Any fire protection infrastructure must have a fire suppression system. The word “fire suppression” refers to any engineering set of components designed to extinguish a fire. Putting out the fire can be done with an extinguishing agent such as water, foam, or chemical compounds. This article explains the purpose and functions of a fire suppression system, supporting site teams and building owners in establishing a fire prevention strategy that is both reliable and compliant.

What Is a Fire Suppression System

When extinguishing a fire, there is always one component of a fire suppression intends for this purpose through outer material. Many fire suppression systems additionally include fire detection systems and signaling mechanisms that notify personnel of the situation and compel responsible parties to take additional suppression measures. When a fire is detected, the extinguishing component of the system is usually activated automatically; however, specific fire suppression systems require manual activation.

The potential threats caused by fire and the procedures required to extinguish it differ substantially depending on the source of the fire and other hazards present in the workplace. For example, the dangers posed by fire in a location with explosion hazards or in a position where a worker’s ability to leave is limited necessitate more extensive and specialized suppression systems. That answers the question, what is a fire suppression system?

Because of the extensive range of different types of fires that might develop and the equally wide range of responses required to put them out, various fire suppression standards vary depending on the specific hazards present in a given workplace.

Sprinkler Systems/Water-based Fire Suppression Systems

They are popular because they pose no risk to human health and employ a readily available resource. Wet agents may not be appropriate if a liquid causes the fire because of their lack of efficacy and the risk of spreading the flames by splashing. Frequently employed in this situation are dry agents.

The systems are well-suited to fulfill the demands of today’s busy catering establishments. Auto-ignition is a significant feature of grease fires. It is not a problem to store cooking grease at room temperature. Its vapors, for instance, are difficult to ignite.

However, when heated to an autoignition temperature, simply putting out the fire and removing the heat source may not be enough to prevent re-ignition. The liquid needs to be cooled below the minimum ignition temperature to prevent it from reigniting.

Dry Chemical Systems

They spray a dry chemical powder into a defined area to stop the spread of fire. The most common powders used in dry chemical suppression systems are sodium bicarbonate and mono-ammonium phosphate. Most commonly used for Class B and some Class C fires is sodium bicarbonate. ABC flames require mono ammonium phosphate. A tank is loaded with dry powder and compressed in a dry chemical suppression system. A high-pressure nitrogen cartridge will discharge and open the pressure tank valve with the dry powder when the system is operating. The chemical agent has then released out the nozzles of the suppression system and putting out the fire as a result.

It is necessary to recharge the dry chemical system every after usage. Dry chemistry systems aren’t new, but they’re incredibly dependable. When activated, a dry chem system, such as an ABC fire extinguisher with dry powder, will release a lot of powder over the hazard, necessitating substantial cleanup after each use.

Because they are rechargeable electrical extinguishing systems easily deployed into commercial and industrial settings, dry chem systems give convenient accessibility and operate efficiently. Traditional combustible materials and flammable liquid fires involving live electrical equipment because they are non-conductive, a dry chemical system is used.

Dry chemical suppression systems are a fantastic option for a fire sprinkler system that is unavailable or preferred. Auto paint booths, dip tanks, mixing rooms, and open-faced booths are typical applications for these systems.

To prevent a fire from spreading, a “complete flooding system” that saturates an impacted room with suppressant requires in instances when the source of the fire is exceedingly difficult to extinguish or is challenging to reach, such as the interior of an electrical system. Whole flooding systems can cause substantial injury to humans if there are no correct safety precautions implemented.

How Does it Work?

Built-in components of a fire suppression system will identify fires as soon as possible. The presence of flames and smoke detects initially by these components. The suppression system will then sound an alarm, preventing the spread of fire.

Fire Suppression System Types

In standard practice, there are five different types of fire suppression systems, each with its set advantages and disadvantages depending on the sort of space that needs to be protected:

Water Mist Systems

Exposing a location to a vast amount of water is sometimes not the best approach; thus, using a water mist system to control the water. These systems work by producing far smaller droplets than traditional sprinkler systems. It creates a layer of steam that deprives fires of oxygen, quickly lowering the affected area’s temperature. A more sustainable fire suppression device that consumes far less water than ordinary sprinklers is the best choice. In our article on new fire protection and suppression technologies, we go over water mist systems in further depth.

