EP2623162B1 - Spray head - Google Patents

Spray head Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2623162B1
EP2623162B1 EP13153767.2A EP13153767A EP2623162B1 EP 2623162 B1 EP2623162 B1 EP 2623162B1 EP 13153767 A EP13153767 A EP 13153767A EP 2623162 B1 EP2623162 B1 EP 2623162B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
spray
valve
detection
shutter
channel
Prior art date
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Not-in-force
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EP13153767.2A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP2623162A1 (en
Inventor
Eric Issartel
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Eitl
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Eitl
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Publication of EP2623162A1 publication Critical patent/EP2623162A1/en
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    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A62LIFE-SAVING; FIRE-FIGHTING
    • A62CFIRE-FIGHTING
    • A62C35/00Permanently-installed equipment
    • A62C35/58Pipe-line systems
    • A62C35/62Pipe-line systems dry, i.e. empty of extinguishing material when not in use
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A62LIFE-SAVING; FIRE-FIGHTING
    • A62CFIRE-FIGHTING
    • A62C35/00Permanently-installed equipment
    • A62C35/58Pipe-line systems
    • A62C35/68Details, e.g. of pipes or valve systems
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A62LIFE-SAVING; FIRE-FIGHTING
    • A62CFIRE-FIGHTING
    • A62C37/00Control of fire-fighting equipment
    • A62C37/08Control of fire-fighting equipment comprising an outlet device containing a sensor, or itself being the sensor, i.e. self-contained sprinklers
    • A62C37/10Releasing means, e.g. electrically released
    • A62C37/11Releasing means, e.g. electrically released heat-sensitive

