Politecnico di Milano

Mechanics Department
Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering

An Integrated Approach from the Preliminary Design to the Final Proposal of

Gaseous Fire Suppression Systems

Supervisor: Prof. Antonietta LO CONTE

Assistant Supervisor: Eng. Paolo ROSSI

Master of Science Thesis

by:
Payam TAHERI
Matr. 797676

Academic Year 2014 - 2015

 Table of Contetnts I

Table of Contents

ACKNOWLEDGMENT ..................................................................................................................V
LIST OF FIGURES........................................................................................................................ VI
LIST OF TABLES....................................................................................................................... VIII
ABSTRACT .................................................................................................................................... IX
1 INTRODUCTION AND THESIS OUTLINE ....................................................................... 1
2 TYCO INTEGRATED FIRE & SECURITY ........................................................................ 3
2.1 TYCO BACKGROUND AND HISTORY ........................................................................................ 3
2.2 TYCO BUSINESS UNIT.............................................................................................................. 6
2.2.1 Installation and Services ................................................................................................. 7
[Link] Installation and Services Markets........................................................................... 7
[Link] Fire Protection ........................................................................................................ 7
[Link] Security Solutions................................................................................................... 7
2.2.2 Fire Protection Products ................................................................................................. 8
2.2.3 Security Products ............................................................................................................ 8
[Link] Access Control ....................................................................................................... 9
[Link] Video ...................................................................................................................... 9
[Link] Intrusion.................................................................................................................. 9
[Link] Real-Time Location System (RTLS) ..................................................................... 9
[Link] Beyond Integration: Unified Solutions................................................................... 9
2.2.4 Life Safety Products ..................................................................................................... 10
2.3 CONCLUSION ......................................................................................................................... 10
3 TYCO FIRE PROPOSAL DEPARTMENT ........................................................................ 11
3.1 INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................................... 11
3.2 DESCRIPTION OF TYCO PROPOSAL DEPARTMENT .................................................................. 11
3.3 FIRE PROPOSAL DEPARTMENT............................................................................................... 12
3.3.1 Fire Proposal Engineer ................................................................................................. 13
3.3.2 Fire Suppression System Quotation ............................................................................. 13
3.4 INTERNSHIP OF FIRE PROPOSAL DEPARTMENT ...................................................................... 17
3.4.1 Trainee Activities ......................................................................................................... 17
[Link] Learning................................................................................................................ 17
[Link] Proposing & Engineering ..................................................................................... 18
[Link] Standardization ..................................................................................................... 18
3.5 STANDARDIZATION OF FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEMS ............................................................. 19
3.5.1 Concept of the Standard Documentation...................................................................... 19
3.5.2 Benefits of the Standard Documentation...................................................................... 19
3.5.3 Process of the Standardization ..................................................................................... 20
3.5.4 Standard Documentation of INERGEN® Fire Suppression Systems ........................... 23
 Table of Contetnts II

3.5.5 Next Step of Standardization ........................................................................................ 24

3.6 CONCLUSION ......................................................................................................................... 24
4 STANDARDS & APPROVALS ............................................................................................ 25
4.1 STANDARDS ORGANIZATION ................................................................................................. 25
4.1.1 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).............................................................. 26
[Link] NFPA Codes and standards .................................................................................. 27
[Link] Access to NFPA Codes and Standards ................................................................. 27
4.1.2 International Standard Organization (ISO) .................................................................. 28
4.1.3 European Committee for Standardization (CEN) ........................................................ 29
[Link] European Standards (EN) ..................................................................................... 30
4.1.4 International Maritime Organization (IMO) ................................................................ 31
4.2 APPROVALS AND CERTIFICATIONS ........................................................................................ 32
4.2.1 Landing Applications ................................................................................................... 32
[Link] FM Approval ........................................................................................................ 32
[Link] UL Approval......................................................................................................... 33
[Link] Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB) ...................................................... 33
[Link] VdS Approval ....................................................................................................... 34
[Link] Certificate of Conformity (EC) ............................................................................ 35
4.2.2 Marine Applications ..................................................................................................... 36
[Link] American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) .................................................................. 36
[Link] Der Norske Veritas (DNV)................................................................................... 36
[Link] Lloyd’s Register (LR) .......................................................................................... 37
[Link] Registro Italiano Navale (RINA) ......................................................................... 38
[Link] United States Coast Guard (USCG) ..................................................................... 39
4.3 CONCLUSION ......................................................................................................................... 40
5 GASEOUS FIRE SUPPRESSION AGENTS ...................................................................... 41
5.1 GENERAL INFORMATION ....................................................................................................... 41
5.1.1 Acting Theory............................................................................................................... 41
5.1.2 Type of Application...................................................................................................... 42
5.1.3 Safety Precautions ........................................................................................................ 42
5.2 TOTAL FLOODING CHEMICAL GASEOUS AGENTS .................................................................. 43
5.2.1 FM-200® ....................................................................................................................... 43
[Link] General Information ............................................................................................. 43
[Link] Description of FM-200® Systems......................................................................... 43
[Link] Properties of FM-200® ......................................................................................... 44
[Link] Toxicity of FM-200® ............................................................................................ 44
5.2.2 Novec™ 1230 ............................................................................................................... 45
[Link] General Information ............................................................................................. 45
[Link] Description of Novec™ 1230 Systems ................................................................ 45
[Link] Properties of Novec™ 1230 ................................................................................. 46
[Link] Toxicity of Novec™ 1230 .................................................................................... 46
5.3 TOTAL FLOODING INERT GASEOUS AGENT ........................................................................... 47
 Table of Contetnts III

5.3.1 INERGEN® .................................................................................................................. 47

[Link] General Information ............................................................................................. 47
[Link] Personnel Safety ................................................................................................... 47
[Link] Types of Systems.................................................................................................. 48
[Link] Types of Actuation ............................................................................................... 48
[Link] Types of Detection ............................................................................................... 49
5.4 TOTAL FLOODING & LOCAL APPLICATION GASEOUS AGENT................................................ 49
5.4.1 Carbon Dioxide (CO2) ................................................................................................. 49
[Link] General Information ............................................................................................. 49
[Link] Personnel Safety ................................................................................................... 50
[Link] Types of Systems.................................................................................................. 50
[Link] Types of Actuation ............................................................................................... 50
[Link] Types of Detection ............................................................................................... 51
5.5 COMPARISON OF GASEOUS AGENTS ...................................................................................... 52
5.5.1 Environment ................................................................................................................. 52
5.5.2 Human Safety ............................................................................................................... 52
5.5.3 Extinguishing Capacity ................................................................................................ 52
5.5.4 Installation Time & Complexity................................................................................... 53
5.5.5 Working Pressure ......................................................................................................... 54
5.5.6 Cylinder Foot Print ....................................................................................................... 54
5.6 CONCLUSION ......................................................................................................................... 55
6 INERGEN FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEM ....................................................................... 56
6.1 INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................................... 56
6.2 BASIC COMPONENTS ............................................................................................................. 56
6.2.1 INERGEN® .................................................................................................................. 56
6.2.2 Cylinders ...................................................................................................................... 57
6.2.3 Cylinder Rail & Brackets ............................................................................................. 57
6.2.4 Discharge Valve ........................................................................................................... 58
6.2.5 Actuators ...................................................................................................................... 58
6.2.6 Discharge & Pilot Hose ................................................................................................ 59
6.2.7 Manifold & Orifice ....................................................................................................... 59
6.2.8 Selector Valve .............................................................................................................. 60
6.2.9 Nozzles ......................................................................................................................... 61
6.2.10 Pipe System .............................................................................................................. 61
6.2.11 Fasteners & Pipe Hangers ........................................................................................ 62
6.2.12 Tools & Accessories ................................................................................................. 63
6.2.13 Signs & Labels ......................................................................................................... 63
6.3 SPECIFICATIONS .................................................................................................................... 64
6.3.1 INERGEN® Agent ........................................................................................................ 64
[Link] Environmental impact .......................................................................................... 64
6.3.2 INERGEN® System ...................................................................................................... 64
6.3.3 NOAEL/LOAEL .......................................................................................................... 65
6.3.4 Enclosure Escape Precautions ...................................................................................... 66
 Table of Contetnts IV

6.3.5 Effect on Machinery and Equipment............................................................................ 67

6.3.6 Extinguishing Efficiency .............................................................................................. 67
6.3.7 Signs and Warnings ...................................................................................................... 68
6.4 PLANNING ............................................................................................................................. 68
6.4.1 Fire classes ................................................................................................................... 69
6.4.2 Initial General Information:.......................................................................................... 69
6.4.3 Hazard Area Information.............................................................................................. 69
6.4.4 INERGEN® Supply Requirements ............................................................................... 70
6.4.5 Activation and Alarm Requirements ............................................................................ 71
6.4.6 Piping and Wiring Information .................................................................................... 71
6.4.7 Ventilation and Leakage Concerns............................................................................... 71
6.5 DESIGN .................................................................................................................................. 72
6.5.1 Limitations on System Design ..................................................................................... 72
6.5.2 Guide to Calculation Software IMT ............................................................................. 74
6.5.3 IMT Software Troubleshooting .................................................................................... 85
[Link] Critical Output ...................................................................................................... 88
[Link] Application Method .............................................................................................. 88
[Link] Caution ................................................................................................................. 88
6.5.4 16 Steps of INERGEN® System Design ...................................................................... 88
6.5.5 Design of Multi-zone Systems ..................................................................................... 95
6.5.6 Reserve System ............................................................................................................ 97
6.6 INSTALLATION ....................................................................................................................... 98
6.7 TESTING & COMMISSIONING .................................................................................................. 99
6.7.1 System Configuration ................................................................................................... 99
6.7.2 Warning Signs & Notices ............................................................................................. 99
6.7.3 Enclosure Integrity & Venting ..................................................................................... 99
6.8 RESETTING & RECHARGING ................................................................................................ 100
6.8.1 Recharging Cylinders ................................................................................................. 100
6.8.2 Filling Equipment Requirements................................................................................ 100
6.9 INSPECTION, SERVICE & MAINTENANCE ............................................................................. 101
6.9.1 Inspection ................................................................................................................... 101
6.9.2 Service & Maintenance .............................................................................................. 102
6.10 CONCLUSION ................................................................................................................... 102
7 CONCLUSION AND FUTURE WORK ............................................................................ 103
7.1 CONCLUSION ....................................................................................................................... 103
7.2 FUTURE WORK .................................................................................................................... 104
REFERENCES ............................................................................................................................. 105
APPENDIX A: DATA SHEET SAMPLE
APPENDIX B: PROCESS & INSTRUMENT DIAGRAM (P&ID) SAMPLE
APPENDIX C: GENERAL ASSEMBLY DRAWING (GAD) SAMPLE
 Acknowledgment V

Acknowledgment

I wish to express my sincere thanks to Professor Antonietta Lo Conte, my thesis adviser, who read
my numerous revisions and helped make some sense of the confusion.

I am grateful to my company supervisor, Engineer Paolo Rossi, who offered me many guidance
and support at the company. In addition, thanks to university of Politecnico di Milano and Tyco
Italy that gave me this great opportunity and experience by their cooperation.

Thanks also go to all my Professors in Politecnico di Milano and all my dear friends in Lecco
whose presence were very helpful through these years.

Finally, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to my family and my love who endured this
long process with me. Without their unconditional love and continuous support and
encouragement, I would have not been able to complete this master program.
 List of Figures VI

List of Figures

Figure 2-1: Spread of Tyco business unit around the globe ............................................................... 6
Figure 2-2: Variety of Tyco activities .............................................................................................. 10
Figure 3-1: Tyco Proposal Department ............................................................................................ 12
Figure 3-2: Tyco Fire Proposal Department Activity Chart ............................................................. 12
Figure 3-3: P&ID and GAD Sample - INERGEN® Single Cylinder System .................................. 15
Figure 3-4: Bill of Material Sample - INERGEN® Cylinder Assembly .......................................... 15
Figure 3-5: Price List Sample - INERGEN® Fire Suppression System ........................................... 16
Figure 4-1: NFPA Logo ................................................................................................................... 26
Figure 4-2: ISO Logo ....................................................................................................................... 28
Figure 4-3: CEN Logo ...................................................................................................................... 29
Figure 4-4: EN Logo ........................................................................................................................ 30
Figure 4-5: IMO Logo ...................................................................................................................... 31
Figure 4-6: FM Approved Logo ....................................................................................................... 33
Figure 4-7: UL Approved Logo ....................................................................................................... 33
Figure 4-8: LPCB Approved Logo ................................................................................................... 33
Figure 4-9: VdS Approved Logo...................................................................................................... 34
Figure 4-10: EC Approved Logo...................................................................................................... 35
Figure 4-11: ABS Approved Logo ................................................................................................... 36
Figure 4-12: DNV & GL Approved Logo........................................................................................ 37
Figure 4-13: Lloyd’s Register Approved Logo ................................................................................ 37
Figure 4-14: RINA Approved Logo ................................................................................................. 38
Figure 4-15: USCG Approved Logo ................................................................................................ 39
Figure 5-1: Extinguishing Capacity of Gaseous Agents .................................................................. 52
Figure 5-2: Installation Time & Complexity of Gaseous Agents .................................................... 53
Figure 5-3: Working Pressure of Gaseous Agents ........................................................................... 54
Figure 5-4: Cylinder Foot Print ........................................................................................................ 54
Figure 5-5: Procedure of Choosing the Best Agent ......................................................................... 55
Figure 6-1: INERGEN®.................................................................................................................... 56
Figure 6-2: Cylinder ......................................................................................................................... 57
Figure 6-3: Cylinder Rail & Bracket ................................................................................................ 58
Figure 6-4: Discharge Valve ............................................................................................................ 58
Figure 6-5: Actuators (Manual – Electric - Pneumatic) ................................................................... 59
Figure 6-6: Discharge & Pilot Hose ................................................................................................. 59
Figure 6-7: Manifold & Orifice ........................................................................................................ 60
Figure 6-8: Selector Valve ............................................................................................................... 60
Figure 6-9: Nozzles .......................................................................................................................... 61
Figure 6-10: INERGEN® Piping System ......................................................................................... 61
Figure 6-11: Tools Kit & Accessories Box ...................................................................................... 63
Figure 6-12: Caution Label .............................................................................................................. 63
Figure 6-13: IMT Software Initial Page ........................................................................................... 74
Figure 6-14: IMT Software Print Page ............................................................................................. 75
 List of Figures VII

Figure 6-15: IMT Software Output Style Page ................................................................................ 75

Figure 6-16: IMT Software System Settings Page ........................................................................... 76
Figure 6-17: IMT Software Template Values Page ......................................................................... 77
Figure 6-18: IMT Software Calculation Page .................................................................................. 79
Figure 6-19: IMT Software Isometric Design Page ......................................................................... 80
Figure 6-20: IMT Software, Defining Pipe Length .......................................................................... 81
Figure 6-21: IMT Software, Defining Nozzles ................................................................................ 81
Figure 6-22: IMT Software, Defining Orifices ................................................................................ 82
Figure 6-23: IMT Software, Defining Manifold .............................................................................. 82
Figure 6-24: IMT Software, Defining Hose Type & Selector Valve ............................................... 82
Figure 6-25: IMT Software Pipe System Design ............................................................................. 84
Figure 6-26: Server Room ................................................................................................................ 95
Figure 6-27: Sub-floor ...................................................................................................................... 95
Figure 6-28: Example of Selector Valve System ............................................................................. 96
 List of Tables VIII

List of Tables

Table 3-1: Design Data Table .......................................................................................................... 14

Table 3-2: Different Supplier and Producer of Fire Suppression Systems for Tyco ....................... 21
Table 5-1: FM-200® Toxicological Data .......................................................................................... 44
Table 5-2: Novec™ 1230 Toxicological Data ................................................................................. 46
Table 5-3: Environmental Impact of Gaseous Agents ..................................................................... 52
Table 5-4: Human Safety of Gaseous Agents .................................................................................. 52
Table 6-1: Distance Between Pipe Supports .................................................................................... 63
Table 6-2: Exposure Time to Reduced Oxygen Atmosphere........................................................... 67
Table 6-3: Fire Classification ........................................................................................................... 69
Table 6-4: IMT Software Main Items .............................................................................................. 74
Table 6-5: IMT Software System Settings Items ............................................................................. 76
Table 6-6: IMT Software Template Values Items ............................................................................ 78
Table 6-7: IMT Software Calculation Items .................................................................................... 80
Table 6-8: IMT Software Isometric Design Items ........................................................................... 83
Table 6-9: IMT Software Pipe System Items ................................................................................... 84
Table 6-10: IMT Software List of Errors, Warnings and Cautions.................................................. 87
Table 6-11: Limitation of Actual Concentration .............................................................................. 91
Table 6-12: Specific Volumes of Air and INERGEN® at Standard Pressure ................................. 94
 Abstract IX

Abstract

Tyco Fire Integrated & Security is one of the world’s largest fire protecting and security
companies. They help protect more than three million industrial, commercial and residential
customers worldwide. They have many branches around the world and their huge number of
employees include a diverse group of scientists and engineers, sales professionals, technicians and
business leaders.

The fire suppression systems are governed by the standard codes and certified by approval
organizations. These systems typically consist of the agent, agent storage containers, agent release
valves, fire detectors, fire detection system (wiring control panel, actuation signaling), agent
delivery piping, and agent dispersion nozzles.

The Italian branch of Tyco is the best Italian company in producing, designing and installation of
fire suppression systems in the market of Italy and a very strong competitor for other related
companies in this industry in rest of Europe and Middle East. The proposal department of Tyco
Italy introduced an internship stage and joined to the Politecnico di Milano for developing new
ways of preparing a proposal that could optimize and speed up the process of preparing the
proposal for the fire suppression systems.

The stage began by training sessions and courses and then, learning the different types of fire
suppression systems and the responsibilities of fire proposal engineers and department. Next, for
reaching to the goal of the company, we started to study on the procedure of preparing an offer for
the clients and our solution was having Standard Documents.

Therefore, the logic and first idea of preparing standard documents was born and the statement of
“To Remain Competitive, We Need Organization” became our slogan. Finally, as we went further
in standardizing, we could better define our criteria and expand our work until finally reached our
goal.

Key words: Tyco Integrated Fire & Security, Fire Proposal Engineering, Gaseous Fire Suppression
System, SAPPHIRETM, FM-200®, iFLOW®, INERGEN®
 Introduction and Thesis Outline 1

Chapter 1

1 Introduction and Thesis Outline

Tyco Fire Integrated & Security with many branches around the globe is one of the world’s largest
fire protecting and security companies. They are the leaders of engineering, designing and
producing of fire suppression systems.

The Fire Proposal Department of Tyco Italy was joined to Politecnico di Milano with an internship
stage in order to generalize and standardize the documents of gaseous fire suppression systems.

In this thesis, I will try to present the general information about the company, different types of fire
suppression systems and all I have done during the stage especially in the field of standardization.

Our activities at Tyco in the field of standardization has been done in two phases. The first phase
was gathering and collecting all the available documents – Product Overview, Warranty, Approvals
and Certificates, Application Sheet and Design Manual related to the fire suppression systems –
then generalizing and standardizing them under the cover and label of Tyco Italy. However, the
second phase was creating the unavailable documents – Data Sheet, Process & Instrument Diagram
(P&ID) and General Assembly Drawing (GAD) – and then standardizing them under the brand of
Tyco.

The main body of the work is organized as below:

Chapter 2: There will be a background and history of Tyco Company. Then the Tyco business
unit will be presented with a brief explanation about each section of work.

Chapter 3: First, I will describe the fire proposal department, responsivities of the proposal
engineers and procedure of preparing a quotation. Next, there will be complete information of
internship and all the activities during the stage, specially the idea of preparation an integrated
approach from the preliminary design to the final proposal for the gaseous fire suppression systems
that will be developed in the following chapters.
 Introduction and Thesis Outline 2

Chapter 4: In this chapter, most of the used national organization that are concerning with creating
and publishing standard codes for fire suppression systems, will be brought and then we will get
familiar with approval and certification organizations working in this industry.

Chapter 5: This chapter will be explaining available gaseous agents in firefighting industry. There
will be good explanation about both chemical and inert agents. At the end, a very good
experimental comparison will be presented between all these gaseous fire suppression agents.

Chapter 6: All the details from basic components to designing and installation of one of the most
used system – INERGEN® Fire Suppression System – will be presented in this chapter as
application of the proposed standardization procedure. In addition, there will be a systematic
guideline for the IMT Calculation software.

Chapter 7: This chapter will be the conclusion of the thesis and internship stage. I will present a
brief summary of what I have done during the stage and what would be the possible next step
stage.
 Tyco Integrated Fire & Security 3

Chapter 2

2 Tyco Integrated Fire & Security

Tyco (NYSE: TYC) is one of the world’s largest pure-play fire safety and security companies.
They help to protect more than three million industrial, commercial and residential customers
worldwide. Their 69,000 employees include a diverse group of scientists and engineers, sales
professionals, technicians and business leaders.

In more than 1,000 locations in nearly 50 countries – including research and development labs,
manufacturing facilities, service and distribution centers, monitoring centers and sales offices –
Tyco employees work together to deliver tailored, industry-specific and location-specific fire
protection and security solutions to customers around the world.

Tyco’s United States headquarters are in Princeton, New Jersey. The company’s corporate
headquarters are in Schaffhausen, Switzerland. Tyco grew to become one of the world’s largest
dedicated fire protection and security companies from humble beginnings [1].

2.1 Tyco Background and History

The
1960s
Arthur J. Rosenburg, Ph.D., as a research laboratory to conduct experimental work
for the U.S. government, founded Tyco, Inc. in 1960. The business focused on
solid-state science and energy conversion. By 1962, Tyco began to transition from
U.S. government research contracts to commercial applications.

In 1964, Tyco went public, and one year later made its first acquisition, Mule
Battery Products. The company also changed its name to Tyco Laboratories.
Tyco Integrated Fire & Security 4

The
1970s The second decade of Tyco’s existence saw the company grow substantially via
acquisitions. Two of the company’s key purchases were Simplex Technologies,
manufacturers of undersea fiber optic telecommunications cable; and Grinnell Fire
Protection Systems, a fire sprinkler systems manufacturer and contractor. Tyco still
owns these brands today.

In 1974, Tyco’s stock was listed on the New York Stock Exchange. Over the next
three decades, Tyco became a much larger and more diverse company.

The
1980s
Tyco continued its aggressive but deliberate acquisition strategy, procuring leading
brands such as Allied Tube and Conduit and Grinnell Corporation. By the end of the
decade, Tyco had reorganized its many subsidiaries into four segments: Electrical
and Electronic Components; Healthcare and Specialty Products; Fire and Security
Services; and Flow Control. This structure would remain in place until 2007.

The
1990s
This decade also saw a number of strategic acquisitions driving Tyco’s rapid
growth. Some of Tyco’s key transactions involved Raychem, Submarine Systems,
Inc., Thorn Security, Wells Fargo Alarm and Wormald International Limited.

In 1993, Tyco Laboratories, Inc. formally changed its name to Tyco International
Ltd. In 1996, Tyco was added to the Standard & Poor’s 500, the list of the 500
largest companies in the United States by market capitalization.

In 1997, Tyco merged with ADT, a leading provider of electronic security systems.
Tyco formed a new subsidiary called ADT Security Systems.

