February 7, 2013 Sprinkler 139g
MODEL VKFD28B
TECHNICAL DATA braided FLEXIBLE
SPRINKLER DROPS
The Viking Corporation, 210 N Industrial Park Drive, Hastings MI 49058
Telephone: 269-945-9501 Technical Services 877-384-5464 Fax: 269-818-1680 Email: techsvcs@vikingcorp.com
1. DESCRIPTION
Viking Flexible Sprinkler Drops are intended for installation into commercial suspended
ceilings with medium to heavy support tee bars as described in ASTM C635 and C636.
The hose assembly includes 28 mm diameter corrugated stainless steel flexible hose with
a braided stainless steel exterior. The hose assembly also includes an inlet nipple 1” NPT for
attachment to the sprinkler system branch piping, a special outlet reducer fitting with straight
or 90° angle for attachment of a ½” or ¾” NPT sprinkler. Also included is a support bar
and brackets, which secure the complete flex sprinkler drop assembly to a medium or
heavy duty commercial suspended ceiling support rail system.
The support bracket system (see Figure 4) locates and secures the sprinkler in the
required position within the ceiling system. Viking Flexible Sprinkler Drops are avail-
able in various lengths to minimize the number of installed bends and meet the mini-
Model VKFD28B Flexible
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Sprinkler Drop
mum material requirements of the installation. Available lengths are as follows: (Shown with a Viking Concealed Sprinkler)
39-3/8” and 59” assembly lengths and straight outlet fittings in ½” or ¾” NPT sprinkler
connections. Also available on special order are 90° angle outlet fittings, also available with ½” or ¾” NPT sprinkler connection (refer to
Table 1A on page 139i). Upon special request, Viking Flexible Sprinkler Drops can be manufactured to the following lengths: 27-9/16”,
47-3/16”, or 71”. Delivery times for special request items are extended; consult your Viking distributor for availability and delivery.
The unique assembly of the Viking Flexible Sprinkler Drop to the piping system and the outlet sprinkler fitting is made with a slip
nut and seal design that allows assembly after forming the flex hose to proper installation shape, and the inlet and outlet end con-
nections are securely in place. This prevents twisting of the flex sprinkler drop during installation and provides a secure leak-tight
assembly. Each assembly comes with suspended ceiling rail support brackets, both short and long. The short brackets are used
for typical pendent frame style sprinklers with flat or recessed escutcheons. Note: When using short brackets, the ceiling tile must
be installed before attaching the brackets to the ceiling’s main tee bar supports. Long brackets are used for typical concealed and
flush mounted sprinklers. The mounting bracket system and special outlet fittings provide a generous amount of adjustment both
laterally and vertically for flush and precise sprinkler installation. Note: The brackets must be attached to the ceiling’s main tee bar
supports, not to cross support rail members.
Viking Flexible Sprinkler Drops provide several installation or retrofit benefits compared to rigid sprinkler drops:
• More efficient manpower
• Improved performance and installation quality
• Precise and flush sprinkler location
• Flexible installation for seismic or vibrating applications
• Flexible installation for fast track construction projects
• Corrosion resistant materials
• Fewer tools required for installation
• 100% factory tested
• Meets NFPA, EN, and LPC guidelines
• Approved for use with suspended ceilings with medium- and heavy-duty load grids with Tee bar design per ASTM C635 and 636
2. LISTINGS AND APPROVALS
FM Approved: VKFD28B
Refer to Design Criteria on page 139m for FM Approval requirements that must be followed.
Also refer to specific sprinkler technical data pages for sprinkler listings and other technical information.
3. technical data Viking Technical Data may be found on
Specifications: The Viking Corporation’s Web site at
Available since 2009. http://www.vikinggroupinc.com.
The Web site may include a more recent
• Braided hose inner tube diameter: 28 mm outside diameter
edition of this Technical Data Page.
• Lengths available 27-9/16”, 39-3/8”, 47-3/16”, 59”, and 71”
• Inlet 1” NPT, male pipe threads.
Form No. F_032708 Replaces page 139g-m, dated December 6, 2012.
(Revised design criteria section.)
