#369 – Replacement Fire Sprinkler Escutcheons: Finding the Right Model

Get the correct fire sprinkler escutcheon ring to fill in the gap

Fire sprinkler escutcheons fill the gaps between sprinklers and the ceilings or walls they protrude from. And their purpose isn’t just cosmetic.

Fire sprinklers activate based on the ambient temperature. If hot air can rise through the gap, heat won’t accumulate as quickly around the heat-sensitive element—and the sprinkler might not activate on time. By filling the holes, escutcheons ensure that sprinklers work as intended.

Fire sprinklers need the right escutcheon—any old model won’t do. Organizations like UL and FM Global “list”—safety test and approve—particular sprinkler-and-escutcheon combinations. NFPA 13: Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems (2019 edition) also specifies that a “sprinkler assembly” should be listed:

7.2.6 Escutcheons and Cover Plates.

7.2.6.1 Plates, escutcheons, or other devices used to cover the annular space around a sprinkler shall be metallic or shall be listed for use around a sprinkler.

7.2.6.2* Escutcheons used with recessed, flush-type, or concealed sprinklers shall be part of a listed sprinkler assembly.

A.7.6.2 The use of the wrong type of escutcheon with recessed or flush type sprinklers can result in severe disruption of the spray pattern, which can destroy the effectiveness of the sprinkler.

A “sprinkler assembly” includes the sprinkler and any cover plate or escutcheon installed with it. Only sprinklers, escutcheons, and cover plates made by the same manufacturer can be listed for use with one another. Thus, it’s important to use listed sprinkler assemblies and follow manufacturer installation instructions.

Whether you’re replacing an old escutcheon or installing a new sprinkler system, it’s vital to get the right model.

But with potentially hundreds of different models on the market, finding the correct fit can seem complicated. In this article, we explain how to do it, using only the information provided on a sprinkler head.

How to match an escutcheon to a fire sprinkler

Fortunately, there isn’t only one escutcheon for every sprinkler. Sprinkler manufacturers produce a handful of escutcheon types, and one kind of escutcheon often works (and is listed) for many different sprinklers. It’s simple to determine which one you need for your particular sprinkler. Follow these general steps:

  • Match the sprinkler model to an escutcheon model
  • Pick the escutcheon model that meets the installation needs
  • Pick the escutcheon that matches the sprinkler thread size

Matching the sprinkler model to an escutcheon model

The first step in finding the right escutcheon is knowing what sprinkler you have. That means knowing who manufactured it and its exact model. Start with the “SIN.”

Manufacturers assign a sprinkler identification number (SIN) to every sprinkler with a particular size, shape, and fabrication—though, when the response temperature or finish changes, the SIN stays the same. The SIN is stamped right on the sprinkler deflector, alongside other information.

Fire sprinkler deflector diagram
A fire sprinkler’s deflector is stamped with useful information, such as the SIN and the response type, that can help you find a replacement sprinkler or escutcheon.

Sprinkler SINs begin with an alphabetic prefix of 1 or 2 letters, indicating the manufacturer. For example, “VK” is for Viking, “V” is for Victaulic, and “TY” is for Tyco. You may encounter sprinkler without a SIN; these are typically produced by
manufacturers that aren’t in business anymore. If you have older sprinklers, read these tips for identifying them. Otherwise, counterfeit sprinklers may lack a SIN, or the SIN may be incorrect.

Knowing the SIN can help you find an approved escutcheon if you have access to the sprinkler’s technical data sheet (TDS). You can also find the right escutcheon without the TDS, however. Manufacturers often divide their sprinkler catalog into models with similar features, and certain sprinkler models are compatible with specific escutcheon models. Match your sprinkler to the same escutcheon model.

Find the escutcheon model that meets the installation needs

Narrowing escutcheons down to a model still leaves options. Within one model, there might be several sub-categories. For example, Viking’s NP model is divided into NP-1, NP-2, and NP-3 escutcheons.

To thin out the list of possibilities, figure out which installation requirements the escutcheon needs to meet. These can include:

  • Range of adjustment
  • Installation method (thread-on vs. slip-on)
  • Outer-cup diameter
  • Construction and finish (important for corrosion resistance)

It may be necessary to consult the technical data sheet to determine which model fits your particular needs. For example, Viking’s XT1 sprinklers generally work with any NP escutcheon. But the sprinkler’s TDS specifies that XT1
sprinklers with Viking’s ENT finish can only use NP-1 escutcheons or standard flat escutcheons.

