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On recent inspections I've seen many installations where an automatic ball drip is not provided anywhere on the pipe connection between the fire department connection and the check valve that serves the fire department connection. Is there an exception I'm missing or isn't that automatic ball drip always required?
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6 Comments
Dan
6/6/2019 10:08:52 am
Refer to NFPA 13, A.8.17.2.6. It is required in areas subject to freezing. In areas not subject to freezing, where water would be trapped between the FDC check valve and the system, an auxiliary drain is needed.
Scott McCormick
6/6/2019 11:58:13 am
I am in a Local Enforcing Agency and was told by a sprinkler contractor that an Storz FDC doesn't need a ball-drip because its only needed on an FDC with a clapper, i do disagree because if the check valve doesn't hold the Storz FDC pipe could have water in it. My other comment is how contractor have put the ball-drip at the check valve when the check valve is not at the lowest point. 6/7/2019 09:08:56 am
Removing a Storz connection under pressure could be hazardous to the mechanic/fireperson.
Frank Herrick
6/7/2019 10:22:37 am
FDC ball drip is always required, regardless of Stortz or NH connection. 6/7/2019 10:49:03 am
As far as the question, personally I think it would depend on the ball drips design and manufacturers intent.
Jrob
6/7/2019 12:19:49 pm
I dont think I've ever seen a ball drip that you can install in the vertical position. I suppose if it was spring loaded it would work, but never seen one. Leave a Reply. |
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