+---
+title: Fire Protection Piping and Specialties
+category: Fire Protection
+toc_depth: 3
+description: >
+ When to use: The common aboveground and underground piping, fittings, joints, control and check valves, alarm and supervisory devices, fire department connections, drains, gauges, hangers, and seismic bracing that serve all water-based fire suppression systems in commercial, institutional, industrial, high-rise, and multi-family construction. This is the foundational piping backbone that wet-pipe, dry-pipe, pre-action, and standpipe system standards draw from for their supply piping. Covers black and galvanized steel, copper, listed CPVC, and underground ductile iron; threaded, grooved, welded, and flanged joining; OS&Y gate, butterfly, ball, and check valves; alarm and dry-pipe valve trim; waterflow, tamper, and pressure switches; fire department connections; test-and-drain and main-drain assemblies; pressure gauges and pressure-regulating valves.
+ Not intended for: Sprinkler heads, hydraulic demand, hazard classification, and system layout (see [[sync/wet-pipe-fire-sprinkler-systems]] and [[sync/dry-pipe-fire-sprinkler-systems]]); standpipe risers, hose connections, and hose cabinets (see [[sync/standpipe-systems]]); fire pumps, jockey pumps, drivers, and controllers (see [[sync/fire-pumps]]); clean-agent suppression piping (see [[sync/clean-agent-fire-suppression]]); kitchen-hood wet-chemical piping (see [[sync/kitchen-hood-fire-suppression]]); domestic water and backflow prevention beyond the fire service (see [[sync/domestic-water-piping]] and [[sync/backflow-prevention]]); the fire alarm panel and initiating/notification devices that receive these signals (see [[sync/fire-alarm-systems]]); insulation of fire protection piping (see [[sync/mechanical-insulation]]); seismic supports requiring structural-engineer coordination (see [[sync/structural-steel-connections]]); and firestopping of pipe penetrations (see [[sync/firestopping]]).
+---
+
+# Scope {toc}
+
+## This standard covers the materials, joining methods, valves, specialties, supports, testing, and installation of the common piping infrastructure that serves water-based fire suppression systems. {note}
+## The piping covered here is the shared backbone that all water-based systems depend on; the system-specific standards reference this document for their supply piping, valves, and specialties rather than restating them. {note}
+
+## Fire protection piping and specialties installed under this standard shall comply with NFPA 13, NFPA 14, and NFPA 24 as adopted by the Authority Having Jurisdiction, together with the International Building Code and International Fire Code as adopted locally.
+
+## Where local amendments modify a referenced NFPA standard, the local amendment shall govern unless it is less stringent than the base standard, in which case the base standard governs.
+
+## The Contractor and the designer shall confirm the edition of each governing NFPA standard adopted in the jurisdiction before beginning design or procurement.
+
+## The 2019, 2022, and 2025 editions of NFPA 13 differ in pipe schedule allowances, listed CPVC and copper provisions, dry-pipe water-delivery rules, and gridded-system rules; the 2022 edition is the most widely adopted, but many jurisdictions remain on 2019. {note}
+
+## The scope extends from the underground fire service main and its appurtenances through the building riser, control valves, and alarm valve trim, across all aboveground supply mains, cross mains, and branch lines, and includes the fire department connection, drains, gauges, hangers, and seismic bracing. {note}
+
+## This standard does not govern the hydraulic design, hazard classification, sprinkler head selection, or system layout of any suppression system; those decisions are made in the applicable system standard and are reflected on the design drawings. {note}
+
+# Referenced Standards {toc}
+
+## Materials, valves, specialties, and installation shall comply with the latest adopted edition of each of the following unless a specific edition is cited on the drawings or in the project specification.
+
+## Where referenced standards conflict, the more stringent requirement shall govern unless the Engineer of Record directs otherwise in writing.
