False Ceiling installation to use ESFR sprinklers? 1

[scythe13]

Hi,
I am performing a basic design for a warehouse (with sloped roof), the dimensions are as follows:

Ware House Dimension – Length and Width: 120m x 80m
Apex. Height: 19 m
Eave Height: 14 m
Height Of racks: 12m
Type of Racks: 3 rows, the racks are open

As it's clear because of ceiling height limitation, ESFR sprinklers option is not viable.
But, I was wondering if it's possible to install false ceiling at the height of 13.7m and therefore pave the way for installing esfr sprinklers? Do you recommend it?

 

[LCREP]

Yes as per FM Data Sheet INSTALLATION GUIDELINES FOR AUTOMATIC SPRINKLERS 2-0

For ceiling slopes that exceed the maximum allowed, install a flat, continuous false ceiling (see Appendix A for definition) over the affected area and for 20 ft (6.0 m) beyond in all directions. Design the false ceiling
in accordance with Data Sheet 1-12, Ceilings and Concealed Spaces, and ensure it can withstand a minimum uplift pressure of 3 lb/ft2 (14.4 kg/m2). Provide sprinkler protection beneath the false ceiling designed in
accordance with the relevant occupancy-specific data sheet.

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Fire Sprinklers Save Firefighters’ Lives Too!

 

[LCREP]

more info from FM

False Ceiling: A solid continuous sub-ceiling that is installed in accordance with Data Sheet 1-12, Ceilings and Concealed Spaces, and aligned parallel to floor level at a given vertical distance below the primary ceiling or roof. Sprinkler protection is installed under the false ceiling and designed in accordance with the occupancy-specific data sheet. The purpose of a false ceiling with sprinklers installed below it is to typically address hazards that can negatively affect sprinkler performance such as excessive clearance, excessive airflow velocities, excessive ceiling slope or loss of the heat plume through exhaust openings at ceiling level. Design the false ceiling to withstand a minimum fire plume uplift velocity pressure of 3 lb/ft2 (14.4
kg/m2). Suitable ceiling materials include minimum 3⁄8 in. (10 mm) plywood or gypsum board as well as corrugated or sheet steel. If the false ceiling is made of ordinary plywood or other combustible construction, sprinkler protection may also be needed above the false ceiling (see DS 1-12). If the false ceiling is hung from the existing roof framework, ensure the roof can withstand the additional dead load.

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Fire Sprinklers Save Firefighters’ Lives Too!

 

[LCREP]

Another thing to consider.

Height Of racks: 12m = 39.3700'

Max height of stock is 40 feet,measured from the floor to the top of the load. With a rack height of 39'and a typical 4-5 foot high load you would exceed the maximum storage height.

This head is the only head that I know of that may help.

http://www.reliablesprinkler.com/pdfs/products/177 Model HL22 ESFR Specific Application.pdf

Product Description
The HL22 Specific Application Early Suppression Fast
Response (ESFR) Sprinkler is intended for use against severe
fire challenges. This sprinkler is designed to respond
quickly to growing fires with a high volume of water discharge
to “suppress” rather than “control” fires at lower
pressures and without in-rack sprinklers for 48’ (14.6m)
ceiling height with 43’ (13.1m) storage as is required with
a K14 or K17 ESFR.

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Fire Sprinklers Save Firefighters’ Lives Too!