ifp issue 40

An MDM PUBLICATIONIssue 40 – November 2009

www.mdmpublishing.com

THE GLOBAL VOICE FOR PASSIVE & ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION




INTERNATIONAL FIRE PROTECTIONINTERNATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION

IFP40 OFC 13/11/09 1:49 pm Page ofc1

AS FIRETUFAS THEY COME

Firetuf® from Draka is the ultimate circuit integrity cable. Manufactured and approved to the highest

standards, Firetuf delivers unbeatable benefits to specifiers and installers of fire engineering systems.

And with our brand new Firetuf Powerplus range of power cables, delivering enhanced performance

to meet BS 7346-6 and BS 7846, you can trust Draka to provide the complete solution to all your

specialist cable needs. To find out more call 01332 345431 or visit our website www.drakauk.com

The world’s most trusted cable brand

Draka UK Limited, P.O. Box 6500, Alfreton Road, Derby, DE21 4ZH, UKTel: +44 (0)1332 345431 Fax: +44 (0)1332 331237 email: [email protected] www.drakauk.com

NEW -FIRETUFPOWERPLUS

Enhanced power cable performance to meet BS 7346-6 and BS 7846.

BS5839-1: 2002

Firetuf is approved to the highest standards, providing superior flame retardance and circuit integrity.

NONMELTANDDRIP

Firetuf products will not propagate and cause secondary fires.

EASYSTRIP

Firetuf provides the fastest ever sheath removal, allowing reduced termination times.

ZEROHALOGENLOWSMOKE

Our OHLS cables are manufactured to deliver optimum performance across a range of applications.

FUTUREPROOF

Concerned about new fire safety legislation? Relax, the Firetuf range is the highest standard cable available today.

IFP/Firetuf/1109

IFP Firetuf 1109:IFP/Firetuf/1109 22/10/09 12:50 Page 1

INTERNATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION 1

Front cover picture courtesy of TheReliable Automatic Sprinkler Co, Inc.

PublishersMark Seton & David Staddon

Editorial ContributorsWilf Butcher, Graham Ellicott, MikeWood, Randy Clark, Kevin Kenny,Steve Robinson, Mark Froggatt,Graham Collins, Jim Creak, IanBuchanan, Thomas Multer, Dr Wolfram Krause, Nils Falter, Anna Maria Mrcela

IFP is published quarterly by:MDM Publishing Ltd The Abbey Manor Business Centre,The Abbey, Preston Road, Yeovil, Somerset BA20 2ENTel: +44 (0) 1935 426 428Fax: +44 (0) 1935 426 926 Email: [email protected]: www.ifpmag.com©All rights reserved

Annual SubscriptionUK – £50.00 Europe – �60Overseas – US$70.00lSSN – 1468-3873

DISCLAIMER:

The views and opinions expressed inINTERNATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION are notnecessarily those of MDM Publishing Ltd.The magazine and publishers are in noway responsible or legally liable for anyerrors or anomalies made within theeditorial by our authors. All articles are protected by copyright and writtenpermission must be sought from thepublishers for reprinting or any form ofduplication of any of the magazinescontent. Any queries should be addressedin writing to the publishers.

Reprints of articles are available onrequest. Prices on application to thePublishers.

Page design by DorchesterTypesetting Group Ltd

Printed in the UK








November 2009 Issue 40

67-70

52-53

45-47

35-37

22-31

15-20

63-65

55-57

Contents3-12 News &Product Profiles

15-20 Newapproaches to firesafety design

21 High StandardsNeeded for FireProtection Systems inToday’s Buildings

22-31 Fire AlarmPanels Round Up

32-33 Are you ‘safein the knowledge’?

35-37 IndustrialFlame Detectors forHigh-Risk PlantProtection

39-42 ComingClean on FireSuppression

45-47 SprinklerProtection of StorageFacilities

49-51 The commonlanguage for safetycommunication thatcan bring worldharmony!

