Chemical Agent Fire Suppression Systems: A Modern Solution for Fire Safety

What are Chemical Agent Fire Suppression Systems?

Chemical Agent Fire Suppression Systems

At Astro Fire Systems Ltd, we specialise in providing advanced Chemical Agent Fire Suppression Systems, engineered to swiftly and effectively combat fires in diverse environments.

Among our cutting-edge solutions, the extinguishing agent FK-5-1-12 stands out as a premier choice for fire suppression. Originally developed by 3M under the brand name Novec™ 1230, this extinguishing agent offers exceptional capabilities and versatility.

Why is FK5-1-12 a good fire suppression agent to use?

FK5-1-12 possesses several unique properties that make it an exceptional fire suppression agent:

  • Rapid Action: FK5-1-12 acts swiftly upon discharge, quickly enveloping and extinguishing flames to prevent fire escalation.
  • Non-Conductive and Non-Corrosive: Unlike water-based suppression methods, FK5-1-12 is non-conductive and non-corrosive, making it safe for use around sensitive electronic equipment
  • Minimal Residue: After deployment, FK5-1-12 leaves behind minimal residue, facilitating quick cleanup and reducing downtime for affected areas.
  • Safe for Occupants: FK5-1-12 is non-toxic and safe for occupants, allowing for swift evacuation and minimal health risks during firefighting operations.
  • Approved and Certified: FK5-1-12 meets stringent industry standards and regulatory requirements, ensuring its efficacy and safety in fire suppression applications

Where would you use Novec 1230 or FK-5-1-12?

Chemical Agent Fire Suppression Systems

FK-5-1-12 is a revolutionary clean agent that offers exceptional fire suppression capabilities while prioritising environmental sustainability. Its unique properties make it suitable for a wide range of applications, including:

  • IT and Server Rooms: Protection critical IT infrastructure from the threat of fire without damaging sensitive electronic equipment
  • Telecommunication facilities: Safeguarding communication hubs and equipment rooms where downtime due to fire could have severe consequences.
  • Control rooms: Ensuring the uninterrupted operation of essential utilities swiftly suppressing fires without causing additional harm.

How does FK-5-1-12 suppress fires?

FK5-1-12 suppresses fire through a process that involves interrupting the combustion chain reaction. When the system is operated the agent is discharged into the protected space within 10 seconds enabling it to effectively remove the heat energy from the fire. This action inhibits the fire’s ability to sustain itself and effectively extinguish the flames. Unlike Inert Gaseous extinguishing systems, FK5-1-12 does not extinguish a fire by displacing the oxygen but by removal of heat.

Where would you use Novec 1230 or FK-5-1-12?

What impact does FK5-1-12 have on safety and the environment?

FK5-1-12 is designed to provide effective fire suppression while minimising its environmental impact. However it is essential that systems are designed correctly and the agent is handled and maintained in accordance with the manufacturers guidelines and local regulations to ensure its environmental safety throughout its lifecycle.

Comparison

We have shown the comparison between FK5-1-12 and HFC227ea (FM200) to illustrate their environmental impacts and safety:

 Novec 1230 (FK5-1-12)FM200 (HFC227ea)
Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) None None
Atmospheric Lifetime Approx 1 to 2 weeks Approx 31 to 43 years
Global Warming Potential (GWP) 1 Approx 3500
Subject to Phase-Down under EU F-Gas Regulation No Yes
Design Concentrations for Higher Hazard A - e.g IT Rooms, Server Rooms, Data Hall and Electrical Switch Rooms. 5.6%1 8.5%
NOAEL (No Observable Adverse Effect Level) 10% 9%

1The lower design concentration for FK5-1-12 provides greater flexibility in system design and installation, allowing for optimal coverage and maintaining a greater safety margin.

Astro Fire Systems Ltd

Registered Office:

23 Bilston Street, Dudley,

United Kingdom

DY3 1J 

Pershore Office:

Astro Fire Systems Ltd

Main Street, Pershore,

Worcestershire,

WR10 2ES

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