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a sprinkler head, in particular for the diffusion of an extinguishing agent intended to fight against a fire or to prevent a fire, a fire protection device comprising such a sprinkler head, a method of controlling the fire, supplying, with an extinguishing agent, a pipe comprising such a sprinkler head and a method of opening a set of sprinkler heads of such a fire protection device.
  • sprinkler installations comprise a network of pipes, generally installed on the ceiling, in which sprinkler heads are inserted.
  • These sprinkler heads comprise a heat-sensitive shutter, usually a fuse capable of melting in case of temperature rise or a bulb capable of bursting in the same situation.
  • the pipes contain an extinguishing agent under pressure, for example water, foam or gas, and the shutter of a sprinkler head prevents any release of extinguishing agent.
  • the fuse blows or the bulb bursts, which allows an immediate sprinkling of extinguishing agent near the source of heat.
  • the sprinkler heads close to the heat source open.
  • the extinguishing agent be immediately diffused over the entire area. zoned.
  • a protection device comprising a detection network, called “pilot network”, able to detect a fire at any point in the area, and a sprinkler system, said “Deluge system”, comprising a set of permanently open sprinklers spread over the entire area to be protected.
  • the sprinkler system is therefore at atmospheric pressure and contains no extinguishing agent. It is also said that he is "dry”.
  • the detection network operates conventionally in the manner of a sprinkler installation as described above:
  • a pipe network is kept under pressure and comprises a set of sprinkler heads, each head being provided with a sensitive shutter. in the heat.
  • the activation of a shutter causes a depressurization of the pipe network, which itself leads to an activation of the sprinkler system.
  • the entire sprinkler system is fed with extinguishing agent, for example by opening a valve called “deluge valve” and / or by starting a feed pump.
  • extinguishing agent can then be dispersed immediately over the entire area.
  • a protection device of this type is bulky, expensive and requires regular maintenance, in particular to prevent leakage, sludging or corrosion of the detection network, or to unclog the sprinkler system, in particular following the nesting of some animals in the open sprinklers.
  • the detection network may comprise a set of electronic sensors.
  • Such sensors are expensive to install and maintain, especially in areas where any sparking is prohibited.
  • the figure 1 represents a spray head according to WO200915353 assembled to a pipe C of a fire protection device.
  • the spray head comprises a body 1 and a tip 2 which closes a transfer channel 3 passing through the body.
  • the tip comprises a base crossed by an outlet channel 4 and a shutter 5 which, in the standby situation, closes the output channel.
  • the activation of the shutter conventionally serves the detection.
  • the tip can release the transfer channel under the effect of an opening force, which allows, without activation of the shutter, to diffuse an extinguishing agent in places where no abnormal increase in temperature n has been detected by simply applying said opening force.
  • This spray head therefore avoids the use of two separate detection and spray networks.
  • a spray head of the type of those described in WO2009153532 does not however allow to obtain a good quality of the spray.
  • this sprinkling may not be homogeneous or extend over an insufficient area.
  • An object of the invention is to improve the efficiency of the spray obtained with a spray head of the type of those described in WO2009153532 .
  • a spray head according to the invention allows to obtain a sprinkling without activation of the shutter, and therefore sprinkling in areas in which no fire has been detected.
  • the inventor has discovered that the provision of a sparging channel separate from the detection channel makes it possible to adapt this spray channel to the extinguishing agent and / or or the constraints imposed by the environment (size, area to be covered, extinguishant flow rate, ...), regardless of the constraints imposed for the fixing of the shutter. This results in an improvement of the spraying efficiency.
  • the spray outlet, or "nozzle” may have any size.
  • the closing member of the spraying valve can be remote from the spraying outlet, inside the spraying channel, which limits the interactions with the extinguishing agent jet, in particular when this member remains secured to the body after opening the spraying valve, which further allows to protect it.
  • the sprinkler valve closing member does not project out of the spraying channel.
  • the most downstream end of the sprinkler valve closing member is more than 0.5 cm, more than 1 cm, more than 1.5 cm, or more than 2 cm of the spray outlet.
  • the provision of a sparging channel separate from the detection channel allows great flexibility for the means used for the detection, and in particular for the type or shape of the shutter or for its means of attachment to the body. Indeed, the means used for the detection are no longer imposed by constraints related to spraying.
  • the shutter can in particular be arranged at a distance from the spray outlet, which allows a perfect adaptation to the constraints of the place to be protected. In particular, the shutter can be disposed more than 2 cm from the spray outlet.
  • the shutter valve closing valve not carrying the shutter can be of smaller dimensions and / or weight, which limits the risks to personnel or equipment during its eventual ejection, especially in places where no abnormal increase in temperature has been detected.
  • the detection input is selectively in fluid communication with the transfer channel via a detection valve allowing only a flow to the transfer channel.
  • the spray head does not have a detection valve.
  • the spraying head then comprises a deflector at the output of the detection channel in order to direct the outgoing extinguishing agent flow through this channel.
  • the sprinkler valve opening force i.e. the minimum force required to move the sprinkler valve closure member and open the sprinkler valve, is less than 1500 N. preferably less than 900 N, preferably less than 300 N, preferably less than 150 N, preferably less than 90 N, preferably less than 60 N, preferably less than 30 N, or even less than 15 N, or even less than 3 N or 1 N.
  • the opening force is between 15 N and 80 N.
  • the opening force of the spraying valve may in particular result from a positive difference between the pressure in the transfer channel, called “internal pressure", and the ambient pressure.
  • This pressure difference is referred to hereinafter as the "differential pressure of the spraying valve opening”.
  • the differential opening pressure of the spraying valve is less than 50 bar, preferably less than 30 bar, preferably less than 10 bar, preferably less than 5 bar, preferably less than 3 bar, preferably less than 2 bar, preferably less than 1 bar, or even less than 0.5 bar, or even less than 0.1 bar.
  • the differential pressure opening sprinkler valve is between 1 bar and 7 bar, or even between 1.5 bar and 6 bar.
  • the spraying valve advantageously opens very easily, especially as soon as it is subjected to the pressure of the extinguishing agent.
  • At least one of the detection and spraying valves comprises or is constituted by a non-return valve.
  • each of the detection and spray valves comprises or is constituted by a non-return valve.
  • the shutter is reusable.
  • the shutter returns to the closed position of the detection output when the ambient temperature no longer corresponds to a fire situation, preferably when the ambient temperature is below 80 ° C., below 65 ° C. or less than 50 ° C.
  • the use of a thermal valve makes it possible, for example, to obtain this function.
  • the cost of rearming the spray head after use is reduced.
  • a fire protection device comprises detection means adapted to detect an evolution of the internal pressure prevailing inside said pipe.
  • the fire protection device comprises control means able to order an injection of an extinguishing agent into the pipe in case of variation of the internal pressure, and in particular when the pipe is kept in depression in the standby situation, in case of increase of the internal pressure likely to correspond to the presence of a fire.
  • the control means can in particular control, in the event of detection of a variation in the internal pressure, an opening of an insulating deluge valve, in the standby situation, the pipe and the source of extinguishing agent and / or the starting a feed pump for injecting said extinguishing agent into the pipe.
  • the pressure of the extinguishing agent injected is sufficient to open the spraying valve of the one or more spray heads according to the invention inserted into the pipeline.
  • the pressure of the extinguishing agent leads to a substantially simultaneous opening of all the sprinkler valves of the sprinkler heads, and thus to a diffusion of the extinguishing agent over the entire area covered by these sprinkler heads. aspersion.
  • the extinguishing agent is not necessarily liquid and may advantageously be selected from the group consisting of powder, foam and gas.
  • the pipe is kept dry, preferably at a vacuum with respect to the ambient pressure.
  • the invention also relates to an installation, and in particular a room, a warehouse, or a storage tank, comprising a protection device according to the invention.
  • This installation can in particular be a refinery or a hydrocarbon storage site.
  • the invention also relates to a method for controlling the supply, with an extinguishing agent, of a pipe in which at least one spray head according to the invention is inserted, a method according to which said feed is initiated in the event of detection.
  • an abnormal evolution of the internal pressure in the pipe in particular in case of abnormal increase of the internal pressure, and in particular in case of increase of the internal pressure up to the ambient pressure.
  • the control method can in particular be applied for the opening of a deluge valve insulating the pipe of a source of extinguishing agent or for starting a pump supplying the pipeline with extinguishing agent .
  • the invention finally relates to a method of opening a set of sprinkler heads of a fire protection device according to the invention, a method according to which a differential pressure is generated for opening the sprinkler valves. in said pipe, preferably with extinguishing agent, in the event of fire detection.
  • thermosensitive is meant that the shutter is able to release, at least in part, the detection channel under the effect of an increase in temperature or when exceeding a threshold temperature determined.
  • This release of the detection channel is conventionally called “activation” of the shutter.
  • Activation of a shutter in the form of a fuse or bulb, for example, is its fusion or burst, respectively.
  • a thermal valve conventionally comprises a closure member, for example a rod, and a bulb deformable under the effect of heat and cooperating with the closure member so that the latter closes or releases an orifice in communication with the body. 'outside. When such a heat valve is used as a shutter, the detection output corresponding to said orifice, the "activation" corresponds to the release of this orifice by the closure member.
  • the closure of the detection output by the shutter is said to be "substantially watertight" when it is waterproof or tolerates a leakage flow such as the passage between the shutter and the detection channel, through which the leak occurs. , is less than 20% of the detection output section at the shutter seat.
  • opening force is meant a force exerted on the closing member of a valve such that it causes a spacing of this closure member of its seat, so as to clear, at least partially, preferably completely, the channel on which the valve is inserted.
  • the opening force "opens" therefore the valve.
  • differential opening pressure of a valve is meant a difference between the pressures upstream and downstream of the closure member of said valve adapted to create an opening of the valve by displacement of the closure member .
  • the spray head 10 shown on the figure 2a comprises a body 12 integral and a shutter 14 sensitive to heat.
  • the body 12 comprises fixing means of the type conventionally used for fixing a sprinkler head on a pipe 16 of a fire protection device.
  • the body 12 thus comprises a stirrup or a thread 18.
  • this thread corresponds to that conventionally used to fix the sprinkler heads.
  • the threading may comply with the NPT ("American National Tap Threads") standard, for example between NPT 1 ⁇ 2 in and NTP 1 in.
  • the body 12 defines a transfer channel 20, of axis X, a detection channel 22, and a spraying channel 24.
  • the transfer channel 20 opens upstream through an extinguishing agent inlet 26, and extends, downstream, by the detection channel 22 and the spray channel 24.
  • the detection channel 22 opens, on the upstream side, by a detection input 28 and, on the downstream side, by a detection output 32 isolated from the outside by the shutter 14. The activation of the shutter thus causes the contacting the detection channel with the outside.
  • the detection channel preferably has a length greater than 5 mm, or even greater than 10 mm.
  • the detection channel is selectively in fluid communication with the transfer channel 20 via a detection valve 30.
  • the detection input 28 may be continuously in fluid communication with the transfer channel 20.
  • the detection channel is then used for dispersion of extinguishing agent. It is then preferable that the spray head has a deflector at the output of the detection channel.
  • the detection valve 30 comprises a detection valve closing member 31 whose displacement allows, in case of activation of the shutter, an air inlet in the transfer channel if the latter is kept in depression, then, a closure of the detection channel by the thrust of the extinguishing agent.
  • the sensing valve 30 thus opens by moving the sensing valve closure member under the effect of a sensing valve opening force exerted on said sensing valve closure member.
  • this opening force is directed towards the transfer channel.
  • the detection valve opening force i.e. the minimum force required to move the closure member of the detection valve and open the detection valve, is less than 1500 N, preferably less than 900 N, preferably less than 300 N, preferably less than 150 N, preferably less than 90 N, preferably less than 60 N, preferably less than 30 N, or even less than 15 N, or even lower at 3 N or 1 N.
  • the opening force of the detection valve may result from a positive difference between the ambient pressure and the pressure in the transfer channel, referred to as "pressure Differential opening of detection valve ".
  • the detection valve opening differential pressure is less than 50 bar, preferably less than 30 bar, preferably less than 10 bar, preferably less than 5 bar, preferably less than 3 bar, preferably less than at 2 bar, preferably less than 1 bar, or even less than 0.5 bar, or even less than 0.1 bar.
  • the shape of the detection valve closing member is not limiting.
  • this member may take the form of a ball, a pallet or a rod.
  • the spray head may also be provided with resilient return means tending to bring the detection valve closing member towards its seat.
  • the operations for the standby situation are simplified.
  • the detection valve then constitutes a non-return valve.
  • the shutter 14 may be any device leading, under the effect of an increase in heat, to a setting in fluid communication between the detection channel and the environment.
  • the shutter is activated when it is brought to a temperature higher than a determined threshold temperature, for example greater than or equal to 50 ° C and less than 60 ° C, or even lower than 80 ° C.
  • the shutters conventionally used for sprinkler heads can be used.
  • the shutter may in particular comprise a bulb capable of breaking under the effect of an increase in temperature, or a fuse capable of melting under the same conditions.
  • the shutter is reusable. It may for example be constituted by a thermal valve (valve opening under the effect of heat) for example on the principle of water heater thermo valves or hydrostatic valves of the radiators.
  • a thermal valve valve opening under the effect of heat
  • the spray head can thus become operational again at the end of the fire, without rearming operation. Maintenance costs are also advantageously reduced.
  • the shutter can close the detection channel tightly or by allowing a leakage flow between the shutter and the detection channel.
  • manufacturing tolerances can be reduced.
  • a evolution of the internal pressure resulting from the activation of the shutter must serve as means of fire detection, it will be necessary to provide means to maintain a pressure difference between the inside and the outside of the pipe in the situation Eve.
  • the leak rate should however be limited.
  • the passage between the shutter and the detection channel, through which the leak occurs should be less than 5%, less than 1%, or even less than 0.5% or less than 0.1% of the detection output section at the shutter seat.
  • the leakage rate is less than 20%, preferably less than 10%, less than 5%, less than 1% of the flow rate obtained after activation of the shutter.
  • the leakage rate and the flow rate obtained after the shutter has been activated can be measured by maintaining a pressure upstream of the shutter seat of 2 bar and a pressure downstream of the shutter seat of 1 bar, with air and at room temperature.
  • the shutter can be held against an annular bead 34 providing a substantially sealed contact.
  • the spraying head 10 has a shutter ejector 36, activated during the activation of the shutter.
  • a shutter ejector is intended to project the shutter away from its seat when it breaks.
  • a depression prevails inside the detection channel, it advantageously makes it possible to avoid that, under the effect of this depression, pieces of shutter remain held on the seat of the shutter after his break. Such a situation would indeed hinder the entry of ambient air into the detection channel, which could lead to a failure to detect the fire.
  • the shutter ejector 36 may in particular comprise a leaf spring, a helical spring, for example of conical shape, as shown, an elastic washer, for example a Belleville washer or an elastic ejection cup. It can be arranged for example in compression in the detection channel, as shown in FIG. figure 2a , or between the shutter and its seat, as shown on the figure 3 .
  • the shutter ejector may also include an explosive charge.
  • the spray channel preferably has a length greater than 5 mm, or even greater than 10 mm.
  • the spraying channel 24 comprises, on the upstream side, a spraying inlet 38 selectively in fluid communication with the transfer channel 20 via a spraying valve 40.
  • the spraying valve 40 comprises a sprinkler valve closure member 41 whose displacement allows the selective circulation of the extinguishing agent in the spraying channel 24.
  • the shape of the sprinkler valve closure member 41 is not limiting.
  • This organ may be integral or detachable body.
  • it may take the form of a plug or any other form described for the tip in WO2009153532 .
  • an opening force of 1500 N is sufficient to move the tip (base and intact shutter maintained on the base). In other words, the tip can be moved under the effect of the opening force without breaking the shutter.
  • the spray channel opens on the downstream side by a spray outlet 42.
  • the sprinkler valve closure member 41 preferably does not protrude out of the spray channel.
  • the end furthest downstream of the sprinkler valve closure member is at a distance d preferably greater than 0.5 cm, greater than 1 cm, greater than 1.5 cm, or even greater than 2 cm. the spray outlet 42.
  • the spray outlet may have a diameter greater than 1 mm.
  • the spray channel is substantially rectilinear.
  • a deflector 44 may be provided to distribute the extinguishing agent out of the spray outlet.
  • the sprinkler valve closure member 41 is held in position on its seat for example by friction, by a magnetic force, by a link, by clipping, by gravity, by depression, by gluing, or by a combination of these means.
  • the means described in WO2009153532 to maintain the nozzle can be used to maintain the sprinkler valve closing member 41.
  • this maintenance is ensured at least in part, or even totally, by depression, the internal pressure P int prevailing in the spray channel being lower than the ambient pressure P atm .
  • the sprinkler valve closure member can be attached to the body via a hinge 46.
  • the spraying head may also be provided with return means, for example heat-deformable or resilient, tending to return the closure member of the spraying valve 41 towards its seat, (under the effect of an expansion or deformation mechanical, for example).
  • return means for example heat-deformable or resilient, tending to return the closure member of the spraying valve 41 towards its seat, (under the effect of an expansion or deformation mechanical, for example).
  • the operations for the standby situation are simplified.
  • the spraying valve then constitutes a non-return valve.
  • the sprinkler valve closure member 41 substantially seals the spray channel 24.
  • a leakage flow can be admitted between the sprinkler channel and the closure member sprinkler valve.
  • the passage between the spray channel 24 and the sprinkler valve closure member 41 is less than 5%, less than 1%, or even less than 0.5% or less than 0.1% of the section of the sprinkler channel closed by the sprinkler valve closure member.
  • the means for generating the sprinkler valve opening force are not limited and may include, in particular, forces resulting from a differential pressure between the internal pressure and the ambient pressure, gravity forces, especially weight of the sprinkler valve closure member, forces exerted by elastic means, for example by a compressed spring, forces exerted by electromagnetic means or all combinations of these means.
  • the opening of the spraying valve 40 results from the balancing between the internal pressure and the ambient pressure, in particular by activating a shutter.
  • the internal pressure is maintained higher than the ambient pressure in the standby situation.
  • the difference between the internal pressure and the ambient pressure must then be less than the differential opening pressure of the spraying valve.
  • a spray head according to the invention can be advantageously used to renovate existing installations. It suffices to replace the sprinkler heads with sprinkler heads according to the invention and to remove the detection means in place (network of pipes or electronic means).
  • the figure 3 represents a variant of spray head particularly well adapted for the renovation of existing installations.
  • This spray head comprises a T-piece 50 for attachment to the pipe.
  • the first branch 52 extending from the T-piece 50 constitutes the detection circuit and comprises successively a first adapter nipple 54, a first non-return valve 56, forming a detection valve, the arrow representing the authorized direction of movement, and a detector 58, exposing a shutter 14.
  • the second branch 62 extending from the T-piece constitutes a spraying circuit and comprises successively a second adapter nipple 64, a second non-return valve 66, forming a spraying valve, the arrow representing the direction of circulation allowed. , and a sprinkler 68, provided with a deflector 44.
  • the transfer channel (not visible) is extended on the one hand by the detection channel, which passes through the first adapter nipple 54, the first non-return valve 56 and the detector 58.
  • the seat of the shutter is constituted by the edge of the output of the detection channel.
  • a shutter ejector 36 in the form of an elastic cup, is mounted between the shutter and its seat.
  • the transfer channel is extended by the spray channel, which passes through the second adapter nipple 64, the second non-return valve 66 and the sprinkler 68, opening outwardly.
  • This embodiment illustrates the possibility that the body of a spray head according to the invention is not monobloc.
  • This embodiment also illustrates the possibility of positioning the sprinkler outlet and the shutter independently of each other, for example to take account of a particular configuration of the places.
  • the shutter 14 may in particular be arranged at a distance of more than 0.5 cm, greater than 2 cm, greater than 5 cm, greater than 10 cm, greater than 50 cm, greater than 1 m, or greater than 2 m from the spray outlet 42.
  • the sprinkler outlet and the shutter are separated from one another by less than 5 cm, less than 3 cm, or even less than 2 cm, as shown in FIG. figure 2a .
  • the spray head 10 may be used as part of a fire protection device 100.
  • the device 100 shown in FIG. figure 4 comprises a network of pipes 110 fixed for example on the ceiling of a building to be protected.
  • the pipe network 110 comprises a main pipe 111 on which are connected secondary pipes 112 provided with spray heads 10 such as those just described.
  • the shape of the pipe network 110 and the arrangement of the spray heads 10 are determined so that the spray heads 10 are distributed substantially uniformly over the entire surface to be protected.
  • the upstream end of the main line 111 is connected to a source of extinguishing agent, for example a tank 114, via a feed pump 116 and / or a deluge valve 118.
  • the extinguishing agent may be a liquid, a powder, a foam, or a gas, for example.
  • the invention is particularly advantageous for spraying a powder, a gas or a foam for which the nozzles of the present sprinkler heads are not well adapted.
  • the pump 116 When the pressure of the extinguishing agent in the tank 114 is sufficient to create a differential opening pressure of the spray valves, the pump 116 is not essential, the opening of the deluge valve 118 being sufficient for this purpose .
  • the feed pump 116 When the pressure of the extinguishing agent in the tank 114 is insufficient to open the spraying valves, the feed pump 116 is however essential in order to increase the pressure of the extinguishing agent and to create an opening differential pressure. sprinkler valves.
  • a vacuum pump 120 is provided to create or maintain a vacuum within the pipe network 110 in the standby situation.
  • a spray head according to the invention advantageously makes it possible to maintain a pressure difference between the inside and the outside of the pipe where it is inserted, due to the closure of the spray channel by the sprinkler valve closure member and the closure of the detection channel by the shutter.
  • a sensor 122 is also provided to detect changes in the pressure in the pipe network 110.
  • a control unit 124 may also be provided to control the vacuum pump 120 when the sensor 122 detects a progressive decrease in pressure inside the pipe network 110, this pressure decrease corresponding to a leakage, especially between sprinkler valve closing member and the body or at the level of the shutter bearing on the edge of the detection outlet.
  • the control unit 124 can also, when the sensor 122 signifies a sudden decrease in the pressure inside the pipe network 110, resulting from the activation of a shutter, control the opening of the valve deluge 118 and / or the start of the pump 116.
  • the operation of the protective device represented on the figure 4 is the next.
  • the pipe network 110 is kept dry in vacuum with respect to the environment by means of the vacuum pump 120.
  • the control unit 124 controls the vacuum pump according to the information received from the sensor 122 in order to maintain the depression in the pipe network 110 to a predetermined value, in particular to take into account leaks at the sprinkler heads or upstream of the spray heads, for example at the deluge valve 118.
  • This regulation of the vacuum in the pipe network 110 advantageously allows to tolerate leakage rates, and thus limits the constraints to impose for the various components of the protection device.
  • Holding in the closed position of the spraying valve can also be improved by exploiting the gravity forces, for example by arranging the sprinkler valve closing member in a position such that its weight contributes to pressing it against the body 12. For safety, it is however preferable that the weight of the sprinkler valve closing member 41 contributes to its spacing from the body 12, as on the figure 2a .
  • the detection valve can be opened or closed. It is preferably closed. The shutter and the spraying valve provide a seal to maintain depression in the interior of the pipe.
  • the shutter ejector 36 cooperates with the bead 34 to hold the shutter 14 in the closed position of the detection channel 22.
  • the activation of the shutter thus leads to the release of the detection channel 22, which causes a rapid air inlet (arrow F 1 ) in the pipe network 110 and therefore an increase in the pressure P int inside. of this network, up to the ambient pressure P atm .
  • the sudden increase in internal pressure will also be detected by the control unit 124, which will control the opening of the deluge valve 118 and the start of the feed pump 116.
  • the opening of the valve deluge 118 can also be obtained mechanically under the effect of the increase of the internal pressure, for example by activation of a pneumatic or hydraulic pilot. It can also result from the activation of a controlled solenoid valve system as a function of the pressure measured by the sensor 122.
  • the opening of the deluge valve 118 and the start of the feed pump 116 will cause the spread of the extinguishing agent contained in the tank 114 in the main line 111 and then in the secondary lines 112, and the heads 'aspersion.
  • the injection of extinguishing agent under pressure usually an initial pressure of more than 10 bar, then in steady state, about 3 to 4 bar, opens the spraying valve if it is still closed and closes the valve detection if it is still open.
  • the extinguishing agent is then dispersed, after deflection on the deflector 44 in the area to be protected, through the transfer channel 20 and the spray channel 24 (arrow F 2 ).
  • the flow of extinguishing agent is not hindered by the presence of the shutter ejector and the dimensions of the spray channel can be adapted to its nature and to the desired flow rate, independently of the constraints associated with the shutter.
  • the spray channel may in particular be designed for sprinkling drops of water or water streams or the projection of a water mist.
  • the current "micro sprinklers" can in particular be adapted to form sprinkler heads according to the invention.
  • a spray head according to the invention allows a remarkable spray quality. It also allows a great flexibility for the choice of the shutter, independently of the constraints related to the spraying. In addition, it can operate without risk to personnel or equipment. It is also particularly reliable and inexpensive to install and maintain.
  • a spray head according to the invention allows sprinkling even in the absence of activation of the shutter. It is therefore not necessary, as in the prior art to double the network of pipes or install a multitude of electronic sensors.
  • a spray head according to the invention is furthermore perfectly suited for use in a network of pipes maintained in depression.
  • the network of pipes can also remain dry, which avoids the risks of corrosion, sludging and obstruction.
  • the sprinkler heads can also operate without any power supply, which allows their implementation, in particular in areas of the ATEX type.
  • the pipe network may remain closed, which notably avoids any risk of obstruction by nesting animals.
  • the positioning of the detection and spray valves could be different from that shown, provided that it allows a selective fluid communication between the extinguishing agent inlet on the one hand and the detection and control outlets. sprinkler on the other hand, respectively.
  • the shape of the transfer channel could thus comprise, for example, a trunk and two branches interrupted respectively by the detection and spraying valves.
  • the protective device could be overpressure, the pressure drop resulting from the activation of a shutter serving as a fire detection signal.
  • a protection device is not necessarily configured to react in case of fire.
  • it can be configured to react as soon as an abnormal increase in temperature is detected, even in the absence of flames.
  • the protective device thus helps to prevent a fire, and thus to "protect” against fire.