The
2000s
Tyco continued to make strategic acquisitions, acquiring some of the leading
companies in its industry. In 2001, Tyco acquired Sensormatic, one of the world’s
leading retail security firms. This move enabled Tyco to offer a complete security
package to retailers around the globe. Tyco also acquired Scott Technologies, a
leading designer and manufacturer of high-performance respiratory protection
systems, gas detection instruments and fire-fighting products for fire-fighting,
industrial, aviation and government customers. With the acquisition of Simplex
Time Recorder, Tyco became one of the largest fire alarm companies in the world.
Tyco Integrated Fire & Security 5

In 2006, Tyco’s Board of Directors approved a plan to separate the company’s

portfolio of businesses into three separate, publicly traded companies: Tyco
Healthcare (now known as Covidien), Tyco Electronics (now known as TE
Connectivity), and Tyco International.

In 2009, Tyco’s Board of Directors unanimously approved moving the company’s

place of incorporation from Bermuda to Switzerland. One year later, the company
acquired Brink’s Home Security Holdings, now operating as Broadview Security.
Tyco also sold a majority interest in its electrical and metal products business to the
private equity firm of Clayton, Dubilier & Rice.
The
2010s

Tyco continued to align its portfolio with the most attractive growth markets in the
company’s various sectors. In 2011, Tyco acquired such key businesses as
Chemguard and Visonic.

Later in 2011, Tyco International announced a plan to separate the enterprise into
three independent, publicly traded companies: Tyco, the largest of these businesses
and the global fire protection and security leader, a standalone ADT North America
residential and small business Security Company and a standalone flow control
company.

On October 1, 2012, the new Tyco became one of the world’s largest dedicated fire
protection and security companies. The new Tyco consists of:

// Installation and Services, a leading global provider of system design,

installations, and services, focused on new system installation as well as
high margin service.
// Fire Protection Products, a global product business that designs,
manufactures and sells fire protection products, including fire detection and
suppression products.
// Security Products, a unified group of the most comprehensive world-
leading premium access control, video, location-based tracking and intrusion
solutions in the security industry.
// Life Safety Products, operating under the Scott Safety brand, a world
leader in the design, manufacture, and sale of high performance respiratory
protection, gas detection, and other Personal Protection Equipment (PPE)
solutions [1].
 Tyco Integrated Fire & Security 6

2.2 Tyco Business Unit

Today, Tyco has more than three million customers around the world, ranging in size from large
Fortune 500 companies to single-location commercial customers and residential customers outside
North America. Tyco generates approximately 55 percent of its revenue in markets outside of
North America. The company’s presence in key growth markets is accelerating rapidly, with a
global installation and service footprint unmatched by its competitors. Through direct sales,
wholesalers, distributors, commercial builders and contractors, Tyco helps protect1 [12]:

Figure 2-1: Spread of Tyco business unit around the globe

1 Numbers based on internal company estimates.

 Tyco Integrated Fire & Security 7

2.2.1 Installation and Services

The Tyco Installation and Services business is a leading global provider of system sales, design,
installation, and service. The business has a broad geographic reach, maintaining over 1,000
locations in 33 countries, with regional headquarters in six continents. The business is focused on
new system installation as well as after-market services [1]. Tyco’s goal with this business unit is
to convert new installations into long-term customer relationships.

[Link] Installation and Services Markets

Tyco is a global market leader in the installation of fire protection and security solutions in this $40
billion sector. The company holds approximately 10 percent market share in a sector that is
fragmented across smaller local and regional players. Tyco thrives in this market due to its strong
abilities in project management and execution. Tyco is also a global market leader in providing
vital services related to fire protection and security solutions, a $30 billion market. The company
holds approximately 15 percent market share across this sector, which, like installation, is also
fragmented across small local and regional companies. Tyco succeeds in this market because of
their ability to consistently meet customer needs across a wide spectrum of innovative services [1].

[Link] Fire Protection

The Fire Protection group within Installation and Services sells, designs, installs and services fire
detection, fire suppression, emergency communications, and nurse call systems in both new and
existing facilities. Demand is driven primarily by commercial construction as well as codes,
standards and legislative requirements governing the installation and service of fire detection,
sprinkler and suppression systems [27].

[Link] Security Solutions

The Security Solutions group within Installation and Services sells, designs, installs, services and
integrates systems to detect intrusion, control access and react to a variety of hazards. They
develop and deliver tailored, industry-specific solutions. This business is a leading provider in
North America of monitored commercial security solutions, and outside of North America of
monitored residential and commercial security systems. In addition, the business provides patrol
and alarm response services in select geographies [1].
 Tyco Integrated Fire & Security 8

2.2.2 Fire Protection Products

Fire Protection Products designs, manufactures and sells fire protection products, including both
fire detection and suppression products.
The unit designs, manufactures and sells fire detection & alarm systems, automatic fire sprinklers
& valves, special hazard suppression systems and portable fire extinguishers, including many of
the products that the Tyco Installation & Services business uses. Fire Protection Products also
manufactures and sells grooved products for the rapid joining of piping in both the fire and non-fire
markets [27].
The detection offerings include fire alarm control panels, advanced fire alarm monitoring systems,
smoke, heat and Carbon monoxide detectors and voice evacuation systems. Tyco also offers a wide
range of water-based sprinkler systems and custom designed special hazard suppression systems,
which incorporate specialized extinguishing agents such as foams, dry chemicals and gases. These
systems are utilized for fire protection in a wide variety of industries and applications, such as oil
and gas, mining, commercial/institutional construction, power generation, marine,
warehousing/storage, and residential [27].

2.2.3 Security Products

Security Products is a unified group of the most comprehensive world-leading premium access
control, video, location-based tracking and intrusion solutions in the security industry. Security
Products conducts business in over 176 countries around the world, in multiple languages and
employs over 2,700 employees globally, including research and development, marketing,
manufacturing, sales, service and logistics teams in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa,
and Asia Pacific. Their products, built by developers from all product disciplines, consistently
allow customers to see more, do more, and save more across multiple industries and segments
including healthcare, government, transportation, finance, retail, commercial and residential.
Worldwide, Security Products helps protect 42% of Fortune 500 companies, transportation systems
on five continents, 37% of the world’s top 100 retailers, over two million commercial enterprises,
thousands of students in more than 900 educational facilities, and over five million private
residences [12].
 Tyco Integrated Fire & Security 9

[Link] Access Control

Their comprehensive access control portfolio includes security management software, door
controllers, readers, keypads and cards all designed to scale from the smallest business to widely
dispersed enterprise organizations [1].

[Link] Video
With technologies that range from low-cost analog to high-performance IP solutions, their video
portfolio is one of the most well-known and respected in the industry. They offer end-to-end
solutions that include analog and IP cameras, video management systems, matrix switchers and
controllers, digital multiplexers, monitors, and storage solutions [1].

[Link] Intrusion
Intrusion solutions for homes and businesses range from basic burglar alarms to comprehensive
interactive wired or wireless security systems, including alarm control panels, key-pads, sensors,
and central station receiving equipment used in security monitoring centers [1].

[Link] Real-Time Location System (RTLS)

RTLS technology provides visibility of people and assets throughout an organization. The portfolio
includes RFID tags, sensors, and management software that combine to provide real-time
personnel and object tracking solutions ideal for hospitals, correctional facilities, museums, and
corporations [1].

[Link] Beyond Integration: Unified Solutions

With the growing number of applications coming together in a customer’s environment, Tyco
Security Products is committed to providing an intuitive, unified experience to help effectively
manage security as well as enhance business performance. The victor unifying client provides
customers with one easy to use interface that brings together products from all of the categories
Tyco specializes in; Access Control, Video, Intrusion, and Real-Time Location Systems [1].
 Tyco Integrated Fire & Security 10

2.2.4 Life Safety Products

Life Safety Products, operating under the Scott Safety brand, is a world leader in the design,
manufacture, and sale of high performance respiratory protection, gas detection, and other Personal
Protection Equipment (PPE) solutions. Scott Safety has an 80-year legacy of innovation of
purpose-built technology and product solutions critical to firefighters, emergency-response,
industrial and military professionals in industries such as petrochemical, oil and gas, chemical,
military and civil defense, and marine.
Scott Safety employs more than 1,150 employees and serves customers in over 50 countries around
the world, including operations in the United States, United Kingdom, Finland, China, Australia,
United Arab Emirates, and Mexico. Scott Safety products include Self-Contained Breathing
Apparatus (Scott Air-Pak), fixed and portable gas detection products, thermal imaging and search
and rescue equipment, communications and accountability products, compressors, and eye, hearing
and head protection [12].

Figure 2-2: Variety of Tyco activities

2.3 Conclusion
This chapter was allocated to Tyco Company. There are brief but general information about its
background from beginning until now. In addition, different activities of company both in Fire
Protecting and in Security – products, installations and services – have been presented.
 Tyco Fire Proposal Department 11

Chapter 3

3 Tyco Fire Proposal Department

3.1 Introduction
In Tyco Company like all other companies, there are some different departments with specified and
determined responsibilities. These departments are included marketing, sale, proposal, engineering,
installation, service and maintenance.

In general, after receiving a request from a client at sale department, it is the proposal department’s
duty to prepare a competitive quotation that could compete with other quotations from competitor
companies. Usually this is how the activity of proposal engineer begins in proposal department.

In this chapter, after presenting a description of Tyco fire proposal department, the whole activities
of a fire proposal engineer at this department and the procedure of preparing a quotation will be
explained. In addition, I will explain my activities and performances during my stage at Tyco fire
proposal department.

Finally, there are complete presentation about the standardizing the fire suppression systems
documents that is the important output of this internship stage for Tyco Italy.

3.2 Description of Tyco Proposal Department

As it was described before in the first chapter, Tyco business unit is divided into different
categories – installation & services, fire protection products, security products and life safety
products – therefore due to this reason there are two major sub departments under the Tyco
proposal department, one of them is fire proposal department and the other one is security proposal
department.

This department consists of 7 employees, there is 1 manager for managing and supervising all the
sales offering and there are 3 proposal engineers at each sub department for creating and preparing
offers related to the received requests from the clients.
 Tyco Fire Proposal Department 12

Fire Proposal Department

(3 Fire Proposal Engineers)
Tyco Proposal Department
(Fire & Security Sales Offering Manager)
Security Proposal Department
(3 Security Proposal Engineers)

Figure 3-1: Tyco Proposal Department

3.3 Fire Proposal Department

The main goal at this department is to make an offer with the highest quality but lowest price,
which could remain the Tyco to be able for competing with other competitors company in the fire-
protecting field. All the related activities to the fire proposal department are described in below:

Figure 3-2: Tyco Fire Proposal Department Activity Chart

 Tyco Fire Proposal Department 13

The whole activities in fire proposal department, which are mentioned in the figure 3.2, are
recording to the planning and designing parts that have been explained in previous chapter.

It is necessary to mention, all the calculating and designing at this stage are preliminary and are not
final version for installation. Thus in the case of winning the project, all the job must be done
accurately in engineering department with considering the proposed quotation.

3.3.1 Fire Proposal Engineer

The engineers at the fire proposal departments have to prepare an offer with the compatible price
and quality based on the client’s request as soon as possible.

An engineer cannot propose a price quotation without considering the preliminary planning,
calculating, designing and drawing for that project. Therefore, each time, the procedure of
preparing a proposal takes a remarkable working time from the engineer and department.

The other noticeable characteristics of the fire proposal department and specially the proposal
engineer is having the short and determined time with the huge number of received requests from
clients for protecting their hazardous areas.

Always there are some requests that the department misses them because it is not possible to make
an offer before the deadline and also there are always many projects that company loses in the
competition due to many reasons which usually the most important of them is the lowest offered
price by competitor companies.

Tyco as the one of the leaders in the firefighting industries in the world must always be up to date
and more than that must be innovate to could keep its position and situation at the market. Due to
this reason, the Tyco fire proposal department at Italy decided to introduce an internship stage to
try and experience new ways of innovation in the proposing procedure.

Further, the preliminary idea for the hiring a trainee and then all the activities that have been done
during this stage and also their results will be presented in the next parts of this chapter.

3.3.2 Fire Suppression System Quotation

One quotation that is provided by the proposal engineer at fire proposal department consist many
steps. Here we will get familiar to the procedure of making a quotation at fire proposal department
step by step.
 Tyco Fire Proposal Department 14

STEP NO.1 – Receiving Client’s Request

At the first step, the purchasing department of the client company sends their request to Tyco sales
department. After analyzing the request and determining one of the salespersons of the sales
department as the supervisor of the project, the request will be put in the portal of proposal
department in the internal network of the company.

STEP NO.2 – Collecting the Required Information

At this step, the fire proposal engineer checks out the general information, technical documents,
drawing and any other attachments that have been sent by the client to find out the needed data:

 Protected area (Volume, plans, temperature, pressure & …)

 Type of the fire suppression system and agent
 Standard code
 Certificates and approvals

If the engineer cannot find any of these important designing data, he will ask the client to send him
the needed information.

STEP NO.3 – Design Data

By gathering the previous information in the prior step, now it is the time to calculate the quantity
of the required agent, the number of cylinders, nozzles and in the case of need the selector valves.

Depends on the type of requested system and agent, there are different calculation software and
applications for passing this step. Anyway at the end we are looking for to fill the below table and
provide the necessary measurements and calculations, which is called Design Data table.

Dimension Design Design Flooding Agent Cylinder Battery Agent SV SV Nozzle

Item Protected Area Height Volume Concentration Temperature Factor Diameter
Area [Link] Cap. Charge [Link]
m2 m m³ % °C Nm³ In./m³ m³ No. lit m³ m³ No. m No.

Table 3-1: Design Data Table

 Tyco Fire Proposal Department 15

STEP NO.4 – Design & Drawing

Now it is the time for designing the system, which means determining the location of cylinders
battery, piping distribution, location of the nozzles and all the other details of the system.

At the end of this step, we have to provide Process & Instrument Diagram (P&ID) and General
Assembly Drawing (GAD).

Figure 3-3: P&ID and GAD Sample - INERGEN® Single Cylinder System

STEP NO.5 – Bill of Material

We need to know exactly all the used components in the system and also their exact number, due to
this reason at this step we will provide the bill of material. In this list, there are the commercial
name of the components with all their technical description and required quantity of them.

No. 15 INERGEN® 300 bar cylinder assembly

Cylinder certification GOST-K
Cylinder capacity 80 litres
Cylinder pressurized 300 bar @ 15°C
Agent INERGEN® (IG-541)
Agent charge 24 Nm³ (each cylinder)
Total agent charge 48 Nm³
Cylinder diameter 267 mm
Cylinder height (valve outlet) 1780 mm
Cylinder weight (filled) 140 kg
Hand wheel valve burst disc 430±20 bar
Hand wheel valve certification EC (CPD) 1116-CPD-017
Figure 3-4: Bill of Material Sample - INERGEN® Cylinder Assembly
 Tyco Fire Proposal Department 16

STEP NO.6 – Price List

By having the bill of materials, now we can easily calculate the list of prices. Usually there are cost
accounting excel files belong to Tyco that help the proposal engineer calculating the final price of
the project regarding to all the done previous steps.

ITEM DESCRIPTION TOTAL PRICE

EURO
1.1 INERGEN 300 BAR FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEM
1.2 ENGINEERING AND CYLINDER BATTERY
OPTION:
2.1 Spare Parts for commissioning and start-up
…
Figure 3-5: Price List Sample - INERGEN® Fire Suppression System

STEP NO.7 – Presenting the Proposal

After completing all the previous steps that lead to prepare a quotation, the last step is classifying
and organizing a standard quotation that includes all the required information and documents.

Tyco proposal is composed of the following sections:

1. Scope of Work
2. General Description of System
3. Design Data
4. Process & Instrument Diagram
5. General Assembly Drawing
6. Bill of Materials
7. General Condition of Supply
8. Price List

When the final quotation is ready, it will be sent to client as the version zero of the proposal.
Usually the technical and commercial departments of the client company check the offer and ask
for some modification; therefore, there can be next versions of the quotation. Finally, if our
proposed offer could win the project in the competition with other competitor companies, the job
will be sent to Tyco Engineering Department for final designing and execution.
 Tyco Fire Proposal Department 17

3.4 Internship of Fire Proposal Department

Tyco as the one of the leaders in the firefighting industries in the world must always be up to date
and more than that must be innovate to could keep its position and situation at the market. Due to
this reason, the Tyco fire proposal department at Italy decided to introduce an internship stage to
try and experience new ways of innovation in the proposing procedure.

The first concept of the company was hiring a qualified mechanical engineering student and
making him/her to a skillful proposal engineer. In addition, they wanted to experience new way of
proposing.

3.4.1 Trainee Activities

I found the Tyco’s stage at Polimi Career Service in the December of 2014. I applied for it and
fortunately they nominated me as one of their candidate for the interview. After passing two
interview with Sales & Offering Manager and Human Resource Manager of the company, I
admitted for the stage of proposal engineer at fire proposal department under supervision of
Engineer Rossi at Tyco Integrated & Security Company and Professor Lo Conte at Politecnico di
Milano for the six months from 19th of January to 17th of July 2015.

In general, my activities during this period divide to three major categories:

1. Learning
2. Proposing & Engineering
3. Standardization

[Link] Learning
Generally, my learning period at Tyco can be divided into three categories.

First is general learning that I had under supervision of chief proposal engineer of Tyco, Mr. Rossi.
My main knowledge in gaseous fire suppression systems has come from him in both theory and
practical part. In addition, he taught me the whole procedure of preparing the quotation.

Second is the training sessions and courses that were held at Tyco for training the employees.
Attendance in these courses gave me a very good and useful information about firefighting
industry. For example, one of these courses was the training course for INERGEN® fire
suppression systems, which was held at Tyco by Fire Eater Company. This Danish company is one
of the leaders of producing and selling INERGEN® fire suppression systems in the world. During
 Tyco Fire Proposal Department 18

this course, I could get excellent knowledge about this type of systems and learnt the IMT
calculation software that is created and released by Fire Eater.

Third and final part of my learning at Tyco is consisted of the activities and studies that I have
done that can be called self-learning period. During this period, I started to read the standard codes
for designing the fire suppression systems for better understanding the details and limitation of the
process. In addition, I read the manuals of different fire suppression systems and learnt their
calculating software. My next step was to study the jobs that have been done by proposal and
engineering department and try to understand and recalculate them by helping of my knowledge.

[Link] Proposing & Engineering

As it explained before, the main responsibility of proposal department is preparing the quotation
regarding to client’s request. Thus after reaching to proper knowledge of work, I began to assisting
in some projects for preparing the quotation in all steps that have been explained in previous part
(fire suppression system quotation). However, usually my most concentration was on the preparing
design data of the systems by using various software, also drawing the process & instrument
diagram (P&ID) and general assembly drawing (GAD).

Fortunately, my good knowledge and ability in the calculating software gave me this opportunity to
help to engineering department in calculating some jobs especially for INERGEN® fire suppression
systems and they were very great experience for me.

[Link] Standardization
The main result of this internship for Tyco was performing the standardization of the documents
for different gaseous fire suppression systems. There was an idea for standardizing the documents
in my first days at Tyco but luckily, we could make it real.

The result of this activity is not just an achievement for the fire proposal department but also it can
be used in all other department from sales and marketing to engineering and even installation and
services.

Further, in an independent part I will describe whole the process of standardization from its
concept at the beginning to its implement at the end.
 Tyco Fire Proposal Department 19

3.5 Standardization of Fire Suppression Systems

Tyco Integrated Fire & Security Company as one of the leaders in firefighting industry is always
looking for innovative way to keep and even improve its position at world market.

The Italian branch of Tyco is the best Italian company in producing, designing and installation of
fire suppression systems in the Italy market and also a very strong competitor for other related
companies in this industry in rest of Europe and Middle East.

Due to these reasons, the first hand ideas are always welcome to the Tyco and the doors of
company are open for them.

3.5.1 Concept of the Standard Documentation

The procedure of making a quotation, which has been described in previous parts, shows that it is a
time consuming process and depend on the requested job, sometimes it takes many days to be
done. After complete analyzing of this long process and its reasons by engineer Rossi, the chief fire
proposal engineer of fire proposal department with thirty years of experience in fire suppression
systems, he recognized that the most important reason is not being standardized. He found that
every time for every proposal, they have to go through the existing files of requested agent and its
related fire suppression system documents (standard codes, manuals and datasheets …) to could be
able to prepare a quotation. He believed that it is true that every project has its own specific and
unique conditions but in general, it is possible to create and introduce some main categories of each
type of fire suppression systems that they consist all the probable requested systems.

Therefore, the logic and first idea of preparing standard documents has been born and the statement
of “To Remain Competitive, We Need Organization” became our slogan. Next, as we went further
in standardizing, we could better define our criteria and expand our work until finally reached our
goal.

3.5.2 Benefits of the Standard Documentation

The idea of standardization was made at proposal department but we wanted that the results would
be useful for all departments. There are many advantages for having standard documents; here will
be some of them in below:

 All the departments can use them and increase their efficiencies and utilities. For example,
people in marketing and sales department can use them for convincing the clients before
 Tyco Fire Proposal Department 20

their request of other competitors or engineers and technicians can use them for better
designing and installation.
 By having standard documents, the process time of proposing will decrease significantly.
Therefore, proposal engineers can save their energies and time.
 They can help for providing much better and accurate quotations.
 Company can get more requests from clients and competes in more competition due to
ability of proposal department to create more quotation in comparison with before
standardization.
 These types of innovative activities can keep Tyco to stay unique and special in the market
of firefighting systems in compared with similar companies.

3.5.3 Process of the Standardization

First step of this process was finding and classifying the various existing fire suppression systems
that are requesting from clients to design and install.

As described in chapter 3, there are different types of fire extinguishing systems. The commercial
name of the available gaseous fire suppression systems that are designed, proposed and installed by
Tyco are as below:

1. SAPPHIRETM
2. FM-200®
3. INERGEN®
4. iFLOW®
5. CO2

Any of the above systems minimum has two major producer one for its agent and one for its
components. As it mentioned exising of two producers for one fire suppression system is the
minimum possibility. For example for SAPPHIRETM fire suppression system, the Tyco Fire
Protection Production (TFPP) is the only system components producer and HYGOOD is the only
producer of its agent (NOVECTM 1230) while for INERGEN® fire suppression system there are 3
possibility of request that in any of them there are 2 possible independent producer. In one
INERGEN® system, TFPP produces the components and LPG is the supplier of the agent, in the
other one again TFPP is component producer and ANSUL produces the agent and in third system
the whole system is produced and supplied by Fire Eater.
 Tyco Fire Proposal Department 21

Thus, we found and then classified all the existing fire suppression at Tyco systems with their
available and possible producer and supplier that you can see in Table 3.2 in below.

Table 3-2: Different Supplier and Producer of Fire Suppression Systems for Tyco

As you can see in the table, the variety of the available firefighting systems and their producers are
very high. Therefore, without having good standard document for each of these systems, preparing
a proper quotation would be very hard and even in some cases due to information dispersal, it can
be impossible.

