Gaseous fire extinguishing systems or fire suppression systems offer extra peace of mind where buildings contain valuable or electrical equipment such as financial systems, computers, vital communication rooms, data storage or valuable archives, even antiques and art! If a fire is detected the gas is dischargedthrough valves throughout the protected space, extinguishing the fire and causing minimum damage to the contents of the room in seconds. The area must then be ventilated thoroughly and the cylinders refilled.
Clean agent systems provide electrical non-conductivity, minimal down-time to users following a fire and leave no residue, ensuring no clean-up and immediate business continuity.
FM-200 fire supression
This is the replacement option most similar in system design and function to Halon and the most common halocarbon for this use is FM200. Like Halon, FM200 is a liquefiable gas, stored in liquid form and only achieving its operating gas state when released at the dispersion point.
FM-200 systems are designed to detect and suppress fire at its earliest stage and extinguish in seconds through a chemical reaction so the oxygen level in the facility remains at a breathable level. FM-200 is absolutely safe for people and is approved in occupied areas, unlike Co2.
FM-200 requires a relatively limited volume of stored liquid, so is the preferred choice where space is limited.
Carbon Dioxide Gas Extinguishing (CO2)
Carbon Dioxide (Co2) extinguishes fire by reducing the oxygen content in the surrounding atmosphere to a level where combustion cannot be supported. The system is designed to provide fire suppression by maintaining low oxygen levels, and generally discharge in one minute. The Co2 is stored in cylinders at high pressure and is an extremely versatile and economical extinguishing agent. The majority of Co2 systems will have a second reserve bank of cylinders as back up, enabling you to continue your work with no interruption and full fire protection. As with FM-200 there is very little or no clean up process post discharge, simply thoroughly ventilate the area after discharge and refill the cylinders.
Maintenance of Fire Suppression Systems
Without regular servicing and preventative maintenance even the highest quality and best installed fire suppression systems will deteriorate with potentially disastrous consequences. A servicing and maintenance agreement ensures:
- Fire suppression systems are fit for compliance with legal obligations
- Compliance with British Standards Codes of Practice, Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)
- Compliance with insurance company requirements
- Reduced risk of false alarms and equipment failure
- Extended life from your equipment
