Multi-purpose sprinkler system

[mtCDCcb]

I was recently made aware of an alternative residential sprinkler system referred to as a multi-purpose system. I was told by someone that this system can only be used on flat ceiling, has a maximum area of 2000 sf etc. In my research I see this referred to as a limited area sprinkler system. Are limited area and multipurpose the same thing? Are the limitations as to when you can use a multi purpose system vs a stand alone system? Thanks.

[Jerry Peck - Codeman]

NFPA 13D is the standard for fire sprinkler systems for 1 & 2 Family Dwelling units.

There are two basic systems: a) systems with separate potable water supply for the fire sprinkler system and another separate potable water supply system for the potable domestic water supply; b) a combined single water supply system sized for the requirements of BOTH the potable domestic water supply system AND the requirements of the fire sprinkler sprinkler system.

Within those two basic systems are two sprinkler systems: the standard 13D system and the Limited Area system.

The standard 13D system has requirements which are suitable all single-family dwelling units.

The 13D Limited Area system has requirements which may be used instead of the standard 13D system, but only for areas up to 2,000 ft and, as I recall, with fewer than 20 sprinklers (which may limit the area to even less than 2,000 sf).

The above is my understanding of those sprinkler systems.

[mtCDCcb]

Thanks. So there are no code limitations as to where you can put a stand alone vs a multipurpose? IF the code allows for a stand alone it also always for a multipurpose since both our 13D systems, correct? Thanks again.

[Jerry Peck - Codeman]

Thanks. So there are no code limitations as to where you can put a stand alone vs a multipurpose? IF the code allows for a stand alone it also always for a multipurpose since both our 13D systems, correct? Thanks again.

Depends on what is being installed: a standard 13D system or a Limited Area system.

Each of which may be a standalone system or a multipurpose system, with specific requirements for the combined multipurpose system.

I probably should have separated the 13D systems differently than I did at first:
- 13D standard system stand alone
- 13D standard system multipurpose

- 13D Limited Area system stand alone
- 13D Limited Area system multipurpose

- they could also be separated this way:

- stand alone 13D standard system
- stand alone 13D Limited Area system

- multipurpose 13D standard system
- multipurpose 13D Limited Area system

It may be best to think of them as 4 different 13D systems?