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I recently observed an existing drum drip assembly installed in a horizontal orientation at a low point of a dry system. Although I would never design or install a drum drip in this fashion, I do not see any specific language in NFPA 13 regarding the installation orientation of a drum drip. General knowledge and understanding tell me it must be installed vertically. The only language I can use to identify the acceptable installation orientation is manufacturer cut sheets for pre-assembled drum drip assemblies.
Has anyone come across this in the past? Would you consider this an "impairment" if conducting an NFPA 25 quarterly inspection? I look forward to hearing everyone's input. Sent in anonymously for discussion. Click Title to View | Submit Your Question | Subscribe
9 Comments
Anthony Crispo
8/2/2024 08:06:26 am
I can't see an issue when using an eccentric reducer on the discharge side of the drum. This is the only solution on occasion where an owner refuses to have any exposed piping and elects only for an access panel above a ceiling.
Glenn Berger
8/2/2024 08:15:44 am
Not sure that I would call it an impairment, but would considered it as non-compliant. The drum drip serves as a low point drain.
Dan Wilder
8/2/2024 08:22:03 am
IMO - At best (worst?), a non-critical but that is pushing things (assuming the drum drip is in a heated location), more likely a separate, additive write up with this noted as a possible issue similar to a missing sprinkler in a room or a storage design.
Jack G
8/2/2024 09:13:10 am
As indicated above, probably not an impairment if located in a heated space with insulation. Owner didn’t want it exposed ( so put in a wall with a wall panel entry.
Matthew Mueller
8/2/2024 09:20:31 am
Something like this could only be noted as an observation during routine ITM covered in NFPA 25. It is very important to remember that NFPA 25 only speaks to the operating conditions of a system. If a head scratcher such as a sideways drum drip is encountered, it cannot be listed as a deficiency under the scope of 25.
James Phifer
8/2/2024 09:23:01 am
I agree with Jack G. It will need to be at least, slightly sloped.
Casey Milhorn
8/2/2024 09:33:52 am
From a practical perspective, the capacity of the "chamber" is reduced by putting it on it's side, depending on the way it is piped in. I don't think it will loose any functionality other than capacity. Again, from a practical perspective I would want to see a 30" or 36" long drum drip to be able to collect close to an equivalent amount of water in the belly of the pipe. That's the only real concern I would have with it.
If there is a code that says "All fire equipment shall be listed for use", then refer to the cut sheet to see exactly how it is listed for use by the testing laboratory: UL, ULC, CE, FM, etc.
Dave
8/2/2024 10:43:43 am
As far as coming across it in the past, yes, over the years I've done this several times, and seen it done many times, in places where it cannot be installed in a vertical installation or where it would be a head-banger or likely to be tampered with. For decades no one around here purchased them; they were assembled in the shop. Most still do. If we knew it would need to be installed sloped, or horizontally, we would use 2x1 eccentric reducers on the inlet and outlet as Anthony suggested. If it might collect a lot maybe making it longer to compensate as Casey said. The company down the street would weld a cylindrical chamber. Leave a Reply. |
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