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  • Fire-Extinguishing By Fire Departments, And Fire-Extinguishing Equipment And Control Thereof (AREA)

Description

Domaine techniqueTechnical area

L'invention concerne une tête d'aspersion, notamment pour la diffusion d'un agent extincteur destiné à lutter contre un incendie ou à prévenir un incendie, un dispositif de protection incendie comportant une telle tête d'aspersion, un procédé de commande de l'alimentation, avec un agent extincteur, d'une canalisation comportant une telle tête d'aspersion et un procédé de d'ouverture d'un ensemble de têtes d'aspersion d'un tel dispositif de protection contre l'incendie.The invention relates to a sprinkler head, in particular for the diffusion of an extinguishing agent intended to fight against a fire or to prevent a fire, a fire protection device comprising such a sprinkler head, a method of controlling the fire, supplying, with an extinguishing agent, a pipe comprising such a sprinkler head and a method of opening a set of sprinkler heads of such a fire protection device.

Etat de la techniqueState of the art

Classiquement, la protection automatique contre l'incendie, notamment dans les locaux, les entrepôts, les raffineries ou les réservoirs de stockage d'hydrocarbures, est assurée par des installations dites « sprinkleurs ». Ces installations comportent un réseau de canalisations, généralement installé au plafond, dans lesquelles sont insérées des têtes sprinkleurs. Ces têtes sprinkleurs comportent un obturateur sensible à la chaleur, généralement un fusible apte à fondre en cas d'élévation de la température ou une ampoule apte à éclater dans la même situation. Dans la situation de veille, c'est-à-dire en absence de détection d'incendie, les canalisations contiennent un agent extincteur sous pression, par exemple de l'eau, de la mousse ou un gaz, et l'obturateur d'une tête sprinkleurs empêche toute sortie d'agent extincteur. En cas d'augmentation anormale de la température, le fusible fond ou l'ampoule éclate, ce qui permet un arrosage immédiat d'agent extincteur à proximité de la source de chaleur. Ainsi, en cas d'incendie, seules les têtes sprinkleurs proches de la source de chaleur s'ouvrent.Conventionally, automatic fire protection, especially in rooms, warehouses, refineries or hydrocarbon storage tanks, is provided by so-called "sprinkler" installations. These installations comprise a network of pipes, generally installed on the ceiling, in which sprinkler heads are inserted. These sprinkler heads comprise a heat-sensitive shutter, usually a fuse capable of melting in case of temperature rise or a bulb capable of bursting in the same situation. In the standby situation, that is to say in the absence of fire detection, the pipes contain an extinguishing agent under pressure, for example water, foam or gas, and the shutter of a sprinkler head prevents any release of extinguishing agent. In the event of an abnormal increase in temperature, the fuse blows or the bulb bursts, which allows an immediate sprinkling of extinguishing agent near the source of heat. Thus, in case of fire, only the sprinkler heads close to the heat source open.

Dans certaines zones sensibles, il est cependant souhaitable que, en cas de détection d'une augmentation anormale de la chaleur en un point particulier de la zone couverte par le réseau de canalisations, l'agent extincteur soit diffusé immédiatement sur l'ensemble de la zone. A cet effet, il est connu d'installer un dispositif de protection comportant un réseau de détection, dit « réseau pilote », apte à détecter un foyer d'incendie en un point quelconque de la zone, et un réseau d'aspersion, dit « réseau déluge », comprenant un ensemble de têtes d'aspersion ouvertes en permanence, réparties sur toute la zone à protéger. Le réseau d'aspersion est donc à la pression atmosphérique et ne contient pas d'agent extincteur. On dit également qu'il est « sec ».In certain sensitive areas, however, it is desirable that, in the event of detection of an abnormal increase in heat at a particular point in the area covered by the pipeline network, the extinguishing agent be immediately diffused over the entire area. zoned. For this purpose, it is known to install a protection device comprising a detection network, called "pilot network", able to detect a fire at any point in the area, and a sprinkler system, said "Deluge system", comprising a set of permanently open sprinklers spread over the entire area to be protected. The sprinkler system is therefore at atmospheric pressure and contains no extinguishing agent. It is also said that he is "dry".

Le réseau de détection fonctionne classiquement à la manière d'une installation sprinkleurs telle que décrite ci-dessus : Généralement, un réseau de canalisations est maintenu sous pression et comporte un ensemble de têtes du type sprinkleurs, chaque tête étant pourvue d'un obturateur sensible à la chaleur. En cas d'incendie, l'activation d'un obturateur provoque une dépressurisation du réseau de canalisations, qui conduit elle-même à une activation du réseau d'aspersion.The detection network operates conventionally in the manner of a sprinkler installation as described above: Generally, a pipe network is kept under pressure and comprises a set of sprinkler heads, each head being provided with a sensitive shutter. in the heat. In case of fire, the activation of a shutter causes a depressurization of the pipe network, which itself leads to an activation of the sprinkler system.

Par cette activation, tout le réseau d'aspersion est alimenté, en agent extincteur, par exemple par ouverture d'une vanne dite «vanne déluge » et/ou par la mise en marche d'une pompe d'alimentation. L'agent extincteur peut alors être dispersé immédiatement sur toute la zone.By this activation, the entire sprinkler system is fed with extinguishing agent, for example by opening a valve called "deluge valve" and / or by starting a feed pump. The extinguishing agent can then be dispersed immediately over the entire area.

Un dispositif de protection de ce type est encombrant, coûteux et nécessite une maintenance régulière, notamment pour éviter les fuites, l'embouage ou la corrosion du réseau de détection, ou pour désobstruer le réseau d'aspersion, en particulier suite à la nidification de certains animaux dans les têtes d'aspersion ouvertes.A protection device of this type is bulky, expensive and requires regular maintenance, in particular to prevent leakage, sludging or corrosion of the detection network, or to unclog the sprinkler system, in particular following the nesting of some animals in the open sprinklers.

Alternativement, le réseau de détection peut comporter un ensemble de capteurs électroniques. De tels capteurs sont cependant coûteux à installer et à entretenir, en particulier dans des zones où toute production d'étincelles est proscrite.Alternatively, the detection network may comprise a set of electronic sensors. Such sensors, however, are expensive to install and maintain, especially in areas where any sparking is prohibited.

La figure 1 représente une tête d'aspersion selon WO200915353 assemblée à une canalisation C d'un dispositif de protection contre l'incendie. La tête d'aspersion comporte un corps 1 et une embout 2 qui obture un canal de transfert 3 traversant le corps. L'embout comporte une base traversée par un canal de sortie 4 et un obturateur 5 qui, dans la situation de veille, obture le canal de sortie. L'activation de l'obturateur sert classiquement à la détection. Cependant, l'embout peut dégager le canal de transfert sous l'effet d'une force d'ouverture, ce qui permet, sans activation de l'obturateur, de diffuser un agent extincteur à des endroits où aucune augmentation anormale de la température n'a été détectée, en appliquant simplement ladite force d'ouverture. Cette tête d'aspersion évite donc le recours à deux réseaux de détection et d'aspersion séparés.The figure 1 represents a spray head according to WO200915353 assembled to a pipe C of a fire protection device. The spray head comprises a body 1 and a tip 2 which closes a transfer channel 3 passing through the body. The tip comprises a base crossed by an outlet channel 4 and a shutter 5 which, in the standby situation, closes the output channel. The activation of the shutter conventionally serves the detection. However, the tip can release the transfer channel under the effect of an opening force, which allows, without activation of the shutter, to diffuse an extinguishing agent in places where no abnormal increase in temperature n has been detected by simply applying said opening force. This spray head therefore avoids the use of two separate detection and spray networks.

Avec certains agents extincteurs, une tête d'aspersion du type de celles décrites dans WO2009153532 ne permet cependant pas d'obtenir une bonne qualité de l'aspersion. En particulier cette aspersion peut ne pas être homogène ou s'étendre sur une zone insuffisante.With certain extinguishing agents, a spray head of the type of those described in WO2009153532 does not however allow to obtain a good quality of the spray. In particular this sprinkling may not be homogeneous or extend over an insufficient area.

Un but de l'invention est d'améliorer l'efficacité de l'aspersion obtenue avec une tête d'aspersion du type de celles décrites dans WO2009153532 .An object of the invention is to improve the efficiency of the spray obtained with a spray head of the type of those described in WO2009153532 .

Une autre tête d'aspersion est décrite dans DE 10 2007 042 691 A1 .Another spray head is described in DE 10 2007 042 691 A1 .

Résumé de l'inventionSummary of the invention

L'invention propose une tête d'aspersion destinée à la diffusion d'un agent extincteur, ladite tête d'aspersion comportant un obturateur sensible à la chaleur et un corps définissant :

  • un canal de transfert comportant une entrée d'agent extincteur,
  • un canal de détection comportant une entrée de détection sélectivement ou en permanence en communication de fluide avec le canal de transfert, et une sortie de détection obturée de manière sensiblement étanche par l'obturateur,
  • un canal d'aspersion distinct du canal de détection et comportant une entrée d'aspersion sélectivement en communication de fluide avec le canal de transfert par l'intermédiaire d'une soupape d'aspersion, et une sortie d'aspersion débouchant vers l'extérieur, la soupape d'aspersion n'autorisant qu'une circulation vers la sortie d'aspersion.
The invention proposes a sprinkler head intended for the diffusion of an extinguishing agent, said sprinkler head comprising a heat-sensitive shutter and a body defining:
  • a transfer channel comprising an extinguishing agent inlet,
  • a detection channel having a detection input selectively or permanently in fluid communication with the transfer channel, and a detection output sealed substantially sealingly by the shutter,
  • a spraying channel separate from the detection channel and having a spraying inlet selectively in fluid communication with the transfer channel via a spraying valve, and an outwardly opening sparging outlet , the spraying valve only allowing a circulation to the spraying outlet.

Comme avec la tête d'aspersion de WO2009153532 , une tête d'aspersion selon l'invention permet d'obtenir une aspersion sans activation de l'obturateur, et donc une aspersion dans des zones dans lesquelles aucun incendie n'a été détecté. Comme on le verra plus en détail dans la suite de la description, l'inventeur a découvert que le ménagement d'un canal d'aspersion séparé du canal de détection permet d'adapter ce canal d'aspersion à l'agent extincteur et/ou aux contraintes imposées par l'environnement (encombrement, zone à couvrir, débit d'agent extincteur,...), indépendamment des contraintes imposées pour la fixation de l'obturateur. Il en résulte une amélioration de l'efficacité d'aspersion. En particulier, la sortie d'aspersion, ou « ajutage », peut présenter des dimensions quelconques.As with the sprinkler head of WO2009153532 , a spray head according to the invention allows to obtain a sprinkling without activation of the shutter, and therefore sprinkling in areas in which no fire has been detected. As will be seen in greater detail in the following description, the inventor has discovered that the provision of a sparging channel separate from the detection channel makes it possible to adapt this spray channel to the extinguishing agent and / or or the constraints imposed by the environment (size, area to be covered, extinguishant flow rate, ...), regardless of the constraints imposed for the fixing of the shutter. This results in an improvement of the spraying efficiency. In particular, the spray outlet, or "nozzle", may have any size.

Enfin, l'aspersion n'est pas entravée par les moyens de fixation de l'obturateur.Finally, the sprinkling is not impeded by the fastener means of the shutter.