52-53 Fireextinguishers

55-57 Shopping forthe Right CableSolution

58-61 Cost EffectiveGas Detection

63-65 SelectionConsiderations forClean Agent FireSuppression Systems

67-70 Firestopping– A SharedResponsibility

72 Advertisers’ Index

P. 01 Contents 13/11/09 1:50 pm Page 1

7400 East 42nd Place • Tulsa, OK 74145-4744 USA • phone: (918) 627-1942 • fax: (918) 622-8916 • 1-888-OCV-VALV (628-8258) • [email protected] • www.controlvalves.com

In today’s business climate, we believe a company should be held accountable by more than just regulations and government entities. At OCV, we answer to you-the customer-and you expect a high standard, demand solutions that work, and insist on products of quality.

We also believe in longevity and commitment. Our Sales and Engineering teams o' er new talent combined with seasoned professionals for a sum of over 283 years of experience. With companies failing and economic conditions changing overnight, isn’t it nice to know you will get an answer every time you need help with an application?

OCV wants to be your partner for managing , uid application needs – large or small. OCV continues to develop its broad spectrum of technical expertise, turning . eld experience and problem solving knowledge into a re. ned o' ering of services and state-of-the-art product.

At OCV we put customer service at the top of our list. Our slogan says it best: Global Perfor-mance. Personal Touch.

2003

1996

1983

1986

1980

1974

—

1952

108FCA Fire Pump Relief

127-3FC Pressure Reducing

127-45NR Fire Flow Bypass

108-2hp High Pressure Fire Pump Relief

3331 One Way Altitude

65FC OCV enters the . re market

OCV Founded

116FC Pneumatic/Hydraulic Deluge

108fps Pump Suction Control

2009 129FC

Pressure Reducing

1F

10HPu

OCVtradition_NFPA.indd 1 7/13/09 4:27:11 PM

OCV IFP39 p63 13/8/09 8:52 am Page 1

Year 2010 will be reach in novelties forSENSITRON’s clients: at Sensitron srl we areready launch a full range of new gas detectorsand control panels with innovative features.

A first remarkable novelty is the innovativeSMART “S” line of SIL 2 (3) rated gas detectors,ideal for monitoring flammable and toxiccontents in harsh environments.

SMART “S” are available with Infraredsensors, Pellistors and Electrochemical cells andthe most prestigious novelty here is representedby SMART SM-2, capable of fitting two sensingelements inside a single sensor head (catalyticand infrared), to allow two independent sensoroutputs to be confronted: this provides users

with a higher accuracy and minimised falsealarm ratio.

SMART “S” features:● Single and Double sensor technology

integrated in the same sensor ● Singe or double 4-20 mA 3-wire output and

3 relay output● HART communication interface (optional)● Non-intrusive one man calibration(via 8-digit

display or IrDA interface● Back-lit 8-digit display and 5 mode status

LEDs ● RS485 serial communication Modbus and

Proprietary protocol dedicated to Galileo SIL3 panels

● Wide range of accessories for installationand maintenance

● Ongoing system self diagnosis● ATEX II2G and SIL 2 (3) certified (EN50402)

Another important novelty is represented bythe new range of gas detectors and controlpanels designed to meet with the specs of thenew European Standard for the gas detection incar parks.

The SMART 3-P gas detector may employcatalytic sensor or electrochemical cells of thehighest quality, able to grant an excellentlinearity and accuracy, besides an estimatedoperational lifetime of 4 years.

They allow the detection of CO or CO+NO2and flammable gases and offer 2 differentoutput:● Proportional 4-20mA output● Serial RS485, Modbus or Proprietary

protocol, to communicate with SENTOX IDIand MULTISCAN++ control panels.

We invite readers to contact us [email protected] for any furtherinformation they might need on ourproducts.Website: www.sensitron.it


NEWS

TYCO FIRE SUPPRESSION & BUILDINGPRODUCTS has launched the latestenhancement to the extensive Grinnell®grooved piping products offering – the G-PRESS™ Piping System that is suitable for all types of sprinkler fire protection installations.It is aimed at meeting the market’s growingdemand for quicker, more precise sprinkler pipeinstallation and the increasing expectation ofimproved site safety and security.

