In an age where fire safety is paramount, having a dependable, efficient, and environmentally friendly fire suppression system is crucial. FirePro’s latest innovation, the FP-20TH unit, introduces groundbreaking advancements in condensed aerosol technology, positioning itself as a leader in fire protection. This post will explore the key features of condensed aerosol fire suppression, delve into the benefits of FirePro's FP-20TH unit, and highlight how it stands apart from traditional fire suppression systems.
What is Condensed Aerosol Fire Suppression?
Condensed aerosol fire suppression is an advanced method used for extinguishing fires in enclosed spaces, where traditional systems like sprinklers or gas-based suppression may fall short. Unlike traditional gaseous systems, condensed aerosols consist of fine solid particles suspended in gas, forming a 2-phase medium. These particles can measure anywhere from a few micrometres (10^-6 m) to a few nanometres (10^-9 m), effectively interrupting the combustion process without depleting oxygen or significantly reducing the temperature.
The technology has seen a surge in popularity, particularly as a more sustainable alternative to Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and Halon-based systems, which were restricted under the Montreal Protocol due to their environmental impact. With zero ozone depletion potential (ODP) and zero global warming potential (GWP), FirePro’s condensed aerosol units are a stellar example of green chemistry in action.
Why Condensed Aerosol Fire Suppression?
Condensed aerosol systems are recognised for their high efficiency, versatility, and safety. By suppressing fires through chemical reactions rather than oxygen depletion or cooling, they ensure that the protected environment remains breathable for personnel, which is especially important in areas where evacuation may take time. Additionally, their modularity allows for flexible installation and scalability, making them ideal for various applications such as electrical panels and enclosures.
Some key advantages of FirePro’s condensed aerosol fire suppression technology include:
• No pipework required: Unlike gas-based systems that rely on an extensive network of pipes, aerosol units are standalone devices that significantly reduce installation time and costs.
• No oxygen depletion: Safe for enclosed environments where people may still be present during activation.
• Zero ODP and GWP: Environmentally friendly with no harmful emissions.
• Modular design: Easy to expand or alter based on changing protection needs.
• 15-year lifespan: Long-term reliability and minimal maintenance.
The FirePro FP-20TH: Next-Generation Fire Suppression
FirePro has taken its industry-leading technology to the next level with the FP-20TH upgrade. This unit builds on the success of previous models, with several enhancements designed to make it more efficient, reliable, and adaptable to a wide range of environments.
Key features of the FP-20TH include:
• Thermal and electrical activation: This dual activation method ensures rapid response, providing flexibility in how the system is triggered. Electrical activation requires a minimum pulse voltage of 1.5 VDC, ensuring precise control in critical situations.
• Coincidence detection: To prevent false alarms, the FP-20TH operates on coincidence detection, meaning that two or more sensors must be triggered simultaneously before the unit discharges. This minimises the risk of accidental activations.
• Suitable for lithium-ion battery fires: With the rising use of lithium-ion batteries across industries, having a fire suppression system that can effectively extinguish such fires is a significant benefit. The FP-20TH is specifically tested and certified for this purpose, making it an ideal choice for data centres, EV charging stations, and other environments where battery technology is prevalent.
• No need for pressure relief venting: Unlike gas-based systems, the FirePro FP-20TH doesn’t require pressure relief venting. This is because its aerosol discharge does not cause a significant increase in pressure within the protected area, further reducing installation complexity.
Certifications and Compliance
When it comes to fire suppression, having the proper certifications is critical. FirePro products, including the FP-20TH, meet a host of international standards, ensuring that they are not only effective but also compliant with rigorous safety requirements. These certifications include:
• UL Listed: Recognised across the globe for safety and quality, UL certification provides assurance that the FP-20TH meets the highest industry standards.
• LPCB Approved: The Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB) approval adds another layer of credibility, particularly in Europe.
• BSI Certified: BSI certification further affirms that FirePro products meet the stringent British safety standards.
The FP-20TH is also certified for various fire hazard classes under both EN2 (EU) and NFPA 10 (US) standards. These include Class A (combustibles like wood and paper), Class B (flammable liquids), Class C (electrical fires), and Class F (cooking oils and fats). This versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of applications across multiple industries.
The Science Behind the FP-20TH
At the core of the FP-20TH’s fire suppression capability is FirePro’s patented FPC solid compound. Years of research and development have culminated in this compound, which is activated during a fire event and transforms into a highly efficient aerosol. The aerosol is propagated throughout the protected area, interrupting the chemical chain reactions that sustain the fire.
FirePro’s approach does not rely on depleting oxygen, as many traditional fire suppression methods do. Instead, the condensed aerosol works by interfering with the free radicals present in the flame, which are essential to the combustion process. This method of suppression ensures minimal damage to the protected environment and equipment, as it does not require cooling or large quantities of water or foam, which can be harmful to electronics and other sensitive materials.
Applications of the FP-20TH
The FirePro FP-20TH unit’s versatility makes it suitable for various applications, particularly where traditional fire suppression systems might not be viable. Its small, modular design allows it to be installed in confined spaces, and it can be expanded or altered as protection needs change. Some of the primary use cases include:
• Electrical panels: Offers targeted protection for high-risk electrical components.
• Marine applications: Ideal for protecting small-to-medium-sized boats and marine vessels where space is limited.
• Lithium-ion battery storage: Safeguards environments where battery technology is prevalent, including EV charging stations, renewable energy storage, and more.
FirePro: A Commitment to Green Chemistry
In today’s environmentally conscious world, FirePro stands out as a brand dedicated to sustainability. The FP-20TH exemplifies green chemistry, not only by having zero ozone depletion and global warming potential but also by avoiding harmful emissions during discharge. The long lifespan of the units further enhances their sustainability, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimizing waste.
This commitment to the environment, paired with cutting-edge technology, positions FirePro as a leader in the fire suppression industry, providing solutions that meet the safety needs of today without compromising the needs of future generations.
Why Choose the FP-20TH?
The FirePro FP-20TH represents the pinnacle of condensed aerosol fire suppression technology. With its advanced activation methods, modular design, and certification for a wide range of fire hazards, it is an ideal choice for businesses looking to protect their assets and personnel.
Whether you are responsible for a data centre, an industrial facility, or a marine vessel, the FP-20TH offers a robust, dependable, and environmentally friendly solution. Its ability to tackle modern fire risks, such as lithium-ion battery fires, sets it apart from traditional systems, ensuring that your fire suppression needs are met with the highest standards of safety and efficiency.
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