NFPA Conference & Expo Post-Show
By Melissa Hillebrand, Associate Editor -- Consulting-Specifying Engineer, 7/1/2007
The National Fire Protection Assn. World Safety Conference and Expo took place June 3 to June 7 at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center. Below is a sample of some of the extinguishants that were featured. See the M/E Roundtable on p.23 for further insights into extinguishants.
Clean agent fire suppression system is available that is non-synthetic, made from nitrogen, argon and carbon dioxide. Upon discharge, the extinguishant floods the room, remaining suspended to suppress fires quickly and effectively. It is free of residues and corrosive by-products that may produce further property damage. In performance testing, the product exceeded the NFPA Standard 2001 allowance of 1-minute discharge, with documented extinguishments of 22 seconds for a Class A fire and 17 seconds for a Class B fire. (Inergen by Ansul) www.ansul.com #7
Fire suppression fluid balances the need for human safety and low environmental impact. It features zero ozone-depletion potential, an atmospheric lifetime of five days and a global warming potential of one day. The fluid meets Halon replacement regulations and leaves no residue. The fluid, which is stored as a liquid, becomes a gas upon discharge, and is therefore easier to handle and store, the manufacturer says. (Novec 1230 Fire Protection Fluid by 3M) www.3M.com #8
Clean agent fire extinguishants are non-conductive and non-corrosive and are safe to use in facilities containing high-value electrical equipment. Because the family of four extinguishants does not leave behind residue, it helps minimize costly post-fire cleanup and business downtime. The family is designed to replace and eliminate the need for Halon in the protection of people and high-value assets. Unlike Halon, these extinguishants do not contain chlorine or bromine and therefore have zero ozone-depletion potential. (DuPont FE by DuPont) www.dupont.com #9
Fire suppression system includes detectors, control unit, agent storage cylinders, piping and discharge nozzles. The system is computer calculated to provide system discharge within 10 seconds. The fluid can be gravity fed for easy recharge, and the system extinguishes fire through heat absorption and not oxygen reduction. (Kidde Engineered System by Kidde Fire Systems) www.kiddefiresystems.com #10
