Which ventilation system is common in hangar fire suppression?

The choice of a closed head water only overhead sprinkler system is commonly utilized in hangar fire suppression due to its effectiveness in controlling and extinguishing fires in large, open spaces such as aircraft hangars. This system works by discharging water directly onto the fire from the overhead sprinklers only when heat is detected, which allows for targeted suppression.

The closed head design helps to minimize water damage by preventing water from being released over unoccupied areas, making it a more efficient choice in environments where water damage can be a significant concern. Since hangars can contain highly flammable materials, including aviation fuel and various chemicals, a reliable and rapid-response fire suppression system is critical.

Other systems, like natural ventilation or high-velocity air ducts, do not provide the direct and immediate fire-fighting capacity that a closed head sprinkler system does. Open head air circulation systems also lack the focused suppression approach needed in the event of a fire. Therefore, the closed head water only overhead sprinkler system is favored in hangars for its ability to provide effective and focused fire suppression while minimizing collateral damage.