+
+| Standard | Title |
+|----------|-------|
+| NFPA 13 | Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems |
+| NFPA 14 | Standard for the Installation of Standpipe and Hose Systems |
+| NFPA 24 | Standard for the Installation of Private Fire Service Mains and Their Appurtenances |
+| NFPA 25 | Standard for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems |
+| NFPA 72 | National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code |
+| NFPA 1963 | Standard for Fire Hose Connections |
+| ASTM A795 | Black and Hot-Dipped Zinc-Coated (Galvanized) Welded and Seamless Steel Pipe for Fire Protection Use |
+| ASTM A53 | Pipe, Steel, Black and Hot-Dipped, Zinc-Coated, Welded and Seamless |
+| ASTM A135 | Electric-Resistance-Welded Steel Pipe |
+| ASTM A536 | Ductile Iron Castings |
+| ASTM B88 | Seamless Copper Water Tube |
+| AWWA C900 | Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Pressure Pipe and Fabricated Fittings, 4 In. Through 60 In. |
+| AWWA C151 | Ductile-Iron Pipe, Centrifugally Cast |
+| AWWA C105 | Polyethylene Encasement for Ductile-Iron Pipe Systems |
+| AWWA C606 | Grooved and Shouldered Joints |
+| ASME B16.1 | Gray Iron Pipe Flanges and Flanged Fittings: Classes 25, 125, and 250 |
+| ASME B16.3 | Malleable Iron Threaded Fittings: Classes 150 and 300 |
+| ASME B16.9 | Factory-Made Wrought Buttwelding Fittings |
+| UL 213 | Rubber-Gasketed Fittings for Fire-Protection Service |
+| UL 262 | Gate Valves for Fire-Protection Service |
+| UL 312 | Check Valves for Fire-Protection Service |
+| UL 405 | Fire Department Connection Devices |
+| UL 753 | Alarm Accessories for Automatic Water-Supply Control Valves for Fire-Protection Service |
+| UL 1091 | Butterfly Valves for Fire-Protection Service |
+| UL 1468 | Direct Acting Pressure Reducing and Pressure Restricting Valves |
+| UL 1821 | Thermoplastic Sprinkler Pipe and Fittings for Fire-Protection Service |
+| FM 1110 | Single Gate Valves and Indicator Posts |
+| FM 1120 | Check Valves (4 in. and Larger) for Fire Protection |
+| IBC Chapter 9 | International Building Code — Fire Protection Systems |
+
+# Submittals {toc}
+
+## The Contractor shall submit the following action submittals for review before fabrication or procurement:
+
+- Shop drawings showing pipe routing, sizes, joint types, hanger and brace locations, and valve and specialty locations, coordinated with the system standard and the structure.
+- Hydraulic calculations and the basis-of-design narrative for the supplied system, where prepared by the same Contractor.
+- Product data for pipe, fittings, couplings, valves, alarm and supervisory devices, fire department connections, gauges, and pressure-regulating valves, with listing marks identified.
+- Manufacturer cut sheets confirming the UL listing or FM approval applicable to fire protection service for each rated component.
+- Seismic bracing calculations and details where the project is in Seismic Design Category C or higher.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Action Submittals
+type: checkbox
+options:
+ - "Coordinated shop drawings (routing, sizes, joints, hangers, braces)"
+ - "Hydraulic calculations and basis-of-design narrative"
+ - "Product data for pipe, fittings, and couplings"
+ - "Product data for valves and specialties"
+ - "Listing/approval marks for each rated component"
+ - "Seismic bracing calculations and details"
+default:
+ - "Coordinated shop drawings (routing, sizes, joints, hangers, braces)"
+ - "Product data for pipe, fittings, and couplings"
+ - "Product data for valves and specialties"
+ - "Listing/approval marks for each rated component"
+```
+
+## The Contractor shall submit the following closeout submittals before final acceptance:
+
+- Material and test certificates, including the contractor's material and test certificate for aboveground piping per NFPA 13 and for underground piping per NFPA 24.
+- Hydrostatic and flush test reports witnessed by the Authority Having Jurisdiction where required.
+- Record drawings reflecting the as-installed routing, valve locations, and device addresses.
+- Operation and maintenance data for valves, alarm devices, and pressure-regulating valves.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Closeout Submittals
+type: checkbox
+options:
+ - "Contractor's material and test certificates (aboveground and underground)"
+ - "Hydrostatic and flush test reports"
+ - "Record (as-built) drawings"
+ - "Operation and maintenance data"
+default:
+ - "Contractor's material and test certificates (aboveground and underground)"
+ - "Hydrostatic and flush test reports"
+ - "Record (as-built) drawings"
+ - "Operation and maintenance data"
+```
+
+# Quality Assurance {toc}
+
+## Every component that performs a fire protection function shall be listed or approved for fire protection service by a nationally recognized testing laboratory. {note}
+## A valve, fitting, or device that is merely rated for plumbing or general service is not interchangeable with a fire-service-listed equivalent, even where the body appears identical; the listing certifies tested performance under fire-service pressures and cycling. {note}
+
+## Pipe, fittings, couplings, valves, and specialties shall bear the listing or approval mark applicable to fire protection service.
+
+## Control valves, check valves, and alarm devices shall be listed under the specific UL standard or approved under the specific FM standard applicable to their type and size.
+
+## The installing contractor shall hold the fire sprinkler contractor license or certification required by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
+
+## Welders performing shop or field welding of fire protection piping shall be qualified in accordance with the welding procedure and performance qualification requirements of NFPA 13.
