Fire suppression systems are often necessary in many industries to maximize the safety of the occupants and assets within a building. A fire suppression system is used to control and extinguish a fire, often using wet or dry chemicals. When a fire starts, it is detected by heat or smoke and a signal is sent to the control panel. The panel then alerts the suppression system to release suppressant to extinguish the fire.
Types of Fire Suppression Systems
There are different types of fire suppression systems that you may want to consider for your facility. The type you choose depends on the assets you are trying to protect and any special hazards your building may have. You will also want to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each system before choosing the one that is right for you.
FM 200 – This is a clean agent fire suppression system that acts within seconds to quickly extinguish the fire and control its damage. It leaves behind no residue and is safe to use. This system is often used in computer and control rooms, museums, historical archives, and art galleries.
CO2 – A CO2 fire suppression system is a nonconductive form of fire protection that releases a blanket of CO2, lowering the level of oxygen to prevent combustion. The damage from CO2 suppression systems is minimal and there is no clean up involved afterwards, which reduces downtime. CO2 fire suppression systems are used in liquid storage areas, electric areas, engine rooms, and spray booths.
Foam Fire Suppression – This type of fire suppression system uses foam to smother and cool a flame in order to extinguish it. The foam is made up of air, water, and foam concentrate. Foam is useful in buildings that handle anything flammable.
Fire Suppression System vs. Fire Sprinkler System
Although fire suppression systems and fire sprinkler systems both have the same purpose of putting out fires, they go about it in different ways. Fire suppression systems use chemical agents to extinguish a fire whereas fire sprinkler systems use water. Most buildings use fire sprinklers as their defense against fire. However, there are cases where water damage from the sprinklers may be as harmful to the property as the fire itself. In these instances, a fire suppression system is used to put out a fire while minimizing the amount of damage that is done to the property.
Fire Suppression Services
Delta Fire offers fire suppression, installation, and maintenance. Their team of experienced personnel can help you determine which type of suppression system is right for you. Delta Fire has been providing the Intermountain and Pacific West regions with high quality fire protection services since 1963. For more information on the fire suppression and fire protection services offered by Delta Fire, give us a call at 800-288-4500.