AU652933B2 - Fire protection system - Google Patents

Description

P/00/O11 PATENTS ACT 1952-1973Fom1 COMPLETE SPECIFICATION

(ORIGINAL)

FOR OFFICE USE Class: Int. CI: ^52 *.Application Number: Lodged: O.:..OComplete Specification-Lodged: Accepted: Published: Priority: best* :.:elated Art: TO BE COMPLETED BY APPLICANT Name of Applicant: KENT JON UC R Actul Ivenor:KENNETH JOHN TUCKER Paen an TrdSa tony Aus rlia, 3311Autala Complete Specification for the invention entitled: FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEM The following statement is a full description of this invention, including the best method of performing it known to me:-* *Note: The description is to be typed in double spacing, pica type face, in an area not exceeding 250 mm In depth and 160 mm In width, on tough white paper of good quality and it is to be inserted Inside this form.

I 1710/76- L C.Ja.Tigotipsow. Coiniinonwealti Govrnment Printer, Canberra f y The present invention relates to a fire protection system.

More particularly, the invention is concerned with a method and apparatus for the protection of resources and property, including domestic, commercial and industrial buildings, from fires.

Fire may originate from sources external to a property, such as bushfires, or may arise from sources internal to a property in circumstances such as fuel tank leakages and kitchen fires.

Bushfires pose a considerable problem in Australia and elsewhere. Such fires have caused massive destruction of both life and property throughout Australia's recorded history.

Particularly severe bushfires generally occur in strong wind tee conditions and high temperatures. In fact, bushfires themselves may create local climatic conditions including extreme temperatures and high wind velocities. The intense heat and high velocity winds may project spot fires well ahead of the actual fire front by carrying air-borne sparks and burning debris ahead of the fire. Moreover, it is a common feature of bushfires that they generally approach from the direction of prevailing winds.

Such prevailing winds normally issue from extremely hot inland areas and characterise days of extreme fire danger.

S...9e Destructive fires may also originate from the ignition of various combustible sources within a building. Internal house fires may issue from the uncontrolled ignition of fuel sources from electrical fires and the careless disposal of burning objects.

Furthermore, the control and/or extinguishing of oil well *990 fires have become a considerable problem in recent times. Such fires are generally difficult to contend with due to the extreme temperatures generated and the intensity of the fires combined with the inaccessibility of the fuel source.

Thus fire poses a threat to resources and property, whether its source is internal or external in nature.

During bushfires particularly, mains electricity is generally cut off by the relevant authorities and/or by the destructive effect of the fire on transmission lines. In 1 a

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addition, mains water pressure may drop considerably as a result of the high demand placed on the community's water resources.

Various sprinkler systems have been devised for the protection of property in the event of fire. One such system as described in Australian Patent Specification 53471/86 includes a series of we ;er sprinklers positioned to direct water over the exterior of a building and may be effective in mild conditions.

However, in strong wind conditions, the spray tends to be easily dispersed. Under such conditions, the side of the property requiring most protection may be exposed to the full effect of the oncoming fire.

CAnother example of the prior art is disclosed in Australian Patent Specification 40128/85. The installation described therein comprises means for delivering a sheet like stream of water downwardly around the outside of a iuilding as well as over the roofing area of the building. While this may prove effective in combatting the effects of an oncoming fire, the time period over which such a delivery of water can be maintained is limited by the capacity of the water source. Such protection is only effective until the water source is exhausted. In some extreme cases, the threat of a bushfire igniting property may remain for *SCS.. several hours depending on the amount of combustible material surrounding the property and the intensity of the fire. In such o. cases, conservation of water resources is of paramount importance where water is in limited supply.

It is also known to install a water sprinkler system within CsB building in which the system comprises a main pipe or pipes from which a plurality of smaller pipes individually branch off and terminate individually. However, such a system requires relatively large diameter pipes to communicate the amount of water needed as well as a more highly powered pumping system than may otherwise be necessary to operate the system effectively.

Furthermore, the one-way supply of water to individual sprinkler outlets means that blockages may render particular branches or sprinkler outlets inoperative.

Thus there is a need for an integrated protection system capable of operating independently and at least partially controlling or extinguishing a fire or fires on a property whether the fire is the result of an oncoming bush fire or a fire started by a source within the property, or from another source.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide in one embodiment a method of and in another embodiment apparatus for at least partially alleviating some or all of the above mentioned deficiencies in the known prior art and/or providing useful alternatives to known methods or apparatus.

Accordingly, the present invention provides in one embodiment a grid arrangement for a fire protection apparatus, said apparatus including a plurality of extinguishing agent outlets operably connected to said arrangement; 00 0 wherein, said grid arrangement comprises a ring main pathway and a network of pathways adapted to provide a plurality of potential distribution 0015 pathways for an extinguishing agent from an agent supply means to one or more of said outlets during operation thereof, wherein at least one of said 0. pathways is in communication at both of its ends with said ring main pathway.

.00 Preferably a plurality of said pathways are in communication at both ot *their respective ends with said ring main pathway.

20 0 The arrangement may include a ring main pathway having a greater volume capacity than the pathways depending therefrom.

The ring main pathway may be positioned inboard of the periphery of 0 said arrangement along the majority of its length. The ring main pathway may be located substantially centrally with respect to said depending pathways.

The arrangement may include pump means operable to maintain said pathways fully charged with said agent at an elevated pressure prior to any one or more outlets coming into operation.In another aspect the invention provides extinguishing agent distribution means for a fire protection apparatus, said apparatus including a plurality of extinguishing agent outlets operably connected to said distribution means; wherein said distribution means includes a ring main pathway and a network of pathways and is adapted to provide a plurality of potential pathways for the distribution of an extinguishing agent from an extinguishing agent supply means to each said outlet, and wherein at least one of said pathways is in communication at both of its ends with said ring main pathway.

The distribution means may include: 618 0an internal distribution network adapted to convey extinguishing agent *A to one or more extinguishing agent outlets within a building; and an external distribution network adapted to convey extinguishing agent to one or more extinguishing agent outlets with said building.

