra Hazard High-Piled Storage

Construction Type Protection Spacing Protection Spacing Protection Spacing Protection SpacingArea (ft2) (ft) Area (ft2) (ft) Area (ft2) (ft) Area (ft2) (ft)

Unobstructed 400 20 400 20 - - - -324 18 324 18 - - - -256 16 256 16 - - - -

- - 196 14 196 14 196 14- - 144 12 144 15 144 15

Obstructed 400 20 400 20 - - - -noncombustible 324 18 324 18 - - - -(when specifically 256 16 256 16 - - - -listed for such use) - - 196 14 196 14 196 14

- - 144 12 144 15 144 15

Obstructed N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A combustible

New for the‘07 edition isthe 15 ft(4.57 m) for144 sq ft(13,4 m2)

8

*NFPA exception for a 25' (7,62 m) bay – 12'-6" (3,81 m) is allowed for standard spray sprinklers. The 12'-6" (3,81 m) exception is not allowed for bays greater than 25' (7,62 m).

Bay Spacing >25'* to 28' >28' to 30' >36' to 42' >42' to 45'(7,62 to 8,53 m) (8,53 to 9,14 m) (10,97 to 12,80 m) (12,80 m to 13,72 m)

Standard Spray 3 Branch Lines* 3 Branch Lines 4 Branch Lines 5 Branch Lines12' (3,66 m) Max.100 ft2 (9,29 m2)

EC-25 & EC-17 2 Branch Lines 2 Branch Lines 3 Branch Lines 3 Branch Lines15' (4,57 m) Max.144 ft2 (13,4 m2)

EC-25 & EC-17 2 Branch Lines 3 Branch Lines 3 Branch Lines 4 Branch Lines14’ (4,27 m) Max.196 ft2 (18,2 m2)

Figure 3 – Example of Branch Line Spacing in Bays Using >25' to 28' (7,62 to 8,53 m) Bays

>25"-0" to 28'-0"(7,62 to 8,53 m)

>25"-0" to 28'-0"(7,62 to 8,53 m)

A B C

BAY4'-8" 9'-4"9'-4"4'-8"

(1, 42m) (1, 42m)(2, 84m) (2, 84m)

BAY7'-0" 7'-0"14'-0"

(2, 13m) (2, 13m)(4, 27m)

EC STDVERSUS196 ft2 (18, 2 m2) 100 ft2 (9, 3 m2)

EC STD2 Branch Lines 3 Branch Lines

(4,27m

)

14'-0"

(4,27m

)

14'-0"

(3,26m

)

10'-81/2"

(3,26m

)

10'-81/2"

(3,26m

)

10'-81/2”

Table 7 – Branch Line Spacing in Various Bay Dimensions

9

Figure 4 – Example of Branch Line Spacing in Bays Using >25’ to 30’ (7,62 to 9,14 m) Bays

A B C>25"-0" to 30'-0"(7,62 to 9,14 m)

>25"-0" to 30'-0"(7,62 to 9,14 m)

BAY7'-6"

(2, 29m)

7'-6" 15'-0"

(4, 57m) (2, 29m) (1, 42m) (1, 42m)(2, 84m) (2, 84m)

4'-8" 4’-8”9'-4" 9'-4"

EC STDVERSUS144 ft2 (13, 38 m2) 100 ft2 (9, 3 m2)

EC STD2 Branch Lines 3 Branch Lines

(3,26m

)

10'-81/2"

(3,26m

)

10'-81/2"

(3,26m

)

10'-81/2"

(2,93m

)

9'-7"

(2,93m

)

9'-7"

With the EC technology, the myth that extended coverage sprinklers requiretoo much pressure has been shattered. Keep in mind that these sprinklershave the flexibility of the S x L spacing for the purpose of hydrauliccalculations (density/area method). NFPA 13 (2002 and 2007 edition) statesfor determining the protection area for sprinklers listed for extended coverageextra hazard or high-piled storage “shall be permitted to be spaced inaccordance with the requirements of 8.5.2 and 8.5.3 ……”.Sections 8.5.2 and 8.5.3 allow the S x L spacing rule normally reserved forstandard spray sprinklers to determine the maximum area of coverage forthese EC sprinklers. Traditionally EC sprinklers (such as residential) had tosquare off the maximum spacing dimension.

