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"High Volume/Low Speed Fan and Sprinkler Operation - Phase II" (PDF, 3 MB)
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Fire Protection Research Foundation report: "High Volume/Low Speed Fan and Sprinkler Operation - Phase II"
Author: Aon Fire Protection Engineering
Date of issue: January 2011
Foreword
High volume low speed (HVLS) fans are in increasing use in storage and manufacturing facilities. However, the interaction of these fans and automatic sprinkler operation is unknown. In order to inform spacing and other installation requirements in NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Automatic Sprinklers, the Foundation initiated a research comprehensive research program with two Phases.
This report describes Phase II research activities. It describes the evaluation of the effect of the HVLS fans upon the performance of both ESFR and CMDA sprinklers protecting both rack storage and palletized commodities. A total of 10 full-scale fire tests were conducted during the period of June through December of 2010. Comprehensive guidance for the use of the fans in the presence of sprinklered storage is presented.
The content, opinions and conclusions contained in this report are solely those of the authors.