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The Basics of Fire Suppression Systems Installation

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ronaldodupa

 

You should consult your Authority Having Jurisdiction to make sure the system you select meets the requirements of the machine or area that you are protecting.

Time to install a fire suppression system

After you have chosen a system and created the design, it is time to start installing. Authorized distributors, engineers or trained end-users can complete the installation. Installation time depends on the type of equipment and system. For a pneumatic systems, installation can take up to 4 hours and for electrical systems it can take up to 16 hours. The complexity of the installation, the components used and the type of system installed will all affect the time taken. Because of the wiring and electrical routing, an electrical system takes longer to install than a pneumatic detection-only system. It does not need power or battery backup to activate. We will examine the installation of a typical fire suppression system.

Installing the Materials You Need

  • Manual for fire suppression systems: Design, Installation, Operation and Maintenance (DIOM).
  • Tape measure
  • Stopwatch
  • Wrenches
  • Ratchets
  • Drilling power
  • Mounting hardware (nuts and bolts, washers, washers).
  • Fire suppression system
    • Assembly of cylinders
    • Mounting bracket for cylinders
    • Discharge piping/hosing and fittings
    • Discharge nozzles
    • Firetrace Detection Tubing and Fittings
    • Clips and/or Zip ties
    • Pressure gauges
    • Optional manual release
    • Optional time delay unit
    • Optional indication module
    • Optional pressure switches are available for automatic shut down

Installation of a Pneumatic Fire Suppression Device

The trained installer will inspect the equipment layout after scheduling an installation appointment. It is crucial to make sure that the system limits are not exceeded. You can find the Design, Installation, Operation, and Maintenance Manuals (DIOM) from the manufacturer to determine the system limitations. The bracket will be mounted in an accessible location, but away from heat sources and hazards. The supplied cylinders are pre-filled with fire suppression agent, and then pressurized.

Discharge nozzles can be installed in an ILP system and connected to the valve via a secure discharge network of pipe, hose and other fittings. The nozzles are placed at areas that target fire hazards and cover all areas of concern. In the event of a fire, the discharge network will transport the fire suppressant from the cylinder to its discharge nozzles.

The Firetrace-Detection Tubing used in Fire Alarms runs through the equipment's hazard zone and is connected to the cylinder valve. The tubing acts as a heat detector. The fire suppression agent will be released when a fire is detected. The FDT acts as the delivery mechanism for the suppression agent discharge in a DLP system. It releases the agent directly onto the fire by bursting the FDT. An ILP system will have the detection tubing trigger the cylinder valve, which releases the fire suppression agent through the discharge network.

To add additional functionality, you can add various ancillary parts to your fire suppression system. Indicators modules display the current status of your system and give visual confirmation if it is charging or in need for service. Pressure switches are dry contacts that allow for many functions, such as shutting down equipment when there is a fire. The system will wait for a certain amount of time before releasing agent. This is done from the moment that the fire alarm was activated. When a fan or another equipment has a time limit that could impact the fire suppression event, this is called the time delay.

Commissioning, Inspection, Maintenance

Commissioning is the final step. Permission from the AHJ or fire suppression system manufacturer is required before the individual can commission the system. The commissioning process involves final inspection and testing of all components. Finally, the system is activated to its commissioned status. It is important to inspect and maintain the system regularly after it has been commissioned.

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