Valves for fire suppression systems

In complex building fire safety systems that protect lives and property, it is essential that every component functions properly. The valves used in fire suppression systems are no exception.

UL provides research, testing, certification and Standards development for all types of valves used in fire suppression systems. The types of valves Listed by UL include alarm valves used to summon the fire department, check valves used to prevent water from being pumped back into the water main and deluge valves used to discharge water to open sprinklers. Valves are subjected to performance tests, such as leakage, hydrostatic pressure, friction loss, operation, cycling and the effects of aging. The applicable valve Standard lists all of the tests required for an evaluation.

Test Standards

UL Standards cover Listing programs for the following types of valves:

• UL 193, Alarm Valves for Fire-Protection Services
• Subject 258, Outline of Investigation for Shutoff Valves for Trim and Drain Purposes
• UL 260, Dry Pipe and Deluge Valves for Fire-Protection Service
• UL 262, Gate Valves for Fire-Protection Service
• UL 312, Check Valves for Fire-Protection Service
• UL 1091, Butterfly Valves for Fire-Protection Service

Valves used in fire-protection systems are installed in accordance with National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) installation standards. NFPA 11, 13, 14, 15, 16, 20, 22 and 24 cover the installation of valves.

Flexible services

Operational tests can be conducted at UL's hydraulics laboratory in Northbrook, Illinois; at the manufacturer's facility; or at another hydraulics laboratory selected by the manufacturer. UL is also authorized to certify valves for fire suppression systems to Canadian standards.

The UL advantage

UL has been a trusted leader in testing products and writing safety Standards for more than 100 years. Its testing and certification services offer several advantages to both manufacturers and users of fire suppression equipment. One advantage is product listing in the appropriate UL product directory. UL directories contain a list of companies that have demonstrated compliance with UL requirements and applicable Standards and are authorized to use a UL Mark. The directories are an invaluable resource used by thousands of regulatory authorities, building owners and insurance companies, are also available online.

UL helps reduce time-to-market by offering efficient and flexible services from an industry leader in fire-safety certification. Because UL offers comprehensive, state-of-the-art testing facilities and a highly experienced technical staff with extensive code knowledge, the UL Mark is immediately recognized and respected by fire-safety professionals around the world.