+
+## Components from different manufacturers shall not be mixed within a grooved coupling joint.
+
+## Gasket and housing compatibility shall be confirmed in writing where any substitution is proposed.
+
+## Grooved couplings, fittings, and gaskets from different manufacturers are not interchangeable; housing geometry and gasket durometer are matched assemblies, and mixing brands is a frequent cause of joint leakage and listing voidance. {note}
+
+# Environmental and Service Conditions {toc}
+
+## The selection of pipe material, joining method, and gasket compound shall account for the service the piping will see, including ambient temperature, internal corrosion exposure, and external (buried or exposed) corrosion exposure. {note}
+
+## Pipe and components shall be rated for the maximum system working pressure, which is the greater of the maximum static supply pressure or the pump discharge pressure at churn, plus any required margin.
+
+## The standard 175 psi working pressure class shall be used unless the maximum system pressure exceeds 175 psi, in which case the 300 psi high-pressure class shall be used for all pressure-containing components in the affected portion of the system.
+
+## A system fed by a fire pump with a churn (no-flow) discharge above approximately 165 psi will commonly exceed the 175 psi class once supply pressure is added; failing to identify this early forces a change order to replace undersized valves and fittings. {note}
+
+```datasheet
+label: System Working Pressure Class
+type: radio
+options:
+ - "175 psi (standard)"
+ - "300 psi (high-pressure)"
+default: "175 psi (standard)"
+```
+
+```datasheet
+label: Maximum System Static Pressure
+type: range
+unit: psi
+min: 50
+max: 350
+step: 5
+default: 100
+```
+
+## CPVC fire protection pipe shall not be used where the ambient or service temperature can exceed 150°F (65°C), and shall not be used in dry-pipe, pre-action, or deluge systems.
+
+## CPVC is listed for wet-pipe service only; the thermal cycling and condensation in dry and pre-action systems drive solvent-cement joint failures, and elevated temperature softens the material below its pressure rating. {note}
+
+## Internal corrosion protection shall be provided where the system type and water chemistry warrant it, by material selection, nitrogen inerting of dry and pre-action systems, or a listed corrosion-inhibiting treatment.
+
+## Buried ductile iron pipe in corrosive soils shall be protected by polyethylene encasement to AWWA C105 or by a fusion-bonded epoxy coating.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Internal Corrosion Protection Approach
+type: select
+options:
+ - "None required (potable wet-pipe service)"
+ - "Nitrogen inerting (dry/pre-action)"
+ - "Listed corrosion-inhibiting treatment"
+ - "Galvanized pipe (dry-pipe)"
+default: "None required (potable wet-pipe service)"
+```
+
+# Pipe and Tube Materials {toc}
+
+## Aboveground fire protection piping shall be one of the listed steel, copper, or thermoplastic materials permitted by NFPA 13 for the system type, and underground fire service mains shall be ductile iron or another material permitted by NFPA 24. {note}
+
+## Black steel pipe shall conform to ASTM A795, ASTM A53, or ASTM A135 and shall be the default material for aboveground wet-pipe and dry-pipe systems.
+
+## Galvanized steel pipe conforming to ASTM A795 shall be used where specified to reduce internal corrosion, most commonly in dry-pipe and pre-action systems.
+
+## Copper tube shall conform to ASTM B88, Type K or Type L, and shall be joined by brazing or by a listed press fitting where copper is used.
+
+## CPVC pipe and fittings shall be listed to UL 1821 for fire protection service and shall be solvent-cement joined in accordance with the manufacturer's listed instructions.
+
+## Underground ductile iron pipe shall conform to AWWA C151, Class 52 unless a different thickness class is required by the depth of cover and external loading.
+
+## The wall thickness (schedule) of steel pipe shall be selected together with the joining method, because groove dimensions and threadability depend on wall thickness. {note}
+
+## Schedule 10 steel pipe shall be the default for aboveground steel piping NPS 1-1/4 and larger joined by grooved mechanical couplings.
+
+## Schedule 40 steel pipe shall be used for threaded branch lines NPS 1 and smaller and where the system standard or a corrosive environment calls for the heavier wall.
