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HVLS Fans and Sprinkler Operation: Results of a Three-Year Comprehensive Assessment of Performance
Track(s): Fire Suppression, Green (1 GBCI CE hour)

Garner Palenske, Aon Fire Protection Engineering

Audio Sample:



The use of high-volume low-speed (HVLS) fans is becoming very popular because of the current emphasis on green building technology. The effect of HVLS fans on sprinkler performance, however, was unknown. Primary concerns were sprinkler obstruction and interference with operation due to fan-induced air movement. To address this issue, the FPRF recently completed a series of 10 fullscale fire tests using the testing facilities of both UL and FM Global. The goal was to determine appropriate spacing and other installation requirements for HVLS fans in the presence of automatic sprinklers. You will hear about the results of this testing and how this data may be applied such that HVLS fan installation does not negatively affect sprinkler performance.

Garner Palenske, Vice President of Aon Fire Protection Engineering, is a professional engineer registered in the five states. He is a member of the NPFA Sprinkler Discharge and Technical Correlation committees. Mr. Palenske has published several research papers regarding automatic sprinkler issues, including the protection of compact storage, and the historical origin of sprinkler design criteria. Mr. Palenske served as the project manager for the HVLS research projects. He resides in San Diego, CA.