What component of a sprinkler system activates the water supply when exposed to heat?

The component of a sprinkler system that activates the water supply when exposed to heat is the sprinkler head. Sprinkler heads are equipped with specific mechanisms, often a glass bulb or a fusible link, that respond to heat. When a fire produces enough heat, the glass bulb shatters, or the fusible link melts, triggering the release of water from the sprinkler system.

The function of the sprinkler head is crucial, as it is the very element that detects fire conditions and initiates the sprinkler's action to control or extinguish the fire. This activation allows for immediate water discharge, aiming to mitigate the effects of fire by cooling the flames and preventing the spread of heat and smoke.

Understanding the role of the sprinkler head is essential for evaluating the effectiveness of a sprinkler system in protecting life and property, making it critical for anyone involved in fire protection and safety measures.