+
+## Specifying Schedule 10 pipe while detailing Schedule 40 groove dimensions (or the reverse) produces a groove that does not match the wall and leaks or fails; the schedule and groove specification must be tied together on the shop drawings. {note}
+
+```datasheet
+label: Aboveground Pipe Material
+type: select
+options:
+ - "Black steel, Schedule 10 (ASTM A795)"
+ - "Black steel, Schedule 40 (ASTM A795/A53)"
+ - "Galvanized steel, Schedule 40 (ASTM A795)"
+ - "Copper, Type L (ASTM B88)"
+ - "Copper, Type K (ASTM B88)"
+ - "CPVC, listed to UL 1821"
+default: "Black steel, Schedule 10 (ASTM A795)"
+```
+
+```datasheet
+label: Underground Fire Service Main Material
+type: select
+options:
+ - "Ductile iron, Class 52 (AWWA C151)"
+ - "Ductile iron, Class 50 (AWWA C151)"
+ - "PVC, listed (AWWA C900)"
+ - "HDPE, listed"
+default: "Ductile iron, Class 52 (AWWA C151)"
+```
+
+```datasheet
+label: Aboveground Pipe Size Range Served
+type: range
+unit: in
+setpoints: [1, 1.25, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 6, 8]
+default: 4
+```
+
+# Fittings and Joining Methods {toc}
+
+## The joining method shall be selected for the pipe material, size, system pressure, seismic demand, and maintenance access, and shall be one of the methods listed for fire protection service. {note}
+
+## Grooved mechanical couplings and fittings shall be listed to UL 213 and shall conform to the dimensional requirements of AWWA C606.
+
+## Threaded fittings on steel pipe NPS 2 and smaller shall be malleable iron conforming to ASME B16.3.
+
+## Welded steel fittings shall conform to ASME B16.9 and shall be installed only by qualified welders using a qualified procedure.
+
+## Flanged connections on large-diameter piping shall conform to ASME B16.1.
+
+## Ductile iron grooved and underground fittings shall conform to ASTM A536.
+
+## Grooved couplings are furnished in rigid and flexible patterns, and the two are not freely substitutable; flexible couplings accommodate movement and seismic articulation, while rigid couplings hold the joint fixed. {note}
+
+## Rigid grooved couplings shall be used at locations where NFPA 13 requires a rigid connection, including at riser transitions and immediately adjacent to pumps and risers.
+
+## Flexible grooved couplings shall be used only where movement or seismic flexibility is intended and permitted, and shall not be substituted at locations where a rigid coupling is required.
+
+## Grooved coupling gaskets shall be selected for the service: EPDM for standard wet-pipe water service, and a halogenated butyl or fluorocarbon compound for dry-pipe, antifreeze, or chemical-exposure service.
+
+## An EPDM gasket in an antifreeze loop or a petroleum-exposed environment will swell and fail; the gasket compound is a service-dependent selection, not a default. {note}
+
+```datasheet
+label: Primary Joining Method
+type: select
+options:
+ - "Grooved mechanical coupling, rigid"
+ - "Grooved mechanical coupling, flexible"
+ - "Threaded (malleable iron, NPS 2 and smaller)"
+ - "Welded (buttweld/socket)"
+ - "Flanged"
+ - "Brazed (copper)"
+ - "Solvent-cement (CPVC)"
+default: "Grooved mechanical coupling, rigid"
+```
+
+```datasheet
+label: Grooved Coupling Gasket Compound
+type: select
+options:
+ - "EPDM (wet-pipe water service)"
+ - "Halogenated butyl (dry-pipe/antifreeze)"
+ - "Fluorocarbon (chemical exposure)"
+default: "EPDM (wet-pipe water service)"
+```
+
+# Control Valves {toc}
+
+## Every system control valve shall be listed for fire protection service, shall be of the indicating type, and shall be electrically supervised in the open position.
+## An indicating valve shows its open or closed position at a glance — through the rising stem of an OS&Y gate, the position indicator of a butterfly valve, or the target window of a post indicator valve — so that an accidentally closed valve is visible during inspection. {note}
+
+## Control valves shall be of the OS&Y gate, listed butterfly, or listed ball type as appropriate to the size and location.
+
+## OS&Y gate valves shall be listed to UL 262 or approved to FM 1110 and shall be used as the default control valve where space permits.
+
+## Butterfly valves shall be listed to UL 1091 and may be used in lieu of OS&Y gate valves where space is constrained, such as in mechanical rooms and at branch risers.
+
+## Post indicator valves used for exterior control of underground mains shall be listed or approved and shall be supervised.
+
+## Every control valve shall be provided with a supervisory (tamper) switch wired to the fire alarm control panel.