Kitchen Chemical Foam Systems

There are chemical foam devices built exclusively for putting out kitchen fires. These devices function by rapidly ejecting a water-based chemical foam agent into a limited, localized area. Controlled by a manual switch or a heat link (a link attached to a wire that breaks when exposed to heat, triggering the foam release valve), and are commonly install beneath cookers’ canopies.

Gas Systems

Firefighting liquids stored in gas systems and pressurizes with nitrogen. These liquids include a chemical agent (FM200), which releases swiftly to put out fires. These systems are beneficial for areas with a lot of electrical equipment, such as switchboards or server rooms, because they don’t consume any water. The gas is first condensed into a liquid and stored in small cylinders, making these devices portable, easy to store.

Pneumatic Heat Detection Tubes

The design of pneumatic head detection tubes is remarkably similar to that of fire extinguishers. They are the most compact and movable fire suppression system available. A pipe and a valve are the two main components of these tubes. Commonly situated around a potential fire source, the valve releases a suppressive substance directly onto the flames when it reaches a specified temperature.

Pneumatic heat-detecting tubes fight flames in their early stages in compact spaces with limited maneuverability. As a result, they’re great for putting out fires in cabinets, cupboards, boats, and cars. However, because they are ineffective for putting out massive fires, they do not suggest for use in rooms or locations with high ceilings.

Foam Deluge Systems

The most challenging aspect of firefighting is adequately securing spaces that contain flammable substances. Foam deluge systems are the most effective way to stop these conditions from spreading and you can frequently see in refineries, airplane hangars, and industrial warehouses. In these types of situations, a fire can spread quite quickly. Foam deluge systems are speedily and widely applied suppression materials.

Foam deluge systems use a foam-water mixture to swiftly control burning flammable liquids while also cooling the surrounding environment. The foam’s composition creates a thick blanket that deprives fires of oxygen and prevents the production of combustible gases, thus suffocating the fire. In this way, they’re similar to traditional fire extinguishers.

Engineered vs. pre-engineered fire suppression systems are also topics worth debating. Engineered fire suppression systems will ensure to protect an entire room. For example, Firetrace employs clean compounds that are safe for electronics and maybe inhaled without causing harm.

Pre-engineered systems protects small compartments or micro-environments. Engine compartments and electrical panels are two examples of places where these technologies would be helpful. A pre-engineered system applies to put out fires in CNC and EDM equipment.

Fire Trace Pre-engineered Fire Suppression System

There are two types of Fire trace pre-engineered fire suppression systems: indirect release and immediate release. Learn about the two different Fire trace pre-engineered fire suppression systems in the video below:

Agents for Fire Suppression

Pre-engineered fire suppression systems can employ various agents to help minimize the spread of a fire within the space. Class K systems often feature foam fire suppressants or other wet chemical agent choices. On the other hand, Engines with ABC Dry Chemical powder, which can suppress Class A, B, and C fires, usually covers.

Options for Detection

There are two types or categories of pre-engineered systems. An active detecting system is the first, while a non-electric detection method is the second. Active detection necessitates a continuous search for heat or smoke, which requires an electrical power supply. There is no electricity in a non-electric detecting system.

Pneumatic Detection Tubing

The non-electric detection systems is added within and throughout risks, such as the Fire trace pre-engineered system. Because heat rises, the pneumatic detecting tube triggers. The pipe will burst open at the point of contact if it comes into contact with heat or fire. It produces a pressure change throughout the system, signaling the system to discharge fire suppression agents. Agents with these systems uses carbon dioxide, dry chemicals, clean agents, and foam suppressants.

