Purpose of plate for pendant sprinkler 2

[MEP.Learner]

Hi Engineers,

I need some guidance of what is purpose of the plate at the sprinkler. Refer the attached picture.
As I ask around the engineers and fire protection contractors, I have received mixed answer and I still can't be sure the exact reason to install the plate.
Was this requirement to install the plate specified in NFPA code?

So do share your thoughts / knowledge.

Thanks.

 

[LCREP]

Being on NFPA 25 in the past it does not surprise me, stuff happens when you have all these committees working and with deadlines and 12 hour meetings. Something that is clear as day when you are sitting in meetings and or on a conference call, is not 6 months after.... oh well it will get fixed.

 

[skdesigner]

Good timing. Just received an e-mail from NFPA with regards to 2016 FAQ's. This happens to be one of them - complete with a detail!

 

[skdesigner]

Page 6 of 8 in the pdf

 

[cdafd]

Interesting,

See what happens with the 2019

But still the sprinkler has to be below the obstruction.

Entire part of the sprinkler???