Par ailleurs, l'organe de fermeture de la soupape d'aspersion peut être à distance de la sortie d'aspersion, à l'intérieur du canal d'aspersion, ce qui limite les interactions avec le jet d'agent extincteur, en particulier lorsque cet organe reste solidaire du corps après ouverture de la soupape d'aspersion, ce qui permet en outre de le protéger. De préférence, l'organe de fermeture de soupape d'aspersion ne fait pas saillie hors du canal d'aspersion. Dans un mode de réalisation, l'extrémité la plus en aval de l'organe de fermeture de soupape d'aspersion est à plus de 0,5 cm, plus de 1 cm, plus de 1,5 cm, ou plus de 2 cm de la sortie d'aspersion.Furthermore, the closing member of the spraying valve can be remote from the spraying outlet, inside the spraying channel, which limits the interactions with the extinguishing agent jet, in particular when this member remains secured to the body after opening the spraying valve, which further allows to protect it. Preferably, the sprinkler valve closing member does not project out of the spraying channel. In one embodiment, the most downstream end of the sprinkler valve closing member is more than 0.5 cm, more than 1 cm, more than 1.5 cm, or more than 2 cm of the spray outlet.

Réciproquement, le ménagement d'un canal d'aspersion séparé du canal de détection permet une grande flexibilité pour les moyens mis en oeuvre pour la détection, et en particulier pour le type ou la forme de l'obturateur ou pour ses moyens de fixation sur le corps. En effet, les moyens mis en oeuvre pour la détection ne sont plus imposés par des contraintes liées à l'aspersion. L'obturateur peut en particulier être disposé à distance de la sortie d'aspersion, ce qui permet une parfaite adaptation aux contraintes du lieu à protéger. En particulier, l'obturateur peut être disposé à plus de 2 cm de la sortie d'aspersion.Conversely, the provision of a sparging channel separate from the detection channel allows great flexibility for the means used for the detection, and in particular for the type or shape of the shutter or for its means of attachment to the body. Indeed, the means used for the detection are no longer imposed by constraints related to spraying. The shutter can in particular be arranged at a distance from the spray outlet, which allows a perfect adaptation to the constraints of the place to be protected. In particular, the shutter can be disposed more than 2 cm from the spray outlet.

Par ailleurs, l'organe de fermeture de soupape d'aspersion ne portant pas l'obturateur peut donc être de dimensions et/ou de poids plus faible, ce qui limite les risques pour le personnel ou pour le matériel lors de son éventuelle éjection, notamment dans des endroits où aucune augmentation anormale de la température n'a été détectée.Furthermore, the shutter valve closing valve not carrying the shutter can be of smaller dimensions and / or weight, which limits the risks to personnel or equipment during its eventual ejection, especially in places where no abnormal increase in temperature has been detected.

De préférence, l'entrée de détection est sélectivement en communication de fluide avec le canal de transfert par l'intermédiaire d'une soupape de détection n'autorisant qu'une circulation vers le canal de transfert.Preferably, the detection input is selectively in fluid communication with the transfer channel via a detection valve allowing only a flow to the transfer channel.

Pendant l'aspersion, sensiblement tout l'agent extincteur projeté transite donc par le canal d'aspersion spécialement conçu à cet effet. L'efficacité de l'aspersion en est augmentée. Dans un mode de réalisation, la tête d'aspersion ne comporte pas de soupape de détection. De préférence, la tête d'aspersion comporte alors un déflecteur en sortie du canal de détection afin d'orienter le flux d'agent extincteur sortant par ce canal.During the spraying, substantially all the projected extinguishing agent therefore passes through the spray channel specially designed for this purpose. The effectiveness of the spray is increased. In one embodiment, the spray head does not have a detection valve. Preferably, the spraying head then comprises a deflector at the output of the detection channel in order to direct the outgoing extinguishing agent flow through this channel.

De préférence, la force d'ouverture de soupape d'aspersion, c'est-à-dire la force minimale nécessaire pour déplacer l'organe de fermeture de soupape d'aspersion et ouvrir la soupape d'aspersion, est inférieure à 1500 N, de préférence inférieure à 900 N, de préférence inférieure à 300 N, de préférence inférieure à 150 N, de préférence inférieure à 90 N, de préférence inférieure à 60 N, de préférence inférieure à 30 N, voire inférieure à 15 N, ou même inférieure à 3 N ou à 1 N.Preferably, the sprinkler valve opening force, i.e. the minimum force required to move the sprinkler valve closure member and open the sprinkler valve, is less than 1500 N. preferably less than 900 N, preferably less than 300 N, preferably less than 150 N, preferably less than 90 N, preferably less than 60 N, preferably less than 30 N, or even less than 15 N, or even less than 3 N or 1 N.

Typiquement, la force d'ouverture est comprise entre 15 N et 80 N.Typically, the opening force is between 15 N and 80 N.

La force d'ouverture de soupape d'aspersion peut notamment résulter d'une différence positive entre la pression dans le canal de transfert, dite « pression interne », et la pression ambiante. On appelle ci-après cette différence de pression « pression différentielle d'ouverture de soupape d'aspersion ». De préférence, la pression différentielle d'ouverture de soupape d'aspersion est inférieure à 50 bar, de préférence inférieure à 30 bar, de préférence inférieure à 10 bar, de préférence inférieure à 5 bar, de préférence inférieure à 3 bar, de préférence inférieure à 2 bar, de préférence inférieure à 1 bar, voire inférieure à 0,5 bar, ou même inférieure à 0,1 bar.The opening force of the spraying valve may in particular result from a positive difference between the pressure in the transfer channel, called "internal pressure", and the ambient pressure. This pressure difference is referred to hereinafter as the "differential pressure of the spraying valve opening". Preferably, the differential opening pressure of the spraying valve is less than 50 bar, preferably less than 30 bar, preferably less than 10 bar, preferably less than 5 bar, preferably less than 3 bar, preferably less than 2 bar, preferably less than 1 bar, or even less than 0.5 bar, or even less than 0.1 bar.

Typiquement, la pression différentielle d'ouverture de soupape d'aspersion est comprise entre 1 bar et 7 bar, voire entre 1,5 bar et 6 bar.Typically, the differential pressure opening sprinkler valve is between 1 bar and 7 bar, or even between 1.5 bar and 6 bar.

La soupape d'aspersion s'ouvre avantageusement très facilement, notamment dès qu'elle subit la pression de l'agent extincteur.The spraying valve advantageously opens very easily, especially as soon as it is subjected to the pressure of the extinguishing agent.

Dans le mode de réalisation préféré, au moins une des soupapes de détection et d'aspersion, comporte, voire est constituée par un clapet anti-retour. De préférence chacune des soupapes de détection et d'aspersion comporte, voire est constituée par un clapet anti-retour. La simplicité et l'efficacité de la tête d'aspersion sont alors optimales. De préférence encore, l'obturateur est réutilisable. De préférence, l'obturateur revient en position d'obturation de la sortie de détection lorsque la température ambiante ne correspond plus à une situation d'incendie, de préférence lorsque la température ambiante est inférieure à 80°C, inférieure à 65°C ou inférieure à 50°C. L'utilisation d'une vanne thermique permet par exemple d'obtenir cette fonction. Avantageusement, le coût du réarmement de la tête d'aspersion après utilisation en est réduit.In the preferred embodiment, at least one of the detection and spraying valves comprises or is constituted by a non-return valve. Preferably each of the detection and spray valves comprises or is constituted by a non-return valve. The simplicity and efficiency of the spray head are then optimal. More preferably, the shutter is reusable. Preferably, the shutter returns to the closed position of the detection output when the ambient temperature no longer corresponds to a fire situation, preferably when the ambient temperature is below 80 ° C., below 65 ° C. or less than 50 ° C. The use of a thermal valve makes it possible, for example, to obtain this function. Advantageously, the cost of rearming the spray head after use is reduced.

L'invention concerne également un dispositif de protection contre l'incendie comportant :

  • une source d'agent extincteur ;
  • une canalisation connectée à la source d'agent extincteur ;
  • au moins une tête d'aspersion selon l'invention insérée dans ladite canalisation de manière que le canal de transfert de ladite tête d'aspersion soit en communication de fluide avec l'intérieur de ladite canalisation ;
la pression interne Pint dans ladite canalisation étant différente, de préférence inférieure à la pression ambiante Patm, généralement la pression atmosphérique.The invention also relates to a fire protection device comprising:
  • a source of extinguishing agent;
  • a pipe connected to the source of extinguishing agent;
  • at least one spray head according to the invention inserted in said pipe so that the transfer channel of said spray head is in fluid communication with the interior of said pipe;
the internal pressure P int in said pipe being different, preferably lower than the ambient pressure P atm , generally the atmospheric pressure.

La mise en communication de l'intérieur de la canalisation avec l'extérieur conduit ainsi à une modification de la pression interne. Cette variation de pression interne peut être détectée et être associée à la présence d'un incendie. C'est pourquoi, de préférence, un dispositif de protection contre l'incendie selon l'invention comporte des moyens de détection aptes à détecter une évolution de la pression interne régnant à l'intérieur de ladite canalisation.The communication of the interior of the pipe with the outside thus leads to a modification of the internal pressure. This variation in internal pressure can be detected and be associated with the presence of a fire. Therefore, preferably, a fire protection device according to the invention comprises detection means adapted to detect an evolution of the internal pressure prevailing inside said pipe.

Dans un mode de réalisation, le dispositif de protection contre l'incendie selon l'invention comporte des moyens de commande aptes à ordonner une injection d'un agent extincteur dans la canalisation en cas de variation de la pression interne, et en particulier, lorsque la canalisation est maintenue en dépression dans la situation de veille, en cas d'augmentation de la pression interne susceptible de correspondre à la présence d'un incendie. Les moyens de commande peuvent notamment commander, en cas de détection d'une variation de la pression interne, une ouverture d'une vanne déluge isolant, dans la situation de veille, la canalisation et la source d'agent extincteur et/ou le démarrage d'une pompe d'alimentation permettant d'injecter ledit agent extincteur dans la canalisation.In one embodiment, the fire protection device according to the invention comprises control means able to order an injection of an extinguishing agent into the pipe in case of variation of the internal pressure, and in particular when the pipe is kept in depression in the standby situation, in case of increase of the internal pressure likely to correspond to the presence of a fire. The control means can in particular control, in the event of detection of a variation in the internal pressure, an opening of an insulating deluge valve, in the standby situation, the pipe and the source of extinguishing agent and / or the starting a feed pump for injecting said extinguishing agent into the pipe.

De préférence, la pression de l'agent extincteur injecté est suffisante pour ouvrir la soupape d'aspersion de la ou des têtes d'aspersion selon l'invention insérée(s) dans la canalisation. Avantageusement, la pression de l'agent extincteur conduit à une ouverture sensiblement simultanée de l'ensemble des soupapes d'aspersion des têtes d'aspersion, et ainsi à une diffusion de l'agent extincteur sur toute la zone couverte par ces têtes d'aspersion.Preferably, the pressure of the extinguishing agent injected is sufficient to open the spraying valve of the one or more spray heads according to the invention inserted into the pipeline. Advantageously, the pressure of the extinguishing agent leads to a substantially simultaneous opening of all the sprinkler valves of the sprinkler heads, and thus to a diffusion of the extinguishing agent over the entire area covered by these sprinkler heads. aspersion.

L'agent extincteur n'est pas nécessairement liquide et peut avantageusement être choisi dans le groupe constitué par une poudre, une mousse et un gaz.The extinguishing agent is not necessarily liquid and may advantageously be selected from the group consisting of powder, foam and gas.

De préférence, dans la situation de veille, la canalisation est maintenue sèche, de préférence en dépression par rapport à la pression ambiante.Preferably, in the standby situation, the pipe is kept dry, preferably at a vacuum with respect to the ambient pressure.

L'invention concerne également une installation, et en particulier un local, un entrepôt, ou un réservoir de stockage, comportant un dispositif de protection selon l'invention. Cette installation peut en particulier être une raffinerie ou un lieu de stockage d'hydrocarbures. L'invention concerne également un procédé de commande de l'alimentation, avec un agent extincteur, d'une canalisation dans laquelle est insérée au moins une tête d'aspersion selon l'invention, procédé selon lequel on initie ladite alimentation en cas de détection d'une évolution anormale de la pression interne dans la canalisation, en particulier en cas d'augmentation anormale de la pression interne, et notamment en cas d'augmentation de la pression interne jusqu'à la pression ambiante. Le procédé de commande peut notamment être appliqué pour l'ouverture d'une vanne déluge isolant la canalisation d'une source d'agent extincteur ou pour la mise en marche d'une pompe d'alimentation de la canalisation avec de l'agent extincteur.The invention also relates to an installation, and in particular a room, a warehouse, or a storage tank, comprising a protection device according to the invention. This installation can in particular be a refinery or a hydrocarbon storage site. The invention also relates to a method for controlling the supply, with an extinguishing agent, of a pipe in which at least one spray head according to the invention is inserted, a method according to which said feed is initiated in the event of detection. an abnormal evolution of the internal pressure in the pipe, in particular in case of abnormal increase of the internal pressure, and in particular in case of increase of the internal pressure up to the ambient pressure. The control method can in particular be applied for the opening of a deluge valve insulating the pipe of a source of extinguishing agent or for starting a pump supplying the pipeline with extinguishing agent .