Sprinkler 139h February 7, 2013
MODEL VKFD28B
TECHNICAL DATA braided FLEXIBLE
SPRINKLER DROPS
The Viking Corporation, 210 N Industrial Park Drive, Hastings MI 49058
Telephone: 269-945-9501 Technical Services 877-384-5464 Fax: 269-818-1680 Email: techsvcs@vikingcorp.com
• Outlet reducer straight with 1/2” or 3/4” NPT, or 90° angle with 1/2” or 3/4” NPT (suitable for both NPT and BSPT), both styles
female thread. See Figures 1-3.
• Stainless Steel braided exterior, includes braid and corrugated tube of AISI 304 SST. Corrugated tube is polished and boron
treated and annealed after forming to insure relief of all material stresses and removal of all scale.
Maximum Working Pressure = 200 PSI (13.8 bar)
Refer to the sprinkler technical data page, as the temperature rating and maximum pressure rating of the
sprinkler may be different than the Flexible Sprinkler Drop.
• Test Pressure = 400 PSI (28 bar)
• Approved for wet and dry systems as noted in NFPA 13
• Maximum ambient temperature: 225 °F (107 °C) EPDM seal, 300 °F (149 °C) for FM
• Minimum bend radius: 12” (305 mm) for FM Approval
Material Standards:
Flexible Tube: AISI 304 Stainless Steel
Braid: AISI 304 Stainless Steel
Outlet Reducer (Straight or Angled): SPPS Steel with yellow zinc plating
Inlet Nipple: SPPS Steel with yellow zinc plating
Seal: EPDM
Slip Nut: C3771BC Brass
Support Brackets (all): SS41 Galvanized Steel
Support Bar: SS41 Galvanized Steel
Ordering Information: (Also refer to the current Viking price list.)
The Following Model VKFD28B Flexible Sprinkler Drops are Available as Stock Assemblies:
Part No. 14350-10: 1” NPT x 1/2” x 39-3/8” length, straight outlet, braided
Part No. 14350-15: 1” NPT x 1/2” x 59” length, straight outlet, braided
Part No. 14351-10: 1” NPT x 3/4” x 39-3/8” length, straight outlet, braided
Part No. 14351-15: 1” NPT x 3/4” x 59” length, straight outlet, braided
NOTE: Other flex drop assembly lengths are available upon special order.
Each Carton Includes (10) Complete Assemblies with the Following Components:
(10) Flexible hose assemblies, length 39-3/8” or 59”.
(10) Outlet fittings, straight as specified.
(10) Inlet fittings, 1” NPT as specified.
(10) Sprinkler outlet brackets, fixed.
(10) Rectangle nuts for sprinkler outlet bracket.
(12) M6 x 5/8” (15 mm) long wing bolts (for sprinkler outlet bracket).
(20) Short rail bracket packages, including short clips and clip supports.
(20) Long rail bracket packages, including long clips and clip supports.
(25) M6 x 3/4” (20 mm) long wing bolts (for rail brackets).
(10) 5/8” (16 mm) square x 25-9/16” (650 mm) long support bars.
(1) Set of Installation Instructions.
February 7, 2013 Sprinkler 139i
MODEL VKFD28B
TECHNICAL DATA braided FLEXIBLE
SPRINKLER DROPS
The Viking Corporation, 210 N Industrial Park Drive, Hastings MI 49058
Telephone: 269-945-9501 Technical Services 877-384-5464 Fax: 269-818-1680 Email: techsvcs@vikingcorp.com
Available to Order Separately: Optional 4” Bend Radius Gauge Tool Part No. 15450 (plastic)
table 1A: Kits Available to Convert to Angle Outlet
14384 1/2” x 28 mm hose 90° angle fitting kit (10) / package
14385 3/4” x 28 mm hose 90° angle fitting kit (10) / package
table 1B: Kits Available for Replacement Components
14382 1/2” x 28 mm hose straight outlet fitting kit (10) / package
14383 3/4” x 28 mm hose straight outlet fitting kit (10) / package
14397 25-9/16” (650 mm) lg support bar kit (10) / bundle
14398 49-3/16” (1,250 mm) lg support bar kit (10) / bundle
14387 Short rail bracket kit (20) / package
14388 Short rail clip kit (20) / package
14409 Short rail clip support (20) / package
14389 Long rail bracket kit (20) / package
14390 Long rail clip kit (20) / package
14408 Long rail clip support (20) / package
14400 Wing bolts outlet fitting M6 x 15 mm lg (12) per kit
14401 Wing bolts rail brackets M6 x 20 mm lg (25) per kit
14386 EPDM Seals for 28 mm hose assembly (20) / package
14411 Rectangle nut for sprinkler outlet bracket (12) / package
14378 Inlet Connection Nipple 1” NPT (1)
The Following Kits are Available to Convert to Angle Outlet, or for Replacement Components:
Note: These kits may be ordered in addition to the above offered stock assemblies for replacing the outlet fittings as required. A
49-3/16” (1,250 mm) long support bar is available when the main support beams are spaced at 4 ft. (1,219 mm). These must be
ordered separate from the standard Flexible Sprinkler Drop.