The internal system may comprise a grid arrangement as hereinbefore described. The outlets of said internal network may include fire activation means. The outlets of said external network may include deluge outlets.

The agent pressure in said distribution means may be maintained at an artificially high pressure during the operation of any outlet of said external network.

According to the invention there may also be provided a fire protection apparatus comprising:extinguishing agent supply means; 10 a plurality of extinguishing agent outlets; and extinguishing agent distribution means operably connected to said outlets; :said distribution means including a ring main pathway and a network of 15 pathways, :t 15 wherein, during the operation of one or more said outlets, said distribution means is adapted to provide a plurality of potential distribution pathways for distribution of an extinguishing agent from said supply means to said one or more said outlets, and wherein at least one of said pathways is in communication at both of its ends with said ring main pathway. According, to 20 20 still another aspect of the invention there may also be provided a fire control apparatus for a multi-storey building, said apparatus comprising: a a plurality of extinguishing agent outlets; extinguishing agent distribution means including a ring main pathway an a network of pathways and adapted, during the operation of one or more of said outlets, to provide a plurality of potential distribution pathways, for the supply of an extinguishing agent to said one or more of said outlets from and extinguishing agent supply means, wherein at least one of said pathways is in communication at both of its ends with said ring main pathway and wherein one or more of said outlets are located to direct extinguishing agent on the exterior of said building.

According to yet another aspect of the invention there may be provided a bushfire protection apparatus comprising: a water supply means; a plurality of water outlets; and water distribution means operably connected to said outlets, said water distribution means including a ring main pathway and a network of pathways, wherein, during the operation of one or more of said outlets, said distribution means is adapted to provide a plurality of potential distribution pathways for the supply of water from said supply means to said one or more outlets, and where at least one of said pathways is in communication at both of its ends with said ring main pathway.

The apparatus may be operated independently of externally supplied mains electricity or water.

The water distribution means may be in accordance with the distribution means hereinbefore described.

In another aspect of the invention there may be provided an oil well fire control apparatus comprising: extinguishing agent supply means; extinguishing agent distribution means including a ring main pathway and a network of pathways; anda plurality of extinguishing agent outlets operably connected to the distribution means; wherein, during the operation of one or more of said outlets, the distribution means is adapted to provide a plurality of potential extinguishing agent distribution pathway from said supply means to said one or more outlets; and wherein at least one of said pathways is in communication at both of its ends with the ring main pathway.

The extinguishing agent may be any type of substance having fluid-like °.0%properties and capable of acting as a fire retarding and/or extinguishing agent. Thus the extinguishing agent may be a fine powder capable of being 20 blown through conduits, and extinguishing gas such as carbon dioxide, a suspension of solid particles in a fluid medium whether gaseous or liquid 00 and/or a liquid such as water. Water is particularly preferred for use as the extinguishing agent in accordance with the present invention. Where the agent is water, the water may include one or more additives.

The agent supply may comprise a cylinder, dam, swimming pool or any other convenient storage facility. In one preferred arrangement, the agent supply comprises a tank arrangement further comprising a tank or series of tanks. The agent supply may be submerged under ground. Where the agent supply is submerged, the pump means may be preferably submerged also. Each component of a tank arrangement or other agent supply may be interconnected or may comprise stand-alone arrangements each dedicated to fulfilling particular requirements. The tank arrangement may be fed from any one or more of a variety of sources including mains water, rain water or recycled water from 04 S a recycling means. The tanks, with the additional provision of S. the recycling means, are preferably of a capacity sufficient to @0 supply enough water to the system for approximately three to four hours of operation.

In accordance with the invention recycling means may be provided. This is particularly preferred for installations where a limited amount of extinguishing agent is available as recycling can substantially increase the period of operation of the invention with a given amount of extinguishing agent. Preferably the recycling means comprises guttering lining the edge of the roof or other periphery of the installation being protected whereby water from the roof or other area may be conveyed through 600s guttering and down-pipes to be returned to the agent source.

The pump means may comprise any means or method capable of conveying the extinguishing agent from the agent source to the o. distribution means. The pump means may comprise a main pump.

The main pump may be driven by petrol or diesel fuel. The main pump may also be driven by an electrical motor. The electrical motor of the main pump may be in turn powered by an electrical generator. The main pump may also be driven by mains electricity. The main pump may comprise a dual capacitor start to minimise the amperage required to start the pump and therefore the capacity of the generator required.

The pump meais may comprise a booster pump capable of generating and maintaining a relatively high static water pressure. The booster pump may be driven by mains electricity or electricity from the generator. Preferably, the booster pump is adapted to switch to dependence on electricity from the generator when the mains electricity fails. The generator may be adapted for manual control. The generator may also be adapted to switch on automatically in the event of mains electricity failing. All electrical cables are preferably located underground and where they extend above ground are sealed against water leakage, thereby minimising the danger of electrocution.

The pump means may be adapted to switch off automatically when the agent supply is exhausted. The agent supply may comprise agent level detection means adapted to provide feedback to the pump means via an electrical switch arrangement for Se cutting the operation of the pump means. a S.

ri.. The distribution means may include a pipe arrangement. The pipe arrangement may include a plurality of outlet means. The outlet means may be internal and/or external to the building.

The outlet means may comprise any of one or more of a variety of outlet heads currently available.

•The distribution means may comprise an internal system within the building and an external system outside the building.

The internal system may be charged online at a relatively high static water pressure. The external system may be a direct system which is not charged online with water under pressure, but is a dynamic system requiring water to be pumped through by a e a the pump means only when the operation of the main pump is A° released. 55 The distribution means may also include valve means. The valve means preferably is adapted to withstand and maintain high water pressure loads. The distribution means may further include a gauge means for measuring and displaying the water pressure.

The distribution means may further include air bleeder means located in a strategic position or positions whereby the incidence of air pockets is reduced and a substantially continuous flow of agent is achieved throughout the distribution means.

