Corrosion Control in Fire Protection Systems (FPS)

Typical Corrosion in a Dry FPS

Corrosion due to prolonged moisture within a dry or pre-action sprinkler system poses a major threat to the integrity of the entire Fire Protection System (FPS).  With any dry or pre-action FPS, the development of corrosion typically occurs within just 18 months.  Extensive corrosion to the system can occur in as little as three years.

When an FPS is first installed, it is required to pass two tests:

• A hydrostatic test at 200psi to test for leaks or loss of pressure over a two hour time period introduces water to the sprinkler system and, though the pipes are drained, water is almost never completely evacuated.
• An air-test at 40psi to test for pressure loss over a 24 hour time period introduces compressed air into the system that can create moisture if not thoroughly purged.

These two required tests can set into motion the development of corrosion within the pipes if corrosion control is not implemented immediately.

FPS Corrosion Control

The N2-Blast Corrosion Prevention System provides a solution to controlling the harmful development of corrosion within an FPS.  The N2-Blast System contains a Nitrogen Generator that produces high purity, inert, clean, dry N2 gas and is connected to the compressed air line of the FPS.  The Nitrogen gas is pumped through the system to purge the moisture-producing Oxygen and absorb existing moisture.  It eliminates the need for any chemical-based corrosion inhibitors and is an environmentally friendly, cost efficient method for corrosion control.

To learn more about FPS corrosion and corrosion control, please contact South-Tek Systems, makers of the N2-Blast Corrosion Prevention System, at 888-526-6284 or visit their website at www.SouthTekSystems.com/n2-blast.asp.