The authoritative public forum
  for Metal Finishing since 1989
-----

Sprinkler Head Protection

Our sprinkler heads are above the air filters in the booths and they are, as one would imagine, just covered with paint. Does anyone have a solution for keeping these sprinkler heads clean? Someone suggested putting paper cups over the heads. I would like to hear some of the other solutions people have come up with. Thank you, William M. Mathes

William M. Mathes
industrial painting - Burlington, Iowa
1999

---

You are wise to worry about your spinkler heads becoming clogged by paint and to be cautious about covering them. The best solution to your situation will depend on the specifics of your system. This situation is too critical to rely on advice from a discussion group. I suggest that you contact the manufacturer of the fire suppression system for advice. The company that does your semi-annual inspections may be able to help, but the sprinkler manufacturer's advice will be the most reliable.

Larry Hanke
Minneapolis, Minnesota
1999

Typically at paint shops I have worked and others I visit, most use plastic sandwich bags taped over the sprinkler heads with the taped portion above the head at the fitting. Periodically the baggies are replaced.

Ward Barcafer, CEF
aerospace - Wichita, Kansas
1999

We use paper bags. The style that are used to take a lunch or snack to school/work. The idea is that the bags will bust when saturated with water. The hanging shreds of paper may effect the spray pattern, however.

Kelly Draper
- West Plains, Missouri
1999