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Reliability of Sprinkler Systems
Track(s): Fire Suppression, Loss Control/Prevention

Kumar Bhimavarapu, FM Global Research

Audio Sample:




This session provides an objective interpretation of sprinkler system reliability and the reported reliability data. Reliability is analyzed in three ways: compatibility, operational reliability, and effectiveness. Based on an exhaustive literature survey, reported sprinkler system reliabilities were found to start from a low of 37%, while high reliabilities up to 99.5% have been achieved by many. The types of deficiencies that have caused the reported low sprinkler reliabilities can be minimized with proper diligence. During this session, you'll learn about the issues that affect sprinkler system reliability and the areas that need attention.

Mr. Bhimavarapu has two Master's Degrees in chemical engineering and has several years of hands-on experience in the process industry. He has undertaken a variety of studies involving HAZOPs, FMEAs, safety audits, and probabilistic and deterministic modeling. At FM Global's Research, he is the Technical Team Leader of the 'Equipment and System Reliability Team', and has been using his experience to develop and apply risk and reliability techniques to reduce loss exposure to FM Global and its customers.