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EN 12845, NFPA 13

K-factor

Discharge coefficient that links flow (Q) and pressure (P) at a sprinkler head: Q = K·√P.

Definition

Common K-factors include K57 (K4.0) for residential, K80 (K5.6) for OH1 commercial, K115 (K8.0) for OH2/OH3, K161 (K11.2) for HHP, and K360 (K25.2) for ESFR. Units differ by region — metric uses L/min/bar^0.5, imperial uses gpm/psi^0.5. Picking the right K-factor is the first hydraulic decision: a too-low K forces excessive pump pressure; too high reduces coverage flexibility.

Referenced in

  • EN 12845
  • NFPA 13

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