Note that manufacturers may have “standard” flat escutcheons that are approved for most or all of their sprinklers, as long as they fit. In this article, we’ll confine ourselves to recessed or adjustable escutcheons that have specific approvals.

It’s also easy to pick the right category of sprinkler for the application when you know what features your escutcheon needs.

Find an escutcheon with the right NPT size

The final step in picking an escutcheon is getting the size right. Escutcheon holes are sized to fit around the threads of the sprinkler head, and they are sold based on national pipe thread (NPT) measurements. A 1/2” escutcheon doesn’t have a 1/2″ hole. Instead, it works with a 1/2” NPT sprinkler head.

Now, we’ll specifically explain how to get the right escutcheon for sprinklers made by three major manufacturers: Viking, Victaulic, and Tyco.

Viking replacement escutcheons
Viking’s escutcheon catalog is simple to understand. For Model M or Freedom sprinklers, choose a model E or G escutcheon. For XT1 sprinklers, get a model NP escutcheon. Shop Viking escutcheons online.

Finding the right Viking replacement fire sprinkler escutcheons

Viking has three main models of sprinklers that need escutcheons and only a handful of escutcheon models—so, finding the right Viking escutcheon is straightforward.

Viking’s core sprinkler models are Model M, Freedom, and XT1. You can determine which model you have by looking at the SIN number or by checking the features of the sprinkler. The features of each are summarized here:

Model M XT1 Freedom
Viking’s mainstay prior to the XT1 The “Next generation of fire sprinklers” Residential sprinklers
Standard (Micromatic) or quick-response (Microfast) Standard or quick response, small size, stainless steel deflectors SINs: 3 digits, 400s
SINs: 3 digits, 100s to 300s, a few 500s, 600s SINs: 4 digits, 1000s to 3000s Works with: E escutcheons
Works with E and G escutcheons Works with NP escutcheons

 

Viking’s XT1 sprinklers work exclusively with the NP-line of escutcheons. NP-model escutcheons are further subdivided into NP-1, NP-2, and NP-3.

NP-1 escutcheons can be purchased with stainless steel construction and have the largest adjustment range. NP-2 and NP-3 escutcheons come only in cold-rolled steel and have smaller adjustment ranges. However, they allow sprinkler heads to be
recessed or extend slightly beyond flush.

Specs NP-1 NP-2 NP-3
Construction Cold-rolled steel or stainless steel Cold-rolled steel Cold-rolled steel
Diameter of outer cup 3 1/16” 3 1/8” 5 1/8”
Adjustment Flush to 5/8” recessed 11/32” past flush to 1/2” recessed 11/32” past flush to 1/2″ recessed
Installation Slip-on Thread-on Thread-on
Thread size (NPT) 1/2″, 3/4″ NPT 1/2″, 3/4” NPT 1/2″, 3/4″ NPT
Finishes Bright brass, polished chrome, polyester white, polyester black Polished chrome, polyester white Polished chrome, polyester white

 

Viking’s E and G escutcheons work with their Model M and Freedom sprinklers. E-1, E-2, and E-3 escutcheons have the same construction and adjustment specifications as the corresponding NP escutcheons. Model G-1 escutcheons are designed for sprinklers installed on sloped ceilings and allow for angular adjustment to match the angle of the ceiling.

Specs E-1 E-2 E-3 G-1
Construction Cold-rolled steel or stainless steel Cold-rolled steel Cold-rolled steel Cold-rolled steel
Diameter of outer cup 3 1/16” 3 1/8” 5 1/8” 4”
Adjustment Flush to 5/8” recessed 11/32” past flush to 1/2″ recessed 11/32” past flush to 1/2″ recessed Angular adjustment up to 5/8”; for sloped ceilings
Installation Slip-on Thread-on Thread-on Slip-on
Thread size (NPT) 3/8”, 1/2″, 3/4” NPT 1/2”, 3/4″ NPT 1/2″, 3/4″ NPT 1/2″, 3/4″ NPT
Finishes Bright brass, polished chrome, white polyester, black polyester, ENT, custom Polished chrome, polyester white, custom Polished chrome, polyester white, custom Bright brass, polished chrome, polyester white, polyester black, custom

Check out our previous blog for more information about Viking’s escutcheons and their selection of commercial sprinklers, or browse our selection of Viking E-1, E-2, E-3, G-1, and NP-1 escutcheons. If you don’t see the model or finish you need, contact us and we’ll help you get it!

tyco replacement fire sprinkler escutcheons
Tyco’s Style 10 and Style 20 (shown above) are likely choices for most Tyco 3/4″ NPT sprinklers. Shop them both at QRFS.