L'invention concerne enfin un procédé d'ouverture d'un ensemble de têtes d'aspersion d'un dispositif de protection contre l'incendie selon l'invention, procédé selon lequel on génère une pression différentielle d'ouverture des soupapes d'aspersion dans ladite canalisation, de préférence avec de l'agent extincteur, en cas de détection d'un incendie.The invention finally relates to a method of opening a set of sprinkler heads of a fire protection device according to the invention, a method according to which a differential pressure is generated for opening the sprinkler valves. in said pipe, preferably with extinguishing agent, in the event of fire detection.

DéfinitionsDefinitions

L'amont et l'aval sont définis en considérant le flux d'agent extincteur en cas d'incendie. Par « sensible à la chaleur », on entend que l'obturateur est apte à dégager, au moins en partie, le canal de détection sous l'effet d'une augmentation de température ou lors d'un dépassement d'une température de seuil déterminée. On appelle classiquement « activation » de l'obturateur ce dégagement du canal de détection. L'activation d'un obturateur sous la forme d'un fusible ou d'une ampoule, par exemple, est sa fusion ou son éclatement, respectivement. Une vanne thermique comporte classiquement un organe de fermeture, par exemple une tige, et un bulbe déformable sous l'effet de la chaleur et coopérant avec l'organe de fermeture de manière à ce que ce dernier obture ou dégage un orifice en communication avec l'extérieur. Lorsqu'une telle vanne thermique est utilisée comme obturateur, la sortie de détection correspondant audit orifice, « l'activation » correspond au dégagement de cet orifice par l'organe de fermeture.Upstream and downstream are defined by considering the flow of extinguishing agent in case of fire. By "heat-sensitive" is meant that the shutter is able to release, at least in part, the detection channel under the effect of an increase in temperature or when exceeding a threshold temperature determined. This release of the detection channel is conventionally called "activation" of the shutter. Activation of a shutter in the form of a fuse or bulb, for example, is its fusion or burst, respectively. A thermal valve conventionally comprises a closure member, for example a rod, and a bulb deformable under the effect of heat and cooperating with the closure member so that the latter closes or releases an orifice in communication with the body. 'outside. When such a heat valve is used as a shutter, the detection output corresponding to said orifice, the "activation" corresponds to the release of this orifice by the closure member.

L'obturation de la sortie de détection par l'obturateur est dite « sensiblement étanche » lorsqu'elle est étanche ou tolère un débit de fuite tel que le passage entre l'obturateur et le canal de détection, par lequel la fuite s'effectue, est inférieur à 20 % de la section de la sortie de détection au niveau du siège de l'obturateur.The closure of the detection output by the shutter is said to be "substantially watertight" when it is waterproof or tolerates a leakage flow such as the passage between the shutter and the detection channel, through which the leak occurs. , is less than 20% of the detection output section at the shutter seat.

Par "force d'ouverture", on entend une force exercée sur l'organe de fermeture d'une soupape telle qu'elle provoque un écartement de cet organe de fermeture de son siège, de manière à dégager, au moins partiellement, de préférence complètement, le canal sur lequel la soupape est insérée. La force d'ouverture « ouvre » donc la valve.By "opening force" is meant a force exerted on the closing member of a valve such that it causes a spacing of this closure member of its seat, so as to clear, at least partially, preferably completely, the channel on which the valve is inserted. The opening force "opens" therefore the valve.

Par «pression différentielle d'ouverture» d'une soupape, on entend une différence entre les pressions en amont et en aval de l'organe de fermeture de ladite soupape apte à créer une ouverture de la soupape par déplacement de l'organe de fermeture.By "differential opening pressure" of a valve is meant a difference between the pressures upstream and downstream of the closure member of said valve adapted to create an opening of the valve by displacement of the closure member .

Par « comportant un » il y a lieu de comprendre, dans la description comme dans les revendications, « comportant au moins un », sauf mention contraire.By "comprising a" it is necessary to understand, in the description as in the claims, "comprising at least one", unless otherwise specified.

Brève description desBrief description of figuresfigures

D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention apparaitront encore à la lecture de la description détaillée qui va suivre et à l'examen du dessin annexé dans lequel :

  • la figure 1 représente, en coupe longitudinale médiane, une tête d'aspersion selon WO2009153532 dans une situation de veille ;
  • les figures 2a à 2c représentent schématiquement, en coupe longitudinale médiane, une tête d'aspersion selon l'invention avant activation de l'obturateur, immédiatement après activation de l'obturateur et après ouverture de la soupape d'aspersion, respectivement ;
  • la figure 3 représente schématiquement, en vue éclatée, un autre mode de réalisation d'une tête d'aspersion selon l'invention ;
  • la figure 4 représente schématiquement un dispositif de protection contre l'incendie selon l'invention.
Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent on reading the following detailed description and on examining the appended drawing in which:
  • the figure 1 represents, in median longitudinal section, a sprinkler head according to WO2009153532 in a standby situation;
  • the Figures 2a to 2c show schematically, in median longitudinal section, a spray head according to the invention before activation of the shutter, immediately after activation of the shutter and after opening of the spray valve, respectively;
  • the figure 3 schematically shows, in exploded view, another embodiment of a spray head according to the invention;
  • the figure 4 schematically represents a fire protection device according to the invention.

Dans les différentes figures, des références identiques ont été utilisées pour désigner des organes identiques ou analogues.In the various figures, identical references have been used to designate identical or similar members.

Description détailléedetailed description

La tête d'aspersion 10 représentée sur la figure 2a comporte un corps 12 monobloc et un obturateur 14 sensible à la chaleur.The spray head 10 shown on the figure 2a comprises a body 12 integral and a shutter 14 sensitive to heat.

De préférence, le corps 12 comporte des moyens de fixation du type de ceux utilisés classiquement pour fixer une tête sprinkleur sur une canalisation 16 d'un dispositif de protection incendie. De préférence, le corps 12 comporte ainsi un étrier ou un filetage 18. De préférence, ce filetage correspond à celui classiquement utilisé pour fixer les têtes sprinkleurs. En particulier, le filetage peut être conforme à la norme NPT («American National Tap Threads »), par exemple entre NPT ½ in et NTP 1 in.Preferably, the body 12 comprises fixing means of the type conventionally used for fixing a sprinkler head on a pipe 16 of a fire protection device. Preferably, the body 12 thus comprises a stirrup or a thread 18. Preferably, this thread corresponds to that conventionally used to fix the sprinkler heads. In particular, the threading may comply with the NPT ("American National Tap Threads") standard, for example between NPT ½ in and NTP 1 in.

Le corps 12 définit un canal de transfert 20, d'axe X, un canal de détection 22, et un canal d'aspersion 24.The body 12 defines a transfer channel 20, of axis X, a detection channel 22, and a spraying channel 24.

Circuit de détectionDetection circuit

Le canal de transfert 20 débouche vers l'amont par une entrée d'agent extincteur 26, et se prolonge, vers l'aval, par le canal de détection 22 et le canal d'aspersion 24.The transfer channel 20 opens upstream through an extinguishing agent inlet 26, and extends, downstream, by the detection channel 22 and the spray channel 24.

Le canal de détection 22 débouche, du côté amont, par une entrée de détection 28 et, du côté aval, par une sortie de détection 32 isolée de l'extérieur par l'obturateur 14. L'activation de l'obturateur provoque donc la mise en contact du canal de détection avec l'extérieur.The detection channel 22 opens, on the upstream side, by a detection input 28 and, on the downstream side, by a detection output 32 isolated from the outside by the shutter 14. The activation of the shutter thus causes the contacting the detection channel with the outside.

Le canal de détection présente de préférence une longueur supérieure à 5 mm, voire supérieure à 10 mm.The detection channel preferably has a length greater than 5 mm, or even greater than 10 mm.

Le canal de détection est sélectivement en communication de fluide avec le canal de transfert 20 par l'intermédiaire d'une soupape de détection 30.The detection channel is selectively in fluid communication with the transfer channel 20 via a detection valve 30.

En variante, l'entrée de détection 28 peut être en permanence en communication de fluide avec le canal de transfert 20. En cas d'activation de l'obturateur, le canal de détection sert alors à la dispersion d'agent extincteur. Il est alors préférable que la tête d'aspersion comporte un déflecteur en sortie du canal de détection.Alternatively, the detection input 28 may be continuously in fluid communication with the transfer channel 20. In case of activation of the shutter, the detection channel is then used for dispersion of extinguishing agent. It is then preferable that the spray head has a deflector at the output of the detection channel.

La soupape de détection 30 comporte un organe de fermeture de soupape de détection 31 dont le déplacement permet, en cas d'activation de l'obturateur, une entrée d'air dans le canal de transfert si ce dernier est maintenu en dépression, puis, une fermeture du canal de détection par la poussée de l'agent extincteur.The detection valve 30 comprises a detection valve closing member 31 whose displacement allows, in case of activation of the shutter, an air inlet in the transfer channel if the latter is kept in depression, then, a closure of the detection channel by the thrust of the extinguishing agent.

La soupape de détection 30 s'ouvre donc par déplacement de l'organe de fermeture de soupape de détection sous l'effet d'une force d'ouverture de soupape de détection exercée sur ledit organe de fermeture de soupape de détection. Dans le mode de réalisation représenté, cette force d'ouverture est dirigée vers le canal de transfert.The sensing valve 30 thus opens by moving the sensing valve closure member under the effect of a sensing valve opening force exerted on said sensing valve closure member. In the embodiment shown, this opening force is directed towards the transfer channel.

De préférence, la force d'ouverture de soupape de détection, c'est-à-dire la force minimale nécessaire pour déplacer l'organe de fermeture de la soupape de détection et ouvrir la soupape de détection, est inférieure à 1500 N, de préférence inférieure à 900 N, de préférence inférieure à 300 N, de préférence inférieure à 150 N, de préférence inférieure à 90 N, de préférence inférieure à 60 N, de préférence inférieure à 30 N, voire inférieure à 15 N, ou même inférieure à 3 N ou à 1 N.Preferably, the detection valve opening force, i.e. the minimum force required to move the closure member of the detection valve and open the detection valve, is less than 1500 N, preferably less than 900 N, preferably less than 300 N, preferably less than 150 N, preferably less than 90 N, preferably less than 60 N, preferably less than 30 N, or even less than 15 N, or even lower at 3 N or 1 N.

La force d'ouverture de soupape de détection peut notamment résulter d'une différence positive entre la pression ambiante et la pression dans le canal de transfert, dite « pression différentielle d'ouverture de soupape de détection ». De préférence, la pression différentielle d'ouverture de soupape de détection est inférieure à 50 bar, de préférence inférieure à 30 bar, de préférence inférieure à 10 bar, de préférence inférieure à 5 bar, de préférence inférieure à 3 bar, de préférence inférieure à 2 bar, de préférence inférieure à 1 bar, voire inférieure à 0,5 bar, ou même inférieure à 0,1 bar.In particular, the opening force of the detection valve may result from a positive difference between the ambient pressure and the pressure in the transfer channel, referred to as "pressure Differential opening of detection valve ". Preferably, the detection valve opening differential pressure is less than 50 bar, preferably less than 30 bar, preferably less than 10 bar, preferably less than 5 bar, preferably less than 3 bar, preferably less than at 2 bar, preferably less than 1 bar, or even less than 0.5 bar, or even less than 0.1 bar.

La forme de l'organe de fermeture de soupape de détection n'est pas limitative. En particulier, cet organe peut prendre la forme d'une bille, d'une palette ou d'une tige.The shape of the detection valve closing member is not limiting. In particular, this member may take the form of a ball, a pallet or a rod.

La tête d'aspersion peut également être pourvue de moyens de rappel élastique tendant à ramener l'organe de fermeture de soupape de détection vers son siège. Les opérations pour la mise en situation de veille en sont simplifiées. La soupape de détection constitue alors un clapet anti-retour.The spray head may also be provided with resilient return means tending to bring the detection valve closing member towards its seat. The operations for the standby situation are simplified. The detection valve then constitutes a non-return valve.

L'obturateur 14 peut être tout dispositif conduisant, sous l'effet d'une augmentation de la chaleur, à une mise en communication de fluide entre le canal de détection et l'environnement.The shutter 14 may be any device leading, under the effect of an increase in heat, to a setting in fluid communication between the detection channel and the environment.

De préférence, l'obturateur est activé lorsqu'il est porté à une température supérieure à une température de seuil déterminée, par exemple supérieure ou égale à 50°C et inférieure à 60°C, voire inférieure à 80°C.Preferably, the shutter is activated when it is brought to a temperature higher than a determined threshold temperature, for example greater than or equal to 50 ° C and less than 60 ° C, or even lower than 80 ° C.

Les obturateurs classiquement mis en oeuvre pour les têtes sprinkleurs peuvent être utilisés.The shutters conventionally used for sprinkler heads can be used.

