Product(s):	WaterGEMS, WaterCAD
Version(s):	CONNECT Edition, V8i
Area:	Modeling

Problem

Can I design sprinkler system using WaterGEMS or WaterCAD?

I am trying to model a fire fighting system wherein a network of sprinklers is to be used. How do I input nozzle details? Can I use WaterGEMS for this?

Solution

Lay out the sprinkler system just as you would any other pipe network. At the location of the sprinklers, insert junction nodes. Simulate the flowing sprinkler(s) by setting their emitter coefficient to a value of the discharge coefficient you can obtain from sprinkler manufacturers. Be careful with units.

Focus on the highest, most remote sprinklers. If they work, then the others should work as well. Consult the fire codes for the flow required and the number of sprinklers that need to be flowing simultaneously.

You should also include the head losses through the backflow preventer and meter (if metered). You can use a GPV to represent them.

If you are planning sprinkler system for a single story building, then the layout can be to scale. However, with multi-story buildings, this can get messy with each floor on top of one another. In that case, it is best to use non-scaled schematic mapping of the system.

Designing a sprinkler system in WaterCAD or WaterGEMS

Problem

Solution

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