Concealed Sprinkler

Model: EM009 (SR), EM010 (QR)
Orientation: Pendant
Response Type: SR (5 mm bulb), QR (3 mm bulb)
Sprinkler Temperature Ratings: 135°F (57°C), 155°F (68°C), 165°F (74°C), 175°F (79°C), 200°F (93°C)
Cover Plate Temperature Ratings: 135°F (57°C), 165°F (74°C)
K-factor: 5.6 (80)
Thread: 1/2” NPT / BSPT
Maximum Working Pressure: 175 psi (12 bar)
Minimum Operating Pressure: 7 psi (0.5 bar)
Material: Brass
Cover Plate Finish: Natural Brass, Bright Brass, Chrome Plated, White Plated
View technical datasheet for more information

EMACO K5.6 Concealed Pendent Sprinkler is a type of automatic fire sprinkler commonly used in wet pipe systems. It is used in situations where a clean ceiling appearance is required. The sprinkler is installed above the ceiling surface and is covered by a flat cover plate when inactive.

A standard spray sprinkler delivers water to control or extinguish fires. It has a temperature-rated bulb mounted on its orifice that breaks to activate the sprinkler head when the surrounding temperature reaches or exceeds the glass bulb’s rated value.

While concealed sprinklers operate the same way as standard sprinklers, activation is slightly different due to the cover plate assembly. When the cover plate is exposed to heat, it falls off, revealing the recessed sprinkler head. As the temperature rises further, the glass bulb breaks, and the sprinkler discharges water that strikes the sprinkler’s deflector and is distributed over the protected area in the same way as a standard spray sprinkler. The fire is then suppressed using the cooling effect of water.

Concealed pendent sprinklers are used in automatic sprinkler systems where aesthetics are important. These sprinklers are often preferred for a clean architectural look in spaces such as hotels, residential apartments, offices, and commercial buildings, where concealed sprinklers head or hidden ceiling sprinklers are preferred over exposed sprinklers. The cover plate allows the sprinkler to remain hidden in the ceiling while still providing automatic fire protection when activated. System design and installation should follow NFPA 13 sprinkler system design guidelines.

Design Specifications:

1/2” NPT / BSPT threaded sprinkler connection
K-factor 5.6 (80) spray discharge
EM009 Standard Response (5 mm) and EM010 Quick Response (3 mm) options for different applications
Temperature ratings available from 57°C to 93°C (135°F to 200°F) depending on sprinkler and cover plate selection
Flat concealing cover plate used to hide the sprinkler in the ceiling
Heat triggers the cover plate ejection before the sprinkler activates
Brass frame and deflector construction
Natural brass, bright brass, chrome-plated, or white-plated cover plate finish options

How does a concealed sprinkler differ from a regular sprinkler?

A concealed sprinkler is designed to stay hidden behind a decorative cover plate, while regular sprinklers remain fully visible. The cover plate drops when exposed to heat, allowing the concealed sprinkler to activate normally. This makes it a preferred choice in modern interiors where appearance matters, without compromising fire safety performance.

Can the cover plate be painted to match the ceiling?

The cover plate should only be painted at the factory. On-site painting can block the heat-sensitive mechanism and delay activation. If a custom finish is needed, EMACO provides factory-coated plates in various colors and textures to ensure both safety and aesthetic consistency.

Are concealed sprinklers suitable for all ceiling types?

They work well with most indoor ceiling materials, including gypsum board, plaster, and acoustic tiles. What matters is that the ceiling allows proper recess installation and maintains the recommended clearance around the plate. For specialty ceilings or unusual installations, a quick compatibility review is recommended.

What happens after a concealed sprinkler activates?

Once activated, the sprinkler head discharges water like a standard pendant sprinkler. After the incident, both the sprinkler head and cover plate are replaced. The surrounding piping system is inspected for pressure integrity, and the ceiling opening is restored. This ensures the system returns to full operational readiness.

How often should concealed sprinklers be inspected?

Routine visual checks should be done monthly to ensure the cover plate is secure and unobstructed. Full system testing follows local fire protection standards, often annually. Regular inspection ensures that temperature ratings, plate alignment, and mechanical components remain in optimal condition for rapid activation if a fire occurs.

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