jrobinson1
Mechanical
Some technical expertise on this very critical issue of fire protection would be most appreciated.
I've got a Class 1A flammable liquid storage area inside of a building that is required to be retrofitted into an existing facility. The IFC states the following:
1. 0.60 gpm/sq ft over an area of 5000 sq ft in a Table (another chapter in the code indicates that for hazardous materials "ordinary hazard group 2 with a minimum 3000 sq ft coverage".
2. 750 gpm minimum hose stream demand
A. Regarding number one above, I am assuming that I must use the square footage given, even though my actual area of the building storing the 1A flammables is only 500 sq ft. Please confirm.
B. Regarding number two above, I am assuming that the 750 gpm counts for both inside and outside hose streams and that I will not need any additional hose allowance. Please confirm.
So, based on the above, am I correct to assume that my new sprinkler demand is (0.60 x 5000) + 750 = 3750 gpm? (I've only seen a max 2500 gpm fire pump in the field, so this makes me think this approach is wrong).
Or, do I only consider my actual area of coverage and go with (0.60 x 500) + 750 = 1050 gpm? Please advise.
Logically, I would think you only apply the density to the area you actually have, but the code verbiage indicating "minimum design area" has taken me aback, and now I am not sure.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Joe