L'obturateur peut en particulier comporter une ampoule apte à se rompre sous l'effet d'une augmentation de la température, ou un fusible apte à fondre dans les mêmes conditions.The shutter may in particular comprise a bulb capable of breaking under the effect of an increase in temperature, or a fuse capable of melting under the same conditions.

Dans un mode de réalisation, l'obturateur est réutilisable. Il peut par exemple être constitué d'une vanne thermique (vanne s'ouvrant sous l'effet de la chaleur) par exemple sur le principe des thermovannes de chauffe-eau ou des robinets hydrostatiques des radiateurs. Avantageusement, la tête d'aspersion peut ainsi redevenir opérationnelle dès la fin de l'incendie, sans opération de réarmement. Les coûts de maintenance sont également avantageusement réduits.In one embodiment, the shutter is reusable. It may for example be constituted by a thermal valve (valve opening under the effect of heat) for example on the principle of water heater thermo valves or hydrostatic valves of the radiators. Advantageously, the spray head can thus become operational again at the end of the fire, without rearming operation. Maintenance costs are also advantageously reduced.

Dans la situation de veille, l'obturateur peut obturer le canal de détection de manière étanche ou en autorisant un débit de fuite entre l'obturateur et le canal de détection. Avantageusement, les tolérances de fabrication peuvent être réduites. Cependant, si une évolution de la pression interne résultant de l'activation de l'obturateur doit servir de moyen de détection d'incendie, il conviendra de prévoir des moyens pour maintenir une différence de pression entre l'intérieur et l'extérieur de la canalisation dans la situation de veille. Le débit de fuite devrait cependant être limité. De préférence, le passage entre l'obturateur et le canal de détection, par lequel la fuite s'effectue, devrait être inférieur à 5 %, inférieur à 1 %, voire inférieur à 0,5 % ou inférieur à 0,1 % de la section de sortie de détection au niveau du siège de l'obturateur.In the standby situation, the shutter can close the detection channel tightly or by allowing a leakage flow between the shutter and the detection channel. Advantageously, manufacturing tolerances can be reduced. However, if a evolution of the internal pressure resulting from the activation of the shutter must serve as means of fire detection, it will be necessary to provide means to maintain a pressure difference between the inside and the outside of the pipe in the situation Eve. The leak rate should however be limited. Preferably, the passage between the shutter and the detection channel, through which the leak occurs, should be less than 5%, less than 1%, or even less than 0.5% or less than 0.1% of the detection output section at the shutter seat.

De préférence, le débit de fuite est inférieur à 20 %, de préférence inférieur à 10 %, inférieur à 5 %, inférieur à 1 % du débit obtenu après activation de l'obturateur. Le débit de fuite et le débit obtenu après activation de l'obturateur peuvent être mesurés en maintenant une pression en amont du siège de l'obturateur de 2 bar et une pression en aval du siège de l'obturateur de 1 bar, avec de l'air et à température ambiante.Preferably, the leakage rate is less than 20%, preferably less than 10%, less than 5%, less than 1% of the flow rate obtained after activation of the shutter. The leakage rate and the flow rate obtained after the shutter has been activated can be measured by maintaining a pressure upstream of the shutter seat of 2 bar and a pressure downstream of the shutter seat of 1 bar, with air and at room temperature.

Dans la situation de veille, l'obturateur peut être maintenu contre un bourrelet annulaire 34 assurant un contact sensiblement étanche.In the standby situation, the shutter can be held against an annular bead 34 providing a substantially sealed contact.

De préférence, la tête d'aspersion 10 comporte un éjecteur d'obturateur 36, activé lors de l'activation de l'obturateur. Un éjecteur d'obturateur est destiné à projeter l'obturateur à distance de son siège au moment de sa rupture. Dans le mode de réalisation où une dépression règne à l'intérieur du canal de détection, il permet avantageusement d'éviter que, sous l'effet de cette dépression, des morceaux d'obturateur ne restent maintenus sur le siège de l'obturateur après sa rupture. Une telle situation conduirait en effet à entraver l'entrée de l'air ambiant dans le canal de détection, ce qui pourrait conduire à une absence de détection de l'incendie.Preferably, the spraying head 10 has a shutter ejector 36, activated during the activation of the shutter. A shutter ejector is intended to project the shutter away from its seat when it breaks. In the embodiment where a depression prevails inside the detection channel, it advantageously makes it possible to avoid that, under the effect of this depression, pieces of shutter remain held on the seat of the shutter after his break. Such a situation would indeed hinder the entry of ambient air into the detection channel, which could lead to a failure to detect the fire.

L'éjecteur d'obturateur 36 peut en particulier comporter un ressort à lame, un ressort hélicoïdal, par exemple de forme conique, comme représenté, une rondelle élastique, par exemple une rondelle Belleville ou une coupelle élastique d'éjection. Il peut être disposé par exemple en compression dans le canal de détection, comme représenté sur la figure 2a, ou entre l'obturateur et son siège, comme représenté sur la figure 3. L'éjecteur d'obturateur peut également comporter une charge explosive.The shutter ejector 36 may in particular comprise a leaf spring, a helical spring, for example of conical shape, as shown, an elastic washer, for example a Belleville washer or an elastic ejection cup. It can be arranged for example in compression in the detection channel, as shown in FIG. figure 2a , or between the shutter and its seat, as shown on the figure 3 . The shutter ejector may also include an explosive charge.

Circuit d'aspersionSpray circuit

Le canal d'aspersion présente de préférence une longueur supérieure à 5 mm, voire supérieure à 10 mm.The spray channel preferably has a length greater than 5 mm, or even greater than 10 mm.

Le canal d'aspersion 24 comporte, du côté amont, une entrée d'aspersion 38 sélectivement en communication de fluide avec le canal de transfert 20 par l'intermédiaire d'une soupape d'aspersion 40. Classiquement, la soupape d'aspersion 40 comporte un organe de fermeture de soupape d'aspersion 41 dont le déplacement permet la circulation sélective de l'agent d'extincteur dans le canal d'aspersion 24.The spraying channel 24 comprises, on the upstream side, a spraying inlet 38 selectively in fluid communication with the transfer channel 20 via a spraying valve 40. Conventionally, the spraying valve 40 comprises a sprinkler valve closure member 41 whose displacement allows the selective circulation of the extinguishing agent in the spraying channel 24.

La forme de l'organe de fermeture de soupape d'aspersion 41 n'est pas limitative. Cet organe peut être solidaire ou être détachable du corps. Par exemple, il peut prendre la forme d'un bouchon ou toute autre forme décrite pour l'embout dans WO2009153532 . De préférence l'embout est maintenu sur le corps, une force d'ouverture de 1500 N étant suffisante pour déplacer l'embout (base et obturateur intact maintenu sur la base). Autrement dit, l'embout peut être déplacé sous l'effet de la force d'ouverture sans rupture de l'obturateur.The shape of the sprinkler valve closure member 41 is not limiting. This organ may be integral or detachable body. For example, it may take the form of a plug or any other form described for the tip in WO2009153532 . Preferably the tip is held on the body, an opening force of 1500 N is sufficient to move the tip (base and intact shutter maintained on the base). In other words, the tip can be moved under the effect of the opening force without breaking the shutter.

Le canal d'aspersion débouche, du côté aval, par une sortie d'aspersion 42. L'organe de fermeture de soupape d'aspersion 41 ne fait de préférence pas saillie hors du canal d'aspersion. L'extrémité la plus en aval de l'organe de fermeture de soupape d'aspersion est à une distance d de préférence supérieure à 0,5 cm, supérieure à 1 cm, supérieure à 1,5 cm, voire supérieure à 2 cm de la sortie d'aspersion 42.The spray channel opens on the downstream side by a spray outlet 42. The sprinkler valve closure member 41 preferably does not protrude out of the spray channel. The end furthest downstream of the sprinkler valve closure member is at a distance d preferably greater than 0.5 cm, greater than 1 cm, greater than 1.5 cm, or even greater than 2 cm. the spray outlet 42.

La sortie d'aspersion peut présenter un diamètre supérieur à 1 mm. Dans un mode de réalisation, le canal d'aspersion est sensiblement rectiligne.The spray outlet may have a diameter greater than 1 mm. In one embodiment, the spray channel is substantially rectilinear.

Classiquement, un déflecteur 44 peut être prévu pour distribuer l'agent extincteur sortant par la sortie d'aspersion.Conventionally, a deflector 44 may be provided to distribute the extinguishing agent out of the spray outlet.

Dans la situation de veille, l'organe de fermeture de soupape d'aspersion 41 est maintenu en position sur son siège par exemple par friction, par une force magnétique, par un lien, par clipsage, par gravité, par dépression, par collage, ou par une combinaison de ces moyens.In the standby situation, the sprinkler valve closure member 41 is held in position on its seat for example by friction, by a magnetic force, by a link, by clipping, by gravity, by depression, by gluing, or by a combination of these means.

Les moyens décrits dans WO2009153532 pour maintenir l'embout peuvent être utilisés pour maintenir l'organe de fermeture de soupape d'aspersion 41.The means described in WO2009153532 to maintain the nozzle can be used to maintain the sprinkler valve closing member 41.

Dans le mode de réalisation préféré représenté, ce maintien est assuré au moins en partie, voire totalement, par dépression, la pression interne Pint qui règne dans le canal d'aspersion étant inférieure à la pression ambiante Patm.In the preferred embodiment shown, this maintenance is ensured at least in part, or even totally, by depression, the internal pressure P int prevailing in the spray channel being lower than the ambient pressure P atm .

L'organe de fermeture de soupape d'aspersion peut être fixé sur le corps par l'intermédiaire d'une charnière 46.The sprinkler valve closure member can be attached to the body via a hinge 46.

La tête d'aspersion peut également être pourvue de moyens de rappel par exemple thermodéformables ou élastiques tendant à ramener l'organe de fermeture de soupape d'aspersion 41 vers son siège, (sous l'effet d'une dilatation ou d'une déformation mécanique, par exemple). Les opérations pour la mise en situation de veille en sont simplifiées. La soupape d'aspersion constitue alors un clapet anti-retour.The spraying head may also be provided with return means, for example heat-deformable or resilient, tending to return the closure member of the spraying valve 41 towards its seat, (under the effect of an expansion or deformation mechanical, for example). The operations for the standby situation are simplified. The spraying valve then constitutes a non-return valve.

Dans la situation de veille, l'organe de fermeture de soupape d'aspersion 41 ferme de manière sensiblement étanche le canal d'aspersion 24. Cependant, un débit de fuite peut être admis entre le canal d'aspersion et l'organe de fermeture de soupape d'aspersion. De préférence, le passage entre le canal d'aspersion 24 et l'organe de fermeture de soupape d'aspersion 41 est inférieur à 5 %, inférieur à 1 %, voire inférieur à 0,5 % ou inférieur à 0,1 % de la section du canal d'aspersion obturée par l'organe de fermeture de soupape d'aspersion.In the standby situation, the sprinkler valve closure member 41 substantially seals the spray channel 24. However, a leakage flow can be admitted between the sprinkler channel and the closure member sprinkler valve. Preferably, the passage between the spray channel 24 and the sprinkler valve closure member 41 is less than 5%, less than 1%, or even less than 0.5% or less than 0.1% of the section of the sprinkler channel closed by the sprinkler valve closure member.

Le maintien en position de l'organe de fermeture de soupape d'aspersion autorise l'ouverture de la soupape d'aspersion sous l'effet d'une force d'ouverture de soupape d'aspersion exercée sur l'organe de fermeture de soupape d'aspersion, et, dans le mode de réalisation représenté, dirigée vers le canal d'aspersion.Holding the sprinkler valve closure in position allows the sprinkler valve to open under the effect of a sprinkler valve opening force exerted on the valve closure member spraying, and in the embodiment shown, directed towards the spray channel.

Les moyens pour générer la force d'ouverture de soupape d'aspersion ne sont pas limités et peuvent comprendre, en particulier, des forces résultant d'une pression différentielle entre la pression interne et la pression ambiante, des forces de gravité, notamment le poids de l'organe de fermeture de soupape d'aspersion, des forces exercées par des moyens élastiques, par exemple par un ressort comprimé, des forces exercées par des moyens électromagnétiques ou toutes les combinaisons de ces moyens.The means for generating the sprinkler valve opening force are not limited and may include, in particular, forces resulting from a differential pressure between the internal pressure and the ambient pressure, gravity forces, especially weight of the sprinkler valve closure member, forces exerted by elastic means, for example by a compressed spring, forces exerted by electromagnetic means or all combinations of these means.

Dans un mode de réalisation particulier, l'ouverture de la soupape d'aspersion 40 résulte de l'équilibrage entre la pression interne et la pression ambiante, notamment par activation d'un obturateur.In a particular embodiment, the opening of the spraying valve 40 results from the balancing between the internal pressure and the ambient pressure, in particular by activating a shutter.

Dans un mode de réalisation, la pression interne est maintenue supérieure à la pression ambiante dans la situation de veille. Bien entendu, la différence entre la pression interne et la pression ambiante doit alors être inférieure à la pression différentielle d'ouverture de la soupape d'aspersion.In one embodiment, the internal pressure is maintained higher than the ambient pressure in the standby situation. Of course, the difference between the internal pressure and the ambient pressure must then be less than the differential opening pressure of the spraying valve.

