Water Mist

Specifications

1. Technology and Operation
   • Fine Water Droplets: Water mist systems use ultra-fine water droplets with a size range from 10 to 150 microns, which increases the surface area of the water, leading to better heat absorption and faster cooling.
   • Misting Nozzles: Specialized nozzles are used to create the fine mist. These nozzles have precise flow controls to ensure the correct amount of water is dispersed evenly across the affected area.
   • Atomization: Water is pressurized and then atomized into fine droplets through the misting nozzle, creating a vapor-like effect that is highly effective in cooling and suppressing fires.
   • Reduced Water Usage: Compared to traditional sprinklers, water mist systems use up to 90% less water, reducing water damage and minimizing operational disruption.
2. Fire Suppression Efficiency
   • Heat Absorption: Water mist works by absorbing heat from the fire, lowering the temperature quickly and preventing fire spread. The mist droplets also help reduce the oxygen concentration around the fire.
   • Cooling Effect: The fine mist creates a cooling effect that brings the fire temperature down rapidly, extinguishing or controlling fires at an early stage.
   • Oxygen Displacement: The mist droplets create a barrier that limits oxygen availability to the fire, contributing to its suppression and eventual extinguishing.
   • Fire Classes: Water mist systems can effectively combat multiple classes of fires, including Class A (solid materials like wood and paper), Class B (flammable liquids), and Class C (electrical fires), making it versatile for different applications.
3. System Design and Components
   • Pump Unit: A high-pressure pump is used to pressurize the water to create the mist. This pump is typically rated for high pressures, often up to 1000 bar (15,000 psi), depending on the system requirements.
   • Control Panel: The control panel monitors the water mist system, detecting fire conditions and activating the pump and nozzles as needed. It is typically integrated into the building’s fire alarm and safety system.
   • Piping and Distribution: Stainless steel pipes are used to transport pressurized water to the nozzles. The distribution network is designed to cover the entire area, ensuring even and efficient mist delivery.
   • Nozzles: Specially designed nozzles create uniform water mist in specific patterns. The selection of nozzle types (e.g., low-flow, high-flow, ceiling-mounted) depends on the area to be protected and the fire risk classification.
4. Applications
   • Data Centers: Water mist systems are ideal for data centers and other environments housing sensitive electronic equipment, as they offer fire suppression with minimal water damage.
   • Industrial Plants: Protects high-risk industrial environments, including areas with flammable materials, machinery, and hazardous chemicals.
   • Museums and Archives: Due to their low water usage and effectiveness, water mist systems are used to protect museum collections, art galleries, and libraries without risking damage to artifacts.
   • Marine Vessels: Water mist systems are used on ships and offshore platforms to protect crew and assets against fire hazards in confined spaces.
   • Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities: Water mist is often used in hospitals to protect critical areas where fire suppression with minimal water damage is crucial.
   • Oil & Gas Industry: Water mist systems protect offshore rigs, refineries, and other petroleum-related facilities from fire risks associated with flammable gases and liquids.
5. Advantages
   • Environmental Benefits: Water mist systems use less water than traditional sprinklers, which reduces water wastage and environmental impact.
   • Minimal Water Damage: The fine mist produces minimal water accumulation compared to conventional sprinkler systems, which means less damage to equipment and infrastructure during a fire emergency.
   • Effective in Confined Spaces: The fine mist is ideal for confined spaces like server rooms, electrical rooms, and laboratories, where traditional sprinklers might cause excessive damage.
   • Low Maintenance: Water mist systems require minimal maintenance, with periodic inspections to ensure nozzle performance, pump pressure, and system functionality.
   • Reduced Installation Costs: Since water mist systems use less water, they require smaller piping and fewer nozzles, leading to lower installation and maintenance costs.
6. Compliance and Standards
   • NFPA 750: Water mist systems are designed according to NFPA 750 standards, which cover the installation and performance requirements for water mist fire suppression systems.
   • FM Global Approval: Many water mist systems are approved by FM Global, ensuring compliance with fire protection standards and ensuring their reliability in protecting property.
   • UL Listed: Some water mist systems are UL Listed, providing a certification of quality and compliance with fire safety standards.
   • CE Marked: Water mist systems designed for the European market are often CE marked, ensuring they meet the safety, health, and environmental protection standards required by the European Union.
7. Maintenance and Testing
   • Routine Inspections: Regular inspections are required to check nozzle functionality, water flow, and pump pressure to ensure proper system operation.
   • Functional Testing: Periodic testing of the system’s activation mechanisms, including nozzle spray patterns and pressure performance, ensures that the system will work in an emergency.
   • System Flushes: Periodic system flushes are necessary to remove any blockages in the piping or nozzles to maintain proper water mist dispersion.