How to Sprinkler Vertical Storage Carousel?

5/26/2021

We are on a project where they are installing these vertical storage carousels and will be storing miscellaneous vehicle parts and tires. I don't see anything within NFPA 13 specifically mentioning this equipment, so the current plan of action is to treat this equipment as multi-row racking. Since it is not practical to provide in-rack sprinklers for this equipment due to the moving parts, we are planning on protecting this equipment with ESFR sprinklers.

Does this ESFR approach seem appropriate? Is there any information that I am not considering?

This is something that is new to me so any input will be greatly appreciated.

https://www.storevertical.com/products/vertical-storage-system/tire-carousel

https://www.storevertical.com/products/vertical-storage-system/shelving-carousel

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7 Comments

Franck

5/26/2021 08:18:13 am

You should check FM Global data sheet 8.34 – Protection for Automatic Storage

Some general guidelines I am using myself (not an approved standard):

Carousel automated retrieval systems should be provided with automatic sprinkler protection inside of the enclosures.
For carousel units, up to a maximum of 7.5 m (25 ft), the sprinkler protection should be provided at the ceiling level of the units.
The sprinklers should be capable of supplying a flow of at least 115 l/min (30 gpm) over the entire unit in accordance with NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems.
The maximum spacing between sprinkler heads should be 2.4 m (8 ft) with a maximum covered area of 6 m2 (64 sq ft).
The sprinkler heads should be quick response ordinary temperature (70°C – 160°F) with a nominal K-factor of 160 (11.2).
Typically, at least one level of sprinklers should be installed in the vertical section at the highest point possible while remaining below the travel plane of the upper horizontal section.

For carousel storage above 7.5 m (25 ft), the ceiling protection indicated above should be supplemented with intermediate levels of quick response ordinary temperature (70°C – 160°F) rated sidewall sprinkler heads (or extended coverage sidewall sprinkler heads) with a nominal K-factor of 115 (8.0), installed at both ends of the unit and designed to deliver a minimum flow of 115 l/min (30 gpm) at the most remote intermediate level of sprinklers, with all of the sprinklers within the unit operating.
The intermediate levels should be spaced with a maximum of 3 m (10 ft) vertically, with no more than 4.5 m (15 ft) between the last level and the protected ceiling level of the carousel.

An alternative would be to remove the ceiling of the carousel so that the sprinkler heads located at the ceiling level can reach the inside of this storage arrangement.

If the space at the top of the carousel is limited, recessed sprinkler heads can be used

If the materials stored within the carousel are of high value and/or could result in a major business interruption if damaged, then a gaseous suppression system should be considered in addition to the sprinkler protection recommended in this standard.

Noncombustible containers should be used in the carousel whenever possible.

The carousel unit should be interlocked to automatically shut-down upon sprinkler operation (or heat/smoke detection activation).

Craig Hanson

5/26/2021 08:18:31 am

I have just completed a very intensive review for the same type of building. I had reached out to NFSA and NFPA for clarification and deign criteria. IF you want more information please contact me at [email protected]

CJ Bonczyk

5/26/2021 09:20:53 am

Many times when we have protected the ASRS/VLM units for tools storage we are bound by the FM Global guidelines outlined by Franck above. I would add the specific coordination with the manufacturer is heavily required. The deflector has specific distances such as 3-4 max from the carousel top. DO NOT penetrate the carousel yourself. The manufacturer will provide you will a couple options of where sprinklers can be placed. Space your sprinklers accordingly by code and ensure the penetrations are made by the manufacturer otherwise you will void the unit's warranty. Your penetration will need to be fire sealed and a steel escutcheon will need to be bolted to the top. Also a separate detection and control valve feeding the unit is required. We typically install the VSR Autotest flow switch that does not require water flow to test the system.

Regarding the tire carousel we have used in the past 2015 IFC requirements, as tires are classified as a High Hazard commodity. Working with AHJ's previously and utilizing Section 3206.2 the Extent and Type of Protection provision to limit the hazard to an area of a building separated by 1-hour fire-resistive rated construction. Door openings have a fire resistance rating and have magnetic door holders that release upon sprinkler water flow. We utilized NFPA 13 Table 18.4(d) K25.2 sprinklers calculated based on either the number of sprinklers per NFPA 13 Table 18.4(d) or the number of sprinklers in room pending the room size allows you to calculate 12 sprinklers. The tire storage carousel can also be discussed between the AHJ and FPE to determine an acceptable means of protection based on the local adopted code.

Fred Anderson link

9/20/2022 02:52:10 pm

We are designing a fire engine maintenance facility which will include a Vidir vertical tire carousel model HT54162-0563-12. This to be located in Washington DC using the 2019 NFPA 13 code.

Do you have any recommendations for this installation.

Kevin

5/26/2021 09:54:34 am

FM Global has Data Sheet 8-33 for Carousel Storage and Retrieval Systems as well. Not sure if the tire storage is addressed in there but is worth a look.

Dan Wilder

5/26/2021 09:59:39 am

These don't look enclosed per those links so you're likely looking at a possible ceiling only protection scheme unless a pipe can get into the center area then you may be able to have an attempt at some single/double level in-rack protection. The Case Study video of the tire carousel does show 2 levels of in-racks at about the 35 second mark.

Option I have used in the past is to coordinate a draft stop above the equipment to avoid the 15' extension of the high hazard density. As stated above, the FM guide is helpful for direction as long as the carousel falls into the specific descriptions within the document.

Aariz mudassir link

6/28/2024 12:31:19 pm

Automated Vertical Tire Storage Carousel. Dimensions: 17'10"H, 17'8"W, 7'8". Must hold up to 33" diameter tires. Capacity for

How to Sprinkler Vertical Storage Carousel?

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