The distribution means may include a grid arrangement or arrangements. The grid arrangement or arrangements may be located internal to and/or external to the installation. The grid arrangement or arrangements may be utilised in a dual function as an irrigation or reticulation system as well as forming part of the protection system.

In a traditional branch arrangement of pipes supplying a plurality of sprinklers, a number of distribution lines each branch off from a central trunk and terminate at a remote point.

In the preferred grid arrangement, however, all distribution lines are interconnected. In such an arrangement of an o interconnected pipe network, if one outlet is activated the Sextinguishing agent supply to the head can be drawn from more oes.. than one direction. Accordingly, smaller diameter pipes and a 4 a& lower overall pressure may be employed in the grid arrangement resulting in cost savings without any reduction in performance capability.

The internal system according to the invention preferably comprises such a grid arrangement or arrangements.

In a preferred arrangement, the grid arrangement may include a ring main pipe arrangement. The ring main may comprise a *505 *.do pathway of pipe of substantially greater diameter than other pipes in the grid arrangement feeding therefrom. The ring main is preferably directly fed from the main pipe extendirl from the 5554 main pump means. The ring main may extend around the periphery of the grid arrangement. However, preferably the ring main is located substantially centrally within the grid arrangement.

Even more preferably, the ring main does not extend the full length and/or breadth of the grid arrangement, but feeds smaller diameter pipes servicing the periphery of the grid arrangement.

An internal roof grid arrangement may be located above the ceiling and below the roof or floor immediately above in the attic or ceiling space of a building. The roof grid may include a plurality of pipes extending in a substantially parallel arrangement along the length of the building. The substantially parallel pipes may each be fed by a first cross-pipe extending in a direction substantially normal to the parallel pipes. The junctions between the first cross-pipe and the parallel pipes may be interspersed at regular intervals along the length of the cross-pipe. The first cross-pipe may in turn be fed from an internal system main pipe extending from the pump means to the roof grid. Each parallel pipe may run into a second cross-pipe which extends in a substantially normal direction to the parallel pipes. Thus the roof grid may be an integrated arrangement of longitT inally extending pipes each in communication adjacent either end to a separate one of a plurality of cross-pipes o whereby extinguishing agent is not limited to a vnidirectional flow upon activation of any outlet. The diameters of the o ~parallel pipes may be gradually reduced along their lengths in order to maintain a substantially uniform water pressure along their lengths.

Each installation to be protected may house one or more grid arrangements. In the case of a row of domestic, commercial or industrial properties, each property may house one or more grid .eor arrangements fed by a main pipe connected to the pump means, or the row of buildings may house one or more grid arrangements iou extending partially or wholly throughout the length of the row of properties.

The roof grid may comprise a plurality of outlets each strategically positioned at various points on the roof grid. The outlets may be exposed sprinkler heads. The exposed heads may be in candlestick arrangement extending upwardly from the parallel pipes extending from one end of the grid to the other. The exposed heads are preferably located approximately 400 mm down from the inner surface of the roof although this, of course, is subject to there being sufficient clearance between the roof and the ceiling. The distance separating adjacent exposed heads along the length of each parallel pipe may be gradually reduced to provide adequate spray coverage throughout the entire roof grid. At the juncture of the parallel pipes and each exposed head there may be a corresponding concealed head depending downwardly so that its head lies substantially flush with the lower surface of the ceiling when in its inactivated state.

Alternatively, at each of the candlestick arrangement junctures there may be a corresponding downwardly depending exposed head which extends into the building area below the ceiling. Each upwardly extending outlet may not necessarily be in registration with a corresponding downwardly depending outlet. The upwardly extending and downwardly depending outlets may be in staggered a relationship with respect to one another.

The internal system may further comprise a grid arrangement of pipes under the floor of the building. This underfloor grid arrangement may include a plurality of outlets, each outlet Gets strategically located at various points throughout the underfloor a0.

Sit, grid. The outlets may be exposed sprinkler heads. The exposed heads may be set to such a height that there remains a clearance of approximately 400 mm between the under surface of the floor and each exposed head. However, where the clearance between the ground and the lower surface of the floor is less than 400 mm, O the clearance, of necessity, may be reduced to less than 400 mm.

The underfloor grid may be fed from the internal pipe.

a6.

The underfloor grid may include parallel pipes extending for a greater part of the length of the building. The parallel pipes may be fed by a first cross-pipe which runs in a direction substantially normal to the direction of the parallel pipr-- The 8 junctions Qf the first cross-pipe and the parallel pipeL. may be interspersed at regular intervals along the length of the first cross-pipe. The parallel pipes may terminate at a second crosspipe or end pipe which runs in a direction substantially normal to the direction of the parallel pipes whereby to provide an interconnected grid system. The diameter of these parallel pipes may also be gradually reduced along their length in order to improve the uniformity of the water pressure along their lengths.

The end pipe may be of the same diameter as the diameter of the parallel piles where they terminate and form a junction with the end pipe.

The concealed heads and the expos A heads of the internal system located above and below the ceiling and under the floor may each include fire activated means as is well known in the art. The fire activated means may comprise heat activated means.

The concealed and exposed heads may also include smoke activation means or any other known means for detecting the presence of fire. The heat activated means preferably activates each head upon exposure to a relatively high local temperature. In the case of the concealed heads they may be adapted to pop out from the ceiling surface upon activation by the heat activated means such that they extend into the interior of the building due to the force of the online water pressure.

The outlet means included in the external system may also include any one or more of heat activated means, smoke activated I means or any other known means for detecting the presence of S: fire.

The external system may include a roof pipe or pipes running along part or all of the length of the building above or immediately below the roof line. The outlets of the external system may be deluge heads. The roof pipe may be provided with exposed deluge heads extending upwardly and substantially vertically from the roof pipe such that the deluge heads extend well clear of the roof line. The deluge heads may alternatively be concealed from view whereby they are adapted to pop up and clear the roof line upon release of their operation. The external system may also include gutter pipes located along the guttering of the roof, which gutter pipes include a plurality of S: deluge heads. The roof and gutter pipes may be fed by an external system main pipe. The external system may further comprise deluge heads loctted under the eaves of the building.

