Sprinkler for Steam Turbine Generator Bearings

[powering2002]

Dear All

I work at steam power plant. Last year, insurance came to our site and gave recommendation that we should install fire protection (sprinkler) for steam turbine generator bearings. then we asked our vendor (MHI). MHI said that the bearing that is used in our power plant is directed lubrication type. So it could reduce the temperature of bearing. MHI told us to conduct a study before applying that technology (sprinkler for turbine bearings).
In this occasion, i would like to ask some questions.
1. Should we follow the recommendation of the insurance (installing sprinkler for steam turbine generator bearings)?
2. Does NFPA Code Allow us not to install sprinkler for steam turbine generator bearings if we have directed lubrication type bearing?
Thanks..

 

[rcw retired EE]

In my reading of NFPA 850 (2010 edition) "Recommended Practice for Fire Protection for Electric Generating Plants..." I don't see any different treatment based on the type of bearing. If there is pumped oil that could spring a leak and spray an oil mist there is a hazard of a fire in the area that could melt the building steel even if it doesn't damage the turbine. Sprinkler system's reduce that danger.

The language says there "should" be water spray protection. It doesn't appear to be just a recommendation.

Will the insurance company cover the fire damage if there is a bearing lube oil fire? If so, how much more is the plant's insurance premium or deductible to cover an area without sprinklers?