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Sprinkler Hydraulics

NFPA 13 Density/Area Method · Design Flow · System Demand

When to use: Use for NFPA 13 density/area method preliminary hydraulic calculations. Select occupancy hazard class to get the required design density (GPM/ft²) and remote design area, then compute total system water demand including hose allowance. Use to size fire pumps, city connections, and determine if available water supply meets NFPA 13 requirements. Full hydraulic calculations require computer software per NFPA 13.

System Parameters
Leave blank to use class default
GPM/ft²
Leave blank to use class default
ft²
250 GPM light/ordinary; 500 extra
GPM
5.6 = standard, 8.0 = large orifice
K
At remote sprinkler head
psi
Total System Demand
475
GPM (sprinkler + hose)
Results
Design Density0.15 GPM/ft²
Design Area1500 ft²
Sprinkler Demand225 GPM
Hose Allowance250 GPM
Total System Demand475 GPM
Heads in Design Area12
Min Pressure at Remote Head11.2 psi
References
NFPA 13 – Sprinkler Systems Installation
Density/Area method: NFPA 13 §19.3
Q = K × √P (sprinkler flow equation)
Full hydraulics: use HASS or SprinkCalc