+
+## A missing tamper switch on any control valve — most often an overlooked butterfly valve on a branch riser — is a common code violation and inspection failure; NFPA 72 requires a supervisory signal on every control valve, not only the main valves. {note}
+
+## The supervisory switch shall initiate a supervisory signal within two turns of the handwheel or within one-fifth of the distance of valve travel from the full-open position, whichever is less, in accordance with NFPA 72.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Primary Control Valve Type
+type: radio
+options:
+ - "OS&Y gate valve (UL 262)"
+ - "Butterfly valve (UL 1091)"
+ - "Post indicator valve (underground)"
+default: "OS&Y gate valve (UL 262)"
+```
+
+```datasheet
+label: Control Valve End Connection
+type: select
+options:
+ - "Grooved"
+ - "Flanged"
+ - "Threaded"
+default: "Grooved"
+```
+
+```datasheet
+label: Control Valve Tamper Switch
+type: radio
+options:
+ - "Single SPDT supervisory switch"
+ - "Dual SPDT supervisory switches"
+default: "Single SPDT supervisory switch"
+```
+
+# Check Valves and Backflow {toc}
+
+## Check valves used in fire protection piping shall be listed to UL 312 or, for sizes 4 in. and larger, approved to FM 1120.
+
+## A check valve shall be installed in the system riser where required by NFPA 13 to prevent reverse flow and to isolate the system from the supply during alarm and test operations.
+
+## The fire department connection shall be provided with a check valve so that water pumped into the connection cannot flow back out of the inlets.
+
+## Where backflow prevention is required between the fire service and a potable supply, the backflow assembly shall be provided under [[sync/backflow-prevention]] and coordinated with the pressure loss it imposes on the fire service.
+
+## A backflow preventer introduces a fixed pressure loss that must be accounted for in the hydraulic calculation; omitting it from the calculation is a common cause of a system that fails its acceptance flow test. {note}
+
+# Alarm Valve and Riser Trim {toc}
+
+## The riser control assembly shall include the alarm or dry-pipe valve, the trim piping, the waterflow alarm device, drains, and the pressure gauges appropriate to the system type. {note}
+
+## A wet-pipe riser shall be provided with an alarm check valve listed for fire protection service, complete with retard chamber, pressure alarm switch, and trim.
+
+## A dry-pipe riser shall be provided with a listed dry-pipe valve and its trim, including the air or nitrogen supply connection, the intermediate chamber drain, and any quick-opening device required by the system standard.
+
+## The alarm valve assembly shall be furnished with one pressure gauge connected above the valve clapper and one connected below, each with a range of 0 psi to 300 psi.
+
+## Pressure gauges shall be selected with a range of 0 psi to 300 psi so they are not damaged during the 200 psi hydrostatic acceptance test; a 0 psi to 100 psi gauge is pegged and ruined by the test pressure. {note}
+
+```datasheet
+label: Riser Alarm Valve Type
+type: select
+options:
+ - "Wet-pipe alarm check valve"
+ - "Dry-pipe valve"
+ - "Pre-action valve (provided in system standard)"
+ - "None (flow switch only)"
+default: "Wet-pipe alarm check valve"
+```
+
+```datasheet
+label: Pressure Gauge Range
+type: radio
+options:
+ - "0–300 psi"
+ - "0–600 psi"
+default: "0–300 psi"
+```
+
+```datasheet
+label: Dry-Pipe System Supervisory Air Pressure
+type: range
+unit: psi
+min: 13
+max: 60
+step: 1
+default: 40
+```
+
+# Waterflow and Supervisory Devices {toc}
+
+## Waterflow shall be detected by a vane-type waterflow switch or by a pressure-type alarm switch, selected for the system size and the requirements of the local fire department. {note}
+## A vane (paddle) switch inserts into the flowing pipe and signals on sustained flow, while a pressure switch senses the pressure rise behind the alarm valve clapper; the choice depends on system size, pipe arrangement, and AHJ preference. {note}
+
+## A waterflow alarm device shall be provided and wired to the fire alarm control panel to initiate an alarm on system flow.
+
+## Vane-type waterflow switches shall be listed and provided with an adjustable retard, and the retard shall be set to delay the alarm signal to avoid false alarms from supply pressure surges.
+
+## The waterflow switch retard shall be set between 20 and 30 seconds unless the system standard or the AHJ directs otherwise, within the device's adjustable range of 0 to 90 seconds.
+
+## Setting the retard too short causes nuisance alarms from normal pressure transients, while setting it too long delays a real alarm; the 20 to 30 second band balances both for most systems. {note}
+
+```datasheet
+label: Waterflow Detection Device
+type: radio
+options:
+ - "Vane-type waterflow switch"
+ - "Pressure-type alarm switch"
+default: "Vane-type waterflow switch"
+```
+
+```datasheet
+label: Waterflow Switch Retard Setting
+type: range
+unit: s
+min: 0
+max: 90
+step: 5
+default: 30
+```
+
+# Fire Department Connection {toc}
+
+## A fire department connection shall be provided where required so the responding fire department can augment the system supply, and its type, location, and thread standard shall be coordinated with the AHJ before procurement. {note}
+## Many jurisdictions have replaced the traditional two-inlet NST Siamese with a single large-diameter Storz connection; procuring the wrong thread or coupling type forces a costly replacement late in the project. {note}
+
+## The fire department connection shall be listed to UL 405 and provided with clapper check valves at each inlet and a protective cap or plug on each inlet.