Hose Assembly Configurations of Standard Offering Include:
1. Braided 28 mm flex sprinkler hose.
2. Outlet fitting, straight.
3. Outlet size 1/2” or 3/4” NPT.
4. Inlet connection 1” NPT.
NOTE: Hose assemblies ordered from Viking only come with straight outlet as standard. Conversion to 90° angle outlet fitting can
be done by ordering the desired kit from Table 1A described above.
Sprinkler 139j February 7, 2013
MODEL VKFD28B
TECHNICAL DATA braided FLEXIBLE
SPRINKLER DROPS
The Viking Corporation, 210 N Industrial Park Drive, Hastings MI 49058
Telephone: 269-945-9501 Technical Services 877-384-5464 Fax: 269-818-1680 Email: techsvcs@vikingcorp.com
table 2A: Friction Loss Data FOR FM with 12” (305 mm) Minimum Bend Radius (1/2” OUTLET)
Part Outlet Hose Length Equivalent Length of FM Equivalent Length of FM Maximum Number of
Numbers Type with Fittings 1” Schedule 40 Pipe (ft.) 1” Schedule 40 Pipe (meters) 90° Bends Allowed
14350-10 1/2” Straight 39-3/8”* 18.2 ft 5.5 m 1
14350-15 or 90° Angle 59”* 27.1 ft 8.2 m 2
* Indicates standard Viking offering. Other hose lengths are available-contact Viking Technical Services at 877-384-5464 for friction loss data.
table 2B: Friction Loss Data FOR FM with 12” (305 mm) Minimum Bend Radius (3/4” OUTLET)
Part Outlet Hose Length Equivalent Length of FM Equivalent Length of FM Maximum Number of
Numbers Type with Fittings 1” Schedule 40 Pipe (ft.) 1” Schedule 40 Pipe (meters) 90° Bends Allowed
14351-10 3/4” Straight 39-3/8”* 15.5 ft 4.7 m 1
14351-15 or 90° Angle 59”* 24.8 ft 7.6 m 2
* Indicates standard Viking offering. Other hose lengths are available-contact Viking Technical Services at 877-384-5464 for friction loss data.
Friction Loss Data:
Figure 1: Straight Outlet Figure 2: Angle Outlet
February 7, 2013 Sprinkler 139k
MODEL VKFD28B
TECHNICAL DATA braided FLEXIBLE
SPRINKLER DROPS
The Viking Corporation, 210 N Industrial Park Drive, Hastings MI 49058
Telephone: 269-945-9501 Technical Services 877-384-5464 Fax: 269-818-1680 Email: techsvcs@vikingcorp.com
Figure 3
Straight outlet offered as standard.
90° angled outlet offered as special order.
