7. INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS
The following sequence is recommended to install the FIREPEX
fi
re
sprinkler system:
- Determine
fi
re sprinkler location
- Install sprinkler
fi
ttings
- Route and connect pipe
- Install plumbing
fi
ttings
- Install plumbing pipe
- Install
fi
re sprinklers
- Perform pressure test
- Perform
fl
ow test
7.1. Ensuring Design Meets Installation Guidelines
RAUPEX white UV shield pipe in 3/4 - 2 in. sizes is listed to supply the
FIREPEX system.
RAUPEX pipe in all sizes is listed for plumbing applications and can be
connected to the sprinkler system as allowed by the local code.
The following are guidelines for using RAUPEX white UV shield pipe
and compression-sleeve
fi
ttings in
fi
re sprinkler systems:
- Protection must be provided for RAUPEX pipe and
fi
ttings. The minimum protection must consist of either:
- One layer of 3/8 in. (9.5 mm) gypsum wallboard,
- A suspended membrane ceiling with lay-in panels or tiles having a
weight of not less than 0.35 lbs per sq ft (1.7 kg per sq m) when
installed with metallic support grids,
- 1/2 in. (13 mm) plywood sof
fi
ts,
- One layer of 1/2 in. (13 mm) plywood, or
- Other material having a 15 minute
fi
re rating.
- During remodeling or ceiling repair, use appropriate precautions to
properly protect the pipe.
- Do not use RAUPEX pipe or
fi
ttings for sprinkler systems
in combustible concealed spaces where sprinklers are required.
- RAUPEX pipe and
fi
ttings are intended for use in areas
where the maximum ambient temperature does not exceed 120°F
(49°C). If the ambient temperature is expected to exceed this
limitation, the system must be properly protected.
- Piping must be installed at least 24 in. (61 cm) from air return grilles
or other openings in the ceiling
7.2 Mounting FIREPEX Sprinkler Fittings
Determine location of sprinklers based on design. Be sure to verify
that there are no obstructions or deviations from design. If modi
fi
ca-
tions are necessary, consult with the designer to ensure proper
coverage of sprinklered area.
The FIREPEX sprinkler
fi
ttings are available in 3/4 or 1 in. sizes. Each
fi
tting has a 1/2 in. NPT female adapter for mounting of the
fi
re
sprinkler with integrated mounting holes for both horizontal and
vertical installation. Fittings should be mounted using #10 x 1 1/2 in.
wood screws.
FIREPEX sprinkler
fi
ttings are specially designed to af
fi
x the
fi
re
sprinkler in place so that during activation, the reaction forces caused
by the
fl
ow of water through the sprinkler will not displace the
sprinkler. FIREPEX sprinkler
fi
ttings may be mounted to a wood
blocking structure.
Fig. 7.1: Mounting FIREPEX sprinkler
fi
tting
7.2.1 Determining Mounting Height
The following guidelines may be used to correctly position the
FIREPEX sprinkler
fi
ttings. These guidelines apply to both the
FIREPEX tee and elbow
fi
ttings. When installing, blocking may be
necessary in order to position the
fi
tting and sprinkler correctly.
WARNING
Mounting height of sprinkler must be within sprinkler manufacturer
guidelines. Failure to properly position the sprinkler can cause
disruption in discharge or delay in sprinkler activation, resulting in
property damage and possible loss of life.
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