What Factors Should I Consider When Selecting a Water-Based Protection System?

Types of fire hazard, Environmental consideration and Regulatory requirements

Understanding Advanced Fire Protection Systems in Fire Safety

A fire suppression system operates to promptly detect and extinguish fires, mitigating property damage and safeguarding human lives. Through a range of mechanisms, these systems prevent fires from escalating into catastrophic emergencies.

This article will explore a few types of fire protection system technologies, including their applications and selection criteria. We will also discuss how they integrate into broader fire safety strategies across various environments.

Fire Protection System Types

Learn about the following types of fire protection systems to help select the right system for your application:

Water-Based Fire Suppression

Water-based fire protection systems — such as sprinkler systems — are widely used to effectively extinguish fires promptly. They detect flames through heat-sensitive elements such as fusible links or glass bulbs, which activate the sprinklers when a certain temperature is reached. The water released by the sprinklers helps contain, cool, and suppress the fire.

When selecting a water-based protection system, factors to consider include:

Type of fire hazard: Water-based systems are suitable for various fire types, including ordinary combustibles and flammable liquids fires. However, they may not be appropriate for fires involving electrical equipment, flammable metals, or greases and oils.
Environmental considerations: These systems require adequate water supply and drainage capabilities. Considerations should be made for freezing temperatures, water pressure, and potential water damage to sensitive equipment or materials.
Regulatory requirements: Compliance with local building codes and regulations is essential when selecting and installing water-based suppression.
Setting application: Water-based systems are suitable for environments where ordinary combustibles are present, such as offices, retail stores, manufacturing plants, and storage areas.

Pre-Engineered Wet Chemical Fire Suppression

Wet chemical suppression systems are designed for environments prone to grease fires, such as commercial kitchens. It releases wet chemical to suppress the fire by blanketing the fuel source and depriving it of oxygen through a process called saponification.

Selecting a wet chemical suppression system is based on the hazards and cooking appliances requiring protection. Differing system manufacturers provide varying types of protection coverage. :

Compatibility with fire hazards: Wet chemical systems are designed to extinguishing for fires from cooking oils and fats.
Ease of use and cleanup: Wet chemical suppression systems activate automatically when fires are detected and require minimal cleanup after use..
Environment setting: This system is primarily installed in commercial kitchens, restaurants, and food processing facilities — where cooking oils and grease fires are risky.

Foam-Water Sprinkler and Foam-Water Spray Systems

Foam systems are designed for environments where water suppression is not feasible, such as outdoor areas with flammable liquid storage tanks. These systems utilize water and foam concentrate released at high velocity to suppress the fire.

When selecting a foam system, consider the following:

Suitability for outdoor environments: These systems are ideal for outdoor areas with high fire risks, including fuel storage facilities or transformer yards. Evaluate the system’s ability to withstand harsh weather conditions and outdoor elements.
Cleanup requirements: Foam deluge systems may require extensive cleanup due to the residue left behind by the foam concentrate. Considerations should be made for the cleanup process and disposal of these residues.
Effectiveness on flammable liquid fires: Assess the system’s effectiveness in suppressing fires involving flammable liquids and its compatibility with the specific types of fuels present.

Use Jorgensen Co’s Expertise to Design and Install Your Fire Protection Systems!

At Jorgensen Co., we are your go-to experts for comprehensive fire protection and suppression mechanisms. With seven local offices in Central California and fully equipped service vehicles, we offer installation and maintenance services tailored to your needs. Moreover, you can trust that we stay informed about the latest advancements in fire protection as esteemed members of NFPA, AFSA, NAFED and CALSAFE.