Special Hazard Fire Suppression Systems: The Ultimate Guide
Whether it’s a hospital with expensive imaging equipment or a data center that houses huge amounts of sensitive data; the risk of fire is high.
If a fire breaks out in such settings, the damage caused would become beyond repair. Though traditional water-based fire sprinkler systems are commonly used, the use of water can be hazardous for certain environments.
Thus, a unique solution that could quickly suppress fire is required. That’s where the role of special hazard fire suppression systems come in.
They are designed for areas that are particularly vulnerable to fire hazards due to the nature of the materials used in the space. Such areas include:
- Any area containing high-value equipment
- Any area containing assets that can be affected by water use
- Any area containing flammable liquids such as gas, or alcohol
- Any area that has excessive heat generation such as restaurant kitchens.
Special hazard fire protection systems come with a detection and control mechanism coupled with a fire suppression system. They possess advanced sensors and have sound algorithms in place to quickly detect any smoke or flames.
Once the systems identify the threat, a chemical is released to extinguish the fire. They help to reduce downtime and reduce the loss of valuable assets.
Types of special hazard fire protection systems:
The specific mechanism of operation for a special hazard fire suppression system depends on the type of system being used. Let’s look at some of the industrial fire systems:
- Clean Agent Systems: They use inert gasses such as FM-200, Novec 1230, or CO2 to put off a fire. These gasses work by reducing the concentration of oxygen in the air, which suffocates the fire at the incipient stage. Since they are electrically non-conducting, they can protect the electrical components from damage.
- Dry chemical systems: They use a dry chemical agent, such as potassium bicarbonate or mono ammonium phosphate, to extinguish fires. The dry chemical interrupts the chemical reaction of the fire and prevents its spread. They are often deployed in areas where flammable dust or combustible metals are present.
- Foam-based systems: They use a foam concentrate that is mixed with water to create a foam blanket that smothers the fire. The foam also helps to prevent the release of flammable vapors, further limiting the spread of the fire.
- CO2 Systems: Carbon Dioxide is an odorless and colorless clean agent. It is stored in high-pressure cylinders and is released into the protected area through a piping network. Being heavier than air, it settles at the bottom of the protected area, effectively displacing the oxygen and suffocating the fire.
Benefits of special hazard fire suppression systems:
Though more expensive than conventional fire suppression systems, they are a smart investment for business owners. They offer several significant benefits once installed in the facility.
- They help in reducing the collateral damage that may occur due to raging fires. This becomes especially crucial as rare items like historical artifacts cannot be replaced.
- The quick response time of special hazard fire suppression systems can help to minimize damage to the building and equipment. They not only cut down costly repairs but also protect personnel and employees.
- Special hazard fire suppression systems such as clean agents are environment friendly and do not harm living beings. The use of non-toxic gasses prevents ozone depletion.
- Many industries are required by law to install special hazard fire suppression systems to comply with regulations and protect the environment. Failure to comply with them can lead to legal action, fines, and damage to the reputation of the company. Thus, it becomes pertinent for business owners to have a system in place.
- Most of them do not leave behind any undesirable residue. This lowers the need of cleaning up and allows businesses to return to the work quickly.
Special hazard fire suppression systems are highly customizable. They can be tailored to meet the specific requirements of a business.
FireMaster offers tailor-made industrial fire systems across the U.S. Our systems are specifically designed to tackle the toughest and most unique fire hazards.
Don’t wait for disaster to strike, trust us to keep your property and people protected. Get in touch today!