This report explains different types of corrosion phenomena and contributing factors of corrosion that can occur in fire protection systems (FPS), such as water corrosivity, MIC, trapped air (wet systems), residual water (dry systems), and pipe weld corrosion. The basis for selection of corrosion mitigation strategies for corrosion mitigation and management of FPS are also discussed.

Corrosion that results in pipe leakage or obstruction is the most significant issue for owners of water-based FPS or fire sprinkler systems, in terms of both cost and system reliability. Corrosion damage/products and mineral deposits can impair the effectiveness of sprinkler systems, leaving facilities vulnerable to uncontrolled fire loss even though they are equipped with fire protection systems. This report describes practices that have been successful in mitigating FPS corrosion.

Keywords: Fire Protection System, sprinkler, wet pipe, dry pipe, preaction, deluge, pipe weld corrosion, tubercle, tuberculation,  Microbiologically-Influenced Corrosion (MIC), water chemistry, trapped air, residual water