NFPA 13 now allows dry systems to use C-120 in place of C-100 when pressurized using 98% nitrogen. This allows pipe size reductions in the sprinkler system design. This presentation will compare the cost savings in reduced pipe sizing to the additional cost of nitrogen concentration equipment within a dry pipe or preaction system. This comparison will include various examples to evaluate the effects of system size, available supply pressure and varied hydraulic demand requirements. Comparative costs will consider initial installation costs, annual maintenance costs, and system life cycle costs.

Upon completion of this seminar, attendees will be able to:

• Quickly estimate the pipe size changes that can be made as a result of using C-120 in place of C-100.
• Predict and articulate the various advantages of using or not using a nitrogen supply to maintain pressure on a particular configuration of a dry pipe or preaction sprinkler system.    
• Identify and evaluate the factors that could favor the use of a nitrogen supply to maintain pressure on a particular configuration of a dry pipe or preaction sprinkler system