The external system may comprise a pipe system running around the perimeter of an area, such as a garden or carpark, surrounding the building. The perimeter pipe system may comprise a single pipe extending from the external system main pipe along that side of the building facing the direction from which the prevailing wind issues. The deluge heads may be positioned such that, in the event of a strong prevailing wind, spray issued from the deluge heads may be blown towards the building. The deluge heads may be set at a height sufficient for spray issuing therefrom to use the effect of the wind to greater effect.

The external system may further include one or more fire hose outlets whereby substantial portions or preferably all areas of the property may be reached with a relatively high' pressure agent supply. Such hoses may be in the form of an elongated hose preferably adapted by the provision of a nozzle for the hand held direction of, preferably, water. A hose reel may be provided for storage of the hose when not in use.

0The external system may also include outlets located in immediate proximity of storage areas wherein highly flammable S substances are contained. Such storage areas may include gas cylinders, hot water services and the like.

20 Alternatively, the storage areas may be protected by outlets fed from the external system.

The distribution means is preferably configured according to the particular architectural and building features of the property or properties to be protected. Therefore, a particular grid arrangement, for example, may be rectangular for one building and L-shaped for another thereby necessitating pipe sections and connections other than those mentioned above.

:"Thus, in one particularly preferred arrangement the present invention provides a fire protection apparatus comprising an extinguishing agent supply, pump means and extinguishing agent distribution means in which the extinguishing agent comprises water, wherein the distribution means comprises an interconnected network of pipes in the form of a grid allowing multidirectional flow of water and supplying a plurality of spaced outlets and the pump means is activated by a significant pressure drop within the grid and/or by an interruption to the mains supply of electricity.

In one further preferred embodiment, outlets are provided to direct water upon activation to the exterior, the interior, the roof cavity and/or beneath the floor of a building.

In yet another preferred arrangement according to the present invention, recycling means is provided to collect at least a portion of the water directed on to the exterior of a building and return the collected water to the extinguishing agent supply.

The distribution means provided in accordance with the present invention may be adapted to provide a domestic water source and may be connected to the mains water supply for normal domestic use. The pump means may include a domestic' pump to provide tap water for normal domestic purposes at a lower pressure.

•In still another embodiment of the invention the fire protection apparatus may be adapted for use in multiple storey a buildings. The apparatus of this embodiment may include an 20 internal and/or external system. The internal system may include a grid arrangement in the ceiling space between floors. The external system may include a plurality of outlets about the exterior of the building. The outlets may include deluge heads located on the roof and/or sides of the building.

The apparatus of the present invention may also include 0 security heat shields fitted to the windows of a building for alleviating the effect of radiant heat thereon.

The present invention features many advantages over currently available systems.

The apparatus of the present invention may be fully *04 integrated. The whole system may be driven from the mains o electricity or by means of a generator, or by other means. The internal system and external system may be operated independently of each other and/or configured to operate together.

The present system may be operated independently from external resources such as mains electricity and water. The present system is capable of operating automatically or may be operated manually depending on the circumstances.

The use of a grid arrangement where branching pipelines are in communication with one another at both ends may provide cost savings regarding the quality and size of the pipes required to obtain a certain level of performance. Because the size of the pipes may be reduced, a smaller capacity pump means may be used to achieve an acceptable dynamic agent pressure level and capacity to supply sufficient volumes of agent. Thus, substantial cost savings may result.

Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 is a schematic representation of the pump means S according to one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 is a schematic top plan view of a grid arrangement of one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2a is a schematic top plan view of a grid arrangement '20 of another embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 is a schematic representation of the side view of a building in which a system according to one embodiment of the present invention has been installed; Figure 4 is a schematic top plan view of a system according oo.. to one embodiment of the pres,=nt invention installed in a building and the area surrounding the property.

Referring to Figure i, there is shown a pump means which 0" comprises a main pump a booster pump a mains AC electrical source a petrol driven electrical generator a VIKING sprinkler valve (VIKING is an Australian Registered o• Trade Mark) and a water pressure meter The main pump is fed via a main feed pipe (2a) which conveys water from a water storage area (not shown) to the main pump Water is conveyed from the main pipe to the valve by means of a main valve pipe Water is conveyed from 14 the main valve pipe (2b) through the valve to the external system main pipe The main valve pipe (2b) comprises an air bleeder to substantially improve the continuity of the flow of water from the pump means The booster pump is fed via a booster feed pipe (3a) through which water is also conveyed from the water storage area to the booster pump Water is conveyed from the booster pump to the valve by means of a booster valve pipe Water from the booster valve pipe (3b) is conveyed through the valve in to an internal system main pipe (3c).

The generator may be controlled both automatically and manually. Upon the failure of the mains electrical supply a switchbox (5b) may be arranged to automatically activate the generator The switchbox (5b) is also adapted to provide a manual switching arrangement for activating the ignition of the generator The manual switching arrangement is adapted to .o provide an override to turn off the generator in the event of the generator being automatically activated. A sound alarm S* (5c) effective over a relatively long distance may be provided 0e and adapted to provide an alarm signal automatically whenever the generator is activated.

The pressure meter may be pre-set to a predetermined pressure level whereby if the water pressure drops below the predetermined level in the internal main pipe (3c) the booster pump is activated via the switchbox The pressure drop tolerance is set at 5 kPa in the present embodiment thereby maintaining a relatively constant static pressure in the internal pipe Where a significant drop in internal pipe (3c) water pressure is sustained and detected by the pressure meter the switchbox (5b) may be configured so as to automatically activate the main pump via the generator For example, if the pressure drops to approximately 700 kPa from a desired static pressure of 1200 kPa, the main pump is activated. Where the main pump is activated as a result of a significant drop in internal pipe (3c) pressure, the switchbox (5b) may be adapted to reconfigure the valve such that water may be conveyed from the main valve pipe (2b) into both the internal pipe (3c) and external pipe The valve is also adapted to be so reconfigured manually if required.