Finding the right Tyco escutcheon

Tyco has an extensive catalog of fire sprinklers, but getting the right escutcheon for your sprinkler is still pretty simple.

Start with the sprinkler model. You can determine which model you have by looking up the SIN in Tyco’s catalog. Alternatively, you can simply look at the sprinkler’s characteristics. The names summarize their features: “B” indicates a bulb sprinkler, “L” indicates a link sprinkler, and “FR” indicates a quick response sprinkler. If you have a quick-response fusible link Tyco sprinkler, its model is “TY-FRL.”

The Tyco sprinkler models and the escutcheons they use are summarized here:

TY-B TY-FRB TY-L TY-FRL
Bulb Bulb Link Link
Standard Response Quick Response Standard Response Quick Response
Uses Style 10, Style 40 (TY325 uses 15 and 20, TY3351 uses 10) Uses Styles 10, 20, 30, 40 (TY3331 uses 10 and 20, TY323 uses 15 and 20) Uses Styles 20 and 30 (TY3311 cannot be recessed) Uses Style 20 (TY3321, TY3322, and TY4322 cannot be recessed)

Tyco groups its escutcheons into Style 10, 15, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 70 (with these last two serving only niche purposes). Each sprinkler model can use more than one escutcheon model. This can seem confusing, but each escutcheon model only works with one sprinkler size. For instance, Style 20 only fits 1/2″ NPT sprinklers. Narrow down the selection based on the NPT size and the range of adjustment needed, where applicable.

Specs Style 10 Style 15 Style 20 Style 30 Style 40
Construction Carbon steel or stainless steel Carbon steel or stainless steel Carbon steel or stainless steel Carbon steel or stainless steel Carbon steel or stainless steel
Diameter of outer cup 2 7/8” 2 7/8” 2 7/8” 2 7/8” 2 7/8”
Adjustment Flush to 3/4″ recessed Flush to 5/8” recessed Flush to 1/2″ recessed Flush to 1/2” recessed Flush to 3/4” recessed
Thread size (NPT) 1/2″ NPT 1/2″ NPT 1/2” NPT 3/4″ NPT 3/4″ NPT
Finishes Brass-plated, pure white, signal white, set black, chrome-plated Brass-plated, pure white, signal white, set black, chrome-plated Brass-plated, pure white, signal white, set black, chrome-plated Brass-plated, pure white, signal white, set black, chrome-plated Brass-plated, pure white, signal white, set black, chrome-plated

 

Check out our blog for more information about Tyco escutcheons and an overview of their commercial sprinkler line, or browse our selection of Tyco’s most useful escutcheons—Style 10 and Style 20. If you need another model or a different finish, contact us and our support team will help you get it!

Victaulic replacement fire sprinkler escutcheons
Getting the right Victaulic escutcheon is easy. The first three digits of the sprinkler’s SIN indicate the escutcheon model needed. V2702 gets a V27 escutcheon—easy as that. Shop Victaulic V27 escutcheons at QRFS.

Finding the right Victaulic escutcheon

Victaulic has one of the most user-friendly catalogs around. The company has a straightforward selection of sprinklers that makes it easy to get what you need, and that’s doubly true with escutcheons. Victaulic has three main models—V24, V27, and V34. Finding an escutcheon that works with a sprinkler is easy—just match the first three letters of the sprinkler SIN to the escutcheon model. Sprinkler V2705 can use any V27 escutcheon. Sprinkler V3406 can use any V34 escutcheon.

Victaulic’s escutcheon models come in two varieties: recessed and flush. The recessed varieties have two options for adjustment range: 1/2″ or 3/4″. The specs of the V24, V27, and V34 escutcheons are shown below:

Specs V24 Recessed V27 Recessed V27 Flush V34 Recessed V34 Flush
Construction Cold-rolled steel, brass, or stainless steel Cold-rolled steel, brass, or stainless steel Cold-rolled steel, brass, or stainless steel Cold-rolled steel, brass, or stainless steel Cold-rolled steel, brass, or stainless steel
Diameter of outer cup 2 7/8” 2 7/8” 2 13/16” 2 7/8” 2 13/16”
Adjustment Flush to 1/2” or 3/4″ recessed Flush to 1/2” or 3/4″ recessed N/A Flush to 1/2” or 3/4″ recessed N/A
Thread size 3/4″ NPT 1/2″ NPT 1/2″ NPT 3/4” NPT 3/4″ NPT
Finishes Chrome, white polyester, custom Chrome, white polyester, custom Chrome, white polyester, custom Chrome, white polyester, custom Chrome, white polyester, custom

 

Check out our blog for more information about Victaulic escutcheons and commercial fire sprinklers or browse our selection of Victaulic’s V27 escutcheons. If you need another model or a finish we don’t show online, contact us and our customer support team will help you get it!

