Applications
Fire Protection Systems
FM Approved and UL Listed valves for sprinkler systems and fire mains.
Fire protection systems operate under a different standard to standard water distribution equipment. Valves on sprinkler systems and fire mains must carry independent third-party approval from recognised testing bodies, and must be demonstrably fit for purpose under the conditions defined by those approvals. Specifying non-approved equivalents introduces liability that most contractors and building owners are not prepared to accept.
Overview
The critical difference between a fire protection valve and a standard distribution valve is not necessarily the mechanical design — it is the evidence of independent testing and certification against the relevant fire protection standard. FM Global and Underwriters Laboratories are the two most widely recognised bodies, and their approval marks are specified by insurers, sprinkler designers and authorities having jurisdiction across Europe and globally. A valve that carries both FM Approval and UL Listing provides the broadest coverage across different specification regimes.
Approval Requirements
FM Approval confirms that a valve has been tested and listed under the applicable FM Global Approval Standard for the product type. For gate valves, this typically means testing to FM 1210; for butterfly valves, FM 1112 or FM 1120 as applicable. UL Listing confirms compliance with the relevant UL Standard and NFPA requirements. Insurance underwriters often specify FM Approved valves as a condition of cover for sprinkler-protected properties. Specifying approved valves at the design stage avoids the cost and delay of substitution requests during commissioning.
Gate Valves for Fire Mains
Resilient seated gate valves with OS&Y (outside screw and yoke) or non-rising stem configurations are standard on fire mains and wet riser systems. The position of the stem indicates whether the valve is open or closed without the need to inspect the waterway, which is a requirement of most fire protection standards for post-installation inspection. FM Approved and UL Listed RSV gate valves are available in both bare shaft and bevel gear operated configurations for large bore applications.
Backflow Prevention on Fire Systems
Fire suppression systems are typically classed as a high hazard in cross-connection control terms, because the water in a pressurised sprinkler system may have been standing for extended periods and may contain additives such as antifreeze or foam concentrate. Connection to a potable supply requires a backflow preventer at the point of connection, rated for the hazard level. A reduced-pressure zone assembly is typically the minimum required for a fire suppression system connection, and must be installed upstream of the system isolation valve.
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Send us your specification (sizes, pressure rating, end connections) and we will typically respond within one working day with pricing and full documentation.