The cost, time and labour-saving advantagesof press systems over traditional solutions, suchas black steel and threaded fittings, have longbeen recognised in the heating and plumbingsectors. However, until now, these have notbeen available for sprinkler installations. The G-PRESS Piping System requires only a presstool to complete the installation, and takes upfar less space than traditional threaded, weldedor flanged systems. Another bonus is its lightweight. G-PRESS is up to 50 percent lighterwhen compared with traditional threadedpiping systems.

The absence of high heat and flames fromwelding torches is a major safety plus and,significantly, the reliability and dependability ofG-PRESS is underpinned by its being tested andapproved by major fire protection approvalbodies. The new system can be used inhazardous areas, without any specialprecautions being necessary; installation doesnot generate hazardous fumes in the workingarea; and there is no possibility of foreignmaterials being introduced into the pipeline.

The key components of the new pipingsolution are the G-PRESS fittings and fittingconnection, and the G-Press PLM [passive leakmonitoring] sealing ring. G-Press fittings aremade from either stainless steel or galvanizedcarbon steel, which is protected against externalcorrosion by a zinc layer. The fitting connection

between the sprinkler tube and the fitting iscreated by pressure using a G-PRESS pressingtool. The packing sleeve is deformed and adaptsto the surface of the tube that is then, in turn,pressed against the PLM sealing rings on thesurface of the fitting. This provides highlyeffective sealing and prevents the tube fromslipping out.

The G-PRESS Piping System is backed by aten-year limited warranty, and G-PRESS data isavailable on the Tyco SprinkCAD™ fireprotection design software to assist sprinklerinstallation designers. G-PRESS components areapproved by FM [Factory Mutual] and VdS[Verband der Sachversicherer].

A copy of the new fully-illustrated G-PRESSPiping System catalogue and furtherinformation on G-PRESS is available fromTyco Fire Suppression & Building Productsby telephone on +44 (0) 161 875 0402, byfax on +44 (0) 161 875 0493, or via emailat [email protected]. The websiteaddress is www.tyco-fsbp.com

Tyco Launches New G-Press™Piping System

Sensitron: the new SIL-ATEXand car park gas detectors

The G-PRESS™ Piping System is the latestenhancement to the extensive Grinnell®grooved piping products offering

News P. 3, 4, 5 13/11/09 1:51 pm Page 3

The 40/40 Series includes the model40/40I, which uses well-proven IR3detection technology, offers the highestimmunity to false alarms combined with amassive 65m (215ft) detection distancewith an enlarged cone of vision – 100ºhorizontal and 95º vertical.

Another major benefit is the improvedresponse to gas flames (methane, LNG,LPG etc) where small gas flames can bedetected at distances of up to 30m(100ft). An important addition is themodel 40/40M Multi IR detector, whichcan simultaneously detect ‘invisible’hydrogen flames at 30m (100ft) andhydrocarbon fires at 65m (215ft).

The 40/40 series comprises manydetection techniques to suit every situationincluding Triple IR (IR3), Multi IR, combinedUV/IR, single IR or UV. Thus, Spectrex canoffer truly unbiased advice on whichdetector is the correct solution to yourdetection needs.

The compact and lightweight design(only 2.5kg in stainless steel) offers low-power consumption with a heated lens forcontinued availability in difficult environments– as well as the reassurance of 3rd partyEN54-10, FM3260 and DNV performanceapprovals and IEC 61508 – SIL2 (TUV)certification to assure reliability. All detectorsare, of course, Ex approved to ATEX, IECEx,FM/CSA, GOST R and GOST K standardsfor Zone 1/21 hazardous area location.

The certified operating temperaturerange has also been extended. Thedetectors will now operate reliably intemperatures from –55ºC to + 75ºC (withan option for +85ºC) allowing their useanywhere in the world.

The 40/40 Series offers many interfaceoptions to ensure that the detectors arecompatible with all control and firedetection systems – outputs include 0-20mA, dry relay contacts, RS-485 ModBusand HART. Detectors are programmable,allowing factory default settings to bealtered pre-delivery or post-installation.

