MECHANICAL CONTRACTING e Continued from p 74
testing and fluid replacement. Where antifreeze concentrations exceed allowable limits by volume, these systems will need to be drained and a
38% generally offer freeze protection levels of 0 to -5 degrees F. Glycerine is more of a testing
challenge, in that traditional analog refractometers are not suitable testing instruments. The older and more “scientific” method of testing utilizes a lab-grade hydrometer. The hydrometer is suspended in a graduated cylinder containing a sample of the antifreeze solution. A specific gravity or specific density reading is obtained at a given temperature. The reading is then converted to freeze point on a chart, based upon the given temperature and density. A solution of 48% glycerine generally provides a freeze point of about -15 degrees F. A much more accurate method
A pre-mix line filling some GL antifreeze.
76
new lower concentration of antifreeze introduced into the system. Adding concentrate to an existing system is no longer an option. As a result, accuracy in testing methods
(and more expensive) is the use of a digital refractometer. These devices are temperature-compensating and provide freeze point and concentration by volume in a matter of seconds. Unlike hydrometers, there is no conversion chart necessary and accuracy is plus or minus one tenth of one percent. Digital refractometers can be factory-calibrated to test both propylene glycol and glycerine solutions, making them the best choice for system testing. Testing of new systems must now
take place using samples drawn from both a high and a low point in the system (multiple test points need to be designed into systems). Both samples should yield similar test results. Additionally, a sample of the antifreeze should be taken prior to introduction into the system, and that sample reading should also closely approximate the two samples drawn from the system. Consideration should be given to
A member of the fluid line staff programs the system to mix the GL48 formulation.
becomes increasingly critical. There are many testing instruments available for use; however, testing accuracy varies greatly, depending upon both the type of device and the antifreeze used. Propylene glycol concentration can
be tested with a simple analog refractometer, which will display a freeze temperature on a graph that is visible through a viewfinder. Based on the freeze point, interpolation from a chart (usually provided on the manufacturer’s product label) will yield the concentration level. Propylene glycol concentrations of
the fact that fluid trapped or not drained from drops in existing systems could slightly alter refractometer readings. In any case, attempts should
be made to test from multiple points, and NFPA guidelines should always be followed with regard to testing procedure and frequency. Finally, all new and existing
systems are now required to have a placard, or tag, affixed to the riser, indicating the type of antifreeze, system volume, antifreeze concentration by volume, the date and the name and license number of the contractor performing the work. Leading industry manufacturers of fire sprinkler antifreeze products provide these tags at no charge.
Where do we go from here? Undoubtedly, one common
question that will arise with all of the “drain and replace” activity that has begun is, “What do I do with the old antifreeze?” The simple answer is to follow local and state jurisdictional requirements regarding the disposal of antifreeze solutions. Propylene glycol and glycerine are both non-toxic and usually may be disposed of in sanitary sewer systems. Glycols should never be disposed of in a storm sewer or on the ground, where the possibility of migration into the watershed exists. As glycol breaks down, it produces an oxygen- depleting byproduct that can harm aquatic life. Just as fire sprinklers will continue
to play an increasingly critical role in the preservation of life and property, antifreeze solutions in these systems will continue to ensure system operation in environments where freezing temperatures could lead to system failure. For additional information or clarification on antifreeze use in wet fire sprinkler systems, I encourage you to contact me or your local jurisdiction having authority. l
George Rudolphis the national sales manager for Noble Company
.
Noble Company announced the immediate availability of NFPA- compliant antifreeze formulations for wet fire sprinkler systems.
FireFighter PG38 and FireFighter GL48 are both factory
pre-mixed solutions of either propylene glycol or glycerine, engineered to not exceed the maximum allowable percent- age by volume concentrations, as established by NFPA. FireFighter GL48, for use in all types of pipe, including
CPVC, is certified System Compatible for use in Blaze- Master® piping systems. Both FireFighter PG38 and Fire- Fighter GL48 are non-toxic and classified Generally Regarded as Safe (G.R.A.S.) by the FDA. Both products are available in packaging up to 5,000 gallon tanker trucks.
phc may 2011
www.phcnews.com
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