+
+## Inlet threads shall conform to NFPA 1963, in the National Standard Thread or the Storz coupling standard adopted by the local fire department.
+
+## The connection between a standpipe-supplying fire department connection and the standpipe riser shall be a minimum of 4 in. pipe in accordance with NFPA 14.
+
+## The fire department connection shall be located and identified as directed by the AHJ, with the inlet height, clearances, and signage coordinated on the drawings. [[drawing: FDC location and mounting height]]
+
+```datasheet
+label: Fire Department Connection Type
+type: select
+options:
+ - "Free-standing Siamese, two 2-1/2 in. inlets (NST)"
+ - "Wall-mounted, two 2-1/2 in. inlets (NST)"
+ - "Wall-mounted Storz, 4 in."
+ - "Wall-mounted Storz, 2-1/2 in."
+default: "Free-standing Siamese, two 2-1/2 in. inlets (NST)"
+```
+
+```datasheet
+label: FDC Inlet Thread / Coupling Standard
+type: radio
+drawing_ref: "confirm with AHJ"
+options:
+ - "National Standard Thread (NST)"
+ - "Storz coupling"
+default: "National Standard Thread (NST)"
+```
+
+# Drains, Test Connections, and Gauges {toc}
+
+## A main drain shall be provided at the system riser, and an inspector's test connection shall be provided at the hydraulically most remote point, each sized in accordance with NFPA 13. {note}
+
+## The main drain test pipe shall be sized in accordance with NFPA 13: minimum 1 in. for risers up to 2 in., minimum 1-1/4 in. for risers of 2-1/2 in. through 3-1/2 in., and minimum 2 in. for risers of 4 in. and larger.
+
+## An inspector's test connection shall be provided with an orifice equivalent to the smallest sprinkler in the system and shall discharge to a location where flow can be observed safely.
+
+## Auxiliary drains (drum drips) shall be provided at low points in dry-pipe and pre-action systems where trapped sections cannot drain back to the main drain.
+
+## A combined test-and-drain assembly may be used to consolidate the inspector's test connection and the drain into a single listed device where permitted by the system standard.
+
+## Pressure gauges shall be provided at the locations required by NFPA 13, each with a range of 0 psi to 300 psi and each removable for testing without draining the system.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Main Drain Size
+type: select
+options:
+ - "1 in. (riser up to 2 in.)"
+ - "1-1/4 in. (riser 2-1/2 in. to 3-1/2 in.)"
+ - "2 in. (riser 4 in. and larger)"
+default: "2 in. (riser 4 in. and larger)"
+```
+
+```datasheet
+label: Test-and-Drain Arrangement
+type: radio
+options:
+ - "Combined test-and-drain assembly"
+ - "Separate inspector's test and main drain"
+default: "Combined test-and-drain assembly"
+```
+
+# Pressure-Regulating Valves {toc}
+
+## A pressure-regulating valve shall be provided where the static pressure at a hose connection or system inlet exceeds the limit set by NFPA 13 or NFPA 14. {note}
+## Pressure-regulating valves protect downstream components and hose-stream users from excessive pressure; they are distinct from simple pressure-restricting orifices and are field-adjustable to a set discharge pressure. {note}
+
+## A listed pressure-regulating valve shall be provided where the static pressure at any hose connection exceeds 175 psi, in accordance with NFPA 14.
+
+## Pressure-regulating valves shall be listed to UL 1468 and shall be field-adjustable and verifiable by gauge during acceptance testing.
+
+## The set discharge pressure of each pressure-regulating valve shall be documented on the record drawings and verified during the acceptance test.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Pressure-Regulating Valve Required
+type: radio
+options:
+ - "Yes — static pressure exceeds 175 psi"
+ - "No — static pressure at or below 175 psi"
+default: "No — static pressure at or below 175 psi"
+```
+
+```datasheet
+label: Pressure-Regulating Valve Set Discharge Pressure
+type: range
+unit: psi
+min: 75
+max: 175
+step: 5
+default: 100
+```
+
+# Hangers and Supports {toc}
+
+## Pipe hangers and supports shall be listed for fire protection service, shall attach to the building structure or to listed trapeze assemblies, and shall be spaced in accordance with NFPA 13. {note}
+## Fire protection piping carries the weight of water plus a substantial point load from the seismic and surge forces of system operation; hangers must reach structural members, and a hanger spacing called out without confirming beam and joist locations causes field conflicts. {note}
+
+## Hangers shall be of a material compatible with the pipe to avoid galvanic corrosion, with non-ferrous or coated hangers used on copper tube.
