Replacing a fire sprinkler system alarm valve

There are four broad types of automatic fire sprinkler alarm valves used for automatic fire sprinkler systems.  These include;

• residential fire sprinkler system alarm valve;
• wet pipe fire sprinkler system alarm valve;
• a deluge (dry pipe) fire sprinkler system;
• a pre-action fire sprinkler system.

This document covers the information needed for a wet pipe automatic fire sprinkler system.

Reasons to replace a wet pipe sprinkler alarm valve

There are numerous reasons to replace an automatic fire sprinkler system alarm valve such as;

• deterioration due to age;
• unavailability of spare parts;
• damage or component failure;
• corrosion.

Under normal circumstances, a sprinkler alarm valve could last 50 years or more with only periodic maintenance required, as outlined in Australian Standard AS 1851 or by the manufacturer.

There are also replaceable components within an automatic fire sprinkler alarm valve such as gaskets that must be replaced periodically in order for the system operate reliably.

In order to replace a wet pipe fire sprinkler alarm valve, we need a details about the alarm valve to ensure we order the correct replacement valve.

• A photograph of the existing alarm valve assembly (vital information);
• The make and model of the existing alarm valve;
• The method of connection of the alarm valve to the main stop valve (below) and the sprinkler rising main pipe (above). This will typically be a flange with 4 or more bolts or a rolled groove coupling.

We will also need a series of measurements to ensure we order the correct size valve or if necessary 

1. the diameter of the pipe connection (such as 80mm, 100mm 125mm, 150mm, 200mm)
2. where the pipe has a flanged connection (not rolled groove coupling) measure the diameter of the flange;
3. count the number of bolts for each flange and measure the distance (centre to centre) between each bolt;
4. measure the distance from the external face of the top and bottom flange to show the height of the alarm valve;
5. measure the flange diameter.
6. measure the diameter and length of each bolt.

Once we have the correct information then send a copy to Firewize. We may ask you additional information based on the photograph supplied.

If you still need help, you can book a time with us and we can then arrange a site visit to assist further.