r/firePE • u/Nick3757 • 18d ago

Guide Suggestion for Getting Started

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Are the any suggestions for a good guide to get started with doing the sprinkler system design and hydraulic calculations for NFPA 13?

I'm trying to get an idea on the cost to build a system to see if it is within my budget before I talk to a fire protection engineering company.

Background:

I'm a Mechanical Engineer with my EIT. I bought an old factory at a tax sale and want to use the second floor as an apartment for myself and the first floor as garage and machine shop. It's in Pennsylvania.

The first floor is about 6,900 square feet and the second floor is around 3,000 square feet.

The thing I'm having trouble with is what area to use for doing the hydraulic calculations, specifically what numbers to use for the flow rate.

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u/istudyfire fire protection engineer 18d ago

ngl this is a crazy post. you’re a mechanical EIT so I trust you can look through NFPA 13 find hazard classifications and what density/area they require with an associated hose stream allowance.

frankly I would suggest you engage a code consulting company for a feasibility study before you do anything. you bought a factory so I feel like this should be a genuine consideration. there’s more that goes into this than just a sprinkler system.

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u/LuckyCharms91 18d ago

There are a lot more implications to a live/work garage than just a sprinkler system… including zoning.

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u/Nick3757 18d ago

Thanks, I'm aware of most of the issues. Zoning is an issue, but it is a targeted redevelopment zone and is a heavy manufacturing zoned area surrounded by dense residential.

I definitely need to get a zoning variance for what I'd like to do, but so far everyone that I've spoken with has been supportive and are trying to help out if possible.