Figure 4: Support System for Straight or Angle Outlet Fittings
Sprinkler 139l February 7, 2013
MODEL VKFD28B
TECHNICAL DATA braided FLEXIBLE
SPRINKLER DROPS
The Viking Corporation, 210 N Industrial Park Drive, Hastings MI 49058
Telephone: 269-945-9501 Technical Services 877-384-5464 Fax: 269-818-1680 Email: techsvcs@vikingcorp.com
4. Installation
Viking Flexible Sprinkler Drops are manufactured and tested to meet the latest rigid requirements of the approving agencies. They
are designed and tested to be installed in accordance with the Approved and Listed installation instructions as provided with the
product and the recognized installation standards. Deviations from these standards or any alterations to the support system or
sprinkler after leaving the factory including, but not limited to painting, plating, coating or modification may render the sprinkler
inoperative or the support system non-compliant, automatically nullifying the approvals and any guarantee made by The Viking
Corporation. The use of certain types of sprinklers may be limited due to occupancy and hazard. Refer to the Authority Having
Jurisdiction prior to installation.
For complete installation instructions for this product, please refer to the Viking Flex Drop Installation and Design Manual, Form
No. F_112107.
NOTE: Keep sprinklers with protective shields or caps contained within the shields or caps during installation and testing, and any
time the sprinkler is shipped or handled.
Remove plastic protective sprinkler caps or bulb shields AFTER the ceiling finish work is completed where the sprinkler
is installed and there no longer is a potential for mechanical damage to the sprinkler operating elements. To remove the
bulb shields, simply pull the ends of the shields apart where they are snapped together. To remove caps from frame style sprin-
klers, turn the caps slightly and pull them off the sprinklers. SPRINKLER CAPS OR BULB SHIELDS MUST BE REMOVED FROM
SPRINKLERS BEFORE PLACING THE SYSTEM IN SERVICE! Retain a protective cap or shield in the spare sprinkler cabinet.
For concealed style sprinklers, the cover plate assembly can now be installed onto the sprinkler.
a. Remove the cover from the protective box, taking care not to damage the cover plate assembly.
b. From below the ceiling, gently place the base of the cover plate assembly over the sprinkler protruding through the ceiling
opening.
c. Push the cover plate assembly onto the sprinkler until the unfinished brass flange of the cover plate base touches the ceiling.
d. Available cover plate adjustment is ½” (12.7 mm) +/- 1/4” (6.4 mm).
For frame style sprinklers with the Model E-1, E-2, or F-1 Escutcheon, press on or thread on the outer escutcheon cup until the
flanges touch the surface of the ceiling.
a. With the Model E-1 or E-2 Escutcheon, the maximum recess is ½” (12.7 mm). Note: The face of the escutcheon adapter may
extend up to 11/32” (8.7 mm) beyond the edge of the escutcheon cup, resulting in 27/32” (21.4 mm) total adjustment range.
If it is necessary to remove the entire sprinkler unit, the system must be taken out of service. See section 6. INSPECTIONS, TESTS
AND MAINTENANCE and follow all warnings and instructions.
5. Operation
Refer to the sprinkler technical data page for the sprinkler model used with the Flexible Sprinkler Drop.
6. inspections, tests and maintenance
NOTICE: The owner is responsible for maintaining the fire protection system and devices in proper operating condition. For mini-
mum maintenance and inspection requirements, refer to the latest edition of Viking technical data and the NFPA standard that
describes care and maintenance of sprinkler systems. The Authority Having Jurisdiction may have additional maintenance, testing,
and inspection requirements that must be followed.
A. Sprinklers must be inspected on a regular basis for corrosion, mechanical damage, obstructions, paint, etc. The frequency of
inspections may vary due to corrosive atmospheres, water supplies, and activity around the device.
B. Sprinklers that have been field painted or mechanically damaged must be replaced immediately. Sprinklers showing signs of
corrosion shall be tested and/or replaced immediately as required. Installation standards require sprinklers to be tested and, if
necessary, replaced after a specified term of service. Refer to the installation standards (e.g., NFPA 25) and the Authority Having
Jurisdiction for the specified period of time after which testing and/or replacement is required. Sprinklers that have operated
cannot be reassembled or re-used, but must be replaced. When replacement is necessary, use only new sprinklers.
C. The sprinkler discharge pattern is critical for proper fire protection. Therefore, nothing should be hung from, attached to, or
otherwise obstruct the discharge pattern. All obstructions must be immediately removed or, if necessary, additional sprinklers
installed.
