ESFR and In-Rack Sprinkler System

[Buildtech2]

As per codes, In rack sprinkler system can be replaced with ESFR sprinklers. Are there any specific conditions under which ESFR sprinklers can be used instead of In rack sprinklers.

 

[LCREP]

Most warehouse occupancies can be protected with ESFR some exceptions that need to be reviewed for specific protection include flammable and combustible liquids, aerosols, rubber tires, etc.

 

[Buildtech2]

Thanks LCREP. The most of the areas in the warehouse was classified as medium hazard area where commodities will be stored in a racking system. The commodities include diapers and milk wrapped in plastic packing material and this packing is finally packed in paper cartoons and these paper cartoons will be placed in the racking system. There is small areas which were classified as high hazard area where combustible commodity will be stored such as plastic packing material, card boards, and diapers in a racking system.

Now I have to make a choice between in-rack sprinkler system along with ceiling sprinkler system or only ESFR sprinkler system. We done have any combustible liquid storage in the warehouse.

The average height of the workshop is 12.5 m
The approximate height of racking system shall be 11.7 m.

 

[LCREP]

Since your roof height exceedes 40' and depending on the K factor of the head you MAY need in-racks even with ESFR, check NFPA 13 and or FM Data Sheet 8-9 to be sure.

 

[TravisMack]

If this is an existing warehouse, you may find the obstruction rules are something that can not be overcome without some significant expense. I often joke, but am also serious, the building and other trades need to be built around the ESFR sprinkler system.

Travis Mack
MFP Design, LLC

http://www.mfpdesign.com

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[LCREP]

Mack

Whenever I started an ESFR job I would make the GC get all the subcontractors in a meeting and explain the ESFR obstruction rules. I would go around the room and ask each contractor do you understand what just said? When they all said yes it made it much easier to get the electric contractor move 200 lights. They would say who is paying me to move the lights? I would say remember that meeting we did at the beginning of the job and the letter confirming the meeting with the ESFR criteria you agreed too? They were not happy campers, oh well too bad.

The fun being the insurance engineer on the job!

 

[Buildtech2]

Thank you all. Highly appreciate your valuable comments.

 

[SprinklerDesigner2]

I have never had a problem on any of my jobs involving an esfr system because prior to beginning my proposal I cover in detail the restrictions that esfr systems have over normal sprinkler systems. In fact I probably go overboard with details, if there is such a thing, when it comes to esfr systems. I've even gone so far as to include photographs of existing similar systems to make everything crystal clear.

I'll get the architect involved and give him certain scenarios where he can see for himself with a short list of rules that an esfr system, if the building is not designed around them, is just impossible.

We have a building with 21 foot bays having solid structural members with a building higher than 30' lay it out for me, how can we do this? I have always found once I do this they'll get together and the communications will open and no problems.

If it's an esfr system I'll build the system and then you build your building around me.