A fire sprinkler escutcheon covers the gap and ensures sprinklers activate—make sure you get the right one

Escutcheons ensure that fire sprinklers work as intended by filling the gap between the wall or ceiling and the sprinkler. If heat could rise through that hole, sprinklers might not activate in time. Thus, it’s essential to choose the
correct escutcheon.

We’ve outlined how the core sprinkler models of three major manufacturers—Viking, Tyco, and Victaulic—work with their escutcheons. Check sprinkler technical datasheets for more information about specific approvals.

QRFS stocks a wide range of Viking, Tyco, and Victaulic escutcheons. If you don’t see the specific model or finish you need below, contact us, and our customer service team will help you find it.

Viking E1 Chrome Viking Model E-1 Recessed Escutcheon | 1/2″Sprinkler | Chrome
Viking E1 Black Viking Model E-1 Recessed Escutcheon | 1/2″Sprinkler | Black
Viking E-1 White Viking Model E-1 Recessed Escutcheon | 1/2″Sprinkler | White
Viking E2 Threaded Viking Model E-2Threaded Recessed Escutcheon | 1/2″Sprinkler | Chrome
Viking E-2 White Viking Model E-2Threaded Recessed Escutcheon | 1/2″Sprinkler | White
Viking E-3 Chrome Escutcheon Viking Model E-3 Threaded Recessed Escutcheon | 1/2″Sprinkler | Chrome
Viking E-3 White Viking Model E-3 Threaded Recessed Escutcheon | 1/2″Sprinkler | White
Viking F1 Obsolete Chrome Viking Model F-1 Recessed Escutcheon | 1/2″Sprinkler | Chrome
Viking F-1 White (Obsolete) Viking Model F-1 Recessed Escutcheon | 1/2″Sprinkler | White
Vikign G-1 Chrome Vaulted Ceiling Viking Model G-1Vaulted and Sloped Ceiling Escutcheon | 1/2″Sprinkler | Chrome
Viking G-1 Vaulted Ceiling Escutcheon Viking Model G-1Vaulted and Sloped Ceiling Escutcheon | 1/2″Sprinkler | White
Viking NP-1 Chrome Escutcheon Viking Model NP-1 Recessed Escutcheon | 1/2″Sprinkler | Chrome
Viking NP-1 White Escutcheon Viking Model NP-1 Recessed Escutcheon | 1/2″Sprinkler | White
Tyco Style 10 Chrome Tyco Style 10 Recessed Escutcheon | 1/2″Sprinkler | Chrome
Tyco Style 10 White Tyco Style 10 Recessed Escutcheon | 1/2″Sprinkler | White
Tyco Style 20 Chrome Escutcheon Tyco Style 20 Recessed Escutcheon | 1/2″Sprinkler | Chrome
Tyco Style 20 White Tyco Style 20 Recessed Escutcheon | 1/2″Sprinkler | White
Victaulic V27 Chrome Victaulic V27 Recessed Escutcheon | 1/2″Sprinkler | Chrome
Victaulic V27 White Victaulic V27 Recessed Escutcheon | 1/2″Sprinkler | White

This blog was originally posted at blog.qrfs.com. If this article helped you, check us out at Facebook.com/QuickResponseFireSupply or on Twitter @QuickResponseFS.

 

6 thoughts on “#369 – Replacement Fire Sprinkler Escutcheons: Finding the Right Model”

  1. I would like to request for quotation on your Stainless Steel 304 Escutcheon Plate fire Sprinkler

    5000pcs – two piece escutcheon plate for Pendent – 1/2″
    5000pcs – one piece escutcheon plate for sidewall – 1/2″
    5000pcs – one piece escutcheon plate for sidewall – 3/4″

    Your immediate response is highly appreciated.

    Thank you

    Reply
    • Gregg — I will forward this to our QRFS customer service team, and you can also email them at mailto: support@qrfs.com. We’d need to know a little bit more about your request, however. Can you expand on it a bit, including what you mean by catalogs and who you represent? Thanks!

      Reply

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