September 27, 2002—Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL) is asking building owners and fire sprinkler contractors to submit samples of Firematic model S & A 160F sprinklers for testing.
UL recently tested field samples taken from a single Connecticut location, revealing that some of these sprinklers did not operate as intended, although sprinklers tested later at another location all worked properly. UL is seeking additional samples from throughout the country to determine if the problem is more widespread.
Firematic brand sprinklers are equipped with a heat-responsive element (HRE) that uses solder which melts at a specific temperature. Once the solder melts, the HRE assembly should separate from the sprinkler body so that water is free to flow from the sprinkler. The nickel-plating on the HRE for these particular Firematic brand sprinklers may prevent the solder from melting properly. This results in the HRE remaining intact, which may prevent these sprinklers from operating in a fire condition.
Firematic Sprinkler Devices manufactured the sprinklers from 1976 through 1979. These sprinklers are rated 160F and can be identified by the following markings on the product: “Firematic,” date and temperature rating. A detailed photograph is available on UL’s Web site.
Although only samples of the model S & A rated 160F have shown unacceptable results, the following additional models manufactured between 1967 and 1993 with ratings of 160F, 212F, 286F and 360F should also be tested: “D,” TU-57, TP-57, TU-80, TU-29, TP-29, TU-39 and TP-39. These models use the same HRE as the S & A 160F sprinklers.
Building owners may wish to consult with their sprinkler contractor or Firematic for information regarding removal and replacement of the test samples before submitting representative sprinklers to UL for testing. Once properly removed and packaged according to the instructions, sprinkler samples can be sent directly to Mr. Stephen Angeliu at Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL), 333 Pfingsten Rd., Northbrook, IL, 60062; phone: 847/664-3687; e-mail: stephen.j.angeliu@us.ul.com for operational testing.
There will be no cost to the submitter for this testing during the course of UL’s on-going investigation, with the exception of expenses related to sprinkler removal, replacement, and shipping and handling. Firematic Sprinkler Devices can be reached at 900 Boston Turnpike Shrewsbury, Mass., 01545; Phone: 800/225-7288.
