Welcome to the Spring!

Join us for the NCN SFPE Monthly Presentation and Happy Hour! 

Presentation Title:  Hydraulic Calculations for Fire Suppression Systems

Date: Thursday, March 26, 2025
Time: 5pm. Presentation starts at 5:30 pm
Location: Holmes US - 235 Montgomery St, Suite 1250

Presentation Summary: Hydraulic calculations are used to demonstrate whether the available water supply can meet the hydraulic demand of a fire suppression system or the required fire flow, whichever is greater. This presentation explores the critical relationships between sprinkler discharge, hose stream requirements, and fire flow tests to ensure total system demand is accurately calculated. Participants will review the four fundamentals of hydraulic design: sprinkler discharge formula, the Hazen-Williams friction loss formula, equivalent lengths for fittings, and the Density/Area method. A detailed look at how roughness coefficients, pipe material, and internal diameter influence pressure loss will provide insight into system performance and design decisions. To wrap things up, real-world examples will be used to showcase how to compare system demand against available supply.

Presenter Bio:

Ian De Vries is a Fire Protection Engineer at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory with experience in the design, review, and analysis of water-based suppression systems. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Master’s degree in Fire Protection Engineering from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. Ian is a registered Professional Engineer in California and an ICC certified Fire Plans Examiner and Fire Inspector. He provides technical expertise in navigating complex hydraulic requirements to ensure system reliability and code compliance. 

Don't miss out the fun, networking, appetizers and drinks*! 

*Tickets include two drinks and snacks.