Repairing a Corroded Fire Sprinkler Pipe

Fire sprinkler pipes are at risk of corrosion because they are used to carry water from your water source to your fire sprinklers. Corrosion is the thinning of your metal pipe’s wall. Corrosion is more commonly associated with the term rust. Rusting is the result of the oxidation of your metal pipe.

The possibility of corrosion happens when you have a piping system that makes use of two different kinds of metals. Because corrosion will slowly eat the metal pipes, it is in your best interest to repair any signs of corrosion before the damage becomes too severe.

Step 1 - Diagnose Corrosion

The easiest way to detect corrosion is by visually checking for leaks. If there are leaks anywhere near your sprinkler pipes, chances are you have a rusty pipe somewhere. To help you point out the correct location of the corrosion, you need the help of a resonator. Get a strip of wood and place one end of against the pipe, and your ear on the other end. You will be able to hear the sound of the leak. Move the piece of wood along the pipe until you find the exact spot of the leak.

Step 2 – Secure the Necessary Preparations

Since you will be removing a section of your pipe, turn off the water supply to your fire sprinkler pipe. Allow the water to leak out at the nearest valve. You need to drain the pipes of the water first or else you might be soaking wet after the whole procedure.

Step 3 - Cut the Corroded Section

The only way to repair a corroded pipe is to cut out the rusted section. To do this, you need the help of someone who will wrench the pipe still so that it does not turn at the nearest fitting. You will need a wrench that can accommodate the circumference of your pipe. Using a hacksaw, cut out the rusted section of your fire sprinkler pipe.

Step 4 - Replace the Cut Section

Use a wire brush to place the flux inside your couplings. Attach the coupling at the two ends of the pipe where you made the cut.

Step 5 - Solder the Replaced Pipe

With the use of a blow torch, heat the innermost portion of your coupling. When the inside of the coupling has melted completely, move to the top of your coupling and heat the pipe. Place solder on the joints of your repaired. Allow the pipes to cool down.

Step 6 – Apply Finishing

Turn on the water supply and allow the water to flow through your pipes. Check if there are any wet spots below the repaired section of pipe. If you see moisture buildup, this means that you weren’t successful with the repair.

Step 7 - Prevent Corrosion

To prevent the future occurrence of corrosion, use magnesium rods on your pipes. The magnesium rods will serve as electrolytic cells. The rods will be dissolved by the electrolysis action instead of your pipes.