Next step of our task was to prepare a list of all the documents that we must provide for each
system. We were looking for the documents, which are common between all the each types of fire
suppression systems without caring to what or where the project is or even what are the specific
details of the hazardous area. These questions are just guide and help for providing the bill of
material and price list not for designing the system. Here are our final consequence2 that we have
provided for each types of fire suppression systems:

1. Product Overview
2. Warranty
3. Approvals and Certificates
4. Application Sheet
5. Data Sheet
6. Process & Instrument Diagram (P&ID)
7. General Assembly Drawing (GAD)
8. Design Manual

2
All the rights of these standard documents are for Tyco Italy and they are available both in digital version at their
internal intranet and in hard copy in their paper docs.
 Tyco Fire Proposal Department 22

Most of the above mentioned are the documents that are released by the producer company under
the supervision of standard and approval organizations.

Our mission was first to find and gather them by asking from their supplier companies or in some
cases by searching in Tyco’s branches all over the world from USA to England, Spain or even
Australia and then classify them by our provided cover for Tyco of Italy with the complete
information of their released datasheet number, description and revision.

The important part of providing standard documents was to prepare the items, which were not
available and they did not exist. In addition, the point is that the difference between the sub-
categories of one type of fire suppression system is exactly in these items. Thus, I focused and
concentrated on these parts and tried to do my best for preparing them.

Here are these documents with a brief description about them:

Data Sheet

Every data sheet is started with general information about the agent that is used in system and after
that, there is material safety data sheet of the agent. These two information are the same in all sub-
categories of one type of fire suppression system. Next, depending on the sub-category of the
system that we want to describe, there are all the information – technical and commercial – about
all the components that would exist in the system like cylinders, discharge valves, hoses, manifold,
actuators, nozzles etc.

Process & Instrument Diagram (P&ID)

These types of diagrams are different from each other regarding to the sub-categories of the
systems and are useful for both technical and commercial departments. There is a schematic
drawing of the requested fire suppression system with the legends of all the components, general
information of the system and brief technical description of the main component like cylinders,
actuators and nozzles.

General Assembly Drawing (GAD)

In these documents, there are technical drawing of the systems with more technical details. They
are useful for calculating and planning the systems also, they are very useful for technical
department both for installation and for services and maintenance.
 Tyco Fire Proposal Department 23

3.5.4 Standard Documentation of INERGEN® Fire Suppression Systems

As it described before, Tyco has possibility to design and sell five different types of gaseous fire
suppression systems and each of them has some general sub-categories and various producer and
supplier. However, during this stage most of my concentration was on the INERGEN® Fire
Suppression Systems. Therefore, in this part I will present my standardization process on these
systems.

STEP NO.1

First step was dividing this system to sub-categories that could consist all the probable requests for
INERGEN® fire suppression systems. We found four below categories:

1. Single Cylinder System

2. Multiple Cylinders System
3. System with Back-up
4. System with Selector Valve

STEP NO.2

At this step, I collected all the available documents – Product Overview, Warranty, Approvals and
Certificates, Application Sheet and Design Manual – for the INERGEN® and standardized them
under the cover and label of Tyco Italy. The result of this step is utilizable for all the four above
categories.

STEP NO.3

Unlike the previous step that all the prepared documents were useful for all the categories of
INERGEN® Fire Suppression Systems, now it was the time to create the documents – Data Sheet,
Process & Instrument Diagram (P&ID) and General Assembly Drawing (GAD) – that are usable
just for each particular system.

The consequences of our job are part of the classified documents of Tyco Italy, due to this reason I
am not allowed to publish and release all the results, but by company’s permission, I will put some
sample of our outputs in the appendix of my thesis. However if it was allowed to publish all the
results, again it was not possible to put hundreds of pages here in my thesis.
 Tyco Fire Proposal Department 24

3.5.5 Next Step of Standardization

We have gathered the entire available documents – Product Overview, Warranty, Approvals and
Certificates, Application Sheet and Design Manual – for all types of the fire suppression system
that have been mentioned before and standardized them under the cover and label of Tyco Italy.

Then, we went particularly to INERGEN® Fire Suppression Systems and as it described in

previous part, we created the Data Sheet, Process & Instrument Diagram (P&ID) and General
Assembly Drawing (GAD) for each sub categories of this system that took a long time from us.

The next step of standardization for Tyco Italy can be creating the unavailable documents – Data
Sheet, Process & Instrument Diagram (P&ID) and General Assembly Drawing (GAD) – for all the
other gaseous fire suppression systems. However, already we have done some good steps for other
types of fire suppression systems but they are not finished and still there are a lot of steps and
revision that has been remained unfinished and incomplete.

3.6 Conclusion
In this chapter, after describing the fire proposal department and then responsibilities of proposal
engineers at Tyco Italy, complete procedure of preparing a quotation for fire suppression system
has been presented.

Next, the internship stage of Tyco fire proposal department has been described and I have
explained all of my activities during these six months of training.

Finally, there are complete explanation about standardizing the documents of all types of gaseous
fire suppression systems that I have done during the stage for the company.
 Standards & Approvals 25

Chapter 4

4 Standards & Approvals

4.1 Standards Organization
A standards3 organization, standards body, standards developing organization (SDO), or standards
setting organization (SSO) is any organization whose primary activities are developing,
coordinating, promulgating, revising, amending, reissuing, interpreting, or otherwise producing
technical standards that are intended to address the needs of some relatively wide base of affected
adopters.

Most standards are voluntary in the sense that they are offered for adoption by people or industry
without being mandated in law. Some standards become mandatory when they are adopted by
regulators as legal requirements in particular domains [33].

Normally, the term standards organization is not used to refer to the individual parties participating
within the standards developing organization in the capacity of founders, benefactors, stakeholders,
members or contributors, who themselves may function as the standards organizations.

It is mandatory for all the Fire Suppression Systems to obey and implement one of these rules in
their designing and installing construction regarding to the safety regulations of the project’s local
government.

It is necessary to mention, as we have two major categories of applications – Landing & Marine –
so there are standard codes for Fire Suppression Systems both in Landing and in Marine
Applications. In the following, there are the most important and useful international standard codes
for designing firefighting systems with their brief description in the firefighting industry both for
landing and marine applications.

3 A standard (French: Norme, German: Norm) is a technical document designed to be used as a rule, guideline or definition. It is a
consensus-built, repeatable way of doing something.
 Standards & Approvals 26

4.1.1 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is a United States trade association, albeit with
some international members, that creates and maintains private, copyrighted, standards and codes
for usage and adoption by local governments. This includes publications from model building
codes to the many on equipment utilized by firefighters while engaging in hazardous material
(hazmat) response, rescue response, and some firefighting [2].

The NFPA was formed in 1896 by a group of insurance firms with the stated purpose of
standardizing the new and burgeoning market of fire sprinkler systems. The scope of the NFPA's
influence grew from sprinklers and fire extinguishers to include building electrical systems
(another new technology), and then into almost all aspects of building design and construction.

Its original membership was limited to insurance underwriting firms and there was no
representation from the industries the NFPA sought to control. This changed in 1904 to allow other
industries and individuals to participate in the development of the standards to be promulgated by
the NFPA. The first fire department to be represented in the NFPA was the New York City Fire
Department in 1905, though their participation has declined steadily since then. Today, the NFPA
includes representatives from some fire departments, many fire insurance companies, many
manufacturing associations, some trade unions, many trade associations, and engineering
associations.

Today NFPA defines its mission as follows: "To reduce the worldwide burden of fire and other
hazards on the quality of life by providing and advocating consensus codes and standards, research,
training, and education". NFPA membership totals more than 65,000 individuals around the world
[13].

Figure 4-1: NFPA Logo

 Standards & Approvals 27

[Link] NFPA Codes and standards

NFPA is responsible for 380 codes and standards that are designed to minimize the risk and effects
of fire by establishing criteria for building, processing, design, service, and installation in the
United States, as well as many other countries. Its more than 200 technical code- and standard-
development committees have over 6,000 volunteer seats. Volunteers vote on proposals and
revisions in a process that is accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) [2].

Some of the most widely used codes are:

 NFPA 1, Fire Code: Provides requirements to establish a reasonable level of fire safety and
property protection in new and existing buildings.
 NFPA 54, National Fuel Gas Code: The safety benchmark for fuel gas installations.
 NFPA 70, National Electric Code: The world's most widely used and accepted code for
electrical installations.
 NFPA 85: Boiler and Combustion Systems Hazards Code
 NFPA 101, Life Safety Code Establishes minimum requirements for new and existing
buildings to protect building occupants from fire, smoke, and toxic fumes.
 NFPA 704, Standard System for the Identification of the Hazards of Materials for
Emergency Response Defines the colloquial "fire diamond" used by emergency personnel
to quickly and easily identify the risks posed by hazardous materials.
 NFPA 2001, Standard on Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems

[Link] Access to NFPA Codes and Standards

As part of its commitment to enhancing public safety through the adoption and enforcement of key
ANSI codes and standards, NFPA makes all of its codes and standards available for review online
by the public. The complete texts of standards documents are available on the NFPA Web site,
with restrictions, for viewing, but not printing, by citizens, interested manufacturers and others
with computer access. NFPA codes and standards are widely adopted, because they are developed
using an open, consensus-based process. All NFPA codes and standards are developed and
periodically reviewed by approximately 7,000 volunteer committee members with a wide range of
professional expertise.
 Standards & Approvals 28

4.1.2 International Standard Organization (ISO)

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is an international standard setting body
composed of representatives from various national standards organizations. Founded on 23
February 1947, the organization promotes worldwide proprietary, industrial and commercial
standards. It is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, and as of 2013 works in 164 countries. It
was one of the first organizations granted general consultative status with the United Nations
Economic and Social Council [14].

ISO, the International Organization for Standardization, is an independent, non-governmental

organization, the members of which are the standards organization of the 163 member countries. It
is the world's largest developer of voluntary international standards and facilitates world trade by
providing common standards between nations. Nearly twenty thousand standards have been set
covering everything from manufactured products and technology to food safety, agriculture and
healthcare.

Use of the standards ensures that products and services are safe, reliable and of good quality. The
standards help businesses increase productivity while minimizing errors and waste. By enabling
products from different markets to be directly compared, they facilitate companies in entering new
markets and assist in the development of global trade on a fair basis. The standards also serve to
safeguard consumers and the end-users of products and services, ensuring that certified products
conform to the minimum standards set internationally.

ISO is a voluntary organization whose members are recognized authorities on standards, each one
representing one country. Members meet annually at a General Assembly to discuss ISO's strategic
objectives. The organization is coordinated by a Central Secretariat based in Geneva. A Council
with a rotating membership of 20 member bodies provides guidance and governance, including
setting the Central Secretariat's annual budget. The Technical Management Board is responsible for
over 250 technical committees, who develop the ISO standards [3].

Figure 4-2: ISO Logo

 Standards & Approvals 29

4.1.3 European Committee for Standardization (CEN)

CEN, the European Committee for Standardization, is an association that brings together the
National Standardization Bodies of 33 European countries.

CEN is one of three European Standardization Organizations (together with CENELEC and ETSI)
that have been officially recognized by the European Union and by the European Free Trade
Association (EFTA) as being responsible for developing and defining voluntary standards at
European level.

CEN provides a platform for the development of European Standards (EN) and other technical
documents in relation to various kinds of products, materials, services and processes [15].

CEN supports standardization activities in relation to a wide range of fields and sectors including:
air and space, chemicals, construction, consumer products, defence and security, energy, the
environment, food and feed, health and safety, healthcare, ICT, machinery, materials, pressure
equipment, services, smart living, transport and packaging.

They concentrate most of their efforts on one major deliverable: the European Standard (EN). This
document shall be given the status of national standard in all CEN member countries, who
must therefore withdraw any conflicting national standards [4].

Besides European Standards, they produce other deliverables with specific characteristics and
objectives. These are Technical Specifications (TS), Technical Reports (TR), Guides and CEN
and/or CENELEC Workshop Agreements (CWA). These various products differ in their methods
of development, approval processes and implementation, offering flexible means to meet different
market needs for requirements and information.

Figure 4-3: CEN Logo

 Standards & Approvals 30

[Link] European Standards (EN)

A standard is a document that provides rules, guidelines or characteristics for activities or their
results, for common and repeated use. Standards are created by bringing together all interested
parties including manufacturers, users, consumers and regulators of a particular material, product,
process or service. Everyone benefits from standardization through increased product safety and
quality as well as lower transaction costs and prices.

Each European Standard is identified by a unique reference code, which contains the letters 'EN'. A
European Standard is a standard that has been adopted by one of the three recognized European
Standardization Organizations (ESOs): CEN, CENELEC or ETSI. It is produced by all interested
parties through a transparent, open and consensus based process.

European Standards are a key component of the Single European Market. Although rather technical
and mostly unknown to the public and media, they represent one of the most important issues for
businesses. Often perceived as boring and not particularly relevant to some organizations, they are
actually crucial in facilitating trade and hence have high visibility among manufacturers inside and
outside Europe. Standards provide individuals, businesses and all kinds or organizations with a
common basis for mutual understanding. A standard represents a model specification, a technical
solution against which a market can trade. It codifies best practice and is usually state of the art.

In essence, European Standards relate to products, services or systems. Today, however, standards
are no longer created only for technical reasons but have also become enablers for greater social
inclusiveness and engagement with technology, as well as convergence and interoperability within
growing markets across industries [15].

Figure 4-4: EN Logo

 Standards & Approvals 31

4.1.4 International Maritime Organization (IMO)

As a specialized agency of the United Nations, IMO is the global standard-setting authority for the
safety, security and environmental performance of international shipping. Its main role is to create
a regulatory framework for the shipping industry that is fair and effective, universally adopted and
universally implemented.

In other words, its role is to create a level playing field so that ship operators cannot address their
financial issues by simply cutting corners and compromising on safety, security and environmental
performance. This approach also encourages innovation and efficiency.

Shipping is a truly international industry, and it can only operate effectively if the regulations and
standards are themselves agreed, adopted and implemented on an international basis and IMO is
the forum at which this process takes place.

International shipping transports about 90 percent of global trade to peoples and communities all
over the world. Shipping is the most efficient and cost-effective method of international
transportation for most goods. It provides a dependable, low-cost means of transporting goods
globally, facilitating commerce and helping to create prosperity among nations and peoples. The
world relies on a safe, secure and efficient international shipping industry and this is provided by
the regulatory framework, then developed and maintained by IMO. International Maritime
Organization measures cover all aspects of international shipping – including ship design,
construction, equipment, manning, operation and disposal – to ensure that this vital sector for
remains safe, environmentally sound, energy efficient and secure [16].

Figure 4-5: IMO Logo

 Standards & Approvals 32

4.2 Approvals and Certifications

Type Approval or Certificate of Conformity is granted to a product or system that meets a
minimum set of regulatory, technical and safety requirements. Generally, type approval is required
before a product is allowed to be sold in a particular country, so the requirements for a given
product will vary around the world [33].

The same as all other industries, there are many different organizations and institutes in the
Firefighting Industry, which their responsibility is approving the fire suppression systems by
testing and supervising on all the procedure from engineering and designing the systems to all the
used components.

In general, there are two main categories for approvals and certifications which refers to two major
type of consumption, one for Landing applications and the other one for Marine applications.

Similar to the standard codes, the type of the approvals and certifications will be chosen first
regarding to the type of application – landing or marine – and second to the project’s country
regulations and work owner request.

In the following, we will see with the most important and useful International Approvals and
Certifications Organizations under the two main categories of Landing and Marine Applications.

4.2.1 Landing Applications

[Link] FM Approval
FM Global provides comprehensive global commercial and industrial property insurance,
engineering-driven underwriting and risk management solutions, groundbreaking property loss
prevention research and prompt, professional claims handling. As a mutual company, their
products and services directly support their clients' overall risk management objectives through
[17]:

 Understanding the nature and reality of their specific risks

 Establishing sound loss prevention solutions that safeguard against loss
 Developing cost-effective insurance and risk transfer solutions backed by stable
capacity
 Providing the claims and loss mitigation support to minimize business disruption
 Standards & Approvals 33

Figure 4-6: FM Approved Logo

[Link] UL Approval
UL is a global independent safety science company with more than a century of expertise
innovating safety solutions from the public adoption of electricity to new breakthroughs in
sustainability, renewable energy and nanotechnology. Dedicated to promoting safe living and
working environments, UL helps safeguard people, products and places in important ways,
facilitating trade and providing peace of mind [18].

Figure 4-7: UL Approved Logo

[Link] Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB)

The Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB) is the landing international certification body in
the fields of security and fire protection. LPCB approval is recognized by governments and
regulatory authorities across the world, especially in the Asia Pacific, Middle East and Europe.

The LPCB approval process involves assessment and testing of products to ensure that they meet
quality standards set by a team of experts who may be regulators, insurers, designers,
manufacturers, installers, engineers and scientists. Approval of products is usually based on testing
undertaken by their world-renowned testing laboratories. This approval is maintained by regular
audits to ensure that the product continues to meet the approval criteria.

Figure 4-8: LPCB Approved Logo

 Standards & Approvals 34

Once they are satisfied that a product, service or company meets the necessary standards, they
issue a certificate and list them in the ‘Red Book’ which is available free of charge for specifiers
and other users throughout the world.

When they first started issuing approvals, they were often based on their own Loss Prevention
Standards. Over the years, many of these have been incorporated into other British, European and
International Standards [19].

At its simplest, the LPCB approval process uses existing standards as the basis for listing.
However, where no standards exist, they can still approve innovative products by drawing on the
experience of their scientists and expert groups to devise a suitable assessment regime for the
product or service concerned.

[Link] VdS Approval

As one of Germany’s leading independent testing institutions for fire protection and security, VdS
enjoys the trust of all groups involved in the safety and security markets. Its customers include
risk-conscious industrial and commercial companies, leading manufacturers, systems houses,
specialized firms and specialist trades. On the operational side, VdS offers an innovative range of
services in the fields of fire protection, security, training and publishing. VdS is a fully owned
subsidiary of the German Insurance Association (GDV) and, through its owner, has more than 100
years of experience in its core area of business, namely fire protection.

Figure 4-9: VdS Approved Logo

VdS can call on experts in all fields of fire protection and combines the various specialists for
matters of constructional fire protection and fire protection installations. Its hundred years of
expertise, its focus on fire protection testing and its close cooperation with its own laboratories are
unique selling points of the VdS Inspection Services. It is an internationally recognized innovation
and technology leader [20].
 Standards & Approvals 35

Numerous accreditations not only document the outstanding competence and expertise of VdS,
they also reflect its independence and objective assessments. A VdS certificate therefore gives
commercial and private consumers an important orientation aid in distinguishing between high-
quality and mediocre products and services. Manufacturers and service providers benefit from the
consumers’ growing need for safety, as a result of which buying decisions are becoming
increasingly dependent on safety aspects.

VdS operates a number of well-equipped laboratories in which type and system tests can be
conducted on products for fire and intruder protection. A fundamental requirement for this – apart
from using state-of-the-art technologies and innovative testing procedures – is that the staff have a
sound knowledge base and long-time experience. The laboratories cover the entire value chain
from prototype testing to the VdS approved end product, which means that manufacturers enjoy
considerable competitive advantages. To round off the range of services offered by the VdS
laboratories, the engineers can also be called on in a consulting capacity, for example when
selecting and applying the relevant standards and guidelines.

[Link] Certificate of Conformity (EC)

A COC (Certificate of Conformity) is a declaration of the conformity with the type approval of EC.
The purpose of this document is to ensure the free movement of goods within the European Union,
specifically for those goods that are subject to homologation and registration.

A COC is a producer’s declaration that the product complies with the given approved type. This
document contains information about the product and its producer’s identification, type approval
number, technical specifications and other data. The content of a COC is defined by EU regulation
(Amendment IX, Regulation 92/53). Products without the EU specification (e.g. vehicle
manufactured for the U.S. or Japanese market) and older products that have not been given the type
approval of the EC yet, do not have an existing COC. Similarly, it is not possible to issue a COC
for converted products [21].

Figure 4-10: EC Approved Logo

 Standards & Approvals 36

4.2.2 Marine Applications

[Link] American Bureau of Shipping (ABS)
Since its founding in 1862, the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), a New York not-for-profit
corporation, has been committed to setting standards for safety and excellence as one of the
world’s leading ship classification societies.

The mission of ABS is to serve the public interest as well as the needs of their members and clients
by promoting the security of life and property and preserving the natural environment.

ABS has been at the forefront of marine and offshore energy innovation for more than 150 years.
In a constantly evolving industry, ABS works alongside its partners tackling the most pressing
technical, operational and regulatory challenges so the marine and offshore industries can operate
safely, securely and responsibly [22].

Figure 4-11: ABS Approved Logo

The surveyors, engineers, researchers and regulatory specialists who form the ABS team work in
more than 200 offices in 70 countries around the world providing traditional classification services
as well as on-the-ground technical services in asset performance, energy efficiency, environmental
performance and life cycle management. With a passion for making the world a safer place, while
also delivering practical and innovative solutions, ABS stands ready to assist and advance the
marine and offshore energy industries.

[Link] Der Norske Veritas (DNV)

DNV GL is the world’s leading classification society and a recognized advisor for the maritime
industry. They enhance safety, quality, energy efficiency and environmental performance of the
global shipping industry – across all vessel types and offshore structures. They invest heavily in
research and development to find solutions, together with the industry, that address strategic,
operational or regulatory challenges.
 Standards & Approvals 37

The merger between DNV and GL was cleared by competition authorities and the new company
became operational from September 12, 2013. DNV GL then became and still is the world’s
leading ship and offshore classification society and a world-leader of independent assurance and
expert advisory services [23].

DNV GL rules, standards and guidelines are developed and based on the competence and
experience of their engineers, extensive research and development programs and in close
cooperation with their customers worldwide.

Figure 4-12: DNV & GL Approved Logo

[Link] Lloyd’s Register (LR)

Lloyd’s Register marine business is a leading provider of classification services around the world,
helping ensure that internationally recognized safety and environmental standards are maintained at
every stage of a ship's life.

Lloyd's Register provides quality assurance and certification for ships, offshore structures, and
shore based installations such as power stations and railway infrastructure. However, Lloyd's
Register is known best for the classification and certification of ships, and inspects and approves
important components and accessories, including life-saving appliances, marine pollution
prevention, fire protection, navigation, radio communication equipment, deck gear, cables, ropes,
and anchors [24].

Figure 4-13: Lloyd’s Register Approved Logo

 Standards & Approvals 38

LR's Rules for Ships are derived from principles of naval architecture and marine engineering.
They also govern safety and operational standards for numerous merchant, military and privately
owned vessels. LR's Rules govern a number of topics including:

 Materials used for construction of the vessel

 Ship structural requirements and minimum scantlings, depending on ship type
 Operation and maintenance of main and auxiliary machinery
 Operation and maintenance of emergency and control systems

Specific editions of the rules are available to cater for merchant ships, naval ships, trimarans,
special purpose vessels and offshore structures. A ship is known as being in class if it meets all the
minimum requirements of LR's Rules, and such a status affects the possibility of a ship getting
insurance. Class can be withdrawn from a ship if it is in violation of any regulations and does not
maintain the minimum requirements specified by the company. However, exceptional
circumstances may warrant special dispensation from Lloyd's Register. Any alteration to the vessel,
whether it is a structural alteration or machinery, must be approved by Lloyd's Register before it is
implemented.

[Link] Registro Italiano Navale (RINA)

Registro Italiano Navale (RINA) Group business activities consist in offering certification,
verification, control, assistance and consultancy services to economic and institutional operators,
aimed at improving the safety and quality of their products, processes and services.