Une tête d'aspersion selon l'invention peut être avantageusement utilisée afin de rénover des installations existantes. Il suffit en effet d'y remplacer les têtes d'aspersion par des têtes d'aspersion selon l'invention et de supprimer les moyens de détection en place (réseau de canalisations ou moyens électroniques).A spray head according to the invention can be advantageously used to renovate existing installations. It suffices to replace the sprinkler heads with sprinkler heads according to the invention and to remove the detection means in place (network of pipes or electronic means).

La figure 3 représente une variante de tête d'aspersion particulièrement bien adaptée pour la rénovation d'installations existantes.The figure 3 represents a variant of spray head particularly well adapted for the renovation of existing installations.

Cette tête d'aspersion comporte une pièce en T 50 destinée à la fixation à la canalisation. La première branche 52 partant de la pièce en T 50 constitue le circuit de détection et comporte successivement un premier mamelon d'adaptation 54, un premier clapet anti-retour 56, formant une soupape de détection, la flèche représentant le sens de circulation autorisé, et un détecteur 58, exposant un obturateur 14.This spray head comprises a T-piece 50 for attachment to the pipe. The first branch 52 extending from the T-piece 50 constitutes the detection circuit and comprises successively a first adapter nipple 54, a first non-return valve 56, forming a detection valve, the arrow representing the authorized direction of movement, and a detector 58, exposing a shutter 14.

La deuxième branche 62 partant de la pièce en T constitue un circuit d'aspersion et comporte successivement un deuxième mamelon d'adaptation 64, un deuxième clapet anti-retour 66, formant une soupape d'aspersion, la flèche représentant le sens de circulation autorisé, et un asperseur 68, pourvue d'un déflecteur 44.The second branch 62 extending from the T-piece constitutes a spraying circuit and comprises successively a second adapter nipple 64, a second non-return valve 66, forming a spraying valve, the arrow representing the direction of circulation allowed. , and a sprinkler 68, provided with a deflector 44.

Après montage, le canal de transfert (non visible) se prolonge d'une part par le canal de détection, qui traverse le premier mamelon d'adaptation 54, le premier clapet anti-retour 56 et le détecteur 58. Le siège de l'obturateur est constitué par le bord de la sortie du canal de détection. Un éjecteur d'obturateur 36, sous la forme d'une coupelle élastique, est monte entre l'obturateur et son siège. D'autre part, le canal de transfert se prolonge par le canal d'aspersion, qui traverse le deuxième mamelon d'adaptation 64, le deuxième clapet anti-retour 66 et l'asperseur 68, débouchant vers l'extérieur.After mounting, the transfer channel (not visible) is extended on the one hand by the detection channel, which passes through the first adapter nipple 54, the first non-return valve 56 and the detector 58. The seat of the shutter is constituted by the edge of the output of the detection channel. A shutter ejector 36, in the form of an elastic cup, is mounted between the shutter and its seat. On the other hand, the transfer channel is extended by the spray channel, which passes through the second adapter nipple 64, the second non-return valve 66 and the sprinkler 68, opening outwardly.

Avec des articles couramment disponibles sur le marché, il est ainsi possible de constituer une tête d'aspersion selon l'invention, ce qui peut limiter les coûts de rénovation et de maintenance.With articles currently available on the market, it is thus possible to form a sprinkler head according to the invention, which can limit the costs of renovation and maintenance.

Ce mode de réalisation illustre la possibilité que le corps d'une tête d'aspersion selon l'invention ne soit pas monobloc.This embodiment illustrates the possibility that the body of a spray head according to the invention is not monobloc.

Ce mode de réalisation illustre également la possibilité de positionner indépendamment l'une de l'autre la sortie d'aspersion et l'obturateur, par exemple pour tenir compte d'une configuration particulière des lieux. L'obturateur 14 peut en particulier être disposé à une distance d' supérieure à 0,5 cm, supérieure à 2 cm, supérieure à 5 cm, supérieure à 10 cm, supérieure à 50 cm, supérieure à 1 m, ou supérieure à 2 m de la sortie d'aspersion 42. Dans un mode de réalisation, pour obtenir une compacité élevée, la sortie d'aspersion et l'obturateur sont écartés l'une de l'autre de moins de 5 cm, moins de 3 cm, voire moins de 2 cm, comme représenté sur la figure 2a.This embodiment also illustrates the possibility of positioning the sprinkler outlet and the shutter independently of each other, for example to take account of a particular configuration of the places. The shutter 14 may in particular be arranged at a distance of more than 0.5 cm, greater than 2 cm, greater than 5 cm, greater than 10 cm, greater than 50 cm, greater than 1 m, or greater than 2 m from the spray outlet 42. In a In order to obtain high compactness, the sprinkler outlet and the shutter are separated from one another by less than 5 cm, less than 3 cm, or even less than 2 cm, as shown in FIG. figure 2a .

Dispositif de protectionProtection device

Comme représenté sur la figure 4, la tête d'aspersion 10 peut être utilisée dans le cadre d'un dispositif de protection contre l'incendie 100. Le dispositif 100 représenté sur la figure 4 comporte un réseau de canalisations 110 fixé par exemple sur le plafond d'un bâtiment à protéger. Le réseau de canalisations 110 comporte une canalisation principale 111 sur laquelle sont branchées des canalisations secondaires 112 pourvues de têtes d'aspersion 10 telles que celles qui viennent d'être décrites. La forme du réseau de canalisations 110 et l'agencement des têtes d'aspersion 10 sont déterminés de manière à ce que les têtes d'aspersion 10 soient réparties sensiblement uniformément sur toute la surface à protéger. L'extrémité amont de la canalisation principale 111 est connectée à une source d'agent extincteur, par exemple un réservoir 114, par l'intermédiaire d'une pompe d'alimentation 116 et/ou d'une vanne déluge 118.As shown on the figure 4 , the spray head 10 may be used as part of a fire protection device 100. The device 100 shown in FIG. figure 4 comprises a network of pipes 110 fixed for example on the ceiling of a building to be protected. The pipe network 110 comprises a main pipe 111 on which are connected secondary pipes 112 provided with spray heads 10 such as those just described. The shape of the pipe network 110 and the arrangement of the spray heads 10 are determined so that the spray heads 10 are distributed substantially uniformly over the entire surface to be protected. The upstream end of the main line 111 is connected to a source of extinguishing agent, for example a tank 114, via a feed pump 116 and / or a deluge valve 118.

L'agent extincteur peut être un liquide, une poudre, une mousse, ou un gaz, par exemple. L'invention est particulièrement avantageuse pour l'aspersion d'une poudre, un gaz ou d'une mousse pour lesquels les ajutages des têtes d'aspersion actuelles ne sont pas bien adaptés.The extinguishing agent may be a liquid, a powder, a foam, or a gas, for example. The invention is particularly advantageous for spraying a powder, a gas or a foam for which the nozzles of the present sprinkler heads are not well adapted.

Lorsque la pression de l'agent extincteur dans le réservoir 114 est suffisante pour créer une pression différentielle d'ouverture des soupapes d'aspersion, la pompe 116 n'est pas indispensable, l'ouverture de la vanne déluge 118 étant suffisante à cet effet. Lorsque la pression de l'agent extincteur dans le réservoir 114 est insuffisante pour ouvrir les soupapes d'aspersion, la pompe d'alimentation 116 est cependant indispensable afin d'augmenter la pression de l'agent extincteur et créer une pression différentielle d'ouverture des soupapes d'aspersion.When the pressure of the extinguishing agent in the tank 114 is sufficient to create a differential opening pressure of the spray valves, the pump 116 is not essential, the opening of the deluge valve 118 being sufficient for this purpose . When the pressure of the extinguishing agent in the tank 114 is insufficient to open the spraying valves, the feed pump 116 is however essential in order to increase the pressure of the extinguishing agent and to create an opening differential pressure. sprinkler valves.

Dans un mode de réalisation préféré, une pompe à vide 120 est prévue afin de créer ou de maintenir une dépression à l'intérieur du réseau de canalisations 110 dans la situation de veille. Une tête d'aspersion selon l'invention permet avantageusement de maintenir une différence de pression entre l'intérieur et l'extérieur de la canalisation où elle est insérée, du fait de l'obturation du canal d'aspersion par l'organe de fermeture de soupape d'aspersion et de l'obturation du canal de détection par l'obturateur.In a preferred embodiment, a vacuum pump 120 is provided to create or maintain a vacuum within the pipe network 110 in the standby situation. A spray head according to the invention advantageously makes it possible to maintain a pressure difference between the inside and the outside of the pipe where it is inserted, due to the closure of the spray channel by the sprinkler valve closure member and the closure of the detection channel by the shutter.

Un capteur 122 est également prévu afin de détecter les modifications de la pression dans le réseau de canalisations 110.A sensor 122 is also provided to detect changes in the pressure in the pipe network 110.

Une unité de commande 124 peut également être prévue afin de commander la pompe à vide 120 lorsque le capteur 122 détecte une diminution progressive de la pression à l'intérieur du réseau de canalisations 110, cette diminution de pression correspondant à une fuite, notamment entre l'organe de fermeture de soupape d'aspersion et le corps ou au niveau de l'appui de l'obturateur sur le bord de la sortie de détection.A control unit 124 may also be provided to control the vacuum pump 120 when the sensor 122 detects a progressive decrease in pressure inside the pipe network 110, this pressure decrease corresponding to a leakage, especially between sprinkler valve closing member and the body or at the level of the shutter bearing on the edge of the detection outlet.

L'unité de commande 124 peut également, lorsque que le capteur 122 lui signifie une diminution brutale de la pression à l'intérieur du réseau de canalisations 110, résultant de l'activation d'un obturateur, commander l'ouverture de la vanne déluge 118 et/ou le démarrage de la pompe 116.The control unit 124 can also, when the sensor 122 signifies a sudden decrease in the pressure inside the pipe network 110, resulting from the activation of a shutter, control the opening of the valve deluge 118 and / or the start of the pump 116.

FonctionnementOperation

Le fonctionnement du dispositif de protection représenté sur la figure 4 est le suivant. Dans la situation de veille de la figure 2a, le réseau de canalisations 110 est maintenu sec, en dépression par rapport à l'environnement au moyen de la pompe à vide 120. L'unité de commande 124 pilote la pompe à vide en fonction des informations reçues du capteur 122 afin de maintenir la dépression dans le réseau de canalisations 110 à une valeur déterminée, notamment pour prendre en compte des fuites au niveau des têtes d'aspersion ou en amont des têtes d'aspersion, par exemple au niveau de la vanne déluge 118.The operation of the protective device represented on the figure 4 is the next. In the standby situation of the figure 2a , the pipe network 110 is kept dry in vacuum with respect to the environment by means of the vacuum pump 120. The control unit 124 controls the vacuum pump according to the information received from the sensor 122 in order to maintain the depression in the pipe network 110 to a predetermined value, in particular to take into account leaks at the sprinkler heads or upstream of the spray heads, for example at the deluge valve 118.

Cette régulation de la dépression dans le réseau de canalisations 110 permet avantageusement de tolérer des débits de fuite, et limite ainsi les contraintes à imposer pour les différents constituants du dispositif de protection.This regulation of the vacuum in the pipe network 110 advantageously allows to tolerate leakage rates, and thus limits the constraints to impose for the various components of the protection device.

Cette dépression dans le réseau de canalisations permet également de plaquer l'organe de fermeture de soupape d'aspersion 41 sur son siège comme représenté sur la figure 2a. L'ajout de moyens de maintien complémentaires, par exemple d'aimants, de clips ou de liens, n'est donc pas indispensable, ce qui facilite la fabrication des têtes d'aspersion et limite leur coût.This depression in the pipe network also makes it possible to press the sprinkler valve closure member 41 onto its seat as shown in FIG. figure 2a . The addition of complementary holding means, for example magnets, clips or links, is not essential, which facilitates the manufacture of sprinkler heads and limits their cost.

Le maintien en position fermée de la soupape d'aspersion peut également être amélioré en exploitant les forces de gravité, par exemple en disposant l'organe de fermeture de soupape d'aspersion dans une position telle que son poids contribue à le plaquer contre le corps 12. Par sécurité, il est cependant préférable que le poids de l'organe de fermeture de soupape d'aspersion 41 contribue à son écartement du corps 12, comme sur la figure 2a. La soupape de détection peut être ouverte ou fermée. Elle est de préférence fermée. L'obturateur et la soupape d'aspersion assurent une étanchéité permettant de maintenir en dépression l'intérieur de la canalisation.Holding in the closed position of the spraying valve can also be improved by exploiting the gravity forces, for example by arranging the sprinkler valve closing member in a position such that its weight contributes to pressing it against the body 12. For safety, it is however preferable that the weight of the sprinkler valve closing member 41 contributes to its spacing from the body 12, as on the figure 2a . The detection valve can be opened or closed. It is preferably closed. The shutter and the spraying valve provide a seal to maintain depression in the interior of the pipe.

Comme représenté, l'éjecteur d'obturateur 36 coopère avec le bourrelet 34 pour maintenir l'obturateur 14 en position d'obturation du canal de détection 22.As shown, the shutter ejector 36 cooperates with the bead 34 to hold the shutter 14 in the closed position of the detection channel 22.

