Parks Library Fire Suppression Study and Upgrade

Project Description  

In 2016, Resource Consulting Engineers (Resource) was engaged to perform a detailed evaluation of the fire suppression system at Parks Library on the Iowa State University campus. The project aimed to assess system performance and reliability, particularly in areas of the building housing historically significant artwork and sculptures.

Scope of Work  

Resource conducted a comprehensive hydraulic analysis of the existing sprinkler system. This included evaluating pipe sizes, calculating flow rates, and anticipating pressure drops across the existing network during a fire event. The team modeled system performance under various demand conditions and reviewed critical junctures where pipe diameter could impact overall pressure and water delivery efficiency.

Challenge Faced 

One of the primary challenges was maintaining the integrity of the fire suppression system while protecting irreplaceable assets in Parks Library’s historic wings. The presence of valuable paintings and sculptures required careful consideration of any modifications, ensuring both effective fire protection and preservation of sensitive environments.

Project Outcome 

The study identified several locations where increasing pipe size would significantly reduce pressure loss and enhance system performance during an emergency. Resource provided targeted recommendations to improve flow consistency while respecting the architectural constraints of the historic facility. The results offered Iowa State University a clear, phased plan for future upgrades that balance code compliance, risk mitigation, and heritage preservation.