Figure 4-14: RINA Approved Logo

 Standards & Approvals 39

The role they intend to perform is that of guiding the qualitative development of the market,
promoting awareness that the adoption of measures to protect safety and the environment and, in
general, attention to quality are attitudes which lead to advantages and increase the value of the
organisations which pursue them. RINA distinctive feature is application leadership, that is to say,
the ability to understand the needs of individual customers and offer a customised and effective
service in full compliance with the applicable standards and rules [25].

RINA provides quality assurance and certification for important ship's components and accessories,
including life-saving appliances, marine pollution prevention, fire protection, navigation, radio
communication equipment, deck gear, cables, rodes, and anchors.

[Link] United States Coast Guard (USCG)

The U.S. Coast Guard is one of the five armed forces of the United States and the only military
organization within the Department of Homeland Security. Since 1790 the Coast Guard has
safeguarded their Nation's maritime interests and environment around the world. The Coast Guard
is an adaptable, responsive military force of maritime professionals whose broad legal authorities,
capable assets, geographic diversity and expansive partnerships provide a persistent presence along
their rivers, in the ports, littoral regions and on the high seas. Coast Guard presence and impact is
local, regional, national and international. These attributes make the Coast Guard a unique
instrument of maritime safety, security and environmental stewardship.

Figure 4-15: USCG Approved Logo

Type Approval is the primary process for equipment and materials to receive Coast Guard
approval. For equipment or materials to receive Type Approval, they must be demonstrated to
comply with the relevant requirements in the regulations, successfully complete the specified tests,
and be enrolled in a quality control or follow up program as required. The quality control or follow
up program monitors product uniformity to ensure that it does not deviate from the approved
 Standards & Approvals 40

design. Depending on the type of equipment, the follow up program is generally arranged with the
same laboratory that conducted the initial testing or in some cases is carried out by Coast Guard
marine inspectors. Since the Coast Guard does not have its own certification laboratory, it relies on
Accepted Independent Testing Laboratories to test materials for compliance with the applicable
criteria. Such acceptance is given for each approval category and test apparatus individually [26].

4.3 Conclusion
In all the industries, always there are some standard codes for designing and installation of the
systems which are developed by related Standard Organizations for those industries. And after that,
also there are many Approval Organizations which approve those systems in all aspects from their
safety to the quality of the components of those systems.

This chapter has presented the most important and useful Standard Codes and Approvals with their
related organizations in the field of Fire Protection, first those who develop Standard Codes and
then those who approve the Fire Suppression Systems by applying different tests on them.
 Gaseous Fire Suppression Agents 41

Chapter 5

5 Gaseous Fire Suppression Agents

5.1 General Information
Gaseous fire suppression is a term to describe the use of inert gases and chemical agents to
extinguish a fire. Also called Clean Agent Fire Suppression. These Agents are governed by the
NFPA Standard for Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems – NFPA 2001 – with different
standards and regulations in other parts of the world. The system typically consists of the agent,
agent storage containers, agent release valves, fire detectors, fire detection system (wiring control
panel, actuation signaling), agent delivery piping, and agent dispersion nozzles. Less typically, the
agent may be delivered by means of solid propellant gas generators that produce either inert or
chemically active gas [33].

This chapter will introduce and compare different gaseous fire suppression agents according to
their usage area, acting theory, type of application and safety precaution.

5.1.1 Acting Theory

There are four means used by the agents to extinguish a fire. They act on the "fire tetrahedron":

 Reduction or isolation of fuel. Representative agents: No agents currently use this as the
primary means of fire suppression.
 Reduction of heat. Representative agents: Clean agent FS 49 C2 (NAF S 227, MH227, FM-
200®), NovecTM 1230, pentafluoroethane (NAF S125, ECARO-25).
 Reduction or isolation of Oxygen. Representative agents: Argonite / IG-55 (ProInert), CO2
Carbon dioxide, IG-541 INERGEN®, and IG-100 (NN100).
 Inhibiting the chain reaction of the above components. Representative agents: FE-13,
Haloalkanes, Bromotrifluoromethane, Trifluoroiodomethane, NAF P-IV, NAF S-III, NAF
S125, NAF S227, 1,1,1,2,3,3,3-Heptafluoropropane and Triodide.
 Gaseous Fire Suppression Agents 42

5.1.2 Type of Application

Broadly speaking, there are two methods for applying an extinguishing agent:

 Total Flooding
Systems working on a total flooding principle apply an extinguishing agent to a three
dimensional enclosed space in order to achieve a concentration of the agent (volume
percent of the agent in air) adequate to extinguish the fire. These types of systems may be
operated automatically by detection and related controls or manually by the operation of a
system actuator.
 Local Application
Systems working on a local application principle apply an extinguishing agent directly onto
a fire (usually a two dimensional area), or into the three dimensional region immediately
surrounding the substance or object on fire. The main difference in local application from
total flooding design is the absence of physical barriers enclosing the fire space.

In the context of automatic extinguishing systems, local application generally refers to the use of
systems that have been emplaced some time prior to their usage rather than the use of manually
operated wheeled or portable fire extinguishers, although the nature of the agent delivery is similar
and many automatic systems may also be activated manually. The lines are blurred somewhat with
portable automatic extinguishing systems, although these are not common.

5.1.3 Safety Precautions

An extinguishing system which primarily is based on inert gases in enclosed spaces presents a risk
of suffocation. Numerous incidents have occurred where individuals in these spaces have been
killed by Carbon dioxide agent release. To prevent such occurrences, additional life safety systems
are typically installed with a warning alarm that precedes the agent release. The warning, usually
an audible and visible alert, advises the immediate evacuation of the enclosed space. After a preset
time, the agent starts to discharge. Accidents have also occurred during maintenance of these
systems, so proper safety precautions must be taken beforehand.

The positive pressure caused by these gases may be sufficient to break windows and walls.
Humans and structures must be adequately protected and ventilation/blow-off must be considered
when designing the system [33].
 Gaseous Fire Suppression Agents 43

5.2 Total Flooding Chemical Gaseous Agents

5.2.1 FM-200®
[Link] General Information
FM-200® has been developed as an alternative to Halon 1301, production of which ceased at the
end of 1993, under the agreed adjustments made to the Montreal Protocol in November 1992.

FM-200® contains no Bromine or Chlorine and has therefore an Ozone depleting potential of zero.

FM-200® systems utilize one or more storage containers arranged to provide the protected area with
a pre-determined quantity of gas.

FM-200® storage containers are designed to hold FM-200® in liquid form and Nitrogen, which is
used to super-pressurize the container to 25 bar (362 psi) at 20°C.

The components used in the FM-200® systems are designed and tested to operate in the temperature
range 0°C to 50°C or as stated in separate component approvals. For applications outside this
temperature range refer to the Product Manager.

Handling and Installation of FM-200® equipment should only be carried out by persons
experienced in dealing with this type of equipment [6].

[Link] Description of FM-200® Systems

FM-200® systems are designed to suppress fires involving flammable liquids, gases and in
electrical equipment.

FM-200® suppresses fires by a combination of physical and chemical means. It does not
significantly deplete the Oxygen content in the room and tests have shown it to be less toxic than
Halon 1301.

A system comprises one or more containers connected to a system of pipework and nozzles. FM-
200® is liquefied under pressure and is stored in steel containers, each of which is fitted with a
valve specially designed to allow the contents of the container to discharge rapidly. When the valve
opens, FM-200® flows into the distribution pipework to the discharge nozzles where it is rapidly
dispersed as a vapor [7].

Discharging FM-200® gives the appearance of a fog which may reduce visibility. This normally
clears rapidly and should not obstruct the ability of personnel to safely exit the protected area.
 Gaseous Fire Suppression Agents 44

FM-200® Fire Suppression Systems are particularly valuable in suppressing fires in enclosures
containing hazards or equipment where a clean, electrically non-conductive medium is essential or
where the cleaning up of foam, water or powder would be problematic. Consideration should be
given in the positioning of nozzles to ensure that delicate equipment is not subjected to cold shock.

[Link] Properties of FM-200®

Under normal conditions, FM-200® is an odorless colorless gas with a density around 6 times
greater than air. It has a vapor pressure of approximately 4 bar at 20°C and is super-pressurized
with Nitrogen to 25 bar when used in fire suppression applications.

It contains no particulates or oily residues and it is produced under ISO 9002 guidelines to strict
manufacturing specifications ensuring product purity.

Present understanding of FM-200® is that fire suppression is through heat absorption and chemical
means.

FM-200® decomposes at temperatures in excess of 500°C and it is therefore important to avoid

applications involving hazards where continuously hot surfaces are involved. Upon exposure to the
flame, FM-200® will decompose to form halogen acids. Their presence will be readily detected by
a sharp, pungent odor before maximum hazardous exposure levels are reached.

It has been concluded from fire toxicity studies that decomposition products from the fire itself
especially Carbon monoxide, smoke, Oxygen depletion and heat may create a greater hazard.

[Link] Toxicity of FM-200®

The following table details the toxicological data on FM-200® and compares this with Halon 1301.

FM-200® Halon 1301

Cardiac Sensitization 9.0% 5.0%
No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL)
Cardiac Sensitization 10.5% 7.5%
Lowest Observed Adverse Effect Level (LOAEL)
Design concentration (minimum) 7.9% 5.0%
Table 5-1: FM-200® Toxicological Data

It can be seen that FM-200® has extremely low toxicity and as it suppresses fires at low
concentrations, it does not significantly reduce Oxygen levels [7].
 Gaseous Fire Suppression Agents 45

5.2.2 Novec™ 1230

[Link] General Information
Novec™ 1230 has been developed as an alternative to Halon 1301, production of which ceased at
the end of 1993, under the agreed adjustments made to the Montreal Protocol in November 1992.

Novec™ 1230 contains no Bromine or Chlorine and has therefore an Ozone depleting potential of
zero.

Novec™ 1230 systems utilise one or more storage containers arranged to provide the protected
area with a pre-determined quantity of gas.

Novec™ 1230 storage containers are designed to hold Novec™ 1230 in liquid form and Nitrogen,
which is used to superpressurise the container to either 25 bar (362 psi) or 42 bar (609 psi) at 20°C.

The components used in Novec™ 1230 systems are designed and tested to operate in the
temperature range -20°C to 50°C or as stated in separate component approvals. For applications
outside this temperature range refer to the Product Manager.

Handling and Installation of Novec™ 1230 equipment should only be carried out by persons
experienced in dealing with this type of equipment [5].

[Link] Description of Novec™ 1230 Systems

Novec™ 1230 systems are designed to suppress fires involving flammable liquids, gases and in
electrical equipment.

Novec™ 1230 suppresses fires by heat absorption. It does not significantly deplete the Oxygen
content in the room and tests have shown it to be less toxic than Halon 1301.

A system comprises one or more containers connected to a system of pipework and nozzles.
Novec™ 1230 is stored under pressure in steel containers, each of which is fitted with a valve
specially designed to allow the contents of the container to discharge rapidly. When the valve
opens, Novec™ 1230 flows into the distribution pipework to the discharge nozzles where it is
rapidly dispersed as a vapor.

Discharging Novec™ 1230 gives the appearance of a fog which may reduce visibility. This
normally clears rapidly and should not obstruct the ability of personnel to safely exit the protected
area.
 Gaseous Fire Suppression Agents 46

Novec™ 1230 Fire Suppression Systems are particularly valuable in suppressing fires in
enclosures containing hazards or equipment where a clean, electrically non-conductive medium is
essential or where the cleaning up of foam, water or powder would be problematic. Consideration
should be given in the positioning of nozzles to ensure that delicate equipment is not subjected to
cold shock.

[Link] Properties of Novec™ 1230

Under normal conditions, Novec™ 1230 is an odorless liquid with a vapor density around 12 times
greater than air. It has negligible vapor pressure and is super-pressurized with Nitrogen to 25 or 42
bar when used in fire suppression applications.

It contains no particulates or oily residues and it is produced under ISO 9001 guidelines to strict
manufacturing specifi cations ensuring product purity.

Present understanding of Novec™ 1230 is that fire suppression is through heat absorption.

Novec™ 1230 decomposes at temperatures in excess of 500°C and it is therefore important to

avoid applications involving hazards where continuously hot surfaces are involved. Upon exposure
to the flame, Novec™ 1230 will decompose to form halogen acids. Their presence will be readily
detected by a sharp, pungent odor before maximum hazardous exposure levels are reached.

It has been concluded from fire toxicity studies that decomposition products from the fire itself
especially Carbon monoxide, smoke, Oxygen depletion and heat may create a greater hazard.

[Link] Toxicity of Novec™ 1230

The following table details the toxicological data on Novec™ 1230 and compares this with Halon
1301.
FM-200® Halon 1301
Cardiac Sensitization 10.0% 5.0%
No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL)
Cardiac Sensitization >10.0% 7.5%
Lowest Observed Adverse Effect Level (LOAEL)
Design concentration (minimum) 5.3% 5.0%
Table 5-2: Novec™ 1230 Toxicological Data

It can be seen that Novec™ 1230 has extremely low toxicity and as it suppresses fires at low
concentrations, it does not significantly reduce Oxygen levels [5].
 Gaseous Fire Suppression Agents 47

5.3 Total Flooding Inert Gaseous Agent

5.3.1 INERGEN®
[Link] General Information
INERGEN® is a plentiful, non-corrosive gas that does not support combustion nor react with most
substances. INERGEN® agent contains only naturally occurring gases which have no impact on the
ozone or the environment in general. INERGEN® agent is a mixture of three inerting (Oxygen
diluting) gases: 52% nitrogen, 40% argon, and 8% Carbon dioxide (see MSDS in Section II).

INERGEN® extinguishes fire by lowering the Oxygen content below the level that supports
combustion. When INERGEN® agent is discharged into a room, It introduces the proper mixture of
gases that allow a person to breathe in a reduced Oxygen atmosphere. It actually enhances the
bodyʼs ability to accumulate oxygen. The normal atmosphere in a room contains approximately
21% Oxygen and less than 1% Carbon dioxide. If the Oxygen content is reduced below 15%, most
ordinary combustibles will not burn. INERGEN® agent will reduce the Oxygen content to
approximately 12.5% while increasing the Carbon dioxide content to about approximately 3%. The
increase in the Carbon dioxide content increases a personʼs respiration rate and the bodyʼs ability
to absorb oxygen [8]. Simply stated, the human body is stimulated by the Carbon dioxide to
breathe more deeply and rapidly to compensate for the lower Oxygen content of the atmosphere.

[Link] Personnel Safety

Proper INERGEN® system design requires that the design concentrations fall within a design
window that limits the upper and lower requirements of both Oxygen and Carbon dioxide.
INERGEN® agent has acceptable toxicity for use in occupied spaces when used as specified in the
United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed Significant New Alternative
Policy (SNAP) program rules and NFPA 2001, “Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems.” When
design concentrations are in this window, no adverse effect will take place on the human
respiratory system.

Any exposure outside of these limits requires the use of self-contained breathing apparatus.
Respirators will not function in Oxygen deficient atmospheres. Because of the decomposed
products of combustion generated during an actual fire and extinguishment, it is a good safety rule
to ventilate the hazard for at least 15 minutes before entering or if entry is required sooner, wear an
approved self-contained breathing apparatus. Refer to NFPA 2001, 2000 edition, Paragraph 1-
 Gaseous Fire Suppression Agents 48

6.1.3, “Inert Gas Clean Agents,” for detailed exposure conditions. HMIS 1-0-0/very cold discharge.
Contents under high pressure. Avoid direct contact of the cold, high pressure discharge and avoid
direct inhalation of undiluted gas.

[Link] Types of Systems

Total flooding is the approved type of system available. A total flooding system normally consists
of a fixed supply of INERGEN® connected to piping with nozzles to direct the agent into an
enclosed hazard space. In a total flooding system, the enclosure around the hazard must be tight
enough to hold the required percentage of INERGEN® concentration for a period of time to
extinguish the fire.

[Link] Types of Actuation

There are three basic types of actuation for the INERGEN® systems: pneumatic, mechanical, and
electrical [8].

 Electrical
Automatic electrical actuation of the cylinder valve, through an approved control panel, can
be accomplished by using an HF actuator for the CV-98 valve. The actuator is energized by
an electric signal from the detection/control panel. When using the electric actuator,
pneumatic or mechanical actuating devices can also be attached as a secondary means of
actuation. When using electric actuation, a means of manual release shall also be provided.
 Mechanical
Mechanical actuation is accomplished by a lever actuator mounted on top of the cylinder
valve or other actuators. By rotating the lever on the actuator, either locally or from a
remote pull station, the cylinder valve can be opened, allowing the INERGEN® to discharge
through the piping and nozzles.
 Pneumatic
Pneumatic actuation utilizes gas pressure from a cartridge located in a releasing device such
as an ANSUL AUTOMAN II-C release. The gas pressure forces the piston of the
pneumatic actuator down, which in turn forces the cylinder valve to open, releasing
INERGEN® agent from the cylinder, through the piping and out the nozzles. On a CV-98
valve, a 1/4 in. actuation line is attached to the 1/8 in. port on the side of the valve.
Pneumatic pressure, from an ANSUL AUTOMAN II-C or another pilot cylinder, opens the
valve through this port.
 Gaseous Fire Suppression Agents 49

[Link] Types of Detection

There are two approved types of detection available for the INERGEN® system: electronic control
panel and electric releasing device.

 Electronic Control Panel

Electric actuation of the INERGEN® system is obtained through the use of electronic
control systems which monitor and control various system functions. All detection
equipment must be installed according to NFPA 70 and NFPA 72. Detection devices
available are: ionization smoke detectors, photoelectric smoke detectors, flame detectors,
and ratecompensated heat detectors. Note: When designing the system, make certain the
type of detector used is appropriate for the type of hazard so proper response is attained in a
fire situation. When a detector senses a fire, a signal is sent to the control panel. The panel
in turn sends an electrical signal to the solenoid actuator located on the pilot cylinder valve.
The actuator opens the cylinder valve releasing the INERGEN® agent into the manifold.
The pressure in the manifold then causes the slave valves to open and discharge
INERGEN® into the piping network and out the nozzles.
 Electric Releasing Device
The ANSUL AUTOMAN II-C electric releasing device uses approved thermal detectors
and actuates the INERGEN® cylinders pneumatically, utilizing high pressure nitrogen to
operate the cylinder valve.

5.4 Total Flooding & Local Application Gaseous Agent

5.4.1 Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
[Link] General Information
Carbon dioxide, as an extinguishing agent, has many desirable properties. It will not damage
equipment and leaves no residue to be cleaned up. Since it is a gas, Carbon dioxide will penetrate
and spread to all parts of the protected hazard. It does not conduct electricity and, therefore, it can
be used on live electrical equipment. It can be effectively used on most combustible material.

Carbon dioxide extinguishes fire by reducing the Oxygen concentration to a point where the
atmosphere will no longer support combustion. The Carbon dioxide concentration must be
maintained for a sufficient period to allow the maximum temperature to be reduced below the auto-
ignition temperature of the burning material. Carbon dioxide is most effective against flammable
 Gaseous Fire Suppression Agents 50

liquid fires. For most flammable liquids, reduction of the Oxygen concentration to 15% (from the
normal 21%) will be sufficient to extinguish the fire. For Class A (wood, and paper) combustibles,
a reduction to 15% will control the fire. Some materials, such as acetylene and ethylene oxide,
require a greater reduction of Oxygen concentration for extinguishment. Still other materials, such
as cellulose nitrate and metal hydrides, which do not require Oxygen as they burn, cannot be
extinguished by use of Carbon dioxide [9].

[Link] Personnel Safety

The discharge of Carbon dioxide into an enclosed space can create an asphyxiant as well as toxic
environment. It can also reduce visibility to a point where exits are difficult to locate by persons
attempting to evacuate the area.

Any use of Carbon dioxide in an occupied space should provide for the prompt evacuation of
personnel and resuscitation of anyone trapped in the hazard area. Time delays, training, signs,
alarms, and breathing apparatus should be provided to the personnel involved.

[Link] Types of Systems

There are two basic types of systems: total flooding and local application.

 Total Flooding
A total flooding system normally consists of a fixed supply of Carbon dioxide connected to
fixed piping with nozzles to direct the agent into an enclosed space about the hazard. In a
total flooding system, the space around the hazard must be tight enough to hold the required
percentage of Carbon dioxide concentration long enough to extinguish the fire.
 Local Application
A local application system consists of a fixed supply of Carbon dioxide, piping, and nozzles
to direct the agent at the hazard independent of any enclosure that may exist. The nozzles
are arranged to discharge the Carbon dioxide directly onto the burning material.

[Link] Types of Actuation

There are three basic types of actuation for Carbon dioxide systems: pneumatic, mechanical, and
electrical [9].
 Gaseous Fire Suppression Agents 51

 Pneumatic
Pneumatic actuation utilizes gas pressure from either a remote cartridge actuator or from a
cartridge located in a control panel such as an ANSUL AUTOMAN II-C release. On a CV-
98 valve, a 1/4 in. actuation line is attached to the pilot port on the side of the valve.
Pneumatic pressure from the ANSUL AUTOMAN II-C or pilot cylinder opens the valve
through this port.
 Mechanical
Mechanical actuation is accomplished by a lever actuator mounted on top of the cylinder
valve. By manually rotating the lever, the cylinder valve can be opened, allowing the
Carbon dioxide to discharge through the piping and nozzles.
 Electrical
Electrical automatic actuation of the CV-98 cylinder valve can be accomplished by using an
HF and booster actuator. The actuators are energized by an electric signal from the
detection control panel.

[Link] Types of Detection

There is one type of automatic detection available for Carbon dioxide systems, electric (control
panel) [9].

 Electric
Electric operation of the Carbon dioxide system is obtained through the use of electronic
control systems which monitor and control various system functions. Detection devices
available are: ionization smoke detectors, photoelectric smoke detectors, fixed temperature
detectors, rate-of-rise heat detectors, flame detectors, or combustible vapor detectors. When
a detector senses a fire, a signal is sent to the control panel. The panel in turn sends an
electric signal to the actuator located on the cylinder valve. The actuator opens the cylinder
valve causing the Carbon dioxide to be released into the piping network and discharged out
the nozzles.
 Gaseous Fire Suppression Agents 52

5.5 Comparison of Gaseous Agents

5.5.1 Environment

FM-200® NOVECTM 1230 INERGEN® CO2

Ozone Depletion Factor 0 0 0 0

Global Warming Potential 3500 1 0 0

Atmospheric Lifetime (years) 33 0.014 (5 days) 0 0
Table 5-3: Environmental Impact of Gaseous Agents

5.5.2 Human Safety

Design Concentration NOAEL4 LOAEL5

FM-200® 6.4% - 9.0% 9% 10.5%

NOVECTM 1230 4.2% - 5.9% 10% >10%
INERGEN® 34.2% - 41.2% 43% 52%
CO2 35% - 65% 5% n.a.
Table 5-4: Human Safety of Gaseous Agents

5.5.3 Extinguishing Capacity

INERGEN® CO2
A, B, C (E) A, B, C (E)
Oxygen Oxygen
Reduction Reduction

FM® 200
NOVECTM 1230
A, B, C (E)
Heat Removal

Figure 5-1: Extinguishing Capacity of Gaseous Agents

4 NOAEL: No Observable Adverse Effect Level

5 LOAEL: Lowest Observable Adverse Effect Level
 Gaseous Fire Suppression Agents 53

Note: All of them are suitable for occupied spaces except CO2.