The booster pump is preferably a small volume capacity pump capable of generating high water pressure levels up to approximately 2000 kPa. The booster pump may comprise a 1 horsepower electric motor which is sufficient for this purpose.

The static water pressure to be maintained in the internal main pipe (3c) should preferably be between approximately 400 and approximately 1700 kPa. Even more preferred is an on-line static water pressure of approximately 1200 kPa.

The main pump preferably comprises a dual capacitor start. A dual capacitor start arrangement enables the main pump to be run using a generator of reduced capacity, as less amperage is required to start up the main pump The main pump (2) preferably comprises a 63 mm conduit (not shown) for conveying S water. The capacity of the main pump may be varied depending on the volume to water pressure ratio required. Therefore, the e.

capacity of the main pump may vary between approximately gallons per minute at approximately 1000 kPa and approximately 100 gallons per minute at approximately 500 kPa. The capacity requirements of the main pump vary with each installation depending on the number of outlets, the volume output of the outlets collectively and the nature of the particular potential fire or fire threat. In the present embodiment the maximum volume output is preferred and the main pump is configured to generate approximately 100 gallons per minute whereby a dynamic water pressure of approximately 500 kPa can be maintained.

The generator is preferably of a standard type comprising a 14-16 horsepower petrol driven motor utilising a standard 12 volt car battery for ignition. The generator preferably has a capacity of 8 kPa which is sufficient to activate the dual capacitor start arrangement of the main pump The preferred VIKING sprinkler valve is capable of maintaining a high static water pressure in the internal pipe (3c) of the order of between 500 and 1600 kPa. However, it should be noted that some types of commonly used closed sprinkler heads may be breached at pressures of the order of 1700 kPa. The valve is configured to allow the one-way passage of water from the main valve pipe (2b) through to the external main pipe (2c) upon the activation of the main pump The valve is adapted to allow such passage of water at a rate of between approximately 40-100 gallons per minute while maintaining the external pipe (2c) water pressure at between approximately 500- 1200 kPa depending on the setting of the main pump The valve is adapted to withstand static water pressures in the internal pipe (3c) of approximately 400-1600 kPa independent of whether or not water is conveyed through the main valve pipe (2b) through to the external pipe The valve (6) Nmay be adapted to be configured to a particular setting by the switchbox (5b) acting as a governor or may alternatively be manually reconfigured by an operator to direct the passage of water from the main valve pipe (2b) through to the external pipe (2c) or additionally to the internal pipe (3c) as previously described.

Referring to Figure 2 there is shown a typical rectangular block grid arrangement (10) in accordance with the present invention. The grid arrangement (10) is fed by the internal pipe (3c) which conveys water from the pump means (not shown) to the grid arrangement The internal pipe (3c) feeds directly into a first cross-pipe (11) which is oriented in a direction normal to the internal pipe (3c) and extends either side of the internal pipe (3c) horizontally. Extending in a direction o substantially normal to the first cross-pipe (11) and oriented in a substantially horizontal plane are a plurality of parallel pipes (12,13,14,15) positioned at equidistantly separated junctures along the length of the first cross-pipe Each of the parallel pipes (12,13,14,15) extend from the first cross-pipe (11) to a second cross-pipe or an end pipe The end pipe (16) extends in a direction normal to the parallel pipes (12,13,14,15) and is located in the same horizontal plane as the rest of the grid arrangement Each of the parallel pipes (12,13,14,15) comprise a series of pipes positioned end on end each of which comprise internal diameters which decrease as each parallel pipe (12,13,14,15) extends from the cross-pipe (11) to the end pipe For instance, the parallel pipe (12) comprises, in the present embodiment, three pipes (12a,12b,12c) in series in which the first pipe (12c) comprises an internal diameter of 50mm, a middle pipe (12b) comprising an internal diameter of 32mm, and a final pipe (12a) comprising an internal diameter of 25mm. The internal diameter of the end pipe (16) is the same as the internal diameter of the final pipe of each of the parallel pipes (12,13,14,15). The diameters of the parallel s- pipes (12, 13, 14, 15) are so reduced along their lengths in order to increase the uniformity of water pressure along their lengths.

With reference to Figure 2a there is shown another grid arrangement (110) in accordance with the present invention. The grid arrangement (110) is fed by the internal pipe (3c) which feeds directly into a first cross pipe (113a) oriented horizontally and normal to the internal pipe Extending substantially coaxially either end of the first cross pipe (113a) are first peripheral cross pipes (111) which terminate at a respective pair of parallel peripheral pipes (112, 115). The parallel pipes (112, 115) extend horizontally in a direction .eoo substantially normal to the first cross pipes (111) the full length of the grid arrangement (110). From the respective junctures between the first cross pipe (113a) and the first O*eQ a peripheral cross pipes (111) extend a pair of parallel ring main I pipes (113b) in a horizontal direction substantially normal to the first cross pipe (113a). The parallel ring main pipes (113b) extend intermediate the length of the arrangement (110) such that they terminate at an intermediate cross pipe (113c) running normal to the parallel ring main pipes (113b). The parallel peripheral pipes (112, 115) terminate at an end pipe (116) extending therebetween. Extending coaxially from the internal pipe (3c) to intermediate the end pipe (116) is a central pipe (114) which intersect the intermediate cross pipe (113c) intermediate its length. The first cross pipe (113a), parallel ring main pipes (113b) and intermediate cross pipe (113c) define a ring main pipe (113). The ring main pipe (113) is of a diameter substantially greater than the intermediary and peripheral pipes depending therefrom. The ring main pipe (113) of the present arrangement according to this particularly preferred embodiment has a diameter of the order of 50 mm whereas the remaining pipes generally have a diameter of the order of 32 mm. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the required diataeters of the respective pipes will vary depending on their particular application and that the relative diameters of the pipes is the important feature of this embodiment. It will be noted that the ring main pipe (113) provided could extend the oS 0 length of the arrangement (110) thereby improving supply of agent to the extremities of the arrangement (110). However, the shortened ring main pipe arrangement (110) provides improved 0 03 agent pressure distribution coupled with the benefit of limiting the required amount of the more expensive wider diameter pipe used for the ring main (113).

