What type of sprinkler head does a deluge system use?

A deluge system utilizes open sprinkler heads, which is a key feature that distinguishes it from other sprinkler systems. In a deluge system, the sprinkler heads are not equipped with heat-sensitive mechanisms to close them, unlike closed heads found in typical wet or dry sprinkler systems. This open design allows water to flow freely from all the heads simultaneously when the system is activated, which is essential for combating large fires or situations where rapid fire spread is a concern.

Deluge systems are commonly employed in high-hazard environments, such as storage facilities for flammable liquids or chemical plants, where an immediate and comprehensive water supply is vital to control a fire before it can escalate. When the fire detection system is triggered, the deluge valve opens, releasing water through all of the open sprinkler heads at once, creating a heavy curtain of water over the protected area. Thus, the choice of open sprinkler heads is integral to the operational effectiveness of a deluge system.