Operating Pressures

10

For example, when calculating a 14 ft (4,27 m) x 10 ft (3,05 m) actualspacing, NFPA would require squaring the maximum dimension of 14 ft(4,27), for a result of 196 sq ft (18,29 m2), rather than the actual 140 sq ft(13,01 m2). The allowance of S x L for the extended coverage extra hazardor high-piled storage EC series sprinklers allows the actual 140 sq ft (13,01 m2) to be used for the hydraulic calculation of the system.

The 2007 edition of NFPA 13 states the S x L rules as follows:

“8.5.2 Protection Areas per Sprinkler.

8.5.2.1 Determination of the Protection Area of Coverage.

8.5.2.1.1 The protection area of coverage per sprinkler (As) shall bedetermined as follows:

(1) Along branch lines as follows:

(a) Determine distance between sprinklers (or to wall or obstruction in the case of the end sprinkler on the branch line), both upstreamand downstream.

(b) Choose the larger of either twice the distance to the wall or thedistance to the next sprinkler.

(c) This dimension will be defined as S.

(2) Between branch lines as follows:

(a) Determine perpendicular distance to the sprinkler on the adjacentbranch line (or to a wall or obstruction in the case of the last branchline) on each side of the branch line on which the subject sprinkler is positioned.

(b) Choose the larger of either twice the distance to the wall orobstruction or the distance to the next sprinkler.

(c) This dimension will be defined as L.

8.5.2.1.2 The protection area of coverage (As) of the sprinkler shall beestablished by multiplying the S dimension by the L dimension, as follows:

As = S x L”

Additionally, do not pass up the opportunity to take advantage of theextremely low operating pressures at 100 ft2 (9,29 m2) as if these sprinklerswere standard coverage. No other listed sprinkler will deliver a 0.8 gpm/ft2

(32,61 mm/min) density for 100 ft2 (9,29 m2) at only 10.1 psi (0,70 bar)(based on the EC-25). Tables 8 and 9 show examples of EC-25 and EC-17sprinkler spacings and their associated operating pressures.

11

Table 8 – EC-25 Operating Pressure at Various Spacings

Density

EC-25 Spacing 0.37 gpm/ft2 0.45 gpm/ft2 0.6 gpm/ft2 0.8 gpm/ft2 1.0 gpm/ft2

(15,1 mm/min) (18,3 mm/min) (24,4 mm/min) (32,5 mm/min) (40,7 mm/min)100 ft2 (10'x10') 7.0 psi 7.0 psi 7.0 psi 10.1 psi 15.8 psi

9, 29 m2 (3,05 x 3,05 m) (0,48 bar) (0,48 bar) (0,48 bar) (0,70 bar) (1,09 bar)120 ft2 (10'x12') 7.0 psi 7.0 psi 8.2 psi 14.5 psi 22.7 psi



13, 38 m2 (3,66 x 3,66 m) (0,48 bar) (0,48 bar) (0,81 bar) (1,44 bar) (2,25 bar)150 ft2 (12'x12'-6") 7.0 psi 7.2 psi 12.8 psi 22.7 psi 35.4 psi




18, 21 m2 (4,27 x 4,27 m) (0,57 bar) (0,85 bar) (1,50 bar) (2,67 bar) (4,17 bar)

Table 9 – EC-17 Operating Pressure at Various Spacings

Density

EC-17 Spacing 0.25 gpm/ft2 0.30 gpm/ft2 0.35 gpm/ft2 0.40 gpm/ft2 0.45 gpm/ft2

(10,2 mm/min) (12,2 mm/min) (14,3 mm/min) (16,3 mm/min) (18,3 mm/min)100 ft2 (10'x10') 7.0 psi 7.0 psi 7.0 psi 7.0 psi 7.2 psi








18, 21 m2 (4,27 x 4,27 m) (0,59 bar) (0,84 bar) (1,15 bar) (1,50 bar) (1,90 bar)

12

The following section is information relative to the Factory Mutual Approvaland Application of the EC-25 sprinkler technology. The information has beenedited to incorporate the reference to NFPA standards, as Factory Mutual isan organization that qualifies under the NFPA definition of a “Listed” product.As with any project being designed to Factory Mutual criteria, Factory MutualData Sheet 2-8N, 8-9 and Engineering bulletin 02-01, should be followed.