Reference to terms such as "horizontal" are merely used in the relative sense to describe the orientation of particular components relative to one another and is not intended to be 0••w construed in the absolute sense.

With reference to Figure 3 there is shown a representation of an internal arrangement (30) installed in a building. The internal pipe (3c) and external pipe (2c) convey water from the pump means (not shown) to the arrangement The internal diameter of the internal pipe (3c) is 50mm. The internal diameter of the external pipe is up to 6 inches which corresponds to the high volume load required to be carried by the external system. The internal pipe (3c) and external pipe (2c) extend underground from the pump means to a convenient location adjacent to the building. In the installation which is the subject of the present embodiment the building is of a rectangular block shape and comprises a raised roof of a shallow A-frame shape with a central ridge extending along the length of the roof. Therefore, in this particular installation, the convenient location corresponds to the mid-section of the end of the building in closest proximity to the pump means The internal pipe (3c) and the external pipe (2c) extend in a substantially vertical direction from beneath the ground up to the level of the eaves and the ceiling The external pipe (2c) further extends at an angle corresponding to the shape of the roof until just above the line of the roof ridge (32) where it runs into a roof pipe The roof pipe (33) extends almost the full length of the roof ridge The composition of the S. roof pipe (33) is similar to the parallel pipe (12) in that it Scomprises a similar series of pipes of similar dimension to pipe 0S S S sections (12a,12b,12c) shown in Figure 2. Extending substantially vertically from the roof pipe (33) is a plurality of deluge heads The distance separating the first two S0 e deluge heads closest to the external pipe (2c) is greater than the distance separating the final three deluge heads to improve the coverage of each deluge head (34) as the water progresses $:ose along the length of the roof pipe The distance separating adjacent deluge heads (34) is, in accordance with the Australian Insurance Council Standards, between 2-4 m 2 but may be adapted to -ee meet any other relevant standards applicable to the installation in question.

Immediately above the level of the eaves and the ceiling O (31) the internal pipe (3c) runs into a roof grid arrangement The lay-out and the dimensions of the roof arrangement are similar to the roof arrangement (10) shown in Figure 2. The roof grid (35) comprises a plurality of candle stick arrangements (36) located along the lengths of each of the parallel pipes. Each candle stick arrangement (36) comprises a upwardly extending substantially vertical pipe terminating in an exposed head (36a).

Extending downward in the opposed direction is a concealed head (36b) which lies flush with the lower surface of the ceiling Each parallel pipe of the roof grid (35) comprises four candle stick arrangements (36) in the present embodiment. The separation between the first two candle stick arrangements closest to the internal pipe (3c) on each parallel pipe is greater than the separation between the last three candle stick arrangements (36) on each parallel pipe. Such a separation arrangement improves the coverage of the candlestick arrangements further along the length of each parallel pipe. In accordance with Australian Insurance Council Standards, each candlestick arrangement (36) is separated from adjacent arrangements (36) by a distance of between 2-4 m 2 The clearance between the lower go surface of the roof (32) and the exposed heads (36a) is, where o possible, approximately 400mm which has been found by experience o. to be the most effective height for these exposed heads (36a).

Extending from the internal pipe is an under floor grid

OS

20 arrangement (38) which comprises a similar grid arrangement to that shown in Figure 2. Each parallel pipe the under floor grid includes four exposad heads extending vertically and upwardly from the under floor grid (38) to such a height whereby there exists, where possible, a clearance between the under surface of the floor (37) and the exposed heads (38a) of approximately 400 mm. The layout of the exposed heads (38a) of the underfloor grid (38) is similar to that of the candlestick arrangements (36) of o the roof grid Branching off the external pipe (2c) is a hose pipe (39a).

The hose pipe (39a) terminates with a hose reel The hose o section (not shown) of each hose reel has a length of 36 metres S: which is sufficient to reach the extremities of the surrounds of the property which is the subject of this embodiment.

The deluge heads (34) are adapted to issue a fine saturating mist of water which may be further atomised by the high turbulence of a prevailing wind which is common in bushfire conditions. The exposed heads (36a and 38a) comprise temperature activated means. The temperature activated means comprise vials (not shown) containing alcohol which explode upon exposure to sufficient heat thereby releasing the operation of the exposed heads (36a and 38a). The concealed heads (36b) are of the type comprising a coverplate (not shown) which lies flush with the lower surface of the ceiling (31) wherein the coverplate is secured to the main body (not shown) of the concealed heads (36b) by lead weld spots which melt upon exposure to a relatively low degree of heat. Upon exposure to sufficient heat, the coverplate drops out and the outlet of the concealed heads (36b) pops out under the pressure of the water thereby releasing the operation of the concealed heads (36b).

With reference now to Figure 4, there is shown a protection system (40) installed in a property comprising a building and surrounds. The system (40) comprises two water tanks (41), the pump means the internal pipe the external pipe the grid arrangements (35 and 38), the roof pipe the hose reels the boundary pipe and the recycling pipe (43).

aaq The water tanks (41) each have a capacity of 2000 gallons and are interconnected tanks situated above ground. The main feed pipe (2a) and the booster feed pump (3a) convey water from the tanks (41) to the pump means and comprise an internal diameter of 50 mm.

The internal pipe (3c) and the external pipe (2c) convey so$* water from the pump means to the building (30a) Branching off from the external pipe (2c) is a deluge head (la) strategically positioned above the pump means to thereby afford protection against fire damage to the pump means Also branching off the external pipe (2c) is the boundary pipe The boundary pipe is located on the side of the building corresponding to the direction of the oncoming prevailing wind Extending substantially vertically and upwardly out of the boundary pipe (42) to a height of approximately two metres are a plurality of deluge heads (42a).

