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What is a clean agent fire suppression system and why is it important?
A clean agent fire suppression system is a type of fire suppression system that uses a chemical agent to extinguish fires. The agent is typically a clean, colorless, and electrically non-conductive gas that is safe for humans and the environment. It is important because it can suppress fires quickly, without leaving any residue and without causing damage to electronic equipment or other sensitive assets.
How does a clean agent fire suppression system work?
Clean agent fire suppression systems typically use a network of pipes and nozzles that are installed throughout the building. The system is activated by heat or smoke detectors, and releases the clean agent gas, such as FM-200 (HFC-227), CO2, or Novec 1230, into the area where the fire is detected. The gas extinguishes the fire by removing the oxygen from the environment.
How often do clean agent fire suppression systems need to be inspected and maintained?
Clean agent fire suppression systems should be inspected and tested at least once a year by a certified technician. This includes testing the control valves, ensuring that all nozzles and devices are in proper working condition, and ensuring that the system has proper pressure. Additionally, the agent should be checked for level and replaced if necessary.
What are the different types of clean agent fire suppression systems?
There are several types of clean agent fire suppression systems, including total flooding systems and local application systems. Total flooding systems are used to protect large open areas, while local application systems are used to protect specific assets such as servers or electrical panels.
What happens if a clean agent fire suppression system is not working or not up to code?
If a clean agent fire suppression system is not working or not up to code, it may not be able to effectively suppress a fire. This can lead to injury or death, and can also result in significant damage to the building and the assets it was supposed to protect. Additionally, it is also a violation of fire code regulations and can result in fines or penalties.
Smoke Detectors:
Detects the early stage of a fire and sends a signal to the control panel to activate the suppression system.
Control Panel:
Receives signal from the smoke detectors that smoke is present, activates the notification devices, and activates the release device to suppress the fire.
Notification Devices (horns and strobes):
Are activated when smoke is detected in order to alert people in and around the protected room to evacuate before the suppression system is activated.
Release Device:
Activated by the control panel, the release device is attached to the cylinder and opens up allowing the clean agent to escape from the cylinder and suppress the fire.
Agent Storage Cylinder(s):
The tank or cylinder contains the clean agent designed to suppress the fire. Can be stored as a gas or liquid gas, depending on the agent type.
Nozzles:
The agent travels from the cylinder through the pipes and out the different angled nozzles which disperse the clean agent evenly throughout the protected area.
Abort Switch:
When depressed and held, the abort switch will delay (not stop) the system from activating until everyone has evacuated. It is usually a large button located near the system or near the door of the protected space.
Maintenance Switch:
The switch allows the system to be turned off while technicians perform inspections and maintenance of the fire suppression system.
Manual Release:
To activate the system immediately rather than a typical timed process to allow evacuation, a person can pull the manual release to activate the system.