The Tyco Model EC-25 control-mode extended-coverage sprinklers havebeen Approved. Full-scale fire testing has shown that these control-modesprinklers are acceptable for all current density/area applications. The FMApproval falls within NFPA 13 as a Nationally Recognized Laboratory, as well as FM Global ENGINEERING BULLETIN 02-01 (Reference in DataSheet 2-8N). The design and installation of these sprinklers will simply followthe rules for Standard Spray Control Mode Density/Area sprinklers such as8.0 gpm/psi1⁄2 (115,2 lpm/bar1⁄2) K-factor (Large Orifice), 11.2 gpm/psi1⁄2

(161,3 lpm/bar1⁄2) K-factor (ELO), and 16.8 gpm/psi1⁄2 (241,9 lpm/bar1⁄2)K-factor (K-17). All of the rules for design and installation remain the samefor these sprinklers in NFPA applications, as well as FM Data Sheet 2-8Nwith the following changes:

1. Application: These Approved, extended-coverage, control-modesprinklers may be used to protect any occupancy for which there is adensity/area design requirement. They are not Approved for use incontrol-mode specific application (e.g. large-drop) or suppression-mode(ESFR) protection designs.

2. Temperature Rating – The Tyco Model EC-25 is available in ordinary(165°F/74°C) and intermediate (214°F/101°C) temperature ratings. Theordinary temperature rated model should be used for all applicationsexcept those where high ambient temperatures require use ofintermediate temperature rated sprinklers. For occupancies where there is a reduced design density, and/or design area specified for high temperature rated sprinklers, the same reduced design densityand/or area can be used for the ordinary or intermediate temperatureModel EC-25, control-mode extended-coverage sprinklers. The use ofordinary temperature rated sprinklers is recommended if ambienttemperatures permit.

Factory Mutual

13

3. Hydraulic Design: Density/area designs should be the same as those for11.2 gpm/psi1⁄2 (161,3 lpm/bar1⁄2) K-factor control-mode density-area (ELO)sprinklers when a separate sprinkler design criteria is presented for 11.2 gpm/psi1⁄2 (161,3 lpm/bar1⁄2) K-factor control-mode density-area (ELO)sprinklers. Otherwise, the same design criteria as 5.6 gpm/psi1⁄2

(80,6 lpm/bar1⁄2) K-factor (Standard Orifice) or 8.0 gpm/psi1⁄2

(115,2 lpm/bar1⁄2) K-factor (Large Orifice) control-mode density-areasprinklers should be used. The minimum design pressure is 7 psi (0,49 bar). Use a K-factor of 25.2 gpm/psi1⁄2 (362,9 lpm/bar1⁄2) As for alldensity/area sprinklers, the hydraulic design for EC-25 sprinklers shouldbe based on the design density applied over the actual area of coverageper sprinkler (i.e. Sprinkler spacing of 11ft by 14 ft (3,35 m by 4,27 m) willbe hydraulically calculated based on 154 ft2 (14,3 m2) of coverage).

4. System Type: Wet-pipe, dry-pipe, or preaction systems are acceptable.

5. Sprinkler Spacing: The maximum area of coverage per sprinkler is 196 ft2 (18,2 m2). The minimum area of coverage per sprinkler is 100 ft2

(9.3 m2). The maximum distance between sprinklers is 14 ft (4,27 m). Theminimum distance between sprinklers is 10 ft (3,05 m).

