What is the reason that they are so important ?
In the internet world,you can cross various names of fire sprinkler plate (Escutcheons,trim plates,sleeves,design rings or extenders) but it is an essential material for any sprinkler system.
According to NFPA(National Fire Protection Association) 13,25 and 101,sprinkler heads in ceilings or walls must have proper fitting fire sprinkler plates(Escutcheons).Sprinkler heads are really sensitive tools to have a great role for fire protection system and sprinkler heads are generally installed in drop ceilings by using a hole saw to accommodate the sprinkler head.The escutcheons are an entirely essential part to cover and fill the gap between the sprinkler head and ceiling tile or drywall. They provide a finished aesthetic look but are key to the sprinkler head activating properly. Without a properly fitting escutcheon, heat and smoke will rise up above the ceiling through the gap and may delay the activation of the sprinkler head. Furthermore, if smoke detectors are present, activation could be delayed, jeopardizing early detection and life safety.
Important Note : it’s also important to know that an escutcheon plate is NOT a fire sprinkler cover plate.The escutcheon is included for building systems.So fire sprinkler escutcheons is not needed or requested to any certification but a fire sprinkler cover plate is included by NFPA as material of fire protection systems so it is reason that sprinkler cover plates must have some certificates as FM,UL Certifications
IMPORTANCE OF FIRE SPRINKLER HEAD GUARD
We have mentioned previously about fire sprinkler heads are so sensitive tools that they might be easily activated when it is highly likely that some objects may collide with a fire sprinkler.
This is reason that NFPA gives some obligations to protect sprinkler heads. Many of those rules are based on codes and standards from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).It requires the installation of protective head guards.
From the 2019 edition of NFPA 13
16.2.6 Sprinklers subject to mechanical injury shall be protected with listed guards.
Many guards will secure to most fire sprinklers with both 1/2” and 3/4” thread connections—by far the most common sizes. Finishes like white, red, and chrome are readily available for these generic standard head guards.
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