Product Advisory – IFSA Warns of Counterfeit Marking on Fire Sprinklers

Green Bay, Wisconsin – July 24, 2025: The International Fire Suppression Alliance (IFSA) is issuing a product advisory regarding reports of counterfeit Early Suppression Fast Response (ESFR) fire sprinklers circulating in the Brazilian market. These sprinklers, falsely marked with Tyco branding and FM certification markings, were never manufactured or approved by Tyco.

FM previously released product alerts in 2023 identifying counterfeit TY9223 and TY7226 sprinkler models bearing fake logos and unauthorized certification marks:

https://www.fmapprovals.com/Resources/product-alerts/tyco-auto-fire-sprinklers-brazil

https://www.fmapprovals.com/Resources/product-alerts/tyco-ty9223-automatic-fire-sprinklers-counterfeit

Figure 1 shows a profile view of an authentic Tyco TY9223 next to a counterfeit sprinkler. The sprinklers appear very similar, and the most noticeable difference is the color and shape of the orifice cap (the part indicated by the yellow arrows). The cap assembly in the authentic sprinkler consists of a copper cap with a stainless-steel insert, whereas the cap in the counterfeit appears to be solid brass. The counterfeit also includes a bent wire installed through a groove in the cap (typically known as an ejection spring or kick spring). Authentic TY9223 sprinklers do not use an ejection spring. The white paint on the frame arms of the authentic example indicates the intermediate temperature classification of this example. Authentic TY9223 sprinklers may also come without painted frame arms in the ordinary temperature range.

Figure 1 – Authentic and counterfeit comparison of 360 K-factor ESFR

The inlet side of the orifice cap in the authentic TY9223 (left) is domed and made of copper, while the counterfeit (right) has a flat profile and appears to be brass. The PTFE-lined spring washer type seal is visible around the outside of the cap in the authentic sprinkler. The counterfeit sprinkler has no visible portion of the seal. These counterfeit sprinklers also feature O-ring style water seals. O-ring type seals are not used in any current FM approved sprinklers and have not been generally used since 2001, when the Consumer Product Safety Commission recalled some O-ring sprinklers after discovering that they failed to operate after a specific period in service. The deflectors of the authentic TY9223 and one of the counterfeit sprinklers. The stampings on the deflectors are nearly identical and in the same relative positions, but are quite a bit shallower on the counterfeit deflector. The deflector materials are different but look very similar to the eye. Because the authentic sprinkler is from a slightly older year of manufacture (2020), it does not have the FM marking; however, authentic versions from 2021 and newer do, and in the same relative position as the counterfeit deflector.

The Brazilian Sprinkler Association (ABSpk) is actively working to educate local contractors and building owners about the severe risks posed by counterfeit and noncertified fire protection system components. Legitimate ESFR fire sprinklers undergo rigorous testing to ensure they:

  • Activate reliably at the correct temperature.
  • Provide proper water distribution patterns.
  • Resist corrosion and mechanical damage over time.

Counterfeit sprinklers, by contrast, may:

  • Fail to activate during a fire.
  • Discharge at the wrong temperature.
  • Deliver insufficient water coverage.
  • Corrode prematurely, reducing lifespan and effectiveness.

A malfunctioning automatic sprinkler can turn a survivable fire into a deadly tragedy.

What Can Contractors and Building Owners Do?

  1. Source from reputable suppliers: Only purchase fire sprinklers from authorized distributors and manufacturers. Always verify credentials.
  2. Train your team: Ensure that installers, inspectors, and purchasing staff are aware of the signs of counterfeit products.
  3. Scrutinize shipments: Check for correct labeling, packaging, and documentation upon delivery.
  4. Report suspicious products: If something seems off, do not install it. Report concerns to the manufacturer, local authority having jurisdiction (AHJ), or certification bodies such as UL, FM, VdS, LPCB, or IFSA.
  5. Keep documentation: Retain purchase records to demonstrate sourcing diligence and support any future claims or investigations.

To support global awareness, IFSA has produced a multilingual video on this issue, available in English, Spanish, Portuguese, and Mandarin Chinese, accessible at ifsaglobal.org.

About the International Fire Suppression Alliance (IFSA)

The International Fire Suppression Alliance (IFSA) is a global nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the use of effective water-based fire protection systems to save lives and protect property. Through partnerships with manufacturers, insurers, code officials, fire service professionals, and regulators worldwide, IFSA promotes industry best practices, supports the development and adoption of standards, and delivers education and advocacy to enhance fire safety in all communities. Learn more at www.ifsaglobal.org.