Which type of sprinkler system releases water over a large area immediately after activation?

Deluge systems are designed to operate by releasing water over a large area immediately upon activation. This type of sprinkler system does not contain individual nozzles that activate separately; instead, all the nozzles connected to the system open simultaneously when the system is triggered, allowing for a rapid and widespread distribution of water. This feature is particularly beneficial in environments where a fast response is critical, such as in high-hazard or industrial settings where flammable materials are present.

The design of a deluge system ensures that once the detection system identifies a fire, water is discharged from all available nozzles, creating an expansive coverage area. This immediate release helps suppress fires quickly and effectively across a large space, which is crucial in preventing fire spread and minimizing potential damage.

Other systems, such as wet pipe systems and dry pipe systems, operate differently, focusing on localized activation at individual sprinkler heads. Preaction systems additionally require an initial detection of smoke or heat before water is released, making them slower to respond compared to deluge systems.