Kevin Hall M.Eng., P.E., CET, CWBSP, PMSFPE

FPE Corner

Single (Two) Point Density

Condensing the density/area curves.

June 3, 2022

Kevin Hall M.Eng., P.E., CET, CWBSP, PMSFPE

The occupancy hazard fire control approach to designing today’s fire sprinkler systems includes single-point densities since the NFPA 13 revision in 2002.

FPE Corner

Residential Fire Sprinkler Systems: NFPA 13, NFPA 13R, NFPA 13D

Where additional protections are necessary or desired, it is up to the engineer to specify.

December 6, 2021

Kevin Hall M.Eng., P.E., CET, CWBSP, PMSFPE

No Comments

The requirements of residential sprinkler systems are similar across the three installation standards, with a few variations to provide cost-saving options for homeowners. Where additional protections are necessary or desired, it is up to the engineer to specify.

FPE Corner

The Value of Roughness: Sprinkler System Hydraulics

With the advent of nitrogen generators, the pendulum has begun to swing towards permitting a C Value of 120 for black steel pipe.

July 2, 2021

Kevin Hall M.Eng., P.E., CET, CWBSP, PMSFPE

No Comments

The concept is simple: Smoother pipe creates less friction loss, which possibly can allow smaller pipe sizes costing less in materials and labor.

FPE Corner

Specifying Preaction Systems

They can be an effective tool for a design engineer, but only if used for the right application

January 6, 2020

Kevin Hall M.Eng., P.E., CET, CWBSP, PMSFPE

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This month, Kevin Hall from the National Fire Sprinkler Association joined this column to help us better understand preaction systems, one type of fire sprinkler system. There are three types of preaction systems and understanding their differences can aid in making an informed decision on the kind of system to use in different scenarios.