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Sprinkler Head Spacing and Location
Sprinkler Head Spacing and Location
The diagram at left shows the water distribution for standard pendant and upright sprinkler fixtures. It
is useful to understand how objects within this distribution area can alter the throw and disrupt the
ability of the sprinkler to extinguish a fire.
This is a general depiction of sprinkler throw and should not be used to determine sprinkler spacing.
Refer to the manufacturer data for specific throw data. Please note, that the throw of a sprinkler
should not be used for sprinkler spacing - local codes determine spacing requirements.
Maximum Distance from Wall: half (1/2) of the maximum distance between sprinkler heads.
Distance from Ceiling: minimum 1", maximum 12" for unobstructed construction. The minimum 1"
is typical; however, concealed, recessed, and flush sprinklers may be mounted less than 1" from the
ceiling and shall be installed based on their listing.
Sprinkler Head Types
There are a number of different types of sprinkler heads that meet different needs. This article
covers the operation types (fusible link vs. bulb), the distribution types (pendant, upright, sidewall),
and response temperatures.
A fusible link sprinkler head has a two-part metal element that is fused by a heat-sensitive alloy.
The link holds the pip cap, or plug, in place. Once the ambient temperature around the sprinkler
head reaches a specified temperature, the alloy releases and the metal elements separate, which
causes the pip cap to fall away. Water is then released. Note that water is only released by sprinkler
heads where the ambient temperature reaches a specified level - therefore, water is only released in
the area of a fire, which helps limit water damage.
Glass bulb sprinkler heads have a small glass reservoir that holds a heat-sensitive liquid. This glass
bulb holds the pip cap in place. When the ambient temperature of the liquid reaches a certain level,
the liquid expands causing the glass bulb to break, which allows the pip cap to fall away releasing
water. As with the fusible link heads, water is only released where the ambient temperature reaches
a certain level, which helps limit water damage.
(155°F)