Exception: When a wall or obstruction makes a minimum spacing of10 ft (3,05) impossible between the line of sprinklers along the wallor obstruction and the next adjacent line of sprinklers, the minimumdistance from the sprinklers located along the wall or obstruction tothe sprinklers located on the adjacent row can be a minimum of 7 ft(2,13 m). In this case the sprinklers located along the wall orobstruction must be hydraulically calculated for a 100 ft2 (9,3 m2)coverage area or their actual coverage area, whichever is greater.

6. Sprinkler Location: Locate sprinklers with respect to the ceiling/roof asa standard control mode sprinkler with the following two exceptions:

Exception 1: Sprinklers to be installed within one inch (25,4 mm) ofthe bottom of concrete tees regardless of the depth of the tees – thisdoes not apply to extended coverage control mode sprinklers due tothe potential for delays in sprinkler operation.

Exception 2: For obstructed construction, when the structuralmembers are deeper than 12 in (304,8 mm) and spaced less than 42 in (1,07 m) on center (such as concrete tee construction), installsprinklers in every bay.

14

7. Obstructions: Follow the obstruction requirements for Standard SprayControl-Mode Density-Area sprinklers.

DISCUSSION

The Tyco Model EC-25 control-mode extended coverage upright sprinklerhas successfully undergone full-scale fire testing for use in density/areadesign applications.

These designs are based on fire testing at Underwriters Laboratories andrepresent conditions existing in many retail stores. In all comparisons made,the K-25 EC sprinkler outperformed the smaller orifice sprinklers. Thesedesigns are based on Full-Scale fire test data, which is the basis for anequivalent method of protection as allowed by NFPA 13.

Fire loading in these tests markedly exceeded the fire loading in existingstores using ceiling only protection.

All tests with the EC-25 were conducted with ignitions between foursprinklers. Similar successful tests were conducted with slatted shelves andlimited solid shelves in the lower tiers, using Group “A” Plastic commodities,and utilizing 11.2 gpm/psi1⁄2 (161,3 lpm/bar1⁄2) K-factor sprinklers. These testswere conducted with ignition between two sprinklers and under onesprinkler. Because of the use of extended coverage (14 ft x 14 ft (4,27 x4,27 m)), ignition between four sprinklers was done. In recognition of otherpossible ignition scenarios, 70 ft (21,34 m) rack length limitations wereinserted to ensure that sprinkler operations were limited to no more than thedesign area for the solid shelf arrangements. If a fire burned the entirelength of a 70 ft (21,34 m) rack, sprinkler operations would not exceed the2000 ft2 (185,8 m2) design area.

Sprinkler design criteria for storage and display of Class I-IV commodities,cartoned (non-expanded and expanded) Group A plastics, and non-expanded exposed Group A plastics in retail stores:

Underwriters Laboratories (UL)Full Scale Fire Test for Application of the Tyco EC-25 Sprinkler for Retail Stores

15

A wet pipe system designed to provide 0.7 gpm/ft2 (28.5 mm/min), densityover 2000 ft2 (185,8 m2) area for the first 4 sprinkler operations, and 0.6 gpm/ft2 (48.4 mm/min) density over 2000 ft2 (185,8 m2) area shall bepermitted to protect single and double row slatted shelf racks when thefollowing conditions are met:

a. EC-25 listed for storage occupancies shall be provided.

b. Shelves shall be slatted using a 2 in (50,8 mm) thick by maximum 6 in(152,4 mm) wide slat, held in place by spacers that maintain a minimum 2 in (50,8 mm) opening between each slat.

c. There shall be no slatted shelf levels in the rack above nominal 12 ft (3,66 m) level. Wire mesh (greater than 50 percent opening) shall bepermitted for shelf levels above 12 ft (3,66 m).

d. Solid plywood shelving (3 1⁄2 ft x 8 ft 3 in - 1,07 m x 2,51 m) shall bepermissible over the wood slats at the 5 ft (1,52 m) level.

e. Perforated metal (open area of 40 percent or more) shall be permittedover the slatted shelves up to the 60 in (1,52 m) level.

f. Other than what is allowed in this section, solid plywood or similarmaterials shall not be placed on the slatted shelves.

