In a dry pipe system, what is the maximum allowable air pressure?

In a dry pipe system, the maximum allowable air pressure is critical for maintaining system integrity and performance. A dry pipe system is designed to prevent the flow of water until the system is activated by a fire. The air pressure within the pipes keeps the valves closed until needed.

At around 20 PSI, the pressure is sufficient to maintain the integrity of the system while allowing for effective operation. It ensures that the dry pipe valve remains closed and provides enough margin for detecting leaks or pressure drops that may occur over time.

Operating at this level helps to ensure that the system can effectively control potential fire hazards without risking premature activation or damaging the system components. Should the pressure go above this acceptable level, it might inadvertently lead to malfunctions or compromise the system's reliability.

Understanding these parameters is crucial for fire safety professionals, as they must be able to inspect, maintain, and ensure that fire protection systems function as intended during emergencies.