Costs in the Industry

With fire suppression systems, there are numerous costs to consider, and prices can vary greatly. The most evident is the expense of the actual equipment, which includes the suppression agents. But most of the time, we frequently overlook the cost of installation. When you buy a system, you must also have it installed, which might increase the price. You might want to compare the cost of an automatic fire suppression system to the cost of something more straightforward, such as a fire extinguisher system, which may be able to accomplish the job just as effectively.

Even if a fire extinguisher costs less than $20 in a retail store, the disadvantage of a fire extinguisher is that it requires a person to sit there, detect the flammable, explosive element, and then extinguish it under high pressure. It would be best to examine the cost to human safety and peace of mind in this circumstance. You don’t have to be concerned if your manufacturing plant is operational overnight while no one is present because of a fire suppression system. The system automatically handles it.

For all types of structures, automatic fire protection systems are a common alternative. They are preventive measures in the event of a hazard, detecting and extinguishing flames as soon as they start. Without human assistance, the work they provide can mean the difference between a bit of fire and a major one.

What are the Fire Suppression System Requirements?

Although it is not legally requires to install a fire suppression system in some countries, the responsibility falls to the property owners for conducting fire risk assessments, whether commercial or residential. Whether undertaken internally or externally, this assessment may identify the requirement for a fire suppression system. 

When choosing the best fire suppression system for your requirements, it’s crucial to understand how active and passive fire protection systems operate together to put out flames. Critical for risk management, as it reduces the chance of structural damage while also ensuring the safety of the building’s occupants.

In a nutshell, a fire suppression system does what it says on the tin: it suppresses and extinguishes a fire within a structure.

It’s important to note that when asked what a fire suppression system is, the answer is; they are not the same as fire sprinkler systems. For a sprinkler system to extinguish or suppress a fire, fire sprinklers always require a large volume of water. The Sprinkler will cause water damage to the contents of the room, but it will save lives and the structure.

On the other hand, fire suppression systems employ a variety of suppressing substances in addition to water. CO2, chemicals, and inert gases are examples of stopping agents. These agents have unique features that make them excellent for safeguarding critical equipment and contents within a structure while suppressing a fire, as detailed in detail below.

So to summarize if what is a fire suppression system? The design of the fire suppression system is to intervene before a fire has a chance to grow and spread, decreasing the potential for damage. Fire Suppression means that, unlike fire sprinklers, these devices typically trigger far earlier in the fire’s growth.

How To Test Fire Alarm

Know how to test fire alarm? Every business, apartment, hotel, hospital, and school has a fire alarm system.

Every year, fire does a lot of damage to businesses and can even lead to bankruptcy. Of course, the monetary loss is only part of the story since some fires result in the loss of life. 

To safeguard businesses from this type of harm is the main purpose of a fire alarm system. Its primary goal is to notify employees of a fire so that they can act before it spreads, or at the very least allow management enough time to perform their duty of care and send everyone in the building to safety.

Many people are unaware of how to test fire alarm systems. It needs inspection and regular testing to ensure that they work correctly and are up to code.

Suppose you have installed a fire alarm on your own or manage a building. In that case, you should understand the basics of how to test fire alarm for your system to be compliant and operational to keep your employees and property safe.

What is the purpose of fire alarm system testing?

Testing and inspections of fire alarm systems are essentially the same, and experienced fire protection providers must complete them.

All gadgets that make up a fire alarm system are checked and tested during these inspections/tests. 

• Verify that the initiating devices’ sensitivity is within the manufacturer’s specifications.
• Smoke detectors, heat detectors, duct detectors, beam detectors, and other initiating devices.
• A regular inspection and testing of the fire alarm panel is a must and required.
• Horn strobes, chime strobes, speaker strobes, mass notification systems, and so on are examples of notification devices.

Regular tests are required to ensure that every fire alarm system component is in good operating order.

How To Test Fire Alarms?

In a sense, how to test fire alarm means several mandatory tests and inspections. While most people are acquainted with the annual examination in which a technician checks the initiating devices, notifying devices, and fire alarm panel to ensure they are all working correctly, there are two other tests you should know about:

Acceptance Test

Following the installation of a new system, an acceptance test is necessary. It’s similar to a function test in that it guarantees that all new system components are working correctly. Every element in the system, including the initiating, notifying, and firing panels, is tested.

