Ultrasonic Testing Fire Sprinkler Inspections

Ultrasonic Testing Fire Sprinkler Inspections

Revolutionizing Fire Sprinkler Inspections: How Ultrasonic Testing Enhances Efficiency and Safety

Fire sprinkler systems are extremely effective at extinguishing fires very quickly and are successful 97% of the time they are deployed. But, to remain effective the National Fire Protection Agency 25 bulletin requires frequent visual inspections of the exterior and an inspection of the interior of system pipes every 5 years minimum. Ultrasonic Testing is quickly becoming the best alternative for fire sprinkler inspections.

Interior inspections are looking for major problems that can develop over time. Corrosion can develop as a result of a reaction between the pipe walls (usually steel or galvanized steel) and the chemicals found in the municipal water supply (usually mineral salts) which creates a pH imbalance.

Traditional interior testing is very invasive, causes delays, and creates a mess. Ultrasonic testing is a non-destructive method of evaluating the interior condition of pipes while the sprinkler pipes remain in use. It is very versatile and can be used with both steel and galvanized pipes.

Ultrasonic thickness testing will detect:

• Cracks or other anomalies in the pipe that are undetected by visual inspection.
• Evidence of pitting corrosion that weakens pipe walls.
• Evidence of scaling corrosion that can create blockage.
• Trapped air within the system.

Testing “while in use” is extremely convenient and cost-effective. Traditional invasive testing requires that:

• The system is shut down and building operations cease for the period of the investigation since the sprinkler system is a vital safety feature.
• The entire sprinkler system is drained, and since the pipe network is long, this takes quite a bit of time. Draining the entire system wastes thousands of gallons of water.
• Several sample pieces of the sprinkler system will be removed and examined for corrosion. While these samples give a good indication of the pipe interior, it is still an inexact investigation.
• Finally, the pipe is repaired in the places where the samples are removed. The pipe is resealed to maintain the system integrity, the system is recharged with water, and all the seals are checked for leaks or damage

This type of investigation can be very disruptive to any business.

The investigation requires two technicians to complete. The equipment sends a unique wave pattern that penetrates the pipe walls of both steel and galvanized pipes. The entire network of pipes can be examined, creating an image of the pipe’s interior and a valuable map that defines the integrity of the pipe wall.

• This data is collected and analyzed, and a report is generated for third-party review. This report is superior to those created from inadequate information generated from examining pipe samples.
• The data from previous testing can be compared to the current conditions. This analysis confirms the existence or progression of corrosion, catching the potential for problems years before they happen.
• Since all problem areas are identified, the map becomes an instruction guide for the crew that will make mitigating repairs. The amount of time needed to repair the sprinkler system will be greatly reduced by the information gathered during the ultrasound testing.
• The report and any recommended repairs will be stored by the building owner to ensure compliance with building and fire code regulations.

Ultrasonic Testing: The Future of Efficient and Non-Disruptive Fire Sprinkler Inspections

Ultrasonic testing is a non-invasive method that enhances the efficiency of fire sprinkler inspections by evaluating the interior condition of pipes without disrupting building operations. Unlike traditional methods, which require draining systems and removing pipe samples, ultrasonic testing can detect issues like corrosion, cracks, and blockages while the system remains in use. This approach provides detailed, accurate data for preventive maintenance and repair, ensuring safety and compliance while minimizing downtime and water waste.

Call Fire Safe Protection Services today at 713-722-7800 or visit our online form, and we will be in contact as soon as possible about your Ultrasonic Testing Fire Sprinkler inspection questions.