Comparing Mist Systems & Sprinklers

Domestic & Residential Mist Systems

The following information is aimed at the residential sprinkler industry.

The publication of a British standard for water mist fire systems produced by the British Research Establishment (BRE) has been welcomed by the fire sprinkler industry because it has produced specific test criteria which water mist suppression systems and components can be measured against. The reason for this delay is partly due to the fact that water mist systems have traditionally been very ‘project specific’ which has made it difficult to produce a broad set of guidelines for their use.

Conventional fire sprinkler systems have been in use for over 100 years whereas mist systems have only been developed comparatively recently and, unlike conventional fire sprinkler systems they do not have the same proof of performance or legacy of 100 years of test data in an extensive range of fire hazards to refer to.

History of Water Mist Fire Suppression Systems

Typical commercial mist head

Water mist fire suppression systems were originally developed as an alternative to Halon based fire suppression systems for storage areas and machinery enclosures in ships and various commercial applications.

Such systems performed very well in specific situations where there were no design variables like opening windows or varying fire loadings and where doors would generally be kept closed etc. These systems have subsequently been utilised in land based commercial situations like engine rooms, local asset management of electronic equipment, commercial kitchens, turbine systems etc.

More recently, water mist fire suppression systems have been considered in residential situations and a number of low pressure residential and domestic mist systems have been installed throughout the UK. However, it is fair to say that far more conventional fire sprinkler systems have been installed in the same period using components which have been subjected to extremely rigorous testing procedures over many years in a multitude of different design scenarios.

What is the difference between a Water Mist fire system and a conventional fire sprinkler system?

A typica residential high pressure mist head

It has been known for a long time that water droplets evaporate when applied to a fire and the resulting steam reduces the concentration of oxygen close to the fire which in turn interrupts the chain reaction necessary for a fire to establish itself. This is the process for any sprinkler system.

However, Water Mist suppression systems improve on this basic process by producing a finer spray (or mist) than a standard fire sprinkler nozzle. A fine mist is a very effective way of ensuring that water evaporates quicker thus slowing down the combustion process even more effectively than a conventional fire sprinkler system. In order to achieve a finer spray, mist systems operate at a higher pressure than standard conventional sprinkler systems and in most situations can be as effective if not more effective than a conventional residential fire sprinkler system despite the reduced quantity of water used. They are broadly classified as low and high pressure.

What is the difference between a low pressure and high-pressure mist system?

Although low pressure mist systems have been utilised for some time in residential applications, a more recent development in the industry has been high-pressure water mist systems connected directly to a standard mains water supply. Thes innovative systems operates at around 8-12 times the pressure of a low-pressure mist system and they use moderately less water. Although a low-pressure mist system could never be connected to a town main due to the pressure requirement, a high pressure Plumis system is designed to directly pump water from a standard domestic water connection without exceeding the maximum quantity of water permitted by Water Regulations.

This fundamental difference has proved incredibly useful in situations where sprinkler coverage has been required in domestic situations where it hasn’t been possible to replace the existing water mains supply or where it would prove too expensive to provide an up-graded water supply to a new build project.

Mist System Installation

Our team of engineers at RAD Fire Sprinklers have been designing and installing sprinkler systems for customers within London and the south East for many years. We have worked on many different types of properties over the years, from high rise blocks of apartments to individual houses. With a mist fire sprinkler system you can extinguish a fire with ease, helping to keep both the property and the people within it safe.

When it comes to mist sprinkler system installation, we ensure a professional and efficient service is provided. We work closely with our customers to ensure their needs and expectations are met. All installation work is carried out by fully trained and experienced engineers to ensure a professional service is provided. If you’re interested in a high pressure mist fire suppression system or you’d like to arrange an installation, then don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Why Choose Us For Mist Sprinkler Systems?

We have been supplying and installing mist sprinkler systems for clients throughout London and the South East of England for many years. Having installed mist system for may years, we have become well-known for the service we provide. Some of the reasons we think you should choose us for mist systems are:

• Years of industry experience
• Well-known for the service we provide
• Number sprinkler system types to choose from
• Impartial advise because we install all types of system
• On hand to provide expert advice and guidance

Contact RAD Fire Sprinklers For Mist Systems

When it comes to mist sprinkler systems be sure to get in touch with RAD Fire Sprinklers. We have years of experience installing mist suppression systems in London and the South east of England for both individuals and businesses. A mist system will help to protect your property and both the people in it. Our expert team of engineers can provide advice and guidance to ensure the best type of system is fitted in your property. If you’re thinking about having a mist fire sprinkler system installed within your property in London, then be sure to get in touch with RAD Fire Sprinklers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fire Mist Systems

How does a misting system work?

Fire mist protection systems have been around for a number of years. The system works by pressurising water and forcing small amounts of water through a very small orifice; which is usually the size of a human hair. The smaller the water particle, the faster it vaporises. Once sprayed the atomised water hits the hot air and the evaporation process will leave a cool mist in the air.

Can you use salt water in mist systems?

No! There are two reasons why we recommend you don’t use salt water in mist systems. The first is when sprayed the salt could irritate peoples skins and secondly salt water is more likely to clog the misting heads.

Are mist sprinkler systems easy to install?

High pressure mist systems are easier to install because the pipework is smaller and also flexible making these systems very suitable to being installed retrospectively.

How long will it take to install a mist system?

The length of time it takes to install a mist system will depend on a number of factors such as the type of building, the number of installation staff and how extensive the mist system is. When you choose RAD Fire Sprinklers, we’ll give you an estimated time for completion.

Call 01892 680090 and talk to an engineer for more information.