Which type of sprinkler system activates when a certain temperature threshold is met?

A wet sprinkler system activates when the temperature in the area reaches a specific threshold. This mechanism is crucial for fire suppression, as each sprinkler head in this type of system contains a heat-sensitive element that melts at a designated temperature. When the temperature rises due to a fire, the element fails, allowing water to flow from the sprinkler head directly onto the flames.

This activation method is effective for providing immediate response to a fire, as it ensures that water is available right at the source of the heat. In contrast, other systems like dry, preaction, and deluge systems operate based on different principles. A dry sprinkler system uses pressurized air to keep the water supply sealed until activation, while a preaction system combines elements of both wet and dry systems and typically requires a two-step activation process, which can include both heat detection and smoke detection mechanisms. A deluge system, on the other hand, has all sprinkler heads open at once and is typically used in high-hazard areas to deliver water quickly over a large area.