They are not effective on...

 Class A deep-seated fires

 Chemicals containing their own Oxygen (Cellulose Nitrate)
 Chemicals capable of auto thermal decomposition

5.5.4 Installation Time & Complexity

Figure 5-2: Installation Time & Complexity of Gaseous Agents

 FM200 and Novec1230 demand less space and less pipe work.
 Inert Gas cylinders can often be more complicated with larger footprints and more pipe
work.
 Gaseous Fire Suppression Agents 54

5.5.5 Working Pressure

 The installer must ensure the correct pressure rating for pipes and fittings acc. to the flow
calculation result.
 Pipe pressure downstream the pressure reducing unit.
 The final peak pressure in the pipe will result from the hydraulic flow calculation.

Figure 5-3: Working Pressure of Gaseous Agents

5.5.6 Cylinder Foot Print

The required quantity of each agent for a 200 m3, class A hazard is as below:

FM-200®: 7.9% = 0.63 kg/m3

NOVECTM 1230: 5.3% = 0.78 kg/m3

INERGEN®: 39.9% = 0.51 m3/m3

CO2: 50% = 1.30 kg/m3

Figure 5-4: Cylinder Foot Print

 Gaseous Fire Suppression Agents 55

Question: What is the best fire suppression agent?

Answer: Generally, there is no best! Many factors finally lead to the decision for a certain system.

Figure 5-5: Procedure of Choosing the Best Agent

5.6 Conclusion
Gaseous fire suppression agents have been described in this chapter. As it has been explained, there
are two major types of gas agents – Total Flooding and Local Application – that are completely
presented with their sub-categories during the chapter.

Always there is a question that which type of these systems is the best, so there is a useful and
experimental comparison part at the end of the chapter to answer this question.
 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 56

Chapter 6

6 INERGEN Fire Suppression System

6.1 Introduction
In previous chapters, we got familiar with various types of Fire Standard Codes and Approvals and
then the different Gaseous Fire Suppression Agents.

Now it is time to get familiar with a complete fire suppression system. As we already know, there
are many different types of fire suppression system, the general concept of all of them is the same
however each of them has its own specific details. Thus, here we can just present one system with
all the details, components and specifications.

In this chapter, we will specifically focus on the INERGEN® Fire Suppression System as one of the
most widely used systems in the world and discuss it in all aspects, from its component to its
design, installation, service & maintenance. In addition, there will be a very complete explanation
and systematic learning guide for INERGEN® calculating software.

6.2 Basic Components

6.2.1 INERGEN®
INERGEN® is a clear inert gas consisting of Nitrogen, Argon and CO2, which all are natural
atmospheric gasses, stored in high-pressure cylinders as permanent gas (no condensation).

 Nitrogen 52 %
 Argon 40 %
 Carbon dioxide 8%

Molar mass 34.08 g/mol

Specific vapor volume 0.706 m3/kg (T=20°C, P=1.0132 bar)

INERGEN® /Air (relative) ρr = 1.18 (T=20°C, P=1.0132 bar)

Figure 6-1: INERGEN®
 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 57

This discharge mixture makes INERGEN® singularly unique. No other inert gas has the unique
ability to rapidly extinguish a fire yet at the same time provide a safe environment for any
person within the occupied area by actually decreasing cardiac distress and maintaining arterial
blood oxygenation and mental performance in low Oxygen levels. Equally important, unlike
some chemical gaseous fire suppression agents, INERGEN® does not, and could never create a
reaction with a fire to create extremely harmful toxic or corrosive by-products.

6.2.2 Cylinders
The cylinders are factory filled with INERGEN® agent and fitted with a hand wheel valve.

Hand wheel valve outlet threads:

 200 bar system W24 .32 (Black hand wheel)

 300 bar system M25 1.5 (Green hand wheel)

Each hand wheel valve is fitted with a burst disc to prevent cylinder explosion if
the cylinder is left in a fire or exposed to elevated temperatures. Hand wheel valves
are installed in accordance with ISO 13341.

The cylinders are transported with a protective cap, which is not to be removed
before installation.
Figure 6-2: Cylinder

The cylinder is fixed to the cylinder rail by using the cylinder brackets. For land systems, minimum
1 rail/bracket for each cylinder. For marine, 2 are required. If nozzles are placed directly on the
discharge valve, 2 brackets must be used. Other types of fixations are acceptable under the
condition that they can hold the forces from the cylinders [11].

6.2.3 Cylinder Rail & Brackets

For fixing the cylinder a rail and cylinder bracket are used. The length of the rail is determined by
the quantity of cylinders.

Cylinders are to be floor supported. Wooden brackets are also available. Cylinder rails are fixed to
a construction using screws, rivets or welding. Fixing should be at intervals sufficient to carry the
load from the cylinders.
 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 58

For marine installations, minimum 2 brackets are required per cylinder in order to prevent
displacement of the cylinder when the ship is at sea.

For cylinders in multiple rows, there must be sufficient brackets to support the load from the
cylinders. Typically 1 bracket per 2 cylinders plus 1 at the end [11].

Figure 6-3: Cylinder Rail & Bracket

6.2.4 Discharge Valve

The discharge valve is supplied (depending on type ordered)
complete with a combined pressure gauge and pressure switch,
the switches can be connected in a daisy chain. It is a quick
opening valve, which requires manual resetting.

The discharge valve is installed on site after the cylinder has been
securely fixed. The actuator is fitted to the discharge valve after
installation and pressurization of the valve.

The valve has a built-in actuator that operates by back pressure.

Valves connected to a Ci MT manifold will open once the master
cylinder connected to the manifold is activated [11].
Figure 6-4: Discharge Valve
6.2.5 Actuators
Besides the built-in Pneumatic actuator a variety of actuators are available for the Ci system. All
actuators are screwed on to the actuator connection of the IV8 valve by hand (tightening torque of
10 Nm should not be exceeded).

The Pneumatic actuator has an actuator connection on the top allowing for stacking of another
actuator. Actuators should be fitted by hand (max 10Nm), Actuators may be screwed back max ½
turn to achieve correct position. Only one additional actuator may be fitted to the Ci PA8.
 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 59

Special tools are required to test and reset the actuators. When a system consists of more than one
manifold, the Ci MT next kit (305621) is used to feed pressure from a discharge valve to activate a
discharge valve on the next manifold. This principle is continued for additional manifolds. As each
activated discharge valve supplies its own pressure, the number of cylinders activated this way is
unlimited [11].

Figure 6-5: Actuators (Manual – Electric - Pneumatic)

6.2.6 Discharge & Pilot Hose

The discharge hose is a flexible connector between the discharge valve
and the manifold. It has 2 functions, one is to lead INERGEN® from the
discharge valve to the manifold, the second one is to supply pressure
from the manifold to activate the discharge valves.

The pilot hose is a flexible connector used for activating the discharge
valve by pneumatic pressure. It is used when more than one manifold is
used or when the back pressure function is disabled, it may also be used
when a remote pneumatic activation system is used.

A number of different lengths of the discharge & pilot hose is available

as standard. Hoses are connected and tightened at the discharge valve
first and then connected to the manifold. The Hose must be tightened
until metallic contact is achieved and then additional 15° [11].

Figure 6-6: Discharge & Pilot Hose

6.2.7 Manifold & Orifice
The manifold features built in check valves, which are opened once the
discharge hose is connected to ensure proper activation of all connected discharge valves.

The manifold is supplied complete with orifice and pipe system interface. The pipe system
interface is supplied as standard with ISO. Other threads are available on request. The maximum
 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 60

orifice of the standard manifold is ø22mm. (Calculation software may limit the orifice size in order
to calculate correctly, the calculated orifice will be in the print-out)

The maximum number of cylinder connections is 10. If more than one manifold is used, the Ci MT
Next kit must be used to connect from one discharge valve on one manifold to a discharge valve on
the next manifold.

The orifice with union is fitted to the pipe system, using thread sealant. The manifold is fitted to the
orifice using an O-ring seal. The union should be tightened to prevent it from coming loose. The
pipe system must be sufficiently supported to carry the load from the Ci manifold [11].

Figure 6-7: Manifold & Orifice

6.2.8 Selector Valve

The Selector Valve is used for distributing INERGEN® from a shared
supply to multiple rooms.

The Selector Valve must reset manually and cannot limit the
INERGEN® volume for each room. The INERGEN® volume for each
room must be calculated separately.

By activating only the required quantity of cylinders for each zone it

is possible to limit the INERGEN® volume to the calculated volume.

The Zone kit consists of a Selector valve with Orifice, Pipe adapter,
and Tee to create the distribution manifold.

For Selector Valve systems, a cylinder rail is installed approximately

2.6m above the cylinder foot. Each zone kit is placed in this rail and
the inlet tees are pushed together and tightened. Tees are identical for Figure 6-8: Selector Valve
 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 61

valves and manifolds, except the manifold has different pipe length (space between tees). The
valve is opened pneumatically by pressurizing the control ports. For correct operation both ports
must be pressurized. The valve has to be reset manually by using reset tool. The pneumatic
actuation circuitry must be depressurized before the valve can be reset [11].

6.2.9 Nozzles
The nozzles are calibrated individually by drilling the orifice fixed in the nozzle. A range of
standard orifice nozzles are available. The nominal diameter of the orifice must be marked on the
outside of the nozzle.

The nozzle is screwed on to the pipe system and tightened using a suitable
drawbar. The MED nozzle is tightened with a wrench. Nozzle material
selection should be made with respect to pipe material.

Silencers are used in installations where sensitivity to high sound

pressures is critical (hard discs etc.) or if reduced turbulence is desired.

Silencer base plate is screwed on the nozzle or pipe prior to fitting nozzle
to the pipe work, the silencer body is then fitted to the base plate.

When nozzle is fitted directly to the discharge valve, the cylinder must be
secured with 2 brackets to hold the forces from the nozzle [11]. Figure 6-9: Nozzles

6.2.10 Pipe System

The pipe system is used for distributing the
INERGEN® to the protected enclosures.
Typically the pipe is EN10220/10217
P235TR1, rated for the applicable working
pressure (standard 80bar) and has material
Charpy V test performed at -40°C. Typically
the fittings are EN 10242/ 10226/ 1562 with
special requirement per VdS standard.

Figure 6-10: INERGEN® Piping System

 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 62

Fittings are type tested to 30MPa (300bar) and marked with a red dot and the letter “D” stamped
into it. Fittings are suitable for use in installations with clean agent fire extinguishing systems and
the low temperature generated during discharge of such system [11].

Pipes to ASTM Sch40, 80, 160 may also be used. Fittings ASME 3000lb and above may also be
used. Pipes should be threaded and screwed or welded. If other type of assembly is used, the
manufacturer of the pipe components must declare that it is suitable for use in fire suppression
system using inert gas (here taken into consideration pressure and temperature during use and
discharge). Pipes and fittings may be Black, Galvanized or Stainless steel. The pipe system must be
installed in accordance with local authorities’ requirements.

6.2.11 Fasteners & Pipe Hangers

All fasteners used must be of good quality and made from material suitable for the environment
they are being used in installation hardware for the pipe system must be able to support the pipe
system as well as the forces from nozzles during the discharge.

General requirements are:

Pipe must be allowed to move within the brackets due to length contraction during discharge due to
the temperature change. If the temperature rises from +20°C to +200°C, the ultimate tensile
strength of the material used shall not be reduced by more than 25%. Combustible materials shall
not be used. Pipe supports shall be designed so that under extreme load there is no danger of the
installation being damaged. Pipe brackets shall completely surround the pipe and be closed.

The material from which a pipe support is manufactured shall be at least 3mm thick. If galvanized,
a thickness of 2,5mm will suffice. This does not, however, apply to a pipe support made from hot-
dip galvanized material, which may have a minimum size of 25mm x 1,5mm for pipes up to DN50
(12mm x 1,5mm, if type approved).

Pipe supports shall connect the pipe work directly to the building structure. Building members, to
which primary supports are attached, shall be strong enough to carry the load. If not, additional
links to load-bearing members shall be created. All pipe runs longer than 1m shall be fixed with
supports. The maximum distance between two supports along the pipe shall not exceed the values
given below [11].
 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 63

Pipe Diameter (mm) Max. Distance Between Supports (m)

< 25 2
25 < < 50 3
> 50 4
Table 6-1: Distance Between Pipe Supports

6.2.12 Tools & Accessories

Tools for servicing the valves, actuators etc. should only be
purchased at verified companies and are only sold to authorized
installers where employees have received training and
education in installation & maintenance of INERGEN®

systems. Ordinary tools like wrenches and screwdrivers are also

available in selected qualities for the installation. Accessories
are the components used to complete the installation. For
example, to seal actuators, must use “fine” sealing wire and to
seal hand wheel valves, “coarse” sealing wire [11]. Figure 6-11: Tools Kit & Accessories Box

6.2.13 Signs & Labels

Signs should be placed outside the protected room to inform about the fire suppression system.
Additional signs should also be placed on the entry door to the cylinder storage room. Some
authorities require a system identification sign, which must be placed on the cylinders [11].

Figure 6-12: Caution Label

 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 64

6.3 Specifications
6.3.1 INERGEN® Agent
INERGEN® agent is a plentiful, non-corrosive gas that does not support combustion nor react with
most substances. INERGEN® agent contains only naturally occurring gases which have no impact
on the ozone layer or the environment in general. INERGEN® agent is a mixture of three inert
(Oxygen diluting) gases: 52% nitrogen, 40% argon, and 8% Carbon dioxide.

The INERGEN® agent extinguishes fire by lowering the Oxygen content below the level that
supports combustion. When the INERGEN® agent is discharged into a room, it introduces the
proper mixture of gases that still allow a person to breathe in a reduced Oxygen atmosphere. It
actually enhances the body's ability to assimilate oxygen. The normal atmosphere in a room
contains approximately of 21% Oxygen and less than 1% Carbon dioxide. If the Oxygen content is
reduced below 15%, most ordinary combustibles will not burn. The INERGEN® agent will reduce
the Oxygen concentration to approximately 12.5% while increasing the Carbon dioxide content to
about 3%. The increase in the Carbon dioxide content increases a person's respiration rate and the
body's ability to absorb oxygen. Simply stated, the human body is stimulated by the Carbon
dioxide to breathe deeper and more frequently to compensate for the lower Oxygen content of the
atmosphere.

[Link] Environmental impact

The INERGEN® agent is a mixture of three naturally occurring gasses: Nitrogen, Argon, and
Carbon dioxide. As INERGEN® is derived from gasses present in the earth’s atmosphere, it
exhibits no ozone depleting potential, does not contribute to global warming, nor does it contribute
unique chemical species with extended atmospheric lifetime. Because INERGEN® is composed of
atmospheric gasses, it does not pose the problems of toxicity associated with the chemically
derived Clean Agent fire extinguishing.

6.3.2 INERGEN® System

The INERGEN® Fire Suppression System is an engineered system utilizing a fixed nozzle agent
distribution network. The system is designed and installed in accordance with the authorities
having jurisdiction and NFPA 2001, "Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems." When properly
designed, the INERGEN® system will extinguish fire in Class A, B, and C hazards by lowering the
Oxygen content below the level that supports combustion.
 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 65

The system can be actuated by detection and control equipment for automatic system operation
along with providing local and remote manual operation as needed. Accessories are used to provide
alarms, ventilation control, door closures, or other auxiliary shutdown. When the INERGEN® agent
is discharged into a room, it introduces the proper mixture of gases that will allow a person to
breathe in a reduced Oxygen atmosphere. A system installation and maintenance manual is
available and containing information on system components and procedures concerning design,
operation, inspection, maintenance and recharge. The system is installed and serviced by
authorized distributors that are trained by authorized organization.

The INERGEN® system is particularly useful for suppressing fire in hazards where an electrically
nonconductive medium is essential or desirable; where clean-up of other agents present a problem;
or where the hazard is normally occupied and requires a non-toxic agent.

The following are typical hazards protected by INERGEN® systems:

 Computer rooms with or without lowered ceiling and raised floors

 Telecommunication Switch gear rooms
 Vaults & Storage rooms
 Process equipment rooms
 Machinery spaces
 Historic buildings & museums
 All normally occupied or unoccupied electronic areas where equipment is either very
sensitive or irreplaceable

6.3.3 NOAEL/LOAEL
There is no NOAEL and LOAEL for inert gasses as there are no toxicological effects from
exposure to low Oxygen concentration. NFPA 2001 defines NOAEL and LOAEL “For
halocarbons”.

The NOAEL and LOAEL are based on the toxicological effect known as cardiac sensitization.
Cardiac sensitization occurs when a chemical causes an increased sensitivity of the heart to
adrenaline, a naturally occurring substance produced by the body during times of stress, leading to
the sudden onset of irregular heartbeats and possibly heart attack. Cardiac sensitization is measured
in dogs after they have been exposed to a HaloCarbon agent for 5 minutes. At the 5 minute time
 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 66

period, an external dose of adrenaline (epinephrine) is administered and an effect is recorded, if the
dog experiences cardiac sensitization.”

No effect level and low effect level for inert gas are in NFPA 2001 set to be respectively at
concentration of 43% and 52% corresponding to an Oxygen level of 12% and 10% (normal
atmosphere is 21% oxygen). These levels are based of physiological effects similar to the effects of
doing exercise, and should hence not be mixed with toxicological effects caused by chemical
agents.

6.3.4 Enclosure Escape Precautions

Even though the inert gas systems containing Carbon Dioxide offers a very high degree of safety to
humans, it is under no circumstances recommended to stay in the enclosure during fire
extinguishing or during fire extinguishing system discharge, if it can be avoided.

When inert gases and inert gas blends are used, there are certain additional advantages: The gases
are stored under high pressure, but always in the gaseous form. During discharge of the gas, there
is no significant condensation of air moisture, and therefore escape route visibility, is not decreased
by the fire-extinguishing agent.

During Hypoxia (Hypoxia is the medical term for the lack of Oxygen in humans) the physical
performance will decrease slightly but at an 8-12% Oxygen concentration, there is only little
change in a graded exercise performance measurement. This degree of hypoxia, when compensated
with 3-5% CO2, will not be the reason for anybody to unsuccessful escape. Possibly the most
important factor in successful escape out of the enclosure is: The preservation of consciousness and
a normal response behavior. At this point, the INERGEN® inert gas blend has an absolutely unique
performance. Down to extreme degrees of hypoxia, the Carbon Dioxide provides extended
consciousness and improved psychomotor abilities.

If the Carbon Dioxide concentration increases to a level at which it is uncomfortable, it is on the

other hand giving a very fine warning against staying in the enclosure. By 5-6% Carbon Dioxide
this becomes significant, and is providing an additional safety feature. Exposure time to reduced
Oxygen atmosphere should be limited to6:

6 Above limitations are set out in NFPA 2001: 2012 ([Link])

 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 67

Time (min) Agent Concentration % Oxygen

5 43% 12.0%
3 52% 10.0%
0.5 62% 8.0%
Table 6-2: Exposure Time to Reduced Oxygen Atmosphere

6.3.5 Effect on Machinery and Equipment

Engines must be stopped before discharge of a fire extinguishing system, but if INERGEN® is
accidentally discharged before the engine is stopped, there will be no risk of damages to the engine.
The diesel engines will continue running with no significant output changes (Study with Danish
Navy 19. /4. - 1993), and no effect on lubricants, metal parts, electrical machines, and electrical
and electronic parts.

After the discharge of INERGEN®, the air quality will actually improve, due to the dilution of
corrosive and toxic substances and due to the reduction of the relative humidity.

6.3.6 Extinguishing Efficiency

The Inert gases require higher concentrations, and therefore they have often been looked upon as
less efficient than the Halon type extinguishing agents. From a mere cost/weight/space point of
view, that is correct. This is the disadvantage of inert gas systems. High concentration requirement
and gaseous storage require large storage volume and/or high pressure compared to both Halon
1301 and the new Halon type fire extinguishing agents.

From a fire extinguishing point of view however, the inert gases are no less efficient than the Halon
type fire extinguishing agents, except for the speed of fire extinguishing. The Halon type
compounds are usually discharged in 10 seconds or less. This is necessary in order to limit the
formation of decomposition products of the Halo-Carbon itself. As the inert gases do not produce
any decomposition products, the gas is discharged over longer time, but in such a way that the
extinguishing concentration is reached within 60 - 120 seconds (according to the MSC Circ. 776,
Appendix sect. 4.1: Max. 30 seconds after the agent discharge, the fire shall be extinguished. This
means that the fire shall be extinguished max. 150 seconds after the discharge start). This may
seem like a long time, but very shortly after the discharge start, the rate of combustion is
significantly reduced, and the development of fire and the fire damages are practically stopped
instantly.
 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 68

Efficiency also concerns the ability to extinguish class A fires (plastic and wood), and materials
heated to very high temperatures, without contaminating the enclosure with toxic decomposition
products. At this point, the inert gases are also offering an improvement, compared to Halon and
Halo-Carbons such as HCFC’s, HFC’s and PFC’s.

Furthermore, the Inert gases are offering truly 3-dimensional extinguishing capability, since they
blend perfectly with air (they are basically air themselves), and as the air/agent blend after
discharge is just slightly heavier than normal air they are able to maintain an extinguishing
concentration for a very long time.

6.3.7 Signs and Warnings

A written operation instruction must be present at the control panel/manual discharge activators,
that clearly indicate:

 Ventilation and engine(s) are stopped before INERGEN® discharge

 Fire dampers and doors are closed before INERGEN® discharge

At the points of access to the enclosure, signs must be present that indicate:

 Evacuate the room in case of fire/fire alarm

 Operating instructions and valve identification

6.4 Planning
Planning for design and installation of an INERGEN® system starts when the customer is first
contacted with regards to protecting his hazard area with INERGEN ®. Most of the information
necessary for the design of a system is collected during the first meeting with the customer. The
information gathered at this point will determine the ease or difficulty of the rest of the project.
One of the key elements for fire protection is to correctly define the hazard and conduct a complete
survey to determine if the system will properly protect against the hazard. Coordination with all
parties involved in the project will further improve the flow of the overall project. A thorough
hazard analysis is required to determine the type of protection required. It is important to cover
each element and accurately record the information. This information will be used to determine the
size and location of the INERGEN® system required and also to determine at a later date if any
changes were made to the protected area after the system was installed.

Information necessary for design of an INERGEN® system is listed in the following paragraphs.
 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 69

6.4.1 Fire classes

Attention must be paid to the fact that fire classes vary depending on location. Make sure that all
documents used refer to the same classes or that the variations are taken into account.

NFPA European Fuel / Heat source

Class A Class A Ordinary combustible
Class B Class B Flammable liquids
Class C Flammable gases
Class C Higher Hazard Class A (EN15004) Electrical equipment
Not defined in EN2 2004
Class D Class D Combustible metals
Class K Class F Cooking oil or fat
Table 6-3: Fire Classification7

6.4.2 Initial General Information:

 Which rules are to be applied?
 Who will approve the system? (any other regulatory or insurance agencies)
 Will any special requirements apply to the system design or installation?

