Comparing Aerosol and Gas-Based Fire Suppression Systems: Which is Right for You?

Most experts agree that automatic fire suppression systems are a key element in managing fire risk. For many years, the suppressant of choice for these systems has been water. However, technology has advanced and the availability to incorporate aerosol and gas-based fire suppression systems offers alternative choices that may better fit the needs of your fire suppression system.

What are Aerosol Fire Suppression Systems?

Aerosol fire suppression systems represent new technologies in firefighting and life safety applications. These systems rely on a fine mist of solid particles and gases as fire extinguishing agents. Aerosol systems generate particles using a chemical reaction to help cool, dilute, and inhibit the fire triangle to extinguish the fire.

One advantage of these systems is their compact and simple design. These fire suppression systems usually require a minimum of equipment, making installation, inspection, and maintenance economical. A typical aerosol fire suppression system requires these components.

• An aerosol generator produces and discharges the aerosol particles.
• Some means to activate the mechanism.
• Delivery of the aerosol particles is through discharge nozzles.
• A control panel containing a battery backup to ensure operational integrity.
• For the safety of the system, pressure relief devices to vent excess pressure.
• A warning system to alert occupants of a dangerous situation.

Advantages of Aerosol Systems

Such systems feature environmentally safe fire extinguishment that is non-toxic and ozone neutral. Because there is no need for a connection to a fixed water supply, no piping makes these systems ideal for confined space applications. Structural spaces, such as electrical cabinets and wind turbine nacelles, are ideal for this type of application.

The simplicity of these systems helps reduce maintenance time and costs. Environmentally, aerosol fire suppression systems offer less impact to the environment when they operate.

Limitations of Aerosol Systems

While aerosol fire suppression systems offer options for protecting certain kinds of exposures or classes of fire risk, they are not suitable for certain risks. You should understand these limitations when considering an aerosol fire suppression system.

• Some aerosol suppressants are corrosive and are not suitable for sensitive electronic equipment and some metals.
• Aerosol fire suppression systems are unsuitable where flammable liquids are present.
• Large open spaces don't lend themselves well to protection by aerosol fire suppression systems.
• Aerosol fire suppressants are considered non-toxic, but some chemicals may have potential health risks if inhaled in large quantities.
• Aerosol fire suppression systems typically require a higher initial investment than traditional fire suppression systems.
• The suppressants used in aerosol suppression systems may have a limited shelf life, requiring periodic suppressant changes.

What are Gas-Based Fire Suppression Systems?

These systems, also known as clean agent systems, use gas as the suppressing agent. These systems work well in areas where sensitive and expensive electronic systems are in use.

Gas-based fire suppression systems require the same features as other fire suppression systems. This includes the means to detect a fire, a control panel to monitor the status of the devices, and activate the system. The system itself uses a pressurized container to hold the suppressive agent and specialized nozzles to deliver the suppressive agent as needed. The suppressive agent is an inert gas, such as argon or nitrogen. In some circumstances, a specialized agent, such as FK-5-1-12 or NOVEC 1230, is better suited to the application.

Advantages of Gas-Based Systems

The agents in these systems usually leave no residue or cleanup mess after discharge. Suppression times with gas-based systems are usually faster than other types, minimizing downtime and potential damage. Gas-based systems are non-conductive, making them ideal where high energy systems need protection. The non-toxicity of gas-based suppressants makes them ideal in confined spaces, where personnel may be active when the system activates.

Limitations of Gas-Based Systems

Gas-based systems have limitations as well. These types of system are costly to install compared to traditional systems. Large open spaces are not suitable for a gas-based system. Despite claims of non-toxicity, they do have some dangers if the exposures exceed the safe limits. Gas-based systems also experience higher maintenance and operation costs to remain effective.

Choosing Between Aerosol and Gas-Based Systems: Key Factors

Deciding on a fire suppression system can be tricky. Some of the key factors in making your decision include the following.

• Consider the type of space and the assets protected. Aerosol systems work best in small, enclosed spaces while Gas-based systems work better in larger confined areas such as rooms containing sensitive electronic equipment.
• Gas-based systems typically work well on electrical fires. Aerosol systems are rated for Class A, B, C, E and Fi fires.
• Aerosol systems leave fine particulate matter that requires extensive cleanup and may be corrosive. Gas-based system leaves no residue, making cleanup and restoration simpler.

If you are considering either an aerosol or gas-based fire protection system, a call to Control Fire Systems should be your first action. Our experts can assist you in making the best decisions and finding the most appropriate installation for your needs.