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Sprinkler Fitting I

Developed in partnership with the industry experts at the American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA), Sprinkler Fitting I is an introductory course designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of sprinkler systems and their components.

Registration for Sprinkler Fitting I is closed and will reopen for the Fall 2024 Semester. 

Make sure to join the WMCI mailing list to be notified when this course opens!

A sprinkler fitting construction worker fixes a pipe on a commercial construction jobsite.

Course Description

This course covers topics important to Sprinkler Fitting including Steel Pipes, CPVC Pipes, and Copper Tubing.

 

Prerequisites: None

Course Details
Credentials Earned

instructor: Dan kee

Dan Kee - WMCI Sprinkler Fitting 1 Instructor

Senior Project Manager, Brigade Fire Protection

sprinkler fitting I Curriculum

Fall Semester modules

Basic Safety

Work at construction and industrial job sites can be hazardous. Most job-site incidents are caused by at-risk behavior, poor planning, lack of training, or failure to recognize the hazards. To help prevent incidents, every company must have a proactive safety program. Safety must be incorporated into all phases of the job and involve employees at every level, including management.

Introduction to Construction Math

Craft professionals rely on math to do their jobs accurately and efficiently. Plumbers calculate pipe lengths, plan drain slopes, and interpret dimensioned plans. Carpenters meet code requirements by using math to frame walls and ceilings properly. HVAC professionals develop ductwork and calculate airflow with practical geometry. Whichever craft lies in your future, math will play a role in it. This module reviews the math that you will need and sharpens the skills that you will be using in the exciting modules ahead.

Introduction to Hand Tools

Every profession has its tools. A surgeon uses a scalpel, an instructor uses a whiteboard, and an accountant uses a calculator. The construction crafts require a broad array of hand tools. Even if you are familiar with some of the tools, all craftworkers need to learn how to select, maintain, and use them safely. A quality hand tool may cost more up front, but if it is properly used and maintained, it will last for years. A true craft professional invests wisely in hand tools, and uses, maintains, and stores them with the same wisdom.

Introduction to Power Tools

Power tools play an important role in the construction industry. Thousands of construction workers across the world use power tools every day to make holes, cut different types of materials, smooth rough surfaces, and shape a variety of products. Regardless of their specialization, all construction workers eventually use power tools on their job. This module provides an overview of the common types of power tools and how they function. It also describes the proper techniques required to ensure their safe and efficient operation.

Introduction to Construction Drawings

Various types of construction drawings are used to represent actual components of a building project. The drawings provide specific information about the locations of the parts of a structure, the types of materials to be used, and the correct layout of the building. Knowing the purposes of the different types of drawings and interpreting the drawings correctly are important skills for anyone who works in the construction trades. This module introduces common types of construction drawings, their basic components, standard drawing elements, and measurement tools that are typically used when working with construction drawings.

Basic Communication Skills

The construction professional communicates constantly. The ability to communicate skillfully will help to make you a better worker and a more effective leader. This module provides guidance in listening to understand, and speaking with clarity. It explains how to use and understand written materials, and it also provides techniques and guidelines that will help you to improve your writing skills.

Basic Employability Skills

Becoming gainfully employed in the construction industry takes more preparation than simply filling out a job application. It is essential to understand how the construction industry and potential employers operate. Your trade skills are extremely important, but all employers are also looking for those who are eager to advance and demonstrate positive personal characteristics. This module discusses the skills needed to pursue employment successfully.

Introduction to Materials Handling

Lifting, stacking, transporting, and unloading materials such as brick, pipe, and various supplies are routine tasks on a job site. Whether performing these tasks manually or with the aid of specialized equipment, workers must follow basic safety guidelines to keep themselves and their co-workers safe. This module provides guidelines for using the appropriate PPE for the material being handled and using proper procedures and techniques to carry out the job.

spring semester modules

Occupational Overview: The Sprinkler Industry

Describes the basic types of sprinkler systems, the tools used to install them, and the codes and standards that apply to these systems. Covers the apprenticeship requirements for sprinkler fitters, employer and employee responsibilities, and career paths in the sprinkler industry.

Introduction to Components and Systems

Provides an overview of the four main types of sprinkler systems. Describes testing laboratories and Listing requirements. Covers sprinkler characteristics, including thermal response, spray pattern and coverage area, orientation, K-factors, and temperature ratings. Describes various types of piping, valves, and pumps.

Steel Pipe and Fittings

Describes the steel pipe used in sprinkler systems, including pipe types, schedules, and sizes. Covers common methods of end preparation, including cutting, reaming, grooving, and threading pipe. Describes various types of grooved, threaded, flanged, and plain-end fittings, along with the installation methods and applications of each type.

CPVC Pipe and Fittings

Covers the special type of chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) pipe and fittings used in sprinkler systems. Describes the procedures for cutting, beveling, cleaning, and joining CPVC pipe and fittings. Provides an overview of how to test the installed sprinkler system.

Copper Tubing and Fittings

Copper tubing and fittings are introduced along with cutting and bending tools. The soldering process is described, including techniques for measuring, cutting, reaming, and cleaning tubing. Brazing is described, as are brazing metals, fluxes, and brazing equipment. Also covers grooved couplings and compression connections.

Underground Pipe

Describes the installation of underground piping systems. Covers ductile iron and PVC piping and components, including risers, backflow preventer assemblies, hydrants, and restraints. Also covers trench safety requirements, backfilling, and testing.

Sprinkler fitting I registration form

Registration for Sprinkler Fitting I is now closed.

If you have any questions or would like to be placed on the waiting list please contact Student Services & Continuing Education Specialist Jordyn Willick at jwillick@wmcinstitute.com.