For more information, [email protected] or visit thewebsite at www.spectrex-inc.com

4 INTERNATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION

NEWS

Latest IndustrialFlame Detectorsfrom SpectrexThe SharpEye 40/40 Series Flame Detectors offerunmatched performance and reliability – including IR3(Triple IR) & Multi-Spectrum detectors that enabledetection of small hydrocarbon fuel and gas fires atlong distances, with enhanced immunity to falsealarms. These highly specified detectors operatereliably in the harsh conditions of offshore drilling and productionplatforms, FPSO vessels, fuel loading and storage facilities, LNG andLPG plants and petrochemical plants throughout the world.

AVON PROTECTION has launchedthe world’s smallest NIOSH certifiedCBRN Air Purifying EscapeRespirator into its extensive productrange.

The NH15 provides instantprotection in a CBRN incident andhas been designed specifically forpolice, emergency medical servicesand fire officers.

The hood has a five year shelf lifeand provides a high level ofrespiratory, eye and face protectionfor a minimum of fifteen minutes toallow the user to evacuate from acontaminated area.

Made of clear material, the NH15not only protects against all airborneCBRN threats but also protects theface from liquid agent splashes.

The clear material gives a non threateningappearance, aids with recognition and alsoallows for superior visual communication.

Twin low-profile filters on a unique hingesystem feature the latest filtration media whichreduces breathing resistance and a frontreflector makes it easier to identify colleagues inlow light environments.

The hood, which has recently been awardedfull certification against the NIOSH Air PurifyingEscape Respirator (APER) standard, requiresminimal training and can be deployedeffectively in under 30 seconds, aided by the selfadjusting harness.

The NH15 comes vacuum sealed in a foil bagand is protected by a durable reinforced pouchsmall enough to store in a briefcase, glove

compartment or drawer.The single use device can

also be carried on a utility beltor be thigh mounted andunlike conventional respiratorsdoes not require annual OSHAspecified fit testing.

Matt Evans, Sales &Marketing Director, AvonProtection, said: “Avon isexcited to gain NIOSHapproval for the NH15 EscapeHood and to provide firstresponders with this compactprotection solution against theincreasing terrorist threat.Emergency response personnelare vulnerable because it isimpractical to carry atraditional respirator or

breathing apparatus at all times, but due to theminimal size of the NH15, first responders arenow presented with a solution that can beeasily transported and quickly deployed in aCBRN incident.”

The NH15 compliments Avon’s range ofescape devices. Included in the portfolio is theEH20 emergency hoods which is CE approvedand specifically designed to protect usersagainst CBRN agents. It provides a high level ofrespiratory, eye and face protection for up to 20minutes to allow sufficient time to escape froma contaminated area.

For further information on these and otherkey respiratory equipment, please visitwww.avon-protection.com

Avon Protection introducesthe world’s smallest NIOSHCBRN escape hood

News P. 3, 4, 5 13/11/09 1:51 pm Page 4

FlexVu® Universal Displayreduces spares inventoryand simplifies operationThe FlexVu® Universal Display, fromDETECTOR ELECTRONICS CORPORATION(DET-TRONICS), is a life-safety display/communicator that provides non-intrusivecalibration, local event logging, and third-party performance certifications(http://flexvu.det-tronics.com). Thisdisplay/communicator reduces spare-partsinventory by working with a wide spectrum of toxic and combustible gas sensors and byoperating with industrial communicationprotocols such as HART® and Modbus.

Because the FlexVu Universal Displayprovides non-intrusive magnetic calibrationand configuration, a single person workingalone can calibrate gas detectors withoutdeclassifying a hazardous area. In addition,the FlexVu display has been third-partyperformance tested and certified to FM, CSA,and ATEX/IEC. Its reliable construction has anexplosion-proof rating and is approved foruse in Class I, Division 1, Groups A, B, C, and

D classified hazardous areas for all gas types.“The FlexVu intuitive menu structure

simplifies operation by enabling quick deviceset up and easy access to sensor statusinformation including local alarm and eventlogs,” said Mike Bragg, Product MarketingManager at Det-Tronics. “Plus users will likethe backlit, heated LCD that clearly displays

gas concentration, and alarm and faultstatus.”