g. Solid veneered particleboard displays shall be permissible, provided thatall flues are maintained and only one display is installed per bay.

h. Maximum roof height shall be 30 ft (9,14 m) in the protected area.

i. Maximum storage height shall be 22 ft (6,71 m).

j. Aisle widths shall be a minimum of 8 ft (2,44 m).

k. Minimum transverse flue spaces of 3 in (76,2 mm) every 10 ft (3,05 m)horizontally shall be provided.

l. Minimum longitudinal flue spaces of 6 in (152,4 mm) shall be provided for double-row racks.

m. Storage in the aisle shall be permissible provided the aisle storage is nomore than 4 ft (1,22 m) high and a minimum clear aisle of 4 ft (1,22 m) is maintained.

Home Depot, Sam’s and similar stores

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A wet pipe system designed to provide 0.50 gpm/ft2 (20,3 mm/min) densityover a 2000 ft2 (185,8 m2) area for the first four sprinkler operations, and0.425 gpm/ft2 (17,3 mm/min) density over a 2000 ft2 (185,8 m2) area, withoutthe use of in-rack sprinklers, shall be permitted in solid steel, cantilever styleretail shelving racks (gondola racks) when the following conditions are met:

a. EC-25 sprinklers listed for storage occupancies shall be provided.

b. The storage height shall not exceed 12 ft (3,66 m).

c. The ceiling height shall not exceed 22 ft (6,71 m) in the protected area.

d. Gondola rack structure shall not exceed 48 in (1,22 m) in aggregatedepth or 78 in (1,98 m) in height.

e. Maintain a minimum aisle of 5 ft (1,52 m) between storage.

f. Rack lengths shall be no more than 70 ft (21,34 m).

Wal-Mart and like stores

A wet system designed to provide 0.50 gpm/ft2 (20,3 mm/min) density over a2000 ft2 (185,8 m2) area for the first four sprinkler operations, and 0.425gpm/ft2 (17,3 mm/min) density over a 2000 ft2 (185,8 m2) area, without theuse of in-rack sprinklers, shall be permitted in solid steel cantilever-styleretail shelving racks (gondola racks) when the following conditions are met:


b. Storage height shall not exceed 15 ft (4,57 m).

c. Ceiling height shall not exceed 25 ft (7,62 m) in the protected area.

d. Gondola rack structure shall not exceed 60 inches in aggregate depth or 8 ft (2,44 m) in height.

e. A perforated metal deck at the 8 ft (2,44 m) level shall be permissible withstorage placed on top with or without flue spaces to a maximum heightfrom floor of 15 ft (4,57 m).

f. Rack lengths shall not exceed 70 ft (21,34 m).

g. A minimum aisle space of 6 ft (1,83 m) shall be provided.

Best Buy and like stores

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A wet system designed to provide 0.55 gpm/ft2 (22,4 mm/min) density over a2000 ft2 (185,8 m2) area for the first four sprinkler operations, and 0.45 gpm/ft2 (18,3 mm/min) density over a 2000 ft2 (185,8 m2) area, withoutthe use of in-rack sprinklers shall be permitted when the following are met:



c. Ceiling height shall not exceed 20 ft - 6 in (6,25 m).

d. Shelving structure shall not exceed 48 in (1,22 m) aggregate depth or 12 ft (3,66 m) in height.

e. Shelving shall be permitted to be made of solid particleboard.

g. A minimum aisle space of 3 ft (0,91 m) shall be maintained.

h. Rack length shall be a maximum of 70 ft (21,34 m).

Target and like stores

A wet system designed to 0.45 gpm/ft2 (18,3 mm/min) density over a 2000 ft2

(185,8 m2) area for the first four sprinkler operations, and 0.38 gpm/ft2

(15,4 mm/min) density over a 2000 ft2 (185,8 m2) area, without the use of in-rack sprinklers shall be permitted in steel retail sales floor shelving rackswhere the following are met:



c. Ceiling height shall not exceed 20 ft (6,10 m).

d. Solid metal shelving shall be permissible up to the 72 in (1,83 m) level,and wire shelving shall be permissible up to the 10 ft (3,05 m) level.

e. The solid metal shelving shall not exceed 66 in (1,68 m) in aggregatedepth with a 6 in (152,4 mm) longitudinal flue between two 30 in (0,76 m) deep shelves.

f. A minimum aisle space of 5 ft (1,52 m) shall be maintained.

g. A minimum longitudinal flue of 6 in (152,4 mm) shall be maintained.

h. Rack length shall be a maximum of 70 ft (21,34 m).

