Question: An automatic sprinkler system will employ many different valves in its operation. The two main types of valves are control valves and operating valves. The main control valve is located between the municipal water supply and the sprinkler system and is used to control water flow to the entire system. If the system requires maintenance, this is the valve that would be used to shut of all water to it. Control valves can be either butterfly valves, gate valves, or ball valves (Sturzenbecker, Adams, & Burnside, 2012).

- Operating valves include alarm valves, check valves, drain valves, globe valves, and stop valves. During an alarm, some water is diverted through an alarm valve that will sound an alarm called a water gong. Check valves are placed throughout the system to prevent water from flowing in the wrong direction. Drain valves are used to drain the system during maintenance and inspections. Globe valves are used to cause water to flow through the system during an inspection (Sturzenbecker, Adams, & Burnside, 2012).

References: Sturzenbecker, M. J., Adams, B., & Burnside, E. (2010). Fire detection and suppression systems. Oklahoma State University: Fire Protection Publications.

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