Which type of sprinkler head is designed to discharge water both upward and downward upon activation?

The type of sprinkler head designed to discharge water both upward and downward upon activation is the upright sprinkler head. This design allows for a wide dispersion of water to effectively control or extinguish a fire. The configuration of the upright sprinkler head is such that it is installed with the deflector pointed upwards, allowing it to capture water from the piping above and distribute it in a downward arc, while some water also flows upward to help cool hotter areas, promoting better fire suppression.

In contrast, the other types of sprinkler heads, like standard or concealed heads, do not have this unique feature of significant upward discharge. Standard sprinkler heads typically direct water downward into the space below and do not allow much upward discharge. Concealed sprinkler heads are designed to blend into the ceiling and release water downward only when activated. The old-style sprinkler head concept may refer to outdated designs or less efficient methods, but it does not specifically refer to a type that discharges both upward and downward. Thus, the upright sprinkler head is optimal for enhanced coverage and effective firefighting in high-risk areas.