Chicago IFPA November Meeting
Solving the FPS Corrosion Triangle Through Proactive Design
Presented by South-Tek Systems
Brian Kaplon – Director of Commercial Sales, South-Tek Systems
Brian leads the national fire protection segment for South-Tek Systems, the industry leader in nitrogen generation technology. With over 15 years of experience in corrosion mitigation and engineered fire protection systems, Brian works closely with design engineers, contractors, and AHJs to deliver innovative nitrogen-based solutions that extend system life and improve reliability. He is a frequent technical presenter for AIA and ASPE continuing-education programs, focused on best practices in corrosion prevention and sustainable system design.
Brad Kempski – Fire Market Manager, Mid-Continent
Brad manages the Fire Protection Market for Mid-Continent, representing South-Tek Systems, Tigerflow, Watts Water Technologies, and other premier manufacturers across the Midwest. Based in Chicago, Brad collaborates with engineers, distributors, and contractors to provide turnkey product solutions for fire and plumbing systems. With a background in mechanical systems sales and field application support, he bridges the gap between design intent and real-world installation.
This AIA- and ASPE- accredited course explores corrosion as one of the most persistent and costly challenges in fire sprinkler systems. Participants will gain insight into the 'corrosion triangle'—the interaction of metal, oxygen, and water—and learn how to eliminate one leg of that triangle through proactive system design using nitrogen.
· Understand the fundamentals and causes of corrosion in dry, pre-action, and wet fire sprinkler systems.
· Examine NFPA and FM Global guidance on nitrogen integration.
· Compare nitrogen generation technologies (membrane vs. PSA) and evaluate design considerations for purity, purge systems, and monitoring.
· Review real-world case studies demonstrating ROI, maintenance savings, and long-term reliability improvements.