+
+## Hanger spacing shall not exceed the maximum for the pipe size in NFPA 13 Table 17.2.3: 12 ft for pipe NPS 1 and NPS 1-1/4, and 15 ft for pipe NPS 1-1/2 and larger.
+
+## Hanger and support locations shall be coordinated with the structure and shown on the shop drawings, including trapeze assemblies where individual structural attachment is not available. [[drawing: hanger and trapeze layout]]
+
+```datasheet
+label: Hanger Material
+type: select
+options:
+ - "Carbon steel, plated (ferrous pipe)"
+ - "Galvanized steel"
+ - "Copper-plated or coated (copper tube)"
+default: "Carbon steel, plated (ferrous pipe)"
+```
+
+```datasheet
+label: Maximum Hanger Spacing
+type: select
+options:
+ - "12 ft (NPS 1 and 1-1/4)"
+ - "15 ft (NPS 1-1/2 and larger)"
+default: "15 ft (NPS 1-1/2 and larger)"
+```
+
+# Seismic Bracing {toc}
+
+## Sway bracing shall be provided where the project is in a seismic design category that triggers the bracing requirements of NFPA 13 Chapter 18, and the bracing shall be designed and detailed before installation. {note}
+## Designers in low-seismic regions frequently neglect Chapter 18 entirely, but Seismic Design Category C is more common than assumed and triggers full lateral and longitudinal bracing; the requirement is keyed to the IBC seismic design category, not to a perception of local risk. {note}
+
+## Lateral and longitudinal sway bracing shall be provided for pipe NPS 1 and larger where required by the IBC seismic design category, in accordance with NFPA 13 Chapter 18.
+
+## Lateral sway braces shall be spaced at not more than 40 ft, and longitudinal sway braces at not more than 80 ft, unless a more stringent spacing results from the brace load calculation.
+
+## Flexible couplings shall be provided as required by NFPA 13 to accommodate differential movement during a seismic event.
+
+## Clearances at penetrations shall be provided as required by NFPA 13 to accommodate differential movement during a seismic event.
+
+## Restraint at risers shall be provided as required by NFPA 13 to accommodate differential movement during a seismic event.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Seismic Bracing Required
+type: radio
+options:
+ - "Yes — Seismic Design Category C or higher"
+ - "No — Seismic Design Category A or B"
+default: "No — Seismic Design Category A or B"
+```
+
+```datasheet
+label: Maximum Lateral Brace Spacing
+type: range
+unit: ft
+min: 20
+max: 40
+step: 5
+default: 40
+```
+
+```datasheet
+label: Maximum Longitudinal Brace Spacing
+type: range
+unit: ft
+min: 40
+max: 80
+step: 10
+default: 80
+```
+
+# Underground Fire Service Mains {toc}
+
+## Underground fire service mains and their appurtenances shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 24, including thrust restraint, depth of cover, and flushing before connection to the aboveground system. {note}
+
+## Ductile iron underground pipe shall be joined by mechanical-joint or restrained push-on joint fittings rated for the system pressure.
+
+## The depth of cover over the top of the underground main shall be at least 3 ft, and shall be increased where the local frost depth is greater.
+
+## In northern climates the frost depth commonly governs over the NFPA 24 minimum, requiring 4 ft to 6 ft of cover; specifying the 3 ft minimum without checking local frost depth creates a freeze risk. {note}
+
+## Thrust restraint shall be provided at fittings, bends, and valves by restrained joints or by thrust blocks designed for the soil bearing capacity.
+
+## The underground main shall be flushed at the required flow velocity before connection to the aboveground piping, and the flush shall be witnessed and recorded.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Underground Joint Type
+type: radio
+options:
+ - "Restrained push-on joint"
+ - "Mechanical joint"
+default: "Restrained push-on joint"
+```
+
+```datasheet
+label: Depth of Cover Over Main
+type: range
+unit: ft
+min: 3
+max: 6
+step: 0.5
+default: 3
+```
+
+```datasheet
+label: Buried Pipe External Protection
+type: select
+options:
+ - "Polyethylene encasement (AWWA C105)"
+ - "Fusion-bonded epoxy coating"
+ - "None (non-corrosive soil)"
+default: "None (non-corrosive soil)"
+```
+
+# Testing {toc}
+
+## All fire protection piping shall be hydrostatically tested, and underground mains shall be flushed, before the system is placed in service, with all tests witnessed and recorded as required by NFPA 13, NFPA 24, and NFPA 25. {note}
+
+## Aboveground piping shall be hydrostatically tested at 200 psi for 2 hours, or at 50 psi above the maximum system static pressure where that pressure exceeds 150 psi, in accordance with NFPA 13.
