A counterfeit version of the authentic Tyco TY3251 fire sprinkler has been identified.
The sprinkler bears the markings "TYCO" and "UL" on the wrench boss but the identity of the manufacturer is unknown. The product is similar in appearance to the Tyco Fire Products TY3251 sprinkler.
The counterfeit fire sprinkler was not manufactured or labeled by Tyco International, Inc. There is no evidence these products have ever been tested to the requirements of any testing and certification organization, including FM Approvals. As such, these automatic sprinklers cannot be relied upon to react to or control a fire.
The inlet of an authentic TY3251 sprinkler. The authentic version has a smooth finish on the protrusion as it was stamped rather than machined.
The counterfeit bulb seat is different in color and shape, and has visible tool marks from machining.
The deflector designation on the authentic Tyco sprinkler reads "SP"
The authentic TY3251 also carries the VdS marking, the nominal operating temperature in Fahrenheit "155F and the UL Listed and FM Appr.
The deflector designation on the counterfeit authentic sprinkler reads "SP"
The only temperature marking on the counterfeit sprinkler is in Celsius and the other counterfeit agency markings appear on the frame arms
The shape of the counterfeit sprinkler frame is quite different from the authentic version. Both bear the mark "TYCO" on the wrench boss, however the counterfeit sprinkler uses raised lettering while the authentic version is recessed.
Side views of the authentic TY3251 sprinkler and the counterfeit with FM approval marks.
The frame arms on the counterfeit sprinkler are ground smooth and do not have a stiffening ridge of material like the authentic sprinkler.
A counterfeit sprinkler has a counterfeit UL Listed marking is applied on the opposite side of the frame.
The counterfeit has not been evaluated by UL.
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