Office Depot and similar stores

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A wet system designed to provide 0.55 gpm/ft2 (22,4 mm/min) density over a 2000 ft2 (185,8 m2) area for the first four sprinkler operations, and 0.49 gpm/ft2 (19,9 mm/min) density over a 2000 ft2 (185,8 m2) area, withoutthe use of in-rack sprinklers, shall be permitted in retail solid shelved steelrack structure when the following are met:


b. Storage height shall not exceed 16.5 ft (5,03 m).

c. Ceiling height shall not exceed 22 ft (6,71 m).

d. Shelving structure shall not exceed 51 in (1,30 m) aggregate depth or148 in (3,76 m) in height.

e. The intersection of perpendicular steel racks shall be permissible as longas no storage is placed within the void space at the junction of the racks.

f. The top shelf shall be wire mesh.

g. A minimum aisle width of 4 ft (1,22 m) shall be maintained between shelfunits and other displays.

Bed Bath and Beyond and similar stores

To understand the application and best use of these EC sprinklers, a fewexamples of the benefits are listed below:

Application

Many older systems installed in extra hazard or high piled storage facilitieswere installed to ordinary hazard spacing rules of 130 ft2 (12,07 m2), or to the 130 ft2 (12,07 m2) exception if the density was equal to or less than 0.25 gpm/ft2 (10,2 mm/min). These older sprinkler spacings limit the facilityfrom extra hazard or high piled storage use.

To upgrade these installations, most branch lines would have to be removedor additional branch lines installed between existing lines to comply with thespacing rules of extra hazard or high piled storage. With the flexibility of theEC sprinklers (especially the EC-17 with a 3⁄4 inch (20mm) thread), densityupgrades and spacing compliance is now possible.

Retrofit

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It is important to note that these EC-25 and EC-17 sprinklers are availableonly in 165°F/73,9°C and 214°F/101,1°C temperatures. While NFPA hasTables and sections that give credits for high temperature sprinklers(250°F/121,1°C to 300°F/148,9°C), the credits are also applicable to the165°F/73,9°C or 214°F/101,1°C EC-25 sprinkler. The 165°F/73,9°C ECperformed as well, if not better, than the high temperature standard spray sprinklers.

Temperature

The above requirements, using the EC-25 technology for many of the ‘bigbox’ retailers, were based on fire testing that stretched over a long period oftime. The EC-17 is a relatively new technology, and the initial testing hasshown the sprinkler performance as an area/density device to be extremelyeffective. For both the EC-25, and the EC-17, the following can be applied:

• The EC Sprinklers offer a maximum coverage area of 196 ft2 (18,21 m2) ata maximum spacing of 14 ft (4,3 m), almost double that of standardcoverage sprinklers used for similar applications.

• The EC Sprinklers offer a maximum coverage area of 144 ft2 (13,37 m2) ata maximum spacing of 15 ft (4,57 m), which can be beneficial tomaximizing sprinkler line spacing.

• The 144 ft2 (13,37 m2) coverage with maximum spacing of 15 ft (4,57 m) forthe EC-17 Sprinklers can be beneficial for retrofitting an existing system toa higher applied water density, especially where the system had utilizedsprinklers having a maximum sprinkler spacing of 15 ft (4,57 m). The 3⁄4inch thread makes this especially true for the EC-17. The 1 inch thread ofthe EC-25 makes the retrofitting of an existing system more difficult.