The distance separating the deluge heads (42a) is gradually reduced along the length of the boundary pipe (42) to maintain spray coverage along the length of the boundary pipe The separation of adjacent deluge heads (42a) are preferably in the range of 2-4 m 2 in accordance with Australian Insurance Council Standards. Furthermore, the boundary pipe (42) comprises a series of pipe sections the internal diameter of which are reduced proceeding from the external pipe (2c) to the end of the boundary pipe The gradual reduction in the diameter of the boundary pipe (42) has the effect of maintaining uniformity of water pressure along the length of the boundary pipe (42).

The building (30a) is externally protected by both the atomised mist issuing from the deluge heads (42a) of the boundary pipe (42) and the deluge heads (34) of the roof pipe The S effect of the deluge heads during the local climatic conditions generated by an oncoming bushfire from the direction of the prevailing wind (44) is to enshroud the building and surrounding o *5 0",20 property with an atomised water cloud which effectively saturates the area facing the oncoming fire. This saturation thereby reduces the likelihood of an area of the property being ignited which may otherwise lead to the establishment of spot fires. The turbulence of the wind generated by an oncoming bushfire has the ~effect of assisting in the atomising of the water issuing from the deluge heads (42a and 34) with water banking up under the eaves which is where much building fire damage originates. The r r gas cylinder and hot water service are further protected from the danger of explosion and/or fire damage by a deluge head situated immediately above the cylinder and hot water system.

a0 The building (30a) is internally protected by the grid em 0 arrangements (38, 35) described in Figures 2 and 3. Each exposed head (36a, 38a) and each concealed head (36b) comprises a heat activated means. Therefore, only in those areas within the building generating enough heat to release the operation of individual heads (36a, 36b, 38a) will receive extinguishing agent delivered by the system Furthermore, the heads (36a, 36b, 38a) are quick reaction heads as is known in the art. Such quick reaction heads are typically configured for activation when the immediate local temperature reached 68 degrees centigrade. Heads (36a., 36b, 38b) may also be of a different capacity depending on the dimension of their respective feed pipes.

The hose reels (39, 39b) are positioned at strategic points on the property to ensure that all points of the property may be accessed to manually douse any spot fires which may occur. The hose reels (39, 39b) are standard 50 mm 36 metre fire hoses Shaving fittings adapted to withstand high water pressures.

The operation of the present embodiment will now be o described. The online static water pressure of the system go 0 is set at approximately 1200 kPa. Fluctuations in the online water pressure are detected by the water pressure meter Upon a minor drop in water pressure of the magnitude of approximately 5 kPa, the booster pump is temporarily activated to restore the static water pressure to approximately 1200 kPa. Upon reaching the level of approximately 1200 kPa, the switchbox (5b) is adapted to automatically deactivate the booster pump Minor drops in water pressure may arise as a result of a small leakages in the system. Generally, the heads used in this particular embodiment of capable of withstanding water pressures up to approximately 1700 kPa. The booster pump normally runs on mains electricity However, it is preferably adapted to run on the generator when necessary. Upon a significant drop in online water pressure of the order of approximately 500 kPa, Sthe generator and the main pump are both activated in turn thereby pumping water into the external pipe (2c) at a rate of up to 100 gallons per minute and rising to and maintaining an online water pressure of approximately 500 kPa.

From another aspect, if the mains electricity fails, the switchbox (5b) automatically cuts in, activating the generator and the main pump to supply the external system with the above mentioned high volume of water at the above mentioned relatively high pressure. The capacity of the main pump may vary depending on the number of outlets operating, within the system but will generally be within the range of 40 to 100 gallons per minute at 500 to 1200 kPa.

The grid arrangements (35 and 38) situated within the building (30a) are charged with an online water pressure of 1200 kPa unlike the external system comprising the deluge heads. When the generator and the main pump are activated, the switchbox (5b) in turn automatically reconfigures the operation of valve to enable water to flow into the external system at the above mentioned rate.

S. The heads which are located internally within the building a to (30a) are individually released for operation when exposed to sufficient heat. If a fire occurs in an isolated area of the building containing the exposed or concealed heads (36a, 36b, 38a), the individual heads only in close proximity to the source of the heat are released for operation. Because the internal system is charged with water at a high pressure of say 1200 kPa, the heat source is exposed to a substantial burst of water immediately the operation of the individual head(s) are released.

Furthermore, the hose reels (39, 39b) located at strategic positions about the property may be manually operated and adapted g e.

for the operator to extinguish spotfires anywhere in the area surrounding the building The materials of which the protection system of the present invention is composed are necessarily made of materials having sufficient heat and corrosion resistance and strength to withstand the temperatures, pressures, etc. to which they are likely to be subjected in use.

The tanks (41) may be made out of standard materials, for example, fibre glass or galvanised iron. Preferably, at least galvanised iron is used for the tanks (41) if above ground in view of its superior temperature resistant qualities when compared to fibre glass. However, where the tanks (41) are submerged, the superior corrosion resistant properties of fibreglass may be preferred.

The pipes of the apparatus may be made out of materials common to the trade, for example, PVC, galvanised iron, heavy gauge copper or screwing copper. However, in the extreme local climate conditions generated by some fires, PVC pipe or light gauge copper may balloon due to the internal pressure of super heated steam. Therefore, heavy gauge copper is preferred for making the pipes of the apparatus. Although the physical properties of screwing copper make this material particulary preferable for pipes, its cost is generally prohibitive.

*The pipe connections are sealed by means of hemp and soap to S satisfy the high online pressure requirements of the system and S all outlets are made of copper or copper alloy fittings.

While it has been convenient to use terms such as vertical", "horizontal" and the like, to describe the orientation of various components relative to one another, these terms are not intended to be construed in their absolute sense.

