A fire suppression system’s purpose is to use an agent other than water to extinguish and control a fire. They are installed in facilities where a sprinkler system is ineffective or where water would cause damage to the assets in the building. There are many types of special hazards fire suppression systems including NOVEC-1230, ECARO-25, FM-200 and other inerting systems like Hi-Fog and Water Mist systems. These systems are important for protecting lives and property.
Types of Special Hazards Fire Suppression Systems
CO2 – This form of fire suppression acts quickly to put out a fire. When a fire starts, CO2 is released which displaces the oxygen in the air and a cooling effect to prevent combustion. It is environmentally friendly and there is no cleanup after a fire. Typically used for industrial applications.
Foam – Foam fire suppression is often used in aircraft hangars, power plants, and chemical facilities where flammable materials are present. The foam is a mixture of water and foam concentrate that smothers a fire.
Fog and Misting – These systems are typically nitrogen driven systems that provide a cooling effect and blankets the area in steam to remove heat from a fire. The water molecules are so small that they cannot be felt or seen on equipment after a discharge. These systems provide little to no cleanup.
FM200 / Ecaro-25 / NOVEC-1230 – These are clean agent fire suppressants that acts quickly to put out a fire. It is non-conductive and leaves behind no residue, shortening the amount of downtime after a fire. clean agents are safe to use around people and it has low environmental impact.
Installation
The fire suppression system that is can installed in your building must complies with your building code and fit your special hazards fire protection needs. You should work with a team of qualified technician to determine the correct fire suppression system for your application and make sure the installation process goes as smoothly as possible.
Testing & Inspection
Your fire suppression system must be regularly tested and inspected to make sure it will perform properly in the event of a fire. Your fire suppression system should be inspected monthly, semi-annually, annually, or as often as it is required by your insurance provider or local code regulations. Regular testing and inspections give you peace of mind knowing that your fire suppression system is ready to protect your property and save lives.
Service & Maintenance of Fire Suppression Systems
Fire suppression systems may break down and parts wear out. If your fire suppression system needs repairing, you will need a fire protection contractor to assist you. Servicing and maintenance to fire suppression systems must be done to ensure that your system is working properly. Broken parts should be replaced to get your suppression system up and running as soon as possible.
At Western States Fire Protection, we design and install fire suppression systems that fit your needs. We provide testing and inspection of fire suppression systems as often as is required by building code. Western states will also keep your system running properly by fixing any broken parts or performing maintenance. Western States is a full-service fire protection company with over 40 locations in the western half of the United States. To learn more about the fire suppression services we offer, give us a call today at 303-792-0022.