The recessed version of the Model EC-17 Pendent Sprinkler is intended foruse in areas with a finished ceiling. It uses a two-piece Style 30 (3/4 inchNPT) Recessed Escutcheon with 1⁄4 in (6, 4 mm) of recessed adjustment, orup to 1⁄2 in (12,7 mm) of total adjustment from the flush pendent position.Applications for the Model EC-17 Sprinklers are expanding beyond thecurrent testing. For information regarding additional research fire tests thatmay be acceptable to an Authority Having Jurisdiction please contact theTechnical Services Department.

Summary

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As with any new technology, understanding the appropriate application is thekey to successful implementation. The Extended Coverage StorageSprinklers (EC) are simply the most powerful control-mode sprinklers everdeveloped. In addition to better fire protection, they provide an economicadvantage to the user. Fire experience will reflect the enhanced performanceof this technology, especially when compared to the “magic” 100 ft2 (9,29 m2)maximum spacing limitations that we have all endured for Extra Hazard andStorage occupancies since the development of the spray sprinklers in theearly 1950’s.

1. Kung, Hsiang-Cheng, Vincent, Bennie G., and Troup, Joan M. A.,“Performance Evaluation of Tyco Model EC-25 Control-Mode Extended-Coverage Sprinklers for Storage Occupancies,” FMRC Report J.I.3007168/3007169, May 2001

2. Pabich, Martin J., and Sheppard, David T., “Report of Large-Scale FireTests of Retail Shelf Display and Rack Storage of Cartoned Group APlastics Utilizing Extended Coverage Sprinklers Having a Nominal F-factor of 25.2,” UL Report 00NK22528, NC4119, November 2000

3. Troup, Joan M. A., “Full-Scale Fire Test Performance Evaluation ofCentral’s Model K17-231TM Sprinklers,” FMRC Report J.I. 0D1R8.PR (2),January 1998

4. Troup, Joan M. A., and Chicarello, Peter J., “Large-Scale Fire Tests ofStored Commodities Protected by Central Model D.64 Sprinklers,” FMRCReport J.I. 0W0R4.RR, September 1992

5. National Fire Protection Association. “Installation of Sprinkler Systems –NFPA 13,” 1999 Edition

6. “NFPA 13 Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems 1996 Edition,”Loss Prevention Data Sheet 2-8N, FM Global, Norwood, Massachusetts,1999, Revised January 2001

7. “Storage of Class 1, 2, 3, 4, and Plastic Commodities,” Loss PreventionData Sheet 8-9, FM Global, Norwood, Massachusetts, 1997, RevisedJanuary 2001

8. “Tyco Fire Products (Central, GEM, and Star) Model EC-25 Control-ModeExtended-Coverage Sprinklers (SIN TY9128),” FM Global EngineeringBulletin 02-01, FM Global, Norwood, Massachusetts, February 2001

References

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Mr. Golinveaux’s areas of interest include the research, design andapplications of automatic fire sprinklers as well as their history.

With over 23 years of experience in the fire protection industry, Mr.Golinveaux is currently Senior Vice President of Research and Developmentfor Tyco Fire and Building Products.

In addition to the support to the industry through his numerous NFPAtechnical committee memberships (13, 88A, 101, and 5000), Mr. Golinveauxhas also contributed his time as a presenter for multiple national educationseminars sponsored by organizations such as the Society of Fire Protection Engineers, Universities, and Highly Protected Risk (HPR)Insurance Companies.

Mr. Golinveaux has authored many technical papers as well as being aexpert subject matter for the 19th edition of the Fire Protection Handbookand contributed to editorial text for the 2002 NFPA 13 Handbook.

JAMES E. GOLINVEAUXSenior Vice President, Research & Development

Senior Engineering Technician – Level 4 (CET) with National Institute forEngineering Technologies

CERTIFICATIONS

U.S. Patent, Directional Sprinklers, 1997

U.S. Patent, Low Pressure, Early Suppression Fast Response Sprinklers, 1998

U.S. Patent, Quick Response Dry Pipe Sprinkler System, 1999

PATENTS

Documents

Application of the Tyco Fire Products Application of the Tyco Fire Products Extended Coverage Extra Hazard and High Piled Storage Sprinklers Tyco Fire and Building Products has developed