It is to be appreciated that where references are made to relevant Australian Standards, the directions given may require adaption to meet the prevailing standards in force from time to S° time in the relevant location.

While it has been convenient to describe the invention 0000 herein in relation to particularly preferred embodiments, it is to be appreciated that other constructions and arrangements are also considered as falling within the scope of the invention.

0000 Various modifications, alterations, variations and/or additions to the constructions and arrangements described herein are also considered as falling within the scope and ambit of the present invention.

Claims (23)

1. A grid arrangement for a fire protection apparatus, said apparatus including a plurality of extinguishing agent outlets operably connected to said arrangement; wherein said grid arrangement comprises a ring main pathway and a network of pathways adapted to provide a plurality of potential distribution pathways for an extinguishing agent from an agent supply means to one or more of said outlets during operation thereof, wherein at least one of said pathways is in communication at both of its ends with said ring main pathway.

2. A grid arrangement according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of said i'0. pathways are in communication at both of their respective ends with said ring o main pathway. o 0 0 So0 3. A grid arrangement according to claim 1 or 2 wherein said ring main 15 pathway has a greater volume capacity than the pathways depending 15 therefrom.

4. A grid arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein said ring main pathway is positioned inboard of the periphery of said arrangement along a majority of its length. A grid arrangement according to claim 3 or claim 4 wherein said ring main 20 pathway is located substantially centrally with respect to said depending pathways.

6. A grid arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims wherein pump means is operable to maintain said pathways fully charged with said agent at an elevated pressure prior to any one or more outlets coming into operation.

7. A grid arrangement according to claim 1 substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to any of the accompanying drawings.

8. Extinguishing agert distribution means for a fire protection apparatus, said apparatus including a plurality of extinguishing agent outlets operably connected to said distribution means; wherein said distribution means includes a ring main pathway and a network of pathways adapted to provide a plurality of potential pathways for the distribution of an extinguishing agent from an extinguishing agent supply mans to each said outlet, wherein at least one of said pathways is in communication at both of its ends with said ring main pathway.

9. Distribution means according to claim 8 wherein said distribution means includes: v. 9Q an internal distribution network adapted to convey extinguishing agent to one or more extinguishing agent outlets within a building; and an external distribution network adapted to convey extinguishing agent to one or more extinguishing agent outlets within said building.

10. Distribution means according to claim 8 or claim 9 wherein said internal system comprises a grid arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

11. Distribution means according to any one of claims 8 to 10 wherein said outlets of said internal network include fire activation means.

12. Distribution means according to any one of claims 8 to 11 wherein said outlets of said external network include deluge outlets.

13. Distribution means according to any one of claims 8 to 12 wherein the *,o,,agent pressure in said distribution means is maintained at an artificially high pressure during the operation of any outlet of said external network.

14. Distribution means according to claim 8 substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to any of the accompanying drawings.

15. A fire protection apparatus comprising; extinguishing agent supply means; St°, a plurality of extinguishing agent outlets; and extinguishing agent distribution means operably connected to said outlets, said distributionmeans including a ring main pathway and a network of pathways; wherein, during the operation of one or more said outlets, said distribution means is adapted to provide a plurality of potential distribution pathways for S° distribution of an extinguishing agent from said supply means to said one or more outlets, and wherein at least one of said pathways is in communication at both of its ends with said ring main pathway.

16. A fire protection apparatus according to claim 15 wherein said distribution means comprises a distribution means according to any one of claims 8 to 14.

17. A fire protection apparatus according to claim 15 substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to any of the accompanying drawings.

18. A fire control apparatus for a multi-storey building, said apparatus comprising: a plurality of extinguishing agent outlets extinguishing agent distribution means including a ring man pathway and a network of pathways and adapted, during the operation of one or more of said outlets, to provide a plurality of potential distribution pathways for the supply of an extinguishing agent to said one or more of said outlets from an 9 *9 a a a.. a 0.0. a extinguishing agent supply means, wherein at least one of said pathways is in communication at both of its ends with said ring main pathway; and wherein one or more of said outlets are located to direct extinguishing agent on the exterior of said building.

19. A fire control apparatus according to claim 18 wherein said distribution means comprises a distribution means according to any one of claims 8 to 14. A fire control apparatus according to claim 18 substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to any of the accompanying drawings.

21. A bushfire protection apparatus comprising: a water supply means; a plurality of water outlets; and water distribution means operably connected to said outlets, said water distribution means including a ring main pathway and a network of pathways, wherein, during the operation of one or more of said outlets, said distribution 15 means is adapted to provide a plurality of potential distribution pathways for the supply of water from said supply means to said one or more outlets, and wherein at least one of said pathways is in communication at both of its ends with said ring main pathway.

22. A bushfire protection apparatus according to claim 21 wherein said 20 apparatus may be operated independently of externally supplied mains electricity or water.

23. A bushfire protection apparatus according to claim 21 wherein said distribution means comprises a distribution means according to any one of claims 8 to 14.

24. A bushfire protection apparatus according to claim 21 substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to any of the accompanying drawings. An oil well fire control apparatus comprising: extinguishing agent supply means; extinguishing agent distribution means comprising a ring main pathway and a network of pathways; and a plurality of extinguishing agent outlets operably connected to said distribution means; wherein, during the operation of one or more of said outlets, the distribution means is adapted to provide a plurality of potential extinguishing agent distribution pathways from said supply means to said one or more outlets, and wherein at least one of said pathways is in communication with said ring main pathway.

26. An oil well fire control apparatus according to claim 25, wherein a plurality of said pathways are in communication at both of their respective ends with said ring main pathway.

27. An oil well fire control apparatus accordi!g to claim 25 wherein said distribution means comprises a distribution means according to any one of claims 7 to 13. DATED 15 July 1994 OBERINS Patent Attorneys for: KENNETH JOHN TUCKER *00 00 0* 0 *0 a 0e *0 0 0o *00 *9 00 a 0 000 00 090 0 9909 *0 t 1" 7