What is the minimum operating pressure of an in-rack sprinkler head?

The minimum operating pressure of an in-rack sprinkler head is established to ensure that the sprinkler can effectively discharge water to suppress or extinguish a fire. In-rack sprinkler systems are typically installed in warehouses or storage facilities where high-piled storage is common, and proper operation of these systems is crucial for effective fire protection.

Selecting 15 psi as the minimum operating pressure indicates that this is the threshold required for the sprinkler to activate and provide an adequate distribution of water over the protected area. This pressure is essential to ensure that the water reaches the intended parts of the storage area, particularly when the items being protected may obstruct the water flow.

In contrast, pressures lower than this may not enable the sprinkler head to function effectively, leading to inadequate coverage and potentially increasing the risk of fire spread. Therefore, the specified minimum operating pressure of 15 psi is crucial in preventing fire hazards and ensuring the safety of the facility.