Taking advantage of its flexible installationoptions, users can couple the FlexVu displaydirectly to a single sensor or place it remotelyusing a sensor termination box. Outputsinclude analog 4-20 mA with HART, threealarm relays, one fault relay, and RS-485Modbus. In its current release, the FlexVuUD10 display operates with the followingDet-Tronics gas detectors/sensors (additionalgas and flame detectors will soon be added):

Combustible gases● PointWatch IR (PIR9400)● PointWatch Eclipse® IR (PIRECL)● Open Path Eclipse IR (OPECL)● Catalytic Combustible Sensor (CGS) via

the 505 transmitter

Toxic gases● Nanotechnology Metal Oxide

Semiconductor (NTMOS) hydrogen sulfidesensor

● Electrochemical sensors (C706x Series andGT3000)

For more information please visitflexvu.det-tronics.com


NEWS

Det-Tronics‚ Releases Versatile Display/Communicator for Gas Detectors

Fire & GasSafety Systems

flexvu.det-tronics.com

Universal Display

FlexVu®

interactive display for all types ofgas detection

non-intrusive calibration via simple menu structure

third-party tested to performance standards

Simplify Gas Detection

The new Det-TronicsFlexVudisplay(shown herewith therecently

releasedGT3000 toxic

gas detector) is alife-safety display

unit that providesnon-intrusivecalibration, localevent logging, andthird-partyperformancecertifications

News P. 3, 4, 5 13/11/09 1:51 pm Page 5


PROFILE

Over the six days of INTERSCHUTZ 2010,Leipzig will serve as the world capital forfirefighters from across the globe. Running

from 7 to 12 June, the international exhibition forrescue services, fire prevention, disaster relief andsafety/security will take place in five halls as well ason the open-air site at the Leipzig ExhibitionCenter. As at INTERSCHUTZ five years ago inHannover, the organizers at Deutsche Messe areanticipating over 1,000 exhibitors and attendanceof considerably more than 100,000. A ratio ofmore than 90 percent trade visitors makesINTERSCHUTZ the ideal platform for generatingbusiness leads and deals — all the more so sincethe 28th German Firefighting Convention hasbeen scheduled to run concurrently in Leipzig.

A full nine months before opening day of theevent, just under 900 exhibitors from 42 nationshad already registered for INTERSCHUTZ, under-scoring the event’s strong international appeal.With more than 430 registered exhibitors so far,Germany has the strongest contingent, followedby China, the United States, Italy and the UnitedKingdom. First-time exhibiting nations at nextyear’s event include Australia, Hong Kong andPeru. The amount of display space occupied byforeign exhibitors is up 15 percent for theupcoming event. The concept of developingINTERSCHUTZ into the international exhibition forrescue services, fire prevention, disaster relief andsafety/security has thus been fully validated.

A major focus at the show will be on rescueservices and fire prevention, which have alreadyregistered strong exhibitor growth. Additionalgrowth has come in the area of measuring anddetection equipment.

Innovations and trends highlighted atINTERSCHUTZ 2010The upcoming INTERSCHUTZ in June 2010 willpresent the current state of the art as well as thelatest trends for fire prevention and disaster relief,including ultra-modern vehicles equipped withsophisticated, specially tailored communicationand navigations systems as well as mission controlcenters that can directly transmit video images ofthe blaze or disaster site to vehicles underway. Aspecial focus will consist of how rescue robots anddrones can relieve crews, issue warnings andprotect people in dangerous situations; they arealso capable of monitoring hazardous zones andlarge areas. This field will also be thoroughlyexplored at a two-day, international fire preventionsymposium, organized by the German Fire Protec-tion Association (vfdb) and covering the latest

developments in fire risk analysis and prevention.The area of “rescue services” will be even more

strongly represented at next year’s INTERSCHUTZ.At the most recent event in Hannover five yearsago, some 40,000 visitors reported having aparticularly strong interest in this field. AtINTERSCHUTZ 2010, exhibitors from the “self”and “outside” rescue service sector will be locatedprimarily in halls 2 and 3 as well as on the open-airsite. Here, too, the number of exhibitors has goneup.

