In a nutshell….. what is the difference between a sprinkler system and water mist?

Sprinkler systems suppress fire primarily by wetting the fuel surface. Water mist systems use fast water droplet vaporisation, which leads to cooling, air displacement, air/fuel vapour dilution and heat radiation, along with wetting of the fuel surface.

What is a water mist system?

A water mist system is a fire protection system that produces a fine spray to suppress fires. Water is the oldest and universally available firefighting agent. It is non-toxic, environmentally friendly and, in addition, has superior fire protection capabilities when compared to every other agent.

 

How do water mist fire suppression systems work?

On activation when there is a fire, the water mist and fire sprinkler systems wet the surface of the fuel, and the surrounding area, to cool and suppress the fire like a blanket of water. Only the water mist system works in all three ways simultaneously, with minimal water to extinguish a fire;

1. Upon activation of a water mist nozzle, the system will begin to discharge high pressure water mist, filling the area with a fine mist – which will travel around the room, dampen all surfaces it can get to, therefore restricting the fire from spreading.
2. When the water is discharged at a high pressure, the room temperature is reduced dramatically due to a reaction between the fast-moving colder air molecules and water molecules against the heat from the fire, much like cold air displacing hot air.
3. As the water mist has direct contact with the flame, it turns into steam.

System designs of water mist systems and fire sprinklers

Nozzles: Both water mist and sprinkler systems have fixed nozzle heads, that have been accurately and efficiently positioned within the premises to ensure full protection.

Pumps: Water mist systems use less water than sprinkler systems which means there is less post-fire damage to the premises. In properties with low water flow, a mist system may be more appropriate, because traditional sprinkler systems need big water tanks installed inside the premises for the system to work.

Pipework: Both water mist and sprinkler systems have fixed pipe work.

 

When protecting you and your colleagues or customers, it is vital for systems to activate as soon as possible to minimise the build-up of smoke, and to buy people time to evacuate the building safety. 

System designs of water mist systems and fire sprinklers

Nozzles: Both water mist and sprinkler systems have fixed nozzle heads, that have been accurately and efficiently positioned within the premises to ensure full protection.

Pumps: Water mist systems use less water than sprinkler systems which means there is less post-fire damage to the premises. In properties with low water flow, a mist system may be more appropriate, because traditional sprinkler systems need big water tanks installed inside the premises for the system to work.

Pipework: Both water mist and sprinkler systems have fixed pipe work.

Faelsafe Services

Faelsafe brings you the confidence of leading expertise in the water mist and fire sprinkler industry. Through 0ver 10 year’s experience as one of the top respected fire and life safety specialist companies in the UK working across multiple sectors.

From consulting, bespoke design and sourcing, to installation, commissioning and maintenance, Faelsafe can provide support.  We only use the highest-quality components and equipment, and our in-house designers and engineers will work with you throughout the full process to ensure you have the best possible fire protection system for your needs, working within your specifications and budget.

With every installed system, whether by us or someone else, we continue to support you with our scheduled maintenance, full testing, servicing and 24/7 emergency call out throughout the UK.

If you haven’t had your water mist system serviced within the last six months then please contact our Service Team 03336669995 or email us jobwatch@faelsafe.co.uk