What is the maximum allowable time for an air compressor to fill a dry sprinkler system?

The maximum allowable time for an air compressor to fill a dry sprinkler system is established to ensure that the system is pressurized sufficiently for effective operation. In this context, the specified 30 minutes allows adequate time for the air compressor to fully pressurize the system without undue delay that could affect the reliability and readiness of the fire protection system.

This choice reflects standard industry practices, where quick filling is necessary to maintain operational readiness while avoiding excessive time that could lead to performance issues. Adhering to a maximum of 30 minutes helps ensure that the system can swiftly respond in the event of a fire while protecting the integrity of the components by preventing any potential condensation issues that could arise with prolonged filling times.

Filling the system too quickly or too slowly could result in problems, such as ineffective pressure maintenance or an inability to activate the system properly. Therefore, the 30-minute limit is a balance between efficiency and system integrity.