6.4.3 Hazard Area Information

 Obtain the general arrangement drawings of the areas to be protected.
 If the general arrangement drawings do not include the following information then these
must be obtained separately.
 Record all dimensions for the hazard areas such as length, width, ceiling height, angles of
corners if not 90 degrees, false ceiling, raised floor etc.
 Draw a sketch including plan and elevation views of the hazard area if drawings are not
available.
 Indicate the quantity and locations of all exits from the area on the sketches.
 Record all dimensions for any structural objects such as beams or columns, built in
cabinets, ducts, etc. which may allow a reduction of the hazard volume.
 Identify anything unique about the area that would affect system design or installation.
 Identify the area’s normal, maximum, and minimum ambient temperatures.

7 In this manual Fire Classes will refer to the NFPA fire classes, unless specified otherwise.
 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 70

 Is the area normally occupied?

 Identify any openings, or potential openings in the hazard enclosure that may cause loss of
agent during or after discharge.
 If possible, determine the maximum strength of the weakest wall, floor, or ceiling. This
information will be used to calculate venting requirements. If this information is not
available, a conservative number will be used to calculate the required free venting area.
This conservative number will probably increase the size of venting required.

6.4.4 INERGEN® Supply Requirements

 Will the cylinders be located in a dedicated space? If so, record dimensions of that space.
 Is the operating temperature (cylinders storage) range within the accepted limits?
Limit: -50°C to 65°C [-60ºF to 150ºF] / UL & FM: -0°C to 65°C [32ºF to 150ºF]
 Determine if the floor will support the cylinders and bracketing.
 Assume cylinder weight of 1920 kg/m2 for an 80lit - 300bar system for this requirement.
 Will the cylinder bracketing be secured to a wall? If so, is the wall strong enough to support
it and the cylinders?
 Will a reserve supply of agent be required? If so, will it need to be connected to the
manifold?
 Will a discharge test be required?
 If several areas are to be protected, will it be by a multi-zone system or several stand-alone
systems?

For FM Global insured systems:

Reserve supplies are necessary to permit prompt restoration of the system after a discharge, to
minimize interruption of the process and the interval of impaired protection. The reserve should at
least equal the minimum requirement for the in-service supply, unless available from an outside
source within 24 hours. Where two or more hazard areas are protected by a single supply through
selector valves, connect the reserve supply to the piping. Provide a switchover arrangement, if
needed, to permit actuation by the normal means. A manually actuated main/reserve switch is
normally provided at the control panel for this purpose.
 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 71

Provide a connected reserve where an INERGEN® system is the sole protection for valuables and
important occupancies unless protection can be fully restored within 24 hours, occupancies are
constantly attended and written impairment procedures have been established.

6.4.5 Activation and Alarm Requirements

 Will the system be activated automatically or/and manually?
 What type of manual actuation (direct mechanical, cable pull or pneumatic) is required?
 Identify the locations for all manual pull stations.
 Is automatic detection a part of the system?
 What types of alarm devices are required, audible and/or visible?
 Where will the system activation be signaled?
 Does the hazard area require explosion proof, weatherproof or fireproof wiring and
devices?
 Devices requiring shut down or started up?

6.4.6 Piping and Wiring Information

 Determine the location of the cylinders.
 Identify the preferred supply piping routes.
 If the system includes selector valves, identify their location.

6.4.7 Ventilation and Leakage Concerns

 Identify any un-closable openings regardless of their size.
 Advise the customer of the possible need to seal these openings to prevent agent loss.
 Advise the customer of the possible need to provide pressure venting during discharge.
 Determine the route venting will need to take to reach outside atmosphere. (clear
description of how to reach outside atmosphere)
 Will the venting route involve venting through other enclosures or ducts? If so, provide
details about the rooms or duct routing information. If the venting will be through other
enclosures, will they be protected also? If so, will they be protected separately or
simultaneously?
 Will dampers be required for inlet or exhaust ducts? If so, how will they be operated,
electrically or pneumatically?
 Door fan test to NFPA 2001
 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 72

6.5 Design
After completing the hazard analysis in Planning, proceed with the following elements to work up
a complete design and bill of materials. An example is included, with each step, to help the reader
understand the procedure. The example uses a computer room and subfloor as shown below.

The IMT calculation software8 is self-explaining additional information may be found under
“help”. The calculation from IMT will have to be printed in order to have all the information
available for the system, not all information will be displayed directly in the program. This can be
performed by printing a PDF of the calculation where all output will be available.

6.5.1 Limitations on System Design

The following are limitations to a Fire Eater INERGEN® system that will ensure proper
performance [11].

Max pipe length: 300m (orifice to last nozzle)

Max pipe to cylinder volume ratio: 20%

Discharge time: 40 - 600 sec for 85/95% agent mass

40-120 sec for 95% UL & FM approved systems

Re-number: minimum 0.4×106.

Minimum Manifold Orifice: No limit

Manifold Orifice to Pipe ratio: max 0.64 (ø17.6/ø22.0mm)

Nozzle Orifice: minimum ø1.0 with filter Nozzle

minimum ø3.0 for UL & FM approved systems

Nozzle to Pipe ratio: max 0.7

Tee split: Bull head (min/max): 5/95 - 95/5

Tee split: Trough/Side (min/max): 5/95 - 95/5

Nozzle pressure: min 20 bar

8 Created and Released by Fire-Eater Company.

 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 73

Nozzle pressure variance ratio: max 2.0

Max Elevation change: max 50m

Mach-number: maximum 0.40

Minimum distance to first Tee: 0m

Flow velocity: lower limit by Re-number and upper limit by Mach-number

Pipe volume per nozzle: limited by nozzle orifice to pipe area ratio

Nozzle agent arrival time: limited by max pipe length

Pipe type: Black, Galvanized and Stainless steel pipe

EN10220/10217

ASTM Sch 40, Sch80, Sch160

Pipe fittings: Black, Galvanized, Stainless

Elevation changes: 50m

Cylinder pressure: 20 and 30 MPa @ 15°C

Temperature: -0°C to +65°C

Activation limitations on one solenoid

PA line (Pneumatic activation): max 250m (app 750 cylinders)*

UL/FM max 50m (app 150 cylinders)**

Number of manifolds: max 80 (up to 750 cylinders*

UL/FM max 50 (up to 500 cylinders)**

* This is the activation lines length/number of cylinders that can be activated within 2 sec.

** This is the activation lines length/number of cylinders that can be activated within 1 sec as per
ULFM requirement. If longer activation lines or more manifolds are required additional activators
(Ci IS8B or Ci PA8) has to be added to the system and installed so above distances are not
exceeded.
 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 74

6.5.2 Guide to Calculation Software IMT

On the initial page, you will find the “INERGEN® calculation” tab open. There are two more tabs,
“Isometric design” and “Pipe system design”. On the menu bar, you will find three items, “Files”,
“Settings” and “Help”.

Figure 6-13: IMT Software Initial Page

The menu layout is as per below:

Table 6-4: IMT Software Main Items

 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 75

Below the “print”, “System Settings” and “Template Values” are to be explained more thoroughly.

Print

When choosing this option, a dialog box will be presented as below:

Figure 6-14: IMT Software Print Page

After choosing what information should be printed, click “next”. This will display a new dialog
box. There is now three options. Choose to write to printer, write to a file or open the file in
Microsoft Word.

Figure 6-15: IMT Software Output Style Page

 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 76

System Settings

The System Settings is where all information regarding data paths and paths to programs used by
the IMT.

Figure 6-16: IMT Software System Settings Page

Table 6-5: IMT Software System Settings Items

 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 77

Template Values

The template feature is a possibility to have several standards defined in the program, and to be
able to choose between these easily.

It is important to notice that the template is a way of defining default values. All of the values can
be changed during the calculation.

Figure 6-17: IMT Software Template Values Page

INERGEN Fire Suppression System 78

Table 6-6: IMT Software Template Values Items

 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 79

When all of these values have been set according to the standard in question, the template should
be saved.

If it is the first time saving a new template, choose “Save As”, and give the template a name. When
this is done, the IMT program must be restarted before the template is visible in the drop down box
on the “INERGEN® Calculation” tab.

Tab: INERGEN® Calculation

Figure 6-18: IMT Software Calculation Page

This initial tab, which is the default start-up screen, is where the number of cylinders, total mass,
concentration, Oxygen concentration etc. is calculated.

Most of the values can be changed on this initial calculation sheet. Please note that all these values
can be set in the template file as well. For explanation of the values in the fields, please refer to the
section regarding the template file.

The template file was explained in a previous section. This can be used now. When beginning a
new calculation, choose the template file, and click “Set template values”.

Explained below is the new information on this tab.

 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 80

Table 6-7: IMT Software Calculation Items

Tab: Isometric Design

On the Isometric design tab, the pipe system must be laid out. This must include all pipes, both in
the room, floor void and ceiling void. Furthermore, the nozzles must be defined. These are
illustrated by the short-ended pipes.

Figure 6-19: IMT Software Isometric Design Page

 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 81

When the pipe system is laid out, the length of the pipes must be defined, as well as the volume
covered by each nozzle. To define a pipe length, click on the line in question to open the dialog
box, as seen below.

In this box, the length can be defined. This will not

change the isometric illustration. The information
will be used later in the part list, which will be
explained later. The “Coupler” value can be defined,
if not manually set, there will be one coupler added
for each 6 meters of pipe. When the values are set,
click “Ok”.

Figure 6-20: IMT Software, Defining Pipe Length

When defining the nozzles, click on the nozzle, and a dialog box will be shown. In this box, the
length of pipe from the tee to the nozzle must be defined. The volume covered by the nozzle must
be defined. If the volume is set to “0” the IMT will automatically divide the complete volume with
the quantity of nozzles, and set the volume. “Room
nr.” is a drop down menu where the rooms defined
in the “INERGEN® calculation” tab, if “2 new
rooms” is checked. If using the feature with “2 new
rooms”, the volume will only concern the room nr.
chosen. When done, click Ok. When all pipes and
nozzles are defined, the manifold must be inserted.

Figure 6-21: IMT Software, Defining Nozzles

Click on the Manifold icon on the taskbar, and then click on the isometric area. When doing so, the
below dialog box will be shown.

The value in this field must represent the amount of orifices for this specific calculation. If the
system calculated is a stand-alone system, this will represent the amount of manifolds. If the
system calculated is a SV22/SV48 system, the value must be the quantity of selector valves. This is
because the orifice is located differently in the two system types. Note that a stand-alone manifold
has 2-10 inlets. When the value is defined click “Next”.
 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 82

On the next dialog box the number of cylinders on each orifice must be defined. When the value is
set, click on “Edit”.

Figure 6-23: IMT Software, Defining Manifold Figure 6-22: IMT Software, Defining Orifices

When clicking “Edit” a new dialog box will be shown. In this dialog box hose type and orifice type
must be defined. In the hose type field two values can be chosen. 0-2 meter hoses or, 2-4 meter
hoses. This will be an estimate, and can be changed later in the part list. Orifice type must reflect
the type of system calculated.

Choose between Ci-MTX, Ci-MT1, SV22-MTX and SV48-MTX. If the system calculated is a
SV22/SV48, the check box “Selector valve” must be checked. When done, click “Ok”. Now
everything is set for the isometric design.

Figure 6-24: IMT Software, Defining Hose Type & Selector Valve
 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 83

See the below table for the options in the taskbar.

Table 6-8: IMT Software Isometric Design Items

Tab: Pipe System Design

The initial screen presented when choosing the “Pipe system design” tab is the “Setup calculation
basis” as shown below.

All of the values in this box has already been set in the template file, and the explanation for these
fields and values is defined in the “Template values” section of this guide. However, there are five
values new to this dialog box, which will be explained in the table below.
 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 84

Figure 6-25: IMT Software Pipe System Design

Table 6-9: IMT Software Pipe System Items

When all values are set in the “Setup calculation basis”, click “Ok”.

Click on “Isometri” to import information from the isometric design, to the pipe system design.

Click on “Calculate system”.

 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 85

6.5.3 IMT Software Troubleshooting

In this part, there are List of Errors, Warnings and Cautions with explanation and possible
solutions.

Errors will indicate that the calculation failed.

Warnings are given when one of the limitations given on the previous page has been exceeded.

Cautions indicate that special precautions are required during installation.

INERGEN Fire Suppression System 86
INERGEN Fire Suppression System 87

Table 6-10: IMT Software List of Errors, Warnings and Cautions

 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 88

[Link] Critical Output

At the end of the IMT calculation a Calculation report is printed if an error occur that prevents the
calculation from being completed it will not be possible to make a print of the calculation.

A list of errors, warnings and cautions if there are any will be printed at the end of the Calculation
report.

[Link] Application Method

Total flooding is the only approved application method for INERGEN® systems designed in
accordance with this manual.

[Link] Caution
All calculations are performed at the temperature stated in the IMT program (standard temperature
is 21°C). If the temperature at the cylinder storage or the protected enclosure should varies by ±
5.5°C from calculated, the calculated design quantity of extinguishing agent may be incorrect.

Calculation method has only been investigated for the pipes and fittings specified in chapter 1 of
this manual.

If cautions or warning are printed on the software calculation print out there is a risk that the
system will not supply the designed quantity of extinguishing agent at the specific locations.

6.5.4 16 Steps of INERGEN® System Design

The following steps must be followed, in the order they are presented, to properly design an
INERGEN® total flooding system. A simple design example will be used throughout the steps to
help understand each step.

STEP NO.1 - Determine The Hazard Area Volume(s)

The first step in the design of a system is to calculate the volume of each area to be protected.

Multiply the length by the width to determine the area, and then multiply the area by the height to
determine the volume for each hazard area.

If any area is an odd shape, the designer may need to divide it up into regular shapes that will allow
volume calculations, and then sum all the volumes to determine the actual volume of that area. If
 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 89

the irregular shape might affect distribution of the agent, it may be best to calculate sections of the
hazard area as separate areas and include nozzles for each of these areas.

If the ceiling height exceeds the maximum allowable ceiling height as defined in the General
Information Section of this manual, multiple levels of nozzles must be designed into the system.

Complete this step for each area protected by the system.

Example:

Server room: 125m3

Length: 10.0m
Width: 5.0m
Height: 2.5m
Subfloor: 40m3
Length: 10.0m
Width: 5.0m
Height: 0.8m

STEP NO.2 - Determine Volume Reductions

The volume of solid objects in each hazard area that are not removable can be deducted from the
volume of the hazard. This volume may include columns, beams, cut-out room sections, closets
that will always be closed, ducts that pass completely through the area without any openings, and
any other large, permanently fixed objects that cannot be removed from the hazard enclosure.
Calculate the volume of all such objects and add them together to determine the amount of space to
be deducted from the volume. Complete this step for each enclosure protected by the system.

Example:

Server room:
Columns: 0.6m x 0.6m x 2.5m x 3 columns = 2.7m3
Subfloor:
Columns: 0.6m x 0.6m x 0.8m x 3 columns = 0.8m3
 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 90

STEP NO.3 - Calculate Reduced Volume

Subtract the volume of solid, permanent objects (Step No. 2) from each of the hazard areas'
volumes (Step No.1). The result is considered to be the reduced volume for the enclosure.

Room volume – solid object volume = reduced volume

Complete this step for each area protected by the system.

Example:

Server room:
125m3 – 2.7m3 = 122.3m3
Subfloor:
40m3 – 0.8m3 = 39.2m3

STEP NO.4 - Determine Minimum Design Concentration

The Minimum Design Concentration (MDC) is determined by which hazard being protected and
which rules applies. A list of MDC can be found in this manual ch4 under “Design Concentration”.

The Minimum Design Concentration is determined by the hazard present in the protected enclosure
which requires the highest MDC.

STEP NO.5 – Specify INERGEN® Concentrations

Choosing the INERGEN® quantity method:

Design Concentration: Enter the minimum design concentration in accordance with Step No 4.

As an alternative the concentration can also be given as Flooding or Oxygen Concentration.

If design safety factors other than temperature and room pressure are to be applied (Tee factor and
others) these must be included in above specified concentration.

STEP NO.6 – Specify Room Temperature and Room Pressure

Enter room temperature and room pressure. (Choose appropriate unit)

 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 91

The design quantity of agent shall be adjusted to compensate for ambient pressure that vary more
than 11% (equivalent to approximately 915m [3000ft] of elevation change) from standard sea level
pressures (760mm Hg at 0°C [29.92 in. Hg at 70°F])

STEP NO.7 – Specify Cylinder Type

Choose cylinder type, filling specification and storage conditions for the cylinders.

Standard filling pressure is 200 or 300 bar at 15°C. Typical storage temperature is 21°C.

STEP NO.8 – Calculate Quantity of INERGEN®

By pressing the button “Calculate” IMT will calculate, the required quantities of INERGEN®
cylinders, the total INERGEN® mass, Flooding, Actual concentration, Oxygen conc and CO2
concentration.

STEP NO.9 – Verify Actual Concentration

Check that the Oxygen concentration is above NEL or LEL also at the minimum operating
temperature.

Provisions to limit exposure to below specified must be provided.

The ∆T is giving the corresponding Oxygen concentration with respectively 10 and 20 °C

difference from the calculated.

Table 6-11: Limitation of Actual Concentration

STEP NO. 10 - Determine Nozzle Quantity

Nozzle quantity will be determined by many factors, such as size and shape of the hazard area,
height of the ceiling, etc. To determine the quantity of nozzles required.
 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 92

Land systems: Divide the room length by 7.32m (max inter-nozzle distance) and round up to the
next whole number. Then divide the room width by 7.32m and round up to the next whole number.
Then, multiply the two answers to determine the total nozzle quantity.

Marine systems: All the procedure is the same as Land system just use 8.0m instead of 7.32m.

Complete this step for each area protected by the system.

360° Nozzle Requirements: Maximum coverage length per nozzle (radial distance): 5.18m.

Above distance should not be exceeded from the nozzle to the farthest point.

The radial distance is defined as the distance from the nozzle to the farthest point of the area
protected. Nozzle should be placed as close to the center of the hazard area as possible. On
multiple nozzle systems, the nozzles should be as equally spaced as possible.

Nozzle limitations:

 Maximum nozzle height above floor level for a single row of nozzles

Land systems (Mono-orifice): 4.7m.

Marine systems (MED nozzle): 6.0m

For ceiling heights over above limits, additional row(s) of nozzles is required.

 Minimum clearance in front of nozzle: 0.1m.

Minimum clearance behind nozzle: 0.0m.

 Minimum protected area height is 0.3m.

 For multiple level hazard areas, the intermediate levels of nozzles must be positioned at the
top of the designed height for each intermediate level. Nozzles mounted at the ceiling must
be within 1.0m of the ceiling.
 If noise level is a concern, additional nozzles may be used to reduce the noise level and the
Silencer should be installed, consult datasheet for recommendation regarding performance.
The Silencer is NOT FM approved (see section regarding Nozzle and silencer)
 If the room is an odd shape, the designer may wish to increase the nozzle quantity to
provide a more even distribution of the agent.
 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 93

STEP NO. 11 – Designing the Pipe System

Draw the pipe system in the “Isometric design”, Add manifold quantities and specifications. Pipe
ends are always in a nozzle, covered room volume for each nozzle is entered.

Only the flow path of INERGEN® is included in the calculation, dirt-traps may be placed at last
nozzle without affecting the calculation weather or not it is included in the design.

STEP NO. 12 - Determine Nozzles Locations

Using a plan view drawing of the protected areas, locate each nozzle and the cylinders. Then
complete an isometric sketch using the IMT software as represented below, indicating the length of
each pipe section.

NOTE:

 Nozzles should be placed as far from pressure vents as practically possible.

Typically placed in the upper part of the hazard area, directed away from structures or
object which could disturb the flow of INERGEN®.

 Nozzles should be placed as evenly as possible within the protected area.

 A radial distance of minimum 0.5m from side of the nozzle must be clear to avoid damage
to the structure. If placed closer deflectors should be used.

STEP NO. 13 – Pipe System Calculation

Go to the “Pipe System Design” and choose the setup calculations basics.

Preferences like max pipe size are entered.

Discharge goal should be 95% of the minimum design concentration, and the time should be
120sec.

Authority can be UL or FM.

Import the pipe system by pushing the button “Isometri”.

The table contain the pipe system parameters are filled.

 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 94

STEP NO. 14 – Calculate Required Area for Pressure Venting

Based on the discharge time and agent volume the mass flow is calculated by IMT and the required
pressure relief area is calculated

The formula below are used to calculate the pressure relief opening area.

Table 6-12: Specific Volumes of Air and INERGEN® at Standard Pressure

STEP NO. 15 - Create Bill of Materials

Use the IMT program to generate a list of all materials and parts necessary to install the system.

STEP NO. 16 - Create Installation Drawings

The final step in the design of an INERGEN® system is completion of installation drawings for
submission to the appropriate authority and the customer. These drawings should include all details
necessary for installation of this system.
 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 95

Figure 6-26: Server Room

Figure 6-27: Sub-floor

6.5.5 Design of Multi-zone Systems

 The following information must be considered when designing a selector valve system.
 Selector valve systems should only be used for multi areas where each area is separate fire
zone.
 Each hazard area must be calculated as a separate system design.
 Start with the largest system in order to determine the quantity of cylinders required.
 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 96

 After calculating the largest system, complete additional system calculations.

 Selector valves can be located either upstream or downstream of the pressure reducer.
 The piping located between the pressure reducer and the selector valve must be rated for the
system (cylinder) working pressure, respectively 200 or 300 bar [4350 psi] or greater.

The following drawing is an example of a selector valve system.

Figure 6-28: Example of Selector Valve System

 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 97

6.5.6 Reserve System

Normally the authority having jurisdiction will determine whether a hazard requires a reserve set of
INERGEN® cylinders, either connected or spare.

NFPA 2001, Standard on Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems, states: "Where required, the
reserve quantity shall be as many multiples of the primary supply as the authority having
jurisdiction considers necessary". "Where uninterrupted protection is required, both primary and
reserve supply shall be permanently connected to the distribution piping and arranged for easy
changeover".

FM Global and IRI (Industrial Risk Insurers) requires the following:

In high pressure systems an extra full complement of charged cylinders (connected reserve)
manifolded and piped to feed into the automatic system should be provided on all installations. The
reserve supply is actuated by manual operation of the main/reserve switch on either electrically
operated or pneumatically operated systems.

A connected reserve is desirable for several reasons:

 Protection, should reflash occur.

 Protection during impairment when main tanks are being replaced.
 Protection of other hazard areas if selector valves are involved and multiple hazard areas
are protected by the same set of cylinders.
 If a full complement of charged cylinders cannot be obtained, or the empty cylinders
recharged, delivered and reinstalled within 24 hours, a third complement of fully charged
spare cylinders should be maintained on premises for emergency use. The need for spare
cylinders may depend upon whether or not the hazard is under protection of automatic
sprinklers.

When designing a system, always determine if, and what kind of, reserve system is required.

NOTE: Usage of reserve systems with primary system may make hazard area unsafe for normal
occupancy.
 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 98

6.6 Installation
All installations are to be performed in accordance with the parameters of the manual and all
appropriate codes and standards from the authority having jurisdiction.

Before the INERGEN® system is installed, the qualified installer should develop installation
drawings in order to locate the equipment, to determine an actuation and distribution piping
routing, and to develop a bill of material.

For successful system performance, the system components must be located within their approved
temperature ranges. Only certified personnel should install INERGEN® systems.

The order in which the different parts are installed must be planned prior to the installation to avoid
any dangerous situation which could arise in case of accidental activation of the extinguishing
system.

