In a previous post I listed the NEC requirements for “permanently installed devices” such as an air compressor in a dry pipe sprinkler system. #5 on that list states that the air compressor on a dry pipe sprinkler system must “Be connected to a listed motor-circuit switch rated for horsepower”(NEC 430.109) which is also referred… Read more …
We are asked with increasing regularity why a contractor can’t just use any old air compressor for a dry pipe sprinkler system. This is an issue we have covered thoroughly in our article “Do Not Use Retail Air Compressors for Fire Protection Applications” but there is a piece that we are often asked about that… Read more …
Internal, External and Why it is ALWAYS Recommended Before we begin on the titled subject understand that this article will focus on why we at General Air Products recommend a motor starter for overload protection with every unit. If you would like to know more about what a motor starter is please view our motor… Read more …
Another reason we don’t use a run timer is that it may work perfectly thereby causing the fire not to be extinguished.
As the prevalence of code stipulating seismic qualifications and certifications for fire protection equipment increases inside and outside of California, as well as in federal government building specifications, we are increasingly asked about the seismic certification of our air compressors and pumping systems. Here is our response: Certain nonstructural components are exempt from seismic design… Read more …
Why do I need a Motor Starter on my Dry Pipe System Air Compressor? In short, to prevent this from happening: What you see here is a burnt motor on one of our LT Series lubricated tank mounted units. In this instance the air compressor was run with no oil, causing the pump to seize.
Why the heck is my compressor turning on and off, and on and off, and on and off?! Sometimes an air compressor will turn on and off rapidly in an unending fashion, this is an occurrence known as short cycling. The good news is that it does not mean that your air compressor is broken… Read more …
Utilizing the RFP System’s Alarm Contacts We are often asked about the availability of alarm contacts in our RFP systems as many fire protection contractors and home owners would like their system to provide a wide variety of alarms. Fortunately the engineering team behind the design of the RFP System had the forethought to provide… Read more …
Jump To: Standard Pressure Compressors Low Pressure Compressors High Pressure Compressors Standard Pressure Air Compressors General Air Products’ air compressors have two standard or factory pressure settings, depending on the type of compressor you select for your dry pipe system: 1.) Oil Less Air Compressors: After the initial system pressurization or fill, our OL &… Read more …
After reading our post “DO NOT USE A RETAIL AIR COMPRESSOR FOR A FIRE PROTECTION APPLICATION” David Walencewicz of P&J Sprinkler Company in Connecticut felt the need to share some pictures of a horrifying air compressor installation that he recently came across. We at General Air Products all died a little inside having looked at… Read more …