Big-name manufacturers of emergency andmedical ambulances will also be back for theupcoming INTERSCHUTZ. All the major emergencyrelief organizations will be on hand todemonstrate their high level of expertise andtraining – including their perfect command ofstate-of-the-art medical technology and sophisti-cated electronic equipment. This part of the showwill also be backed up by a comprehensivesupporting program. At the German RescueServices Conference, the focus is on hygiene,organizational tactics, pandemic planning andrescue squad training. The conference will onceagain focus on issues of direct interest to the workof rescue assistants and emergency physicians.This time the conference will clearly differentiatebetween medical and organizational-technicalthemes, staging the relevant presentations inseparate auditoriums.

High-caliber supporting programThe important role of INTERSCHUTZ will be under-scored by a high-caliber supporting programconsisting of forums, workshops, special eventsand live demonstrations on the open-air site.INTERSCHUTZ offers a unique mix of commercial andnon-commercial exhibitors for maximum synergyeffects. Exhibitors will be displaying the latest tech-nologies, trends and services from the areas of pro-tection and prevention, rescue work and defense,contingency planning and organization, makingINTERSCHUTZ the No. 1 international event foranyone involved in fire prevention, disaster relief,rescue services and safety/security. Further informa-tion is available at www.interschutz.de/events andwww.vfdb.de IFP

For more informationcontact:Andrea StaudeTel: +49 511 89-31015Email:[email protected]

Further information as wellas digital images areavailable for downloading atwww.interschutz.de/pressservice

The Interschutzis coming!!Scores of new attractions and innovations

form backbone of INTERSCHUTZ 2010

P. 06 Interschutz Prod. Profile 13/11/09 1:52 pm Page 6

Copyright © 2009 Underwriters Laboratories Inc. ® BDi091029-IFP10

Trust.

There’s a reason

we’ve been a leader

in product safety

testing & certification

for over 100 years.

Trust… that UL has unmatched technical expertise in product safety testing and certification.

Trust… that the UL mark is backed not by a piece of paper, but by the integrity, quality, experience, commitment and consistency that stands behind it.

Remember, UL has been testing and certifying fire resistance, life safety and security products for over a century.

To learn more about Underwriters Laboratories and how you can leverage our global expertise in the fire resistance, life safety and security industries on a local basis:

T:: +44 (0) 1 483.402.032 / E:: Fire&[email protected] / W:: ul.com

UL Trust ad_IFP-091029_v2-FINAL.indd 1 11/4/09 10:02:01 AM


PROFILE

This, in part, is attributed to the fact thatGenuine FIRETRACE remains the only UL(Underwriters Laboratories) listed, FM (Factory

Mutual) approved and CE (Conformité Européeneor European Conformity) marked tube-operatedsystem in the world – bar none – that is tested asan automatic fire detection and suppressionsystem.

According to Nick Grant, EMEA Vice Presidentand General Manager, this success reflects indus-tries’ growing awareness of their dependency oncostly and difficult to replace key assets, and theneed to protect these with a solution that is third-party proven to meet the most exacting international standards. He comments: “In the pastyear, we have seen more and more companiesdismiss untested look-alike systems in preferencefor genuine FIRETRACE. I believe this is a reflectionof the growing worldwide campaign to outlaw awhole host of counterfeit fire safety products.”

In the past couple of months the company hassuccessfully exhibited at the European OffshoreWind exhibition in Sweden, Fire India in Mumbai,the EMO machine tool exhibition in Italy and, mostrecently, at the Busworld bus and coach exhibitionin Belgium.

“These exhibitions reflect the growing diversityof applications for FIRETRACE,” says Nick Grant.“While electrical cabinets are where FIRETRACE ismost frequently to be found, the list of applica-tions includes: on-shore and off-shore petro-chemical control centres; wind energy turbines;ventilation and air conditioning plant; IT serverenclosures, UPS equipment, cable trays andremote telecommunications applications; and on-road and off-road vehicle engine and generatorcompartments;. The mass transit sector – particu-larly rail and air transport – is today one of Fire-trace International’s key market sectors, as aremanufacturing industries with applications inmachine tools, dust and mist extraction, and fumecupboards and analytical equipment in pharma-ceutical companies.”

