Is Dry Delivery Manifold Method Just Options?

6/4/2026

Under NFPA 13, 2019 Edition, does Section 8.2.3.1 provide the option of using 8.2.3.2, 8.2.3.3, 8.2.3.4, 8.2.3.5 or 8.2.3.7 to size the system?

Could I size an 800-gallon EH1 dry system to deliver water to a single test connection in 60 seconds based on 8.2.3.2, or must the system be calculated for water delivery by a recognized program per 8.2.3.5 and provide a 4-outlet test manifold with a 45-second time limit?

Is the manifold just an option? I've been confused on this for awhile...thanks in advance!!

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2 Comments

Dan Wilder

6/4/2026 08:57:23 am

In your example, the system exceeds 750 gallons and would need to comply with the water delivery requirements of 8.2.3.6.1 with the manifold and 45 sec delivery time however, this can be done via a field test instead of water delivery time calculations per 8.2.3.7.5. Now, failing that test after the system is installed would be extremely impactful with a potential for a lot of rework so getting the calculations completed first is a better option.

Based on the "insights" section, 8.2.3.2 is a general requirement for all systems to have water to the inspector's test within 60 sec., with the exception of residential.

The next couple sections allow additional features on the riser to expel air faster based on system size and do not need to meet the 60 second rule, and finally, water delivery time calculations are required for any system larger than 750 gallons and those must comply with the Table 8.2.3.6.1.

"...shall be permitted with a quick-opening device..." this does not require a QOD, but if one is provided the delivery time requirement is omitted.

The 2025 Edition explains this in a much clearer method on the "Insights" section near 8.4.2.2

jason

6/4/2026 12:11:00 pm

Hi Dan,
I ended up sending the same question to NFPA, and feel like they confirmed my opinion that it's the up to the designer which option they choose. If the system volume is over 750, I should be able to use 8.2.3.2 OR 8.2.3.7 for the water delivery requirements IF I'm not using a program to calculate the delivery time. The response from NFPA sounds like the paragraphs "allow", not require us to use a given option.

NFPA Response 4/22/26
Paragraph 8.2.3.1 does state that the volume of a dry pipe system shall be determined by 8.2.3.2, 8.2.3.3, 8.2.3.4, 8.2.3.5, or 8.2.3.7.

Paragraph 8.2.3.2 is a general requirement for all dry-pipe systems and is verified by a functional test through the inspector’s test connection.

Paragraphs 8.2.3.3 are 8.2.3.4 apply to systems smaller than the one you indicated.

Paragraph 8.2.3.5 allows for systems to be calculated in accordance with 8.2.3.6. This points to you to requirements in Table 8.2.3.6.1. For Extra Hazard Group 1, the Table requires 4 remote sprinklers open, and a maximum delivery time of 45 sections.

Paragraph 8.2.3.7 allows you to meet the requirements of Table 8.2.3.6.1 through a functional test through a manifold.

Which of the applicable paragraphs you follow will depend on system characteristics and engineering judgment. The requirements in 8.2.3.2 and 8.2.3.7 are both based on functional tests of the performance of the system, so compliance cannot be verified until the system is fully installed and tested. Paragraph 8.2.3.5 gives the option of calculating the system and verifying the performance before installation.

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Is Dry Delivery Manifold Method Just Options?

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