Gaseous Suppression Systems

Specifications

1. Types of Gaseous Suppression Systems
   • Inert Gas Suppression Systems: These systems use natural gases like argon, nitrogen, and mixtures like Inergen (IG-541) and argon-based systems. Inert gases suppress fires by reducing the oxygen concentration in the protected area to a point where combustion is no longer possible.
     • Common Inert Gas Agents: IG-541, IG-100, IG-55, Nitrogen, CO2.
   • Clean Agent Suppression Systems: These systems use synthetic chemical agents that do not deplete the ozone layer or leave residue, making them ideal for areas with high-value assets and electronic equipment.
     • Common Clean Agents: FM-200, Novec 1230, HFC-227ea, Halon Replacement Agents.
2. Operating Principle
   • Oxygen Reduction (Inert Gases): Inert gas systems lower the oxygen level in the protected space to about 12-14%. This oxygen depletion suffocates the fire without harming electrical or sensitive equipment.
   • Chemical Interruption (Clean Agents): Clean agents suppress fires by disrupting the chemical reaction in the fire triangle, preventing the fire from spreading without affecting the oxygen level, making it safe for occupied spaces.
   • Total Flooding: Both types of systems are generally total flooding systems, where the gas or agent is released throughout the entire protected area, ensuring comprehensive fire suppression.
3. Activation and Control
   • Automatic Fire Detection: The system is integrated with fire detection devices, such as smoke detectors, heat detectors, or flame detectors. These sensors automatically trigger the release of the suppression agent when a fire is detected.
   • Manual Activation: In addition to automatic detection, gaseous suppression systems feature manual release controls, allowing for human intervention in case of system malfunction or false alarms.
   • Deluge and Solenoid Valves: A deluge valve or solenoid valve is used to release the agent into the area once a fire has been detected. These valves ensure that the release happens quickly and efficiently.
4. System Components
   • Agent Cylinders: The suppression agent is stored in high-pressure cylinders or tank banks, with varying capacities depending on the protected area’s size. For large areas, multiple cylinders may be required to ensure adequate agent supply.
   • Piping and Distribution Network: The agent is distributed via pipes and nozzles. The piping network should be designed to cover the protected area evenly, ensuring that the gas is released in sufficient quantities throughout the space.
   • Nozzles: Discharge nozzles are strategically placed to ensure that the gaseous agent reaches every part of the protected area. Nozzles may have adjustable settings to optimize agent dispersion.
   • Control Panel: The system is managed through a control panel, which integrates fire detection, agent release, alarms, and system monitoring. The control panel offers real-time data about system status, maintenance needs, and alarm notifications.
5. Design and Coverage Area
   • Coverage Area: Gaseous suppression systems are customizable based on the size and nature of the protected area. They can be designed for areas as small as 10m³ to large industrial spaces exceeding 1,000m³.
   • Sealed Environments: For optimal performance, the protected area should be adequately sealed to prevent the escape of the suppression agent, ensuring that the fire is suffocated before it can spread.
   • Room and Space Design: The design takes into account factors such as the volume of the space, fire load, and the sensitivity of equipment, ensuring that the suppression system meets the specific needs of the area.
6. Environmental and Safety Considerations
   • Eco-Friendly Agents: Gaseous suppression systems use agents like FM-200 and Novec 1230, which have low global warming potential (GWP) and do not deplete the ozone layer, making them environmentally responsible choices for fire suppression.
   • Human Safety: Systems using inert gases are designed for unoccupied spaces due to the oxygen reduction, while clean agent systems are safe for use in occupied environments as they do not significantly affect the oxygen levels.
   • Compliance: Gaseous suppression systems must comply with various standards and regulations, including NFPA 2001 (Standard on Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems), ISO 14520, and EN 15004 for system design, installation, and maintenance.
7. Maintenance and Testing
   • Routine Inspections: Gaseous suppression systems require regular inspections to ensure proper operation. Components such as cylinders, pipes, valves, and nozzles should be checked for integrity and functionality.
   • Agent Recharging: After a system discharge, agents must be replenished. The system should be recharged quickly to restore its protective capability.
   • Pressure Tests: Pressure testing of cylinders and piping is necessary to ensure the system can withstand operational conditions and maintain agent storage.
   • Calibration of Sensors: The fire detection sensors should be regularly calibrated to ensure fast and accurate detection, triggering an effective suppression response.