Fire Gas-Based Suppression Systems

Fire gas-based suppression systems, also known as gaseous fire suppression or clean agent fire suppression systems, utilize inert gases or chemical agents to extinguish fires without using water. This is particularly valuable in environments where water could damage sensitive equipment or materials, such as data centers, electrical rooms, museums, and archives.

How Gas-Based Suppression Systems Work

• Fire Detection & Initiation: These systems are typically integrated with fire detection mechanisms, automatically activating upon detection of smoke or fire.
• Fire Extinguishing Mechanism: They suppress fires by one or more of the following methods:
• Reducing Oxygen: Inert gases such as argon, nitrogen, and blends like Inergen or Argonite displace oxygen, reducing its concentration below the threshold (typically 15%) required for combustion, thus "smothering" the fire.
• Heat Absorption: Some agents rapidly absorb heat from the environment, lowering the temperature below ignition point to stop the fire. For example, clean agents like Novec 1230 and FM-200 are known for these properties.
• Interrupting Chemical Reaction: Certain agents chemically disrupt the chain reaction necessary for fire propagation.

Common Gases and Agents Used

Type	Examples	Key Features
Inert Gas	Argon, Nitrogen, Inergen, Argonite	Oxygen displacement, non-reactive, suitable for most fires except energized metals
Chemical Clean Agent	FM-200 (HFC-227ea), Novec 1230, FK-5-1-12	Rapid heat absorption, leaves no residue, electrically non-conductive, safe for use with electronics
CO₂	Carbon Dioxide	Oxygen displacement, effective but hazardous to humans if used in occupied areas

Key Features & Advantages

• No water damage: Does not harm sensitive equipment or valuable assets.
• Residue-free: Leaves no clean-up after discharge, unlike foam or powder systems.
• Fast action: Most systems suppress fires within seconds of activation, minimizing fire damage.
• Safe for occupied spaces: Agents like Novec 1230 and FM-200 are non-toxic and suitable for areas with human presence, unlike CO₂ which poses asphyxiation risks.

Typical Applications

• Data centers
• Electrical switch rooms
• Museums and libraries
• Medical facilities
• Archives and record storage