Orders in which the parts should be installed are as below:

1. Distribution pipe system

 Cylinders
 Manifold and Orifice
 Room pressure reliefs
 Actuation circuitry (electrical and/or pneumatic)
 Detection system
 Control panels
 Alarm and Indicators

2. Nozzles

3. Discharge valves (pressurized for integrity test)

 Discharge hoses

4. Discharge valve accessories and actuators

5. Signs and labels

6. Open and Seal Hand wheel valves

 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 99

6.7 Testing & commissioning

This part serves as a guide for final test and inspection before a system is commissioned. Always
check with the authorities having jurisdiction if additional requirements apply. Always check the
system specifications to see if special attention should be required if other components are used etc.

The purpose is ensuring that the system has been properly installed and will function as specified.
All mechanical components shall be checked for their suitability for the application and to make
sure that their installation is in accordance with the system listing.

Non-system listed components must be identified and checked to ensure they are suitable for the
system and acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction. The completed system shall be tested by
competent personnel to prove the correct operation of all required functions. The detection and
actuation system shall be tested in accordance with the control panel manual.

NOTE: Before starting any testing, REMOVE ALL ACTUATORS from their discharge valves.
Reinstalling the actuators after testing is the LAST operation to do.

6.7.1 System Configuration

Review the “as-installed” plans to ensure that they accurately represent the system configuration of
the area to be protected.

6.7.2 Warning Signs & Notices

Check that warning signs and safety instructions are installed in accordance with NFPA 2001
Section 4.3.5, and observe if local regulations require additional signs.

6.7.3 Enclosure Integrity & Venting

All total flooding systems shall have the protected enclosure checked to locate and effectively seal
any significant air leaks that could result in a failure of the enclosure to hold the specified
extinguishing agent concentration level for the specified holding period.

NOTE: The data derived from this test should be retained as a benchmark for future tests.

Review the adequacy of the enclosure for its ability to vent pressure fluctuations developed during
system discharge, taking into account the following:

 The equivalent leakage area determined from the enclosure integrity test.
 The provision of any required additional pressure vents.
 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 100

6.8 Resetting & Recharging

A fire can cause damage to many parts and components in a fire extinguishing system, and it is
therefore very important to do a thorough inspection of the complete system before resetting it.

Failure to do so may cause damage and accidental discharge. It is also very important to clear the
area from smoke. Always refer to the control panel manual regarding instructions how this should
be reset.

Check all electrical and mechanical equipment:

 Piping and nozzles

 Selector valves
 Electrical and manual actuators
 Pneumatic actuators
 Bleed fitting
 Discharge valves

6.8.1 Recharging Cylinders

As the cylinders are equipped with hand wheel valve, it is very easy to have a filling station
refilling the cylinders. Before refilling the discharge valve is to be removed.

Caution: Filling is only to be performed by personnel with the required certification to perform this
operation. Ensure that the cylinder is fixed well and con not move, and that it will not be able to
move in case the filling adapter breaks (reaction forces must be taken into account).

6.8.2 Filling Equipment Requirements

The filling equipment must have a suitable pressure gauge to verify correct filling (min class 0.5
accuracy), the gauge on the discharge valve is not suitable for this purpose.

Pressure relive valves with a capacity that exceeds the capacity of the pump being used or the flow
capacity of the outlet of the tank being filled from, so that the max pressure is limited to the max
operating pressure of the system @ 60°C.

Pressure reducers are not to be used as means for controlling filling pressure or protecting the
cylinder to be filled from over pressurization.
 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 101

6.9 Inspection, Service & Maintenance

Periodical inspection and maintenance by qualified and trained personnel must be made minimum
in accordance with the authority having jurisdiction.

Minimum service intervals

DBI 253 Annual service + inspection

UL Semi-annual (cylinder pressure must be verified)

NFPA At least annual: inspection and test - at least semi-annually: pressure check

For components with limited service life, always refer to the engineering datasheet for information
regarding replacement intervals or required service.

When working on the system always keep personal safety in mind.

6.9.1 Inspection
A visual inspection must be performed regularly to ensure proper function of the system.

The visual inspection is intended to give reasonable assurance that the system will operate, and has
not been tampered with, and has not been rendered inefficient due to changes in the protected
areas.

Below is given a list of items that should be inspected monthly, and what should be observed on
each item. If any parts of the described service is omitted for any reason or faults or deviations are
recorded during the service it must be noted on the Certificate of Service & Maintenance and the
owner of the system must be informed of the potential consequences.

 Room
(Construction changes / Detection, activation and indication system / Pipe system / Signs)
 Cylinders
 Control systems
 Discharge valve
 Manoswitch
 Actuators
 Hoses
 INERGEN Fire Suppression System 102

 Manifolds
 Pipe Systems
 Nozzles
 Signaling Devices
 Pressure Relief
 Selector Valves
 Non-return Valve
 Bleed Fitting

6.9.2 Service & Maintenance

Systems shall be serviced at regular intervals satisfying the authorities having jurisdiction.

It is intended to give maximum assurance that the system will operate efficiently and as designed.
If any damages, or changes, that would reduce the efficiency of the system are found during the
service these are to be repaired before the Service & maintenance protocol is signed.

Procedures listed in this section are the minimum necessary to maintain an efficient system.

Service intervals may be different than here stated if:

 Authorities having jurisdiction requires so

 System installations are subject to harsh environment.

The service must always be performed by a licensed service technician.

The checklist can be used as a commissioning checklist, as well as the annual service checklist.

6.10 Conclusion
In chapter 4, an INERGEN® Fire Suppression System has been described with all the details from
the system specification and basic components to planning, designing, installation, testing and
recharging until the inspection, services and maintenance of it to get the better understanding of a
fire suppression system.

Also in this chapter, the IMT Calculation Software – which is a very complete application for
calculating and designing an INERGEN® Fire Suppression System – hast been explained step by
step with a very simple example for designing an INERGEN® Fire Suppression System.
 Conclusion and Future Work 103

Chapter 7

7 Conclusion and Future Work

7.1 Conclusion
This thesis was done during the internship stage, by the request of fire proposal department of Tyco
Italy to find an integrated approach for optimizing and speeding up the process of making a
proposal for gaseous fire suppression systems. Our solution to solve this problem was
Standardization the documents of gaseous fire suppression systems.

This thesis consist of seven chapters:

The first chapter is an introduction about the whole process and there is the main body list of
chapters.

The second and third chapters are about the Tyco Company, their business units and different
departments that are working there. Next, there are complete explanations of making a quotation
and then the whole activities that have been done for standardizing the documents and its results.

The fourth chapter was dedicated to presenting the all standard and approval organizations that are
related to fire protecting systems.

The fifth chapter is all about the introducing and describing different gaseous fire suppression
agents and a very useful experimental comparison between these agents has been presented.

In the chapter six, you can find all the information and details about the INERGEN® Fire
Suppression System that is one of the most used system in the application with high grade of
importance and security. In addition, I have provided a systematic learning guide for using the
designing software of this system both in calculating and in drawing.
 Conclusion and Future Work 104

7.2 Future Work

As it described before, the standardization has been done in two phases, the first phase was
gathering and collecting all the available documents – Product Overview, Warranty, Approvals and
Certificates, Application Sheet and Design Manual – related to the fire suppression systems and
then generalizing and standardizing them under the cover and label of Tyco Italy, this phase was
done completely. However, the second phase was creating the unavailable documents – Data Sheet,
Process & Instrument Diagram (P&ID) and General Assembly Drawing (GAD) – that was done
just for INERGEN® and FM-200® systems and we need to create them for all other types of fire
suppression systems.

Therefore, the possible future work can be preparing the second phase of standard documents for
the other available gaseous fire suppression systems like SAPPHIRETM, iFLOW® and CO2 that
their process of standardization are remained incomplete.
 Conclusion and Future Work 105

References

[1] Tyco Integrated Fire & Security S.p.A, Tyco corporate backgrounder and business unit fact
sheet, 2012.

[2] National Fire Protection Organization (NFPA), NFPA standard reference book, 2013.

[3] International Organization of Standardization (ISO), Standardization and related activities -

General vocabulary, Eighth edition, 2004.

[4] European Committee for Standardization (CEN), CEN review manual, Fourth edition, 2009.

[5] Tyco Fire Protection Products, SAPPHIRETM TOTAL FLOOD FIRE SUPPRESSION 25 BAR
& 42 BAR SYSTEMS - DESIGN MANUAL, 2013.

[6] Tyco Fire Suppression & Building Products, FM-200® TOTAL FLOOD FIRE SUPPRESSION
SYSTEMS - DESIGN MANUAL, 2009.

[7] Tyco Safety Products, FM-200® TOTAL FLOOD FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEMS -
ENGINEERED SYSTEM DESIGN AND INSTALLATION MANUAL (UL/FM VERSION),
2010.

[8] ANSUL®, INERGEN® 200 & 300 BAR SYSTEM - DESIGN, INSTALLATION, RECHARGE
AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL, 2012.

[9] ANSUL®, HIGH PRESSURE CARBON DIOXIDE SYSTEMS - DESIGN, INSTALLATION,

RECHARGE AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL, 2011.

[10] Tyco Fire Protection Products, iFLOW® 200/300 BAR TOTAL FLOOD FIRE
SUPPRESSION SYSTEMS - DESIGN MANUAL, 2014.

[11] Fire Eater, Control Inert Ci UL Listed & FM Approved Extinguishing System, 2014.

[12] Tyco Integrated Fire & Security S.p.A, [Link] Access in 2015.

[13] National Fire Protection Organization (NFPA), [Link] Access in 2015.

[14] International Organization of Standardization (ISO), [Link] Access in 2015.

[15] European Committee for Standardization (CEN), [Link] Access in 2015.

 Conclusion and Future Work 106

[16] International Maritime Organization (IMO), [Link] Access in 2015.

[17] FM Approval, [Link] Access in 2015.

[18] UL Approval, [Link] Access in 2015.

[19] Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB), [Link] Access in 2015.

[20] VdS Approval, [Link] Access in 2015.

[21] Certificate of Conformity (EC), [Link] Access

in 2015.

[22] American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), [Link] Access in 2015.

[23] Der Norske Veritas (DNV), [Link] Access in 2015.

[24] Lloyd’s Register (LR), [Link] Access in 2015.

[25] Registro Italiano Navale (RINA), [Link] Access in 2015.

[26] United States Coast Guard (USCG), [Link] Access in 2015.

[27] Tyco Fire Protection Products (TFPP), [Link] Access in 2015.

[28] ANSUL, [Link] Access in 2015.

[29] Kidde Fire Safety Products, [Link] Access in 2015.

[30] Fire Eater Group, [Link] Access in 2015.

[31] 3M Company, [Link] Access in 2015.

[32] Tyco Italy, [Link] Access in 2015.

[33] Wikipedia, [Link] Access in 2015.

Appendix A
Data Sheet Sample
 Chapter: INERGEN Page: 1 of 2
Engineering data sheet
Sheet No: 200500

INERGEN

General
INERGEN is an odourless colourless gas with a density similar to air. It is a clean agent for use in fire
suppression applications. It contains 52% nitrogen, 40% argon and 8% carbon dioxide and works by lowering
the concentration of oxygen of the protected area to a point that cannot support combustion.
INERGEN is non toxic and no decomposition products are created from INERGEN when exposed to heat or fire.
INERGEN is a mixture of gases naturally occurring in the earth’s atmosphere. It exhibits no ozone depleting
potential and does not contribute to global warming.
INERGEN systems should not be used below -56°C as the CO2 will solidify. The gas has no temperature upper
limit of use. Limitations will come from the hardware due to pressure increase with temperature.
Designation: INERGEN, IG541, 52/40/08

Pressures and temperature

INERGEN is stored in gaseous phase (it is not dissolved or liquid), hence the pressure will change with the
temperature.
The designation pressure, for example 150, 200 or 300 bar, is the pressure in the cylinder at 15 °C.

Safety
INERGEN works by displacing the oxygen in the protected space and the carbon dioxide level is increased to
2-4% in order to stimulate the respiratory functions and to ensure sufficient oxygen flow to the human brain.
During discharge of the INERGEN system there will be turbulence in the enclosure to ensure distribution of
the INERGEN. An over pressurisation of the room will occur depending on the installed pressure relief. There
will be no reduction of visibility, hence escape routes will always be easy to find.
After discharge there will be no residue and ventilation of the enclosure is the only cleaning up necessary.
Please refer to the separate safety datasheet for INERGEN for information in accordance with 91/58 EEC.

Properties
Composition (% volume)
Nitrogen 48.8 - 55.2 %
Argon 37.2 - 42.8 %
Carbon dioxide 7.6 - 8.4%

Molar mass 34.08 g/mol

Specific vapour volume 0.706 m3/kg (t = 20°C, p = 1.0132 bar)

INERGEN/Air (relative) ρr = 1.18

(t = 20°C, p = 1.0132 bar)

Triple point of CO2 at 5.2 atm and -56.4oC

Document: 200500 INERGEN Text

1
2
Product: Id: HDN 3
Inergen Rev: 08.07.10 4
5
6
Vølundsvej 17 7
DK- 3400 Hillerød
Tel +45 7022 2769 8
Fax +45 7023 2769 9
 Chapter: INERGEN Page: 2 of 2
Engineering data sheet
Sheet No: 200500

Cylinder pressure
450

150 barg (@15⁰C)

400
200 barg (@15⁰C)
300 barg (@15⁰C)
350
Pressure [barg]

300

250

200

150

100

50
-40 -30 -20 -10 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90
Temperature [⁰C]

Temperature Cylinder pressure

[⁰C] [barg]
150 barg (@15⁰C) 200 barg (@15⁰C) 300 barg (@15⁰C)
-40 107.4 139.2 201.4
-35 111.4 144.8 210.5
-30 115.3 150.4 219.6
-25 119.2 156.0 228.7
-20 123.1 161.6 237.7
-15 126.9 167.1 246.7
-10 130.8 172.6 255.7
-5 134.7 178.1 264.6
0 138.5 183.6 273.5
5 142.4 189.1 282.4
10 146.2 194.6 291.2
15 150.0 200.0 300.0
21 154.6 206.5 310.5
25 157.6 210.8 317.5
30 161.4 216.3 326.3
35 165.2 221.6 335.0
40 169.0 227.0 343.7
45 172.7 232.4 352.3
50 176.5 237.7 360.9
55 180.2 243.0 369.5
60 184.0 248.3 378.0
65 187.7 253.6 386.6
70 191.4 258.9 395.1
75 195.1 264.2 403.6
80 198.8 269.4 412.1
85 202.5 274.7 420.5
90 206.2 279.9 428.9

Document: 200500 INERGEN Text

1
2
Product: Id: HDN 3
Inergen Rev: 08.07.10 4
5
6
Vølundsvej 17 7
DK- 3400 Hillerød
Tel +45 7022 2769 8
Fax +45 7023 2769 9
Safety data sheet
According to EU directive 2001/58/EC

File: MSDS INERGEN -[Link]

version: 2011-08-11

01 Identification INERGEN, IG541

Use Fire extinguishing in enclosures.
Company
Fire Eater A/S, Vølundsvej 17, 3400 Hillerød
Tel: +45 7022 2769, [Link]
02 Composition Gas mixture consisting of: 52%N2, 40% Ar, 8% CO2
CAS RN ACX No EINECS/ELINCS
Nitrogen: 77727-37-9 X1003258-9 231-783-9
Argon: 7440-37-1 X1002784-0 231-147-0
CO2: 124-38-9 X1056802-4 204-696-9
03 Hazards None of the components are on the environment ministry’s list.
identification
Asphyxiation if concentrated gas is inhaled.
Freezing may occur if containers are discharged quickly.
04 First aid measures Ensure fresh air.
If no breathing apply artificial respiration.
If necessary deploy oxygen treatment.
05 Fire-fighting The gas mixture is NOT flammable and do NOT support combustion.
measures The gas does not produce toxic decomposition products.
Containers must be removed from fire.
If containers have been exposed to increased heat they must be cooled
and depressurized.
06 Accidental release If released in enclosures these must be ventilated.
measures
No environmental actions are required as all components are part of the
atmosphere.
07 Handling and There must be access to fresh air.
storage
Directions for handling of pressurised vessels must be followed.
Pressure vessels must be approved by authorities.
08 Exposure control Carbondioxid: 5000ppm ≈ 9000 mg/m3.
If poor ventilation fresh air mask must be used.

Page 1/2
Safety data sheet
According to EU directive 2001/58/EC

File: MSDS INERGEN -[Link]

version: 2011-08-11

09 Physical and Non liquefied inert colourless odourless gas mixture.

chemical
Molecular mass: 34.08 g/mol
properties
Density: 0.0014 g/cm3 (0.087 lb/ft3)
Relative density: 1.18 (Air =1)
Volume: 0.706 m3/kg (11.31 ft3/lb)
Boiling point: -120.8 °C
10 Stability and Stable mixture of inert gasses.
reactivity
11 Toxicological Inhaling concentrated gasses may cause asphyxiation.
information
Long-term exposure to gas may cause headache, drowsiness,
indisposition, asphyxia and breathing difficulties.
No known post exposure long-term effects.
12 Ecological The gas mixture is a natural part of the atmosphere.
information
13 Disposal Contents of containers are released in open atmosphere.
14 Transport Transport of pressurised cylinders.
Cylinders: UN1956, Compressed gas, n.o.s (Nitrogen, Argon), 2 (E)
Transport Class Notes Label Limitations:
ADR/RID 2.2 2.2 None
IMDG 2.2 EmS:2-04 2.2 None
Dangerous Goods transport document must follow goods
(exception: Fitters & installers may transport up to 1000 l (Cylinder
Water Volume in litre) without DG Transport document.
15 Regulatory None.
16 Other information None.

Page 2/2
 Chapter: 01-Cylinders Page: 1 of 5
Engineering data sheet
Sheet No.: Gen. Cylinders w. INERGEN

Cylinders w. INERGEN
Item numbers covered by his datasheet
200601 Cylinder 05-200 W24
200602 Cylinder 10-200 W24
a
200604 Cylinder 20-200 W24
200609 Cylinder 30-300 M25
200610 Cylinder 50-200 W24
200612 Cylinder 80-150 M25
200615 Cylinder 50-300 M25

< H2
200616 Cylinder 80-200 W24
200624 Cylinder 80-300 M25
200642 Cylinder 140-300 M25 b

H1
300 BAR
200706 Cylinder 30-200 W24 DNV
200709 Cylinder 30-300 M25 DNV t
200716 Cylinder 80-200 W24 DNV
200724 Cylinder 80-300 M25 DNV

H
Variants available
-00: Pi marked
-8: Customer specific versions
-21: DNV approved cylinder
-23: GOST-R cylinder
-24: GOST-K cylinder
-25: BV approved cylinder
-62: CCOE approved cylinder
-27: Australian registered cylinder
-60: For UL listed systems (NFPA compliant)
D
-62: For FM approved systems (NFPA compliant)
-71: For LPCB approved systems (EN15004 compliant)
Not all variants are available for all cylinders, for combination of approvals and listings, please contact
Fire Eater.

General
Steel cylinders with INERGEN and Ci Hand Wheel Valve for use in Fire Eater INERGEN fire suppression
systems.
This datasheet is a summary of the available cylinders.

Document: Text
Ci Cylinders 2014 1
2
Category: Id: MK 3
Control inert Rev:2014.04.25 4
5
6
Vølundsvej 17 7
DK- 3400 Hillerød
Tel +45 7022 2769 8
[Link] 9
 Chapter: Mech accessories
Engineering data sheet
Item: 400109 - 400115

Cylinder bracket

Item numbers covered by this datasheet

400109 Cylinder bracket 80/82l (ø267/279mm)
400110 Cylinder bracket 50l+30l (ø229mm)
400111 Cylinder bracket 20l (ø204mm)
400112 Cylinder bracket 5-10l (ø140mm)
400115 Cylinder bracket 2l (ø102mm)

1 Bolt is tightned after cylinder is placed

General
Bracket including bolt for fastening cylinder to the cylinder rail.
For marine applications 2 brackets should be used for each cylinder.
Used with 25mm profile rail (4002##).

Specifications
Materiel: Galvanised steel

Maintenance
General cleaning, inspect for corrosion.

Document: 4001## Cylinder brackets Pos Text

1
Product: 2
Id: MK
3
Mech. accessories Rev: 02-02-2010
4
5
Vølundsvej 17 6
DK- 3400 Hillerød 7
Tel +45 7022 2769
Fax +45 7023 2769 8
 Chapter: Brackets
Engineering data sheet
Sheet No: 400300-400310

Cylinder rail for 80 l cylinders

Leng
t h

Specifications
Cylinder diameter: 267 mm
Fastening distances: < 350 mm
Profile: P4000 series
Material: Galv. steel

Item No of Lenght Weight

number cyl. [mm] [kg]
400301 1 320 0.35
400302 2 640 0.70
400303 3 960 1.00
400304 4 1280 1.40
400305 5 1600 1.70
400306 6 1920 2.00
400307 7 2240 2.40
400308 8 2560 2.80
400309 9 2880 3.20
400310 10 3200 3.50

Use with bracket: 400109

Rail end cover: 400121

Document: 40030# Cylinder rail for 80l Text

cylinders 1
2
Product: Id: MK 3
Mech accessories Rev: 05.01.10 4
5
6
Vølundsvej 17 7
DK- 3400 Hillerød
Tel +45 7022 2769 8
Fax +45 7023 2769 9
 Chapter: 11 – Discharge valve Page: 1 of 7
Engineering data sheet
Sheet No.: Ci IV8

Ci IV8 discharge valve

Item numbers covered by this datasheet
305410 Ci IV8-300 Manosw
305411 Ci IV8-300 Basic
305420 Ci IV8-200 Manosw
305421 Ci IV8-200 Basic

General
Discharge valve for use in INERGEN fire extinguishing systems.
The valve has built-in pneumatic activation for inter-system
activation, back pressure activation and mechanical activation
interface.
The discharge outlet is connected internally to the Pneumatic
Actuator (PA) via a check valve (the check valve allows pressure from
the discharge side to enter the actuator side), this allows for the
discharge port to be used as activation port also (back pressure), hence eliminating the need for PA circuitry
between valves connected to the same manifold. When more than one manifold is used, the PA system must
be connected to at least one IV8 valve on each manifold.
The port for the PA function works as both inlet and outlet, hence the same connection is used on both pilot
and slave cylinders, and the pilot cylinders can be placed anywhere in the line of IV8 valves. All equipment
connected to the PA connection must be rated at 300/400 bar.
The standard valve is classified as a Type 2 valve, as it has a built-in burst disc which relieves pressure to the
open.

