What is a typical characteristic of a deluge sprinkler system?

A deluge sprinkler system is characterized by its use of open heads, meaning that the sprinkler heads are not equipped with any type of mechanism that would allow them to close. In a deluge system, when the detection system activates, water is discharged from all open sprinkler heads simultaneously rather than one at a time. This allows for a large volume of water to be delivered quickly to control or extinguish a fire in high-hazard areas.

This characteristic is essential because deluge systems are typically used in environments where rapid fire spread is a concern, such as in warehouses or industrial facilities containing flammable materials. The design facilitates an overwhelming application of water to effectively combat flames.

In contrast, other sprinkler systems, like traditional wet or dry systems, activate individual heads based on the temperature rising due to a fire. Deluge systems' open heads allow for no water to be held in the pipes until activation occurs, which is different from wet systems that maintain a constant supply of water.