D. When replacing existing sprinklers, the system must be removed from service. Refer to the appropriate system description and/
or valve instructions. Prior to removing the system from service, notify all Authorities Having Jurisdiction. Consideration should
be given to employment of a fire patrol in the affected area.
February 7, 2013 Sprinkler 139m
MODEL VKFD28B
TECHNICAL DATA braided FLEXIBLE
SPRINKLER DROPS
The Viking Corporation, 210 N Industrial Park Drive, Hastings MI 49058
Telephone: 269-945-9501 Technical Services 877-384-5464 Fax: 269-818-1680 Email: techsvcs@vikingcorp.com
1. Remove the system from service, drain all water, and relieve all pressure on the piping.
2. Using the special sprinkler wrench, remove the old sprinkler and install the new unit. Care must be taken to ensure that
the replacement sprinkler is the proper model and style, with the appropriate orifice size, temperature rating, and response
characteristics. A fully stocked spare sprinkler cabinet should be provided for this purpose.
3. Place the system back in service and secure all valves. Check for and repair all leaks.
E. Sprinkler systems that have been subjected to a fire must be returned to service as soon as possible. The entire system must
be inspected for damage, and repaired or replaced as necessary. Sprinklers that have been exposed to corrosive products of
combustion or high ambient temperatures, but have not operated, should be replaced. Refer to the Authority Having Jurisdiction
for minimum replacement requirements.
7. availability
Viking Flexible Sprinkler Drops are available through a network of domestic and international distributors. See The Viking
Corporation web site for the closest distributor or contact The Viking Corporation.
8. Guarantee
For details of warranty, refer to Viking’s current list price schedule or contact Viking directly.
DESIGN CRITERIA
FM Approval Requirements:
• Approved for use in ceilings with medium and heavy load grids (ASTM C635 and C636).
• Meets NFPA 13, NFPA 13D and NFPA 13R guidelines.
• Intended for use in wet or dry systems.
• In
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suspended ceiling, Viking Flexible Sprinkler Drops must be insalled in accordance with Viking Flex Drop Installation and Design
Manual, Form No. F_112107.
• In
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suspended ceilings, outlet reducer must be secured to the ceiling support system with brackets supplied.
Hydraulic calculations for NFPA systems must include the values in Tables 2A and 2B on page 139j using the maximum
number of bends that includes the inlet and outlet fittings as indicated. Authorities Having Jurisdiction will require proper
hydraulic calculations and inspect for proper bend radii and maximum quantity of bends as indicated in the tables. Note that
FM minimum bend radius is 12” (305 mm). Refer to the Viking Flex Drop Installation and Design Manual, Form No. F_112107,
for proper application and installation of Flex Sprinkler Drops.
NOTE: Refer to the specific sprinkler data page for the sprinkler model used with the Flexible Sprinkler Drop.
CAUTIONS:
• Minimum Inside Bend Radius: 12” (305 mm) for FM
• Maximum Sprinkler K-Factor: 5.6 U.S. (80 metric) for the 1/2” outlet, 14.0 U.S. (202 metric) for the 3/4” outlet
• Maximum Number of Bends per Hose: Refer to Tables 2A and 2B on page 139j.
• Repeated bending of one portion of the flexible tube before installation may cause breakage or loss of resisting pres-
sure.
• When using concealed sprinklers, they must be installed in neutral or negative pressure plenums only.
IMPORTANT: Always refer to Bulletin Form No. F_091699 - Care and Handling of Sprinklers. Also refer to the
appropriate sprinkler data page. ���������������������������������������������������������������
Viking sprinklers and Flexible Sprinkler Drops are designed to �������������
be installed
in accordance with the latest edition of Viking technical data, the latest standards of NFPA, FM Global, LPCB,
APSAD, VdS or other similar organizations, and also with the provisions of governmental codes, ordinances,
and standards whenever applicable. The use of certain types of sprinklers may be limited due to occupancy and
hazard. Refer to the Authority Having Jurisdiction prior to installation.
THIS PAGE
INTENTIONALLY
LEFT BLANK
Replaces page 139g-m, dated December 6, 2012.
Form No. F_032708
(Revised design criteria section.)
