Microbially Influenced Corrosion of Sprinkler Piping
Pipe failures resulting from microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC) have only recently been associated with failures in fire protection systems.
Pipe failures resulting from microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC) have been widely recognized in petrochemical, gas and nuclear power industries, but only recently has this phenomenon been associated with failures in fire protection systems (FPS). MIC results in mechanical blockages of piping and sprinkler heads, as well as through-wall penetration of ferrous and non-ferrous metals. FPS are designed for the life of the structures in which they reside; however, reports of new systems developing MIC-associated through-wall leaks within months of installation are becoming more prevalent.