Performing acceptance test is only once before a building can be occupied immediately following installation. Building renovation is the sole exception in requiring an acceptance test.

Sensitivity Test

Within one year after installing a fire alarm, a sensitivity test should is necessary.

This test’s initiating devices are the subject, ensuring they activate within the manufacturer’s ranges and ratings.

To accomplish so, technicians must activate the initiating device with a combination of a metering device and their aerosol smoke (or heat element) and utilize a pre-set amount of smoke to ensure the alarm triggers within the manufactured range. They then compare their results to the device’s manufacturer’s recommended range. It passes if the device activates inside the defined range.

The system monitors the sensitivity of the devices using “intelligent” plans, and pull reports and provided to the consumer.

Testing often requires two personnel, one watching the fire alarm panel and one to each unit to test and activate it. In some cases, one technician may complete the tests on their own in minimal areas.

Finding a fault, whether by the system’s internal monitoring or through any other source, the responsible person should take the following steps:

• Assessing the fault’s impact region and determining whether it needs more action (such as a fire investigation) in that location
• Determine the cause of the fault, possibly making a note of the activities in the region impacted immediately before the mark.
• Make a note of the problem, notify the servicing organization, and make arrangements for repair.

Outdoor low-voltage lighting is a pleasant floodlight alternative and also used to illuminate stairs, paths, and dark zones for safety purposes. In adding dramatic emphasis to your garden’s best feature, outdoor low-voltage lighting is by far your best choice. Furthermore, they can be as attractive and natural as the landscape itself when artfully installed.

How To Install Low Voltage Outdoor Lighting

To improve curb appeal, installing low-voltage outdoor lighting is one of the effective ways. Since it is low voltage, it is safe to install and use. Learn how to install them to enhance your exterior space.

Selecting the right fixtures and wiring correctly makes your low-voltage outdoor plan successful. For water features such as pools and fountains, use waterproof pond lights. For simulating moonlight, use tree-mounted spotlights and for lighting walkways, use offset path lights. However, for highlighting both surrounding plants and walkways, use cone lights. And for significant elements such as buildings, use floodlights.

Some Tips and Tricks to Install Low Voltage Outdoor Lighting

As you shop for your lighting system, buy a larger transformer so you can add more lights when your landscape expands. Also, always consider the seasonal factors when designing your lighting installation. However, avoid overlighting because it can make your area look washed out.

Steps To Install Low Voltage Outdoor Lighting

If you already have a layout plan and materials, you can proceed to the steps listed below:

1. Place all the fixtures according to your layout plan.

From the transformer to where the lights begin, use 10-gauge wire for your main lines. Then use a 12-gauge wire between the lights. Use a flat shovel to bury the cables on your lawn at least 6 inches deep.

2. Set up the low-voltage lighting transformer.

Install your transformer near an outdoor outlet in a central location. By stripping off 3/4in. of insulation, connect 10-gauge wires to the transformer. Twist small strands together first, then attach them to terminals.

3. Construct a solid base.

For top-heavy cone and path lights, create a rock-steady base from plastic pipe. This base will give your low voltage lighting a sturdy footing, indestructible, and allows you to create extensions. Remember, don’t glue the plastic pipes.

4. Use weatherproof wire connectors.

Weatherproof wire connectors have a blob of sealant inside and a shield on the bottom.

5. Make sure that your fixtures are straight.

Install the lights in a hole deep enough to level the PVC footing with the ground surface. Use a torpedo level for pole leveling and pack the soil around the base. To secure the unburied wires, you can use aluminum tent stakes.

6. You can now test each light.

With a digital voltage meter, test every light fixture for its voltage level. However, low readings indicate a bad connection in the system. Furthermore, you can use voltage controls on the transformer for minor adjustments.

Make Your Outdoor Space as Special as Indoor Space

Outdoor lighting allows you to be proud of the home you built. Add extra beauty by highlighting unique features surrounding your space and come home to a perfectly lit house with beautiful outdoor lighting.