Document: Ci IV8 Discharge Valve Text

1
2
Category: Id: MK 3
Control inert Rev:2012.06.01 4
5
6
Vølundsvej 17 7
DK- 3400 Hillerød
Tel +45 7022 2769 8
Fax +45 7023 2769 9
 Chapter: 11 – Discharge valves acc Page: 1 of 8
Engineering data sheet
Sheet No.: Ci Manoswitch

Manoswitch

C
-20
Recharge

8@
23.
Item numbers covered by his datasheet 31.0
@ 21C

305373 ManoSw 28.4MPa sp16.6 UL2127 Use with

IG541 Only
305374 ManoSw 43.1MPa sp24.9 UL2127

39
.5
0

@
70
Overcharged

C
43.1
305360 Manoswitch 0-160 bar sp 50 EN12094 MPa

Below are early or special variants

305370 Manoswitch 0-250 bar sp 166 EN12094
305375 Manoswitch 0-400 bar sp 249 EN12094
303013 ManoSw 0-250bar sp 150 conn
303014 ManoSw 0-250bar sp 166 conn
303017 ManoSw 0-400bar sp 225 conn
303018 ManoSw 0-400bar sp 249 conn
305371 ManoSw 15MPa sp12.24 GA400
305372 ManoSw 20MPa sp16.6 GA400
305375-23 ManoSw 0-40MPa sp249 GOST-R

General
Manoswitch is a combined pressure gauge and pressure switch used in Fire Eater Control Inert (Ci) system.
The pressure gauge is typically supplied with the IV8 valve.
The manoswitch features a change over switch allowing for indication of normal and low pressure.
Several switches can be connected in a daisy-chain with an end of line resistor at the last switch. In this way
a full monitoring of all switches is possible in a nice and simple way, eliminating the risk of having short
circuits or broken lines not being indicated as a fault.
If the pressure on one of the manoswitches falls, the whole circuitry will indicate low pressure.
Only two wires brown + black are needed for connection to the control panel.
Standardized units used is either Bar or MPa.
In Europe, bar is the widely used unit for pressure, and Pa (KPa or MPa at higher pressures) is the Si unit.
To convert from bar to MPa you have to divide by a factor of 10. 400 bar = 40MPa.

Document: Ci [Link] Text

1
2
Category: Id: BH 3
Control inert Rev:2014.07.29 4
5
6
Vølundsvej 17 7
DK- 3400 Hillerød
Tel +45 7022 2769 8
Fax +45 7023 2769 9
 Chapter: Elec Access Page: 1 of 2
Engineering data sheet
Item: 54036#

Manoswitch Dual-Resistor cable start kit

Items covered by this data sheet

540360 Manoswitch 470-5K6 Cable 2m start kit 1
540361 Manoswitch 680-3K3 Cable 2m start kit
540632 Manoswitch 470-10K0 Cable 2m start kit

General Terminator
M8 Female connector
The manoswitch (combined pressure gauge and 2
pressure switch) used by Fire Eater features a
single pole change over switch making it possible
to monitor for normal and low pressure as well as
short circuitry and open circuit.
The manoswitches are designed to be connected
in a daisy chain, where low pressure on one
manoswitch will indicate low pressure on the 303003
monitoring panel. Cable 2m
M8 Male connector
The dual-resistor terminator (part of this kit) has
to be placed on the last manoswitch in the daisy
chain.
In the normal position (pressure above the set
point) the resistance of the circuitry is high
(3K3/5K6), when pressure falls below the set point the resistance of the circuitry falls to low (680/470 ohm).

Related parts
303004 Cable 0.6m with connectors in both ends
303005 Cable 1.0m with connectors in both ends
303006 Cable 2.0m with connectors in both ends
305370 Manoswitch 0-250 bar sp. 166 Change over switch
305375 Manoswitch 0-400 bar sp. 249 Change over switch
303007 M8 female connector with solder terminals

Caution:
This start kit is not compatible with early
style IV7 discharge valves.
Compatible gauges are marked
“EN12094-10”
Switch limit: max: 0.1 Amp, 30 Vac/DC

Document: 54036# Manoswitch Dual Resistor Text

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 Chapter: Elec Access Page: 2 of 2
Engineering data sheet
Item: 54036#

1 3
Installation instructions
4 2
Connection:
The wire to connect is:
5
1: Brown
4: Black

Black Black
Fire Eat er A/S DK- 2840 Holte Denmark
Tel 45 70 22 27 69 Fax 45 70 23 27 69

IV7 HP
Fire Eat er A/S DK- 2840 Holte Denmark
Tel 45 70 22 27 69 Fax 45 70 23 27 69

IV7 HP
Fire Eater A/S DK- 2840 Holte Denmark
Tel 45 70 22 27 69 Fax 45 70 23 27 69

IV7 HP

4 4
Blue Brown Blue
3 1 Brown 1 3

Female Male
(Seen from plug) (Seen from plug)

Installation:
1. The 2 m cable (303003) is connected to the monitoring
circuit, by connecting the brown and the black wire. The Pos.
cable may be cut to the right length before installation. 1: Discharge box
2. The Terminator is fitted to the cable (303003) plug to 2: Manoswitch w. M8 connector
verify correct function of the monitoring circuitry. 3: Manoswitch cable
3. The cables between the manoswitches are connected. 4: Cable 2.0m w. M8 connector
If the distance between cylinders is more than 400 mm 5: Terminator for manoswitch w. con
it is necessary to use cable (303004 – 303006).
Note:
Care must be shown not to damage the connector in the
manoswitch

At service
Always disconnect the terminator (303002/303008) to verify
the pressure monitoring circuitry.
If a pressure drop fault is indicated, move the terminator to
verify which cylinder needs pressurisation.

Black
Blue 4
1 3
Brown
No Pressure Blue

3
14
Black
Brown

Document: 54036# Manoswitch Dual Resistor Text

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 Category: Control Inert Page: 1 of 2
Engineering data sheet
Sheet No: Ci-hoses

Ci Discharge Hoses
Item numbers covered by this datasheet
303102 Pressure Hose DN10-400 0.5m 0+90°
303104 Pressure Hose DN10-400 1.0m 0+90°
303106 Pressure Hose DN10-400 1.5m 0+90°
303108 Pressure Hose DN10-400 2.0m 0+90°
303109 Pressure Hose DN10-400 2.5m 0+90°
303111 Pressure Hose DN10-400 3.0m 0+90°
303113 Pressure Hose DN10-400 4.0m 0+90°
303302 Pressure Hose Dn10-400 0.5m straight
303304 Pressure Hose Dn10-400 1.0m straight
303306 Pressure Hose Dn10-400 1.5m straight
303308 Pressure Hose Dn10-400 2.0m straight
303309 Pressure Hose Dn10-400 2.5m straight
303311 Pressure Hose Dn10-400 3.0m straight
303313 Pressure Hose Dn10-400 4.0m straight
L
General
The DN10 pressure hose is used for connection between the
discharge valve and the manifold, and qualifies as a type 1
connector in accordance with EN12094-8.
The hose is used in the Control Inert system, SV systems and
older INERGEN systems.
Specifications
Fittings:
Type: Straight union type with 60° face
Elbow 90° union with 60° face
Thread: ISO228 3/8" BSP
Flow diameter: ø8.0mm
Materials: Zinc plated steel (11SMnPb37)
Hose:
Outside diameter: ø17.6mm
Inside diameter: ø10mm (78mm2)
Construction: Two-ply steel wire
Temperature: -40°C to +100°C
Bending radius: > 130mm
Work pressure: 0 – 40 MPa (EN12094-8, Wp<1/3xBp)
Burst pressure: > 140 MPa
Materials: Oil and weather resistant synthetic rubber (NBR), two-ply steel
Length: as specified in part number above

Markings
Hose: FIRE EATER EN12094 WP 40.0MPa IG541
Hypress Hipac exceeds EN 857-2SC DN10 WP 35.0 Mpa
Fittings: yyyy – ww, UL HG CE (on collar)

Document: Ci Discharge [Link] Text

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 Chapter: 41 Manifold Page: 1 of 4
Engineering data sheet
Sheet No.: 30570x Ci MT Manifold

Ci MT Manifold
Item numbers covered by this datasheet
305701 Ci MT 1 Manifold (see page 3)
305701-8 Ci MT 1 Manifold calibrated
305702 Ci MT 2 Manifold
305703 Ci MT 3 Manifold
305704 Ci MT 4 Manifold
305705 Ci MT 5 Manifold
305706 Ci MT 6 Manifold
305707 Ci MT 7 Manifold
305708 Ci MT 8 Manifold
305709 Ci MT 9 Manifold
305710 Ci MT10 Manifold

Related components
305730 Ci MT ISO Orificekit 1”
305730-8 Ci MT ISO Orificekit 1” calibrated
305731 Ci MT npt Orificekit 1”
305731-8 Ci MT npt Orificekit 1” calibrated
305670 CM MT Valve assembly (included in the manifold for each hose connection)
305623 Ci MT Pressure Switch kit

General
The manifold is as standard supplied with connectors for 1 to 10 cylinders.
Each connection features a check valve which is automatically opened when the hose is connected.
Detail picture shows closed and open check valve.
Below is a cut section view of a manifold with hose connection.
A drawing of the check valve with and without hose connection is also shown.

Check valve with hose Check valve without hose

Document: 30570# Ci MT Manifold Text

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 Chapter: Nozzle Page: 1 of 2
Engineering data sheet
Sheet no.: 2102XX Nozzle

INERGEN Mono orifice nozzle

General
Nozzle for use in land based INERGEN-systems.
The nozzle is designed to control the flow using a single orifice with
dimensions from Ø1mm to Ø36mm.
The nozzle is designed to disperse the flow laterally (360°) and slightly
away from the mounting surface (ceiling/wall).
The nozzle orifice must be calculated specifically for each installation.
Each nozzle must be calibrated and marked individually and permanently
with the orifice diameter.
An uncalibrated nozzle is delivered with a 3 mm orifice.
A calibrated nozzle can be ordered with a -8 after the item no.
For example 210204-8 is an IN-15 ISO Nozzle Calibrated.
IMT-calculation or info on the needed orifice diameter must follow orders
for -8 item nos.

General specifications
Pressure (work max.): 75 -125 bar (pipe pressure ahead of nozzle)
Temperature: -60 to +300°C
Material: CuZn39Pb3
Marking: Fire Eater logo and orifice diameter
Inter nozzle distance: max. 7.32 m.
Height:
Min: 0.3m
Max 4.7m

Types
Type Item number Max orifice Max orifice Dimension Mass
(pipe w.p. (pipe w.p. 75 bar)
(pipe size) (not calibrated)
125 bar) (extra large orifice)
Thread Thread Area Ø Area Ø Hw Dt Ht He Hs
ISO7/1 NPT mm2 mm mm2 mm mm mm mm mm mm kg

1/2" (DN15)
210203 210223 7.1 3.0 - - - 24 44 18 8 0.10
Orifice ø1-ø3mm
1/2" (DN15) 210204 210224 130 12.9 201 16 23 24 35 18 8 0.07
3/4” (DN 20) 210206 210226 285 19.0 346 21 27 32 42 24 12 0.12
1” (DN 25) 210208 210228 500 25.2 572 27 28 40 49 29 16 0.20
5/4” (DN32) 210210 210230 800 31.9 1018 36 35 47 59 36 20 0.32

Document: 2102## Nozzle [Link] Text

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 Chapter: Nozzle Page: 1 of 1
Engineering data sheet
Sheet No: 210xxx IN Nozzle Brass

Nozzle for INERGEN Marine systems

General
Nozzle for use in INERGEN Marine systems.
Nozzle material meet the requirements in IMO regulations for used in marine
fire extinguishing systems and are MED approved.
When nozzles are calibrated they must be marked with the equivalent
diameter of the calibration.
When ordering calibrated nozzles “-8” is added to the part number.

Specifications
Max work pressure: 300 bar
Temperature: -60 to +300°C
Marking: Designation (size –Thread), 0575,
Batch number, orifice diameter, Fire Eater logo,
Inter nozzle distance: max. 8 m.
Thread: ISO7/1 or NPT (ANSI/ASME B1)
Material: CuZn39Pb3 or AISI 316 (see table for item numbers)

Types
Type Part number Maximum Dimensions Mass
(pipe size) orifice size
Brass AISI316 Area Ø Do D1 Ht Hb
2
ISO7/1 NPT ISO7/1 NPT mm mm mm mm mm mm kg
1/2" (DN15) 210504 210524 210404 210424 180 15 ø32 ø27 26.5 15 0.11
3/4” (DN 20) 210506 210526 210406 210426 314 20 ø38 ø34 28.5 15 0.15
1” (DN 25) 210508 210528 210408 210428 500 25 ø48 ø42 32.5 19 0.28
5/4” (DN32) 210510 210530 210410 210430 800 32 ø60 ø52 42 23 0.53

Installation
The nozzle is screwed on to the pipe system either by hand or a spanner, tightening force app. 30Nm

Operating
The nozzle is an open nozzle and there are no requirements.

Maintenance
Clean at regular intervals.
Avoid getting dirt inside the pipe system.

Routine testing
No requirements.

Document: Text
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 Chapter: 61 - Nozzles Page: 1 of 3
Engineering data sheet
Sheet No.: IN Silencer

IN Nozzle Silencer
Item numbers covered by his datasheet
210125 IN-1/2" Silencer T2
210126 IN-3/4" Silencer T2
210128 IN-1" Silencer T2
210234 IN-15 Silencer T1
210236 IN-20 Silencer T1
210238 IN-25 Silencer T1

General
The IN Nozzle silencer is designed to reduce the sound pressure
generated when discharging a fire extinguishing system, when this is
required due to sound sensitive equipment like hard discs and similar
equipment.

Performance
Flow resistance in the silencer is very small when used with in the orifice specification given below.
Flow through the nozzle orifice is always chocked in an Inert gas fire extinguishing system (Pdif > 2), hence
the flow through the nozzle will not be affected by the slight increase of pressure downstream of the nozzle
orifice due to the resistance in the filter.
Nozzle coverage area of the silencer is given by an inter nozzle distance of 8m or a maximum throw distance
of 5m.
Pressure of the gas exiting the nozzle depends greatly on the nozzle orifice used but is for the tested
limitation (given below) less than 5 bar. A minimum distance to delicate objects should be observed at this
pressure.
A noise reduction of approximately 20dB is achieved by using the silencer compared to a bare nozzle.
Measured noise levels with the silencer @ 2m are typically 95–110 dB.

Specifications
Temperature -40 to + 100°C
Materials: Aluminum & stainless steel
Dimensions: ø130×225 mm
Weight: 2.2 kg
Flow limitations for nozzle orifice & pressure (tested, but not absolute limit)
IMT 1.2: max ø24.9 calculated with 75bar pipe pressure
IMT 2.1: max ø20.7 @ 50 bar (nozzle pressure)
Connections: See table 1

Document: IN-Silencer [Link] Text

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 Chapter: Control Inert Page: 1 of 5
Engineering data sheet
Sheet No: 305442

305442 Ci-IM8 Manual Actuator

General
The actuator is used with the Ci-IV8 valve for
manual hand actuation of the valve.
The actuator works as a spring loaded force
amplifier.
By pushing with a maximum force of 150N on
the button a spring is released creating a force
of 700N for actuation of the Ci-IV8 valve.

Specifications
Actuation
Method: Hand
Force: 150N (maximum)

Materials:
Brass
Stainless steel
Viton
Silicone
Aluminium

Dimensions
D × L: ø40 × 75 (length installed 67 mm)
Weight: 0.4 kg

Markings
Fire Eater Logo, Ci-IM8A, Serial number, CE1116, YY,

Document: 305442 IM8 Manual [Link] Text

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 Chapter: 21 Actuators Page: 1 of 5
Engineering data sheet
Sheet No.: Ci IS8B Solenoid Actuator

Ci IS8B Solenoid actuator

Item numbers covered by this datasheet
305450 Ci IS8B Solenoid only
305451 Ci IS8B Solenoid & Manual

General
The Solenoid actuator is part of the Control Inert (Ci) series
and is designed to activate the Ci IV8 valves, either directly or
with the use of either Ci PA8 or SV CiV adapter.
The Ci IS8B has superior performance with regards to shock,
vibration and reliability, as it utilizes neodymium magnets,
hence reducing the number of moving parts to a minimum.
The Ci IS8B is available either as a standard solenoid or as a
solenoid with built-in manual activator. It features a built-in
End Of Line resistor allowing monitoring of the complete
activation circuit. A built-in current limiter reduces the power
consumption after it has been activated.

Specifications
Voltage (Activation): 24 VDC
Max.: 36 VDC, 100% duty cycle
Min.: 21 VDC
Current (Activation): 0.9A (minimum 0.6 amp for 10 msec)
1.34 A @ 36 VDC
Max. monitoring: 20 mA
No triggering max.: 100mA 120 sec.
Power limited circuit: The device contains a limited energy circuit
Manual activation: Rotation < 225° clockwise, < 1 Nm
Temperature:
Operation: -25 to +70°C (mounted on valve)
Storage: -60 to + 100°C (not mounted on valve)
Resistance:
Monitoring: 6800 Ω (EOL resistor dependent), (only with “Reverse Polarity Activation”)
Activation: 27 Ω (coil only)
Valve interface: M20×1.0 (male)
Pin ø6mm, Force exceeds 350N with pin extracted.
Electrical connection: M12 male connector (optional: Cable with cable gland M12x1.5)
Integrity: IP67 (with cable installed)
Pin configuration:
Activation: pin 1+ 2 +ve, pin 3+4 –ve
Monitoring pin 1+ 2 -ve, pin 3+4 +ve (reversed polarity)
Dimension (øD×L): ø64× 76 mm (installed ø64×68 mm) (solenoid only)
ø64× 108 mm (installed ø64×100 mm) (with manual)
Weight: 1.1 kg

Document: Ci IS8B Solenoid Actuator Text

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 Chapter: Control Inert Page: 1 of 5
Engineering data sheet
Sheet No: 305448

305448 Ci PA8A Pneumatic actuator

General
The actuator is used with the Ci IV8 valve for additional pneumatic
actuation of the valve (this actuator is not to be mistaken for the Ci
IV8 built-in pneumatic actuator).
The actuator works as a simple pneumatic piston, where the pressure
applied is equivalent to the force on the piston.
The Ci PA8 interface allows for other actuators for the Ci IV8 valve to
be placed in conjunction with the Ci PA8 on the Ci IV8 valve.

Specifications
Pressure:
Work: 10 - 400 bar (600N @ 10 bar)
Proof (burst): > 1200 bar
Max no triggering 2 bar 10 sec
Temperature: -20 to +70°C
Materials: Brass, Stainless steel, PU.
Dimension:
D×L: ø50 × 44 (installed 36) mm
Weight: 0.55 kg

Markings
Fire Eater Logo, Ci PA8A, Serial number, CE 1116, XX (year of manufacture).

Document: 305448 PA8 Pneumatic Text

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 Chapter: 91 - Control & activation Page: 1 of 4
Engineering data sheet
Sheet No.: 308284

PDS II-C 80MS Pilot

General
The PDS II-C 80MS Pilot is used for remote activation of Fire Eater INERGEN
systems.
It supplies pressure to activate SV22 selector valves and discharge valves
either directly or via the PDS II Control Pull Unit [308382].
Activation of the valves is done by gas pressure from the PDS bottles to the
valves via stainless steel pipes.
The PDS systems can be placed inside the Fire Eater PDS cabinet (items
308202, 308204, 308206)

Specifications
Outlet:
Type: Compression fitting for ø6mm stainless steel tube
Flow way: Ø>1.2mm
Manoswitch:
See datasheet “Ci Manoswitch” for details
Range: 0- 160 bar
Solenoid:
Power: 12 W
Voltage: 24 ±10% VDC
Wire connection: Brown, +ve
Blue, -ve
Green/Yellow, Ground
Materials:
See exploded view
Filling:
Agent: Nitrogen
Pressure: 80 bar @ 15°C
Dimensions:
Height: ~510 mm
Diameter: 102 mm
Weight: ~5kg (empty)

Dimensioning
The maximum pipe length must satisfy the equation:
PPDS ⋅ VPDS − Pact ⋅ (VPDS + Vact )
L≤
π
Pact ⋅ 100 ⋅ ⋅ Din
2

4
Pact = Required actuator pressure [bar], (SV22 = 35 bar)
PPDS = Pressure in PDS system [bar]
Din = Internal diameter of the tube/pipe [cm]
L = Pipe length [m]
Vact = Volume of actuator[cm3], (SV22 = 8; add 1000 when using delay unit; )
VPDS = Volume of PDS cylinder [cm3], (std=2000)

Document: 308284 PDS II-C 80MS Pilot Text

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 Chapter: 91 - Control & activation Page: 1 of 4
Engineering data sheet
Sheet No.: 308286

PDS II-C 80MS ATEX Pilot

General
The PDS II-C 80MS ATEX Pilot is used for activation of Fire Eater INERGEN
systems, where the pilot cylinder is placed in Ex rated area.
It supplies pressure to activate SV22 selector valves and discharge valves
either directly or via the PDS II Control Pull Unit [308382].
Activation of the valves is done by gas pressure from the PDS bottles to
the valves via stainless steel pipes.
The PDS systems can be placed inside the Fire Eater PDS cabinet (items
308202, 308204, 308206)

Specifications
Outlet:
Type: Compression fitting for ø6mm stainless steel tube
Flow way: Ø>2mm
Manoswitch:
See datasheet “Ci Manoswitch” for details
Range: 0- 160 bar
The manoswitch is a “Simple Apparatus” according to the ATEX
directive.
Solenoid:
Power: 5.3 W
Voltage: 24 VDC
Class: Ex mb II T4, Ex II 2 GD, Ex mD 21 T135°C
Materials:
See exploded view
Filling:
Agent: Nitrogen
Pressure: 80 bar @ 15°C
Dimensions:
Height: ~510 mm
Diameter: 102 mm
Weight: ~5kg (empty)

Dimensioning
The maximum pipe length must satisfy the equation:
PPDS ⋅ VPDS − Pact ⋅ (VPDS + Vact )
L≤
π
Pact ⋅ 100 ⋅ ⋅ Din
2

4
Pact = Required actuator pressure [bar], (SV22 = 35 bar)
PPDS = Pressure in PDS system [bar]
Din = Internal diameter of the tube/pipe [cm]
L = Pipe length [m]
Vact = Volume of actuator[cm3], (SV22 = 8; add 1000 when using delay unit; )
VPDS = Volume of PDS cylinder [cm3], (std=2000)

Document: 308286 PDS II-C 80MS ATEX Text

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 Chapter: 91 - Control & activation Page: 1 of 5
Engineering data sheet
Sheet No.: 308287

PDS II 80MS IECeX SIL

General
The PDS II-C 80MS IECeX SIL Pilot is used for activation of Fire
Eater INERGEN systems, where the pilot cylinder is placed in Ex
rated area.
It supplies pressure to activate SV22 selector valves and
discharge valves either directly or via the PDS II Control Pull
Unit [308382].
Activation of the valves is done by gas pressure from the PDS
bottles to the valves via stainless steel pipes.
The PDS systems can be placed inside the Fire Eater PDS cabinet
(items 308202, 308204, 308206)

Specifications
Outlet:
Type: Compression fitting for ø6mmtube
Flow way: Ø>2mm
Manoswitch:
See datasheet “Ci Manoswitch” for details
Range: 0- 160 bar
The manoswitch is a “Simple Apparatus” according to the
ATEX directive.
Solenoid:
Power: 8W
Voltage: 24 VDC
Class: Ex db mb IIC T4, Ex tb IIIC T 130ºC, II2 GD, Tamb: -40 to + 80ºC
Cable entry: M25 cable gland, Cable diameter: Ø7 – Ø9 mm
Wire: Max. 2.5 mm²
Materials:
See exploded view
Filling:
Agent: Nitrogen
Pressure: 80 bar @ 15°C
Dimensions:
Height: ~510 mm
Diameter: 102 mm
Weight: ~5kg (empty)

Document: 308287 PDS II 80MS IECeX Text

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Appendix B
Process & Instrument Diagram
(P&ID) Sample
Appendix C
General Assembly Drawing
(GAD) Sample