+
+## The hydrostatic test shall show no leakage and no drop in gauge pressure for the duration of the test.
+
+## Underground mains shall be hydrostatically tested and flushed in accordance with NFPA 24 before being connected to the aboveground system.
+
+## Dry-pipe systems shall additionally be tested for air-pressure tightness, with the supervisory air loss not exceeding the limit permitted by NFPA 13.
+
+## Waterflow alarm, supervisory, and pressure-regulating devices shall be functionally tested and the signals verified at the fire alarm control panel and at the supervising station where provided.
+
+## The completed system shall be tested and documented on the contractor's material and test certificate, which shall be submitted as a closeout document.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Hydrostatic Test Pressure
+type: range
+unit: psi
+min: 150
+max: 350
+step: 10
+default: 200
+```
+
+```datasheet
+label: Hydrostatic Test Duration
+type: radio
+options:
+ - "2 hours"
+ - "More than 2 hours (AHJ directed)"
+default: "2 hours"
+```
+
+# Installation {toc}
+
+## Piping shall be installed straight, true, and pitched for drainage, with joints made in accordance with the manufacturer's listed instructions and the requirements of NFPA 13 and NFPA 24. {note}
+
+## Piping shall be reamed and cleaned of cutting debris before assembly so that scale and filings do not lodge in valves, alarm trim, or sprinkler orifices.
+
+## Grooved pipe ends shall be cut, rolled, or machined to the dimensions of AWWA C606 for the pipe wall thickness, and the groove dimensions shall match the coupling specified.
+
+## Threaded joints shall be made up with a listed pipe-joint compound or tape applied to the male thread only, and excess shall be removed so it cannot enter the system.
+
+## Wet-pipe and other water-filled piping shall be pitched to drain to the main drain or to auxiliary drains so the system can be emptied for service.
+
+## Penetrations of fire-rated assemblies shall be firestopped under [[sync/firestopping]], and the firestop system shall be listed for the pipe material and the rated assembly.
+
+## Pipe routing, clearances, and the location of valves, drains, and the fire department connection shall be coordinated with other trades and confirmed against the drawings before installation. [[drawing: pipe routing and valve locations]]
+
+# Delivery, Storage, and Handling {toc}
+
+## Pipe, fittings, valves, and specialties shall be delivered, stored, and handled so that they are protected from contamination, corrosion, and physical damage until installation. {note}
+
+## Pipe shall be stored off the ground and with the ends capped or plugged to keep dirt, debris, and rodents out of the bore.
+
+## Valves and alarm devices shall be stored indoors in their original packaging, protected from freezing, dust, and impact, and kept in the closed or shipping position until installed.
+
+## CPVC pipe, fittings, and solvent cement shall be stored within the manufacturer's temperature range and protected from prolonged ultraviolet exposure.
+
+## Gaskets shall be stored in a cool, dark location away from ozone sources and shall not be used past the manufacturer's shelf life.
+
+# Warranty {toc}
+
+## The Contractor shall warrant the installed fire protection piping, valves, and specialties against defects in materials and workmanship for the project warranty period. {note}
+
+## The Contractor shall warrant the work against leakage, joint failure, and device malfunction for a period of not less than one year from the date of substantial completion, unless a longer period is required by the contract.
+
+## Manufacturer warranties for valves, alarm devices, and pressure-regulating valves shall be transferred to the Owner at closeout.
+
+## The Contractor shall correct any defect discovered during the warranty period, including the repair of any damage caused by the defect or its correction, at no cost to the Owner.
+
+# Spare Parts {toc}
+
+## The Contractor shall furnish the spare sprinkler and valve-maintenance parts required by NFPA 13 so the system can be returned to service after operation or testing. {note}
+
+## A spare-parts cabinet containing spare sprinklers of each type and temperature rating in the system, with the sprinkler wrench for each type, shall be furnished and mounted near the system riser in accordance with NFPA 13.
+
+## Spare gaskets, trim parts, and the special tools required to service the alarm and dry-pipe valves shall be furnished to the Owner at closeout.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Spare Parts Package
+type: checkbox
+options:
+ - "Spare sprinkler cabinet with wrenches (per NFPA 13)"
+ - "Spare grooved coupling gaskets"
+ - "Alarm/dry-pipe valve trim and seat kits"
+ - "Special service tools"
+default:
+ - "Spare sprinkler cabinet with wrenches (per NFPA 13)"
+ - "Spare grooved coupling gaskets"
+ - "Special service tools"
+```