How To Improve The Performance Of A Fire Suspension

The volume of a protected area determines the design concentration and initial agent concentration of FM 200. The hold time should not be less than ten minutes. The initial agent concentration is the concentration of FM 200 after being discharged into the protected area. The hold time should be as long as possible to provide maximum fire suppression performance. Read this article to know how you can improve the performance of FM 200 fire suppression.

Leakage rate:

The leakage rate of the FM 200 fire suspension is the rate at which the agent reaches the surrounding air after its initial discharge. It depends on the concentration of the agent in the volume protected. The design concentration of the FM 200 is 7.44% by volume. This value is calculated using the formula S = k1 and K2 (T).

In most cases, this fire suspension system is appropriate for combustible, electrical, and flammable liquid fires. However, it is not appropriate for use with explosive materials or chemicals. You might want to consider a different fire suppression system if you have a hazardous environment.

Leakage rate at high altitudes:

Fire suspensions with FM-200 (HFC227ea) are designed to control fires using physical and chemical mechanisms. Because of this, they are considered safe for occupied areas. They can also be used safely in the vicinity of electrical and electronic equipment. The agent is stored in a specially designed steel cylinder assembly with forged brass valves.

The gaseous chemical agents used to suppress fires are heavier than air. As a result, they will leak out of penetrations at lower levels. As an increase in elevation occurs, the rate of leakage increases. Fresh air will fill in the void left by the gaseous chemical agent. This area is known as the descending interface.

Effect of altitude on performance:

The performance of an FM-200 fire suspension system is affected by the altitude at which it is used. The agent expands to a higher specific vapor concentration at higher altitudes than at sea level. The protected space’s volume and fire type dictate the agent’s concentration and hold time.

The manufacturer of FM 200 recommends an initial agent concentration of seven percent. However, the manufacturer of this fire suppression agent recommends a higher concentration, and it is best to discuss the matter with the AHJ. If the altitude is more than 2000 feet, the agent concentration should be increased accordingly.