What Fire Sprinkler Is Best For Cinemas?

What Fire Sprinkler Is Best For Cinemas?

by Pressure Vacuum Level Limited on April 27, 2023 Categories: Blog

Installing a fire sprinkler system is one of the most efficient ways to safeguard a movie theatre from fire risk. The best fire sprinkler system for a movie theatre must be selected, though, and many things must be considered.

In this post, we'll go over some of the most important things to remember when choosing the best fire sprinkler system for a movie theatre and some of the most popular systems.

Important Factors To Take Into Account When Selecting A Fire Sprinkler


The theatre's size and layout should be considered before anything else when selecting a fire sprinkler system. The fire sprinkler system that is most suited for a small, single-screen cinema may not be acceptable for a large, multi-screen complex since the physical parameters of cinemas can differ substantially.

The kind of fire most likely to occur in a theatre should also be considered. For instance, a theatre that predominantly screens 35mm films may be more susceptible to fires caused by the projector and film stock. In contrast, a theatre that mostly screens digital films may be more susceptible to fires caused by electronic equipment. The appropriate sprinkler head should be chosen based on the fire risk; for example, an ESFR (Early Suppression Fast Response) sprinkler will be more efficient than a regular pendant sprinkler in putting out cellulose-based fires.

It is also crucial to consider any applicable insurance needs and the building norms and rules that apply to the theatre. It is crucial to make sure that the fire sprinkler system chosen complies with all of the fire code standards that many towns have for structures like movie theatres. In addition, insurance companies could have their specifications for fire protection to offer coverage; if these specifications are not met, claims may be rejected in the event of a fire.

Types Of Fire Sprinkler Systems Used In Cinemas


Pre-action System

The pre-action system is a typical fire sprinkler system utilised in theatres.

Pre-action systems, which don't have water in the pipes until a fire is detected, are a hybrid of dry-pipe and wet-pipe systems. When a fire is discovered, water is released into the pipes and sent through the sprinkler heads to the relevant parts of the building. A pre-action system's benefit prevents inadvertent water discharge, which could harm the structure and its contents.

Wet-pipe System

The wet-pipe system is another popular fire sprinkler system utilised in movie theatres. Water is always present in the pipes of a wet-pipe system, and when a fire is detected, it is released through the sprinkler heads. Due to their quick response times in a fire, wet-pipe systems are typically thought to be more dependable than pre-action systems. However, if there is a malfunction or an unintentional discharge, they do have the potential to cause harm.

Things to Remember


It is essential to consider the building's size, the type of fire risk, and the relevant building laws and regulations when selecting the best fire sprinkler system for a theatre. The two most frequently utilised systems in theatres are pre-action and wet-pipe. Pre-action systems benefit from eliminating unintentional water release, although wet-pipe systems are more dependable.

PVL Fire Sprinklers


Pressure Vacuum Level Ltd sells high-quality fire sprinklers for various industries.

Don't hesitate to contact us if you have any queries about our fire sprinklers or other products.

Call +44 (0) 1892 66 44 99 / Email sales@pvl.co.uk

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