Lorsqu'un incendie apparaît dans la zone couverte par le réseau de canalisations 110, l'augmentation locale de la chaleur conduit à l'activation de l'obturateur de la tête d'aspersion localisée à proximité de cet incendie. En l'occurrence, comme représenté sur la figure 2b, l'obturateur 14 se brise et l'éjecteur d'obturateur 36 propulse les morceaux d'obturateur à distance de la sortie de détection 32.When a fire appears in the area covered by the pipe network 110, the local increase in heat leads to the activation of the shutter of the sprinkler located near this fire. In this case, as shown on the figure 2b , the shutter 14 breaks and the shutter ejector 36 propels the shutter pieces away from the detection output 32.

L'activation de l'obturateur conduit ainsi au dégagement du canal de détection 22, ce qui provoque une entrée d'air rapide (flèche F1) dans le réseau de canalisations 110 et donc une augmentation de la pression Pint à l'intérieur de ce réseau, jusqu'à la pression ambiante Patm.The activation of the shutter thus leads to the release of the detection channel 22, which causes a rapid air inlet (arrow F 1 ) in the pipe network 110 and therefore an increase in the pressure P int inside. of this network, up to the ambient pressure P atm .

Dans le mode de réalisation où l'organe de fermeture de soupape d'aspersion n'est maintenu en position fermée que par la dépression à l'intérieur du réseau de canalisations, cette simple augmentation de pression peut suffire à le déplacer, la pression interne dans le réseau de canalisations ne suffisant plus à compenser son poids. La soupape d'aspersion va donc s'ouvrir.In the embodiment where the sprinkler valve closing member is held in the closed position only by the depression inside the pipe network, this simple pressure increase can be sufficient to move it, the internal pressure in the pipeline network is no longer sufficient to compensate for its weight. The spraying valve will open.

L'augmentation brutale de la pression interne va également être détectée par l'unité de commande 124, qui va commander l'ouverture de la vanne déluge 118 et la mise en marche de la pompe d'alimentation 116. L'ouverture de la vanne déluge 118 peut aussi être obtenue mécaniquement sous l'effet de l'augmentation de la pression interne, par exemple par activation d'un pilote pneumatique ou hydraulique. Elle peut également résulter de l'activation d'un système d'électrovanne commandé en fonction de la pression mesurée par le capteur 122.The sudden increase in internal pressure will also be detected by the control unit 124, which will control the opening of the deluge valve 118 and the start of the feed pump 116. The opening of the valve deluge 118 can also be obtained mechanically under the effect of the increase of the internal pressure, for example by activation of a pneumatic or hydraulic pilot. It can also result from the activation of a controlled solenoid valve system as a function of the pressure measured by the sensor 122.

L'ouverture de la vanne déluge 118 et la mise en marche de la pompe d'alimentation 116 vont provoquer la propagation de l'agent extincteur contenu dans le réservoir 114 dans la canalisation principale 111 puis dans les canalisations secondaires 112, et les têtes d'aspersion.The opening of the deluge valve 118 and the start of the feed pump 116 will cause the spread of the extinguishing agent contained in the tank 114 in the main line 111 and then in the secondary lines 112, and the heads 'aspersion.

Comme représenté sur la figure 2c, l'injection d'agent extincteur sous pression, généralement une pression initiale de plus de 10 bar, puis, en régime établi, d'environ 3 à 4 bar, ouvre la soupape d'aspersion si elle est encore fermée et ferme la soupape de détection si elle est encore ouverte.As shown on the Figure 2c , the injection of extinguishing agent under pressure, usually an initial pressure of more than 10 bar, then in steady state, about 3 to 4 bar, opens the spraying valve if it is still closed and closes the valve detection if it is still open.

L'agent extincteur est alors dispersé, après déflection sur le déflecteur 44 dans la zone à protéger, par l'intermédiaire du canal de transfert 20 et du canal d'aspersion 24 (flèche F2). Le flux d'agent extincteur n'est pas gêné par la présence de l'éjecteur d'obturateur et les dimensions du canal d'aspersion peuvent être adaptées à sa nature et au débit souhaité, indépendamment des contraintes associées à l'obturateur.The extinguishing agent is then dispersed, after deflection on the deflector 44 in the area to be protected, through the transfer channel 20 and the spray channel 24 (arrow F 2 ). The flow of extinguishing agent is not hindered by the presence of the shutter ejector and the dimensions of the spray channel can be adapted to its nature and to the desired flow rate, independently of the constraints associated with the shutter.

Le canal d'aspersion peut être en particulier conçu pour l'aspersion de gouttes d'eau ou de filets d'eau ou la projection d'un brouillard d'eau. Les « micro sprinkleurs » actuels peuvent notamment être adaptés pour constituer des têtes d'aspersion selon l'invention. Comme cela apparaît clairement à présent, une tête d'aspersion selon l'invention permet une qualité d'aspersion remarquable. Elle permet également une grande flexibilité pour le choix de l'obturateur, indépendamment des contraintes liées à l'aspersion. De plus, elle peut fonctionner sans risque pour le personnel ou le matériel. Elle est aussi particulièrement fiable et peu coûteuse à installer et à maintenir.The spray channel may in particular be designed for sprinkling drops of water or water streams or the projection of a water mist. The current "micro sprinklers" can in particular be adapted to form sprinkler heads according to the invention. As is clear now, a spray head according to the invention allows a remarkable spray quality. It also allows a great flexibility for the choice of the shutter, independently of the constraints related to the spraying. In addition, it can operate without risk to personnel or equipment. It is also particularly reliable and inexpensive to install and maintain.

En outre, une tête d'aspersion selon l'invention permet une aspersion même en l'absence d'activation de l'obturateur. Il n'est donc pas nécessaire, comme selon la technique antérieure de doubler le réseau de canalisations ou d'installer une multitude de capteurs électroniques. Une tête d'aspersion selon l'invention est en outre parfaitement adaptée à une utilisation dans un réseau de canalisations maintenu en dépression.In addition, a spray head according to the invention allows sprinkling even in the absence of activation of the shutter. It is therefore not necessary, as in the prior art to double the network of pipes or install a multitude of electronic sensors. A spray head according to the invention is furthermore perfectly suited for use in a network of pipes maintained in depression.

Dans une situation de veille, le réseau de canalisations peut également rester sec, ce qui évite les risques de corrosion, d'embouage et d'obstruction.In a standby situation, the network of pipes can also remain dry, which avoids the risks of corrosion, sludging and obstruction.

Les têtes d'aspersion peuvent également fonctionner sans aucune alimentation électrique, ce qui permet leur mise en oeuvre, en particulier, dans des zones du type ATEX.The sprinkler heads can also operate without any power supply, which allows their implementation, in particular in areas of the ATEX type.

Enfin, dans une situation de veille, le réseau de canalisations peut rester fermé, ce qui évite notamment tout risque d'obstruction par nidification d'animaux.Finally, in a standby situation, the pipe network may remain closed, which notably avoids any risk of obstruction by nesting animals.

Bien entendu, l'invention n'est pas limitée aux modes de réalisation décrits et représentés, fournis titre d'exemples illustratifs et non limitatifs.Of course, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described and shown, provided as illustrative and non-limiting examples.

En particulier, le positionnement des soupapes de détection et d'aspersion pourrait être différent de celui représenté, pourvu qu'il permette une communication de fluide sélective entre l'entrée d'agent extincteur d'une part et les sorties de détection et d'aspersion d'autre part, respectivement. La forme du canal de transfert pourrait ainsi comporter, par exemple, un tronc et deux branches interrompues respectivement par les soupapes de détection et d'aspersion.In particular, the positioning of the detection and spray valves could be different from that shown, provided that it allows a selective fluid communication between the extinguishing agent inlet on the one hand and the detection and control outlets. sprinkler on the other hand, respectively. The shape of the transfer channel could thus comprise, for example, a trunk and two branches interrupted respectively by the detection and spraying valves.

En outre, le dispositif de protection pourrait être en surpression, la chute de pression résultant de l'activation d'un obturateur servant de signal de détection d'un incendie.In addition, the protective device could be overpressure, the pressure drop resulting from the activation of a shutter serving as a fire detection signal.

Un dispositif de protection selon l'invention n'est pas nécessairement configuré pour ne réagir qu'en cas d'incendie. En particulier, il peut être configuré pour réagir dès qu'une augmentation anormale de la température est détectée, même en l'absence de flammes. Le dispositif de protection contribue ainsi à prévenir d'un incendie, et donc à « protéger » contre l'incendie.A protection device according to the invention is not necessarily configured to react in case of fire. In particular, it can be configured to react as soon as an abnormal increase in temperature is detected, even in the absence of flames. The protective device thus helps to prevent a fire, and thus to "protect" against fire.

Claims (14)

  1. Spray head intended for distribution of an extinguishing agent, said spray head comprising a heat-sensitive shutter (14) and a body (12) defining:
    a transfer channel (20) comprising an extinguishing agent inlet (26),
    - a detection channel (22) comprising a detection inlet (28) selectively or permanently in fluidic communication with the transfer channel (20), and a detection outlet (32) tightly sealed by the shutter (14),
    - a spray channel (24) separate from the detection channel (22) and comprising a spray inlet (38) selectively in fluidic communication with the transfer channel (20) via a spray valve (40), and a spray outlet (42) opening towards the outside, the spray valve only allowing circulation towards the spray outlet (42).
  2. Spray head according to the preceding claim, wherein the detection inlet (22) is selectively in fluidic communication with the transfer channel (20) via a detection valve (30) only allowing the circulation towards the transfer channel (20).
  3. Spray head according to any of the preceding claims, the spray valve (40) opening under the effect of a positive pressure of less than 50 bar on the side of the transfer channel (20).
  4. Spray head according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the spray head (40) comprises a spray valve closing element (41) which does not protrude outside the spray channel (24).
  5. Spray head according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the detection and spray valves comprises or is formed by a non-return valve.
  6. Spray head according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the shutter (14) is reusable.
  7. Spray head according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the shutter (14) returns to a position of closing the detection outlet when the ambient temperature is lower than 80°C.
  8. Spray head according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the shutter (14) is arranged more than 2 cm from the spray outlet (42).
  9. Spray head according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the shutter (14) is a device which, under the effect of an increase in heat, leads to the creation of fluidic communication between the detection channel and the environment.
  10. Spray head according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the spray valve is arranged such that the spray inlet (38) may be in fluidic communication with the transfer channel without activation of the shutter.
  11. Spray head according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the spray valve (40) comprises a spray valve closing element (41), movement of which allows the selective circulation of the extinguishing agent in the spray channel (24), the spray valve closing element taking the form of a stopper.
  12. Fire protection device comprising:
    - an extinguishing agent source (114);
    - a pipeline (112) connected to the extinguishing agent source;
    - at least one spray head (10) according to any of the preceding claims inserted in said pipeline (112) such that the transfer channel (30) of said spray head (10) is in fluidic communication with the interior of said pipeline;
    the internal pressure (Pint) of said pipeline (112) being different from and preferably lower than the ambient pressure (Patm).
  13. Device according to the preceding claim, comprising:
    - detection means able to detect a change in the internal pressure (Pint) inside said pipeline (112); and
    - control means able to order an injection of extinguishing agent into said pipeline (112) in the event of variation of said internal pressure (Pint), the pressure of the extinguishing agent being sufficient to open the spray valve.
  14. Device according to any of the two directly preceding claims, the extinguishing agent being selected from the group comprising a powder, a foam and a gas.
EP13153767.2A 2012-02-03 2013-02-01 Spray head Not-in-force EP2623162B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1251048A FR2986435B1 (en) 2012-02-03 2012-02-03 SPRINKLER HEAD

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2623162A1 EP2623162A1 (en) 2013-08-07
EP2623162B1 true EP2623162B1 (en) 2016-04-27

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP13153767.2A Not-in-force EP2623162B1 (en) 2012-02-03 2013-02-01 Spray head

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EP (1) EP2623162B1 (en)
FR (1) FR2986435B1 (en)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN111135514B (en) * 2019-12-31 2021-05-11 江苏湃森科技有限公司 Foam injection device
RU210182U1 (en) * 2021-11-17 2022-03-31 Владимир Васильевич Галайко Extinguishing agent spray device

Family Cites Families (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE20201091U1 (en) * 2002-01-24 2002-08-01 Systemtechnik Herzog GmbH, 39387 Oschersleben Stimulator spray head
DE20217652U1 (en) * 2002-11-15 2003-03-13 Herzog, Hans-Joachim, Dipl.-Ing.(FH), 39387 Oschersleben Sprinkler jet with integral release has a compact housing for a triple spray system and an external release for a membrane valve
DE102007042691A1 (en) * 2007-09-07 2009-03-12 Peter Fuchs Protective device for sprinklers of fire extinguishing systems against damage by abutting contact in the form of a safety fitting
FR2932690B1 (en) 2008-06-20 2011-03-18 Eric Issartel SPRINKLER HEAD.

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FR2986435A1 (en) 2013-08-09
EP2623162A1 (en) 2013-08-07

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