Among its many benefits, genuine FIRETRACEprovides reliable, around-the-clock, unsupervisedprotection that requires neither electricity norexternal power. It also requires neither manualactivation nor monitoring, virtually no main-tenance, and can be fitted as a new-build installa-tion or retrofitted to existing micro-environments

in a matter of hours. The system com-

prises an extinguish-ing agent cylinderthat is attached totechnically-advancedproprietary FiretraceDetection Tubing via acustom-engineeredvalve. This leak-resis-tant polymer tubing isa linear pneumaticheat and flamedetector that isdesigned to deliverthe desired tempera-ture-sensitive detection and delivery characteris-tics. It can be routed throughout the areas to beprotected and, when the tubing is exposed to heatand radiant energy from a fire, it ruptures instantlyand immediately directs the suppression agent atthe source of the fire.

The latest headline-grabbing FIRETRACE con-tracts have included providing up to 900 systemsto protect vital electrical cabinets on the new DelhiMass Rapid Transit network that, when the projectis completed in 2020, will be longer than that ofLondon Underground. Another major contract inIndia was for the supply of more than 1100 FIRE-TRACE systems to safeguard electrical control cabi-nets at Delhi International Airport’s new TerminalThree building.

Middle East projects have included 400 FIRE-TRACE systems that are now providing protectionfor critical electrical control panels for Qatar’s Min-istry of Drainage Affairs’ Doha South STW(Sewage Treatment Works) project. Other projectsin the region were for IT server protection forRiyadh-based air conditioning, heating and refrig-eration specialist, the Alessa Group, electrical con-trol cabinets at the new African-themed NofaResort in Tebrak, and for the Al Jazeera mediaconglomerate in Saudi Arabia.

Genuine FIRETRACE is available only via Fire-trace International’s global network of authoriseddistributors. These professionally-minded tradingpartners are skilled in hazard analysis, experiencedin agent and system selection, and trained ininstallation, commissioning and support. They alsouse only genuine FIRETRACE components. IFP

50% increase indemand for Firetrace®

“Micro Environment”ProtectionISO 9001:2008 registered Firetrace International has reported that, in the pastyear, successfully completed installations of its FIRETRACE® automatic firesuppression system have increased by 50 percent to a global tally of 150,000,underpinning the company’s claim to be the pre-eminent provider of fireprotection for core mission-critical, micro-environment assets.

For further informationplease contact: Nick GrantFiretrace Internationalwhich is headquartered inScottsdale, Arizona USA. Hecan be reached at thecompany’s EMEA offices inGatwick in the UK bytelephone on +44 (0) 1293780390 or via email [email protected]. Thecompany’s website is atwww.firetrace.com

P. 08 Firetrace Profile 13/11/09 1:54 pm Page 8


PROFILE

The diverse range of UL and FMlisted components that comprisethe Elite fire alarm system from VES

make it uniquely positioned to provide adiverse range of fire systems from smallretail outlets or restaurants to high riseor campus wide systems of great com-plexity. This simple but comprehensiverange has everything needed to enablemodern fire alarm systems to beengineered and installed to the lateststandards.

ScalabilityAll control panels in the Elite range canbe effective as a stand alone fire systemor participate in a complex network ofpanels by the simple addition of a faulttolerant Network Interface Card. Theresultant secure, fault tolerant networkis configurable in any desired combina-tion of peer to peer or master/slavecombinations for maximum flexibility.

This flexibility allows any size of system to besimply engineered using a set of simple butpowerful common components and software tools.Whether the project is a simple and straightforwardretail outlet fire alarm or multi-panel network withcomplex building control functions the Elite systemcan be tailored to meet the requirements.

Such an approach has many benefits includingthose associated with training and system engi-neering, reduced stock holding and ease ofmaintenance and servicing due to many commonparts.

The simple approach of the Elite system does notmake it any less capable than any other fire alarmsystem. The Elite system is fully capable of realizinga distributed fire system with up to 500 zones,32000 addressable points, text only and/or graphicalannunciators and a further 32000 programmableinput/output points via a range of I/O boards specifi-cally designed to maximize the systems capabilities.

Serial data interfaces at each panel offer furtherscope for integration into BMS systems, printers,pagers of the powerful Guide PC based graphicssystem.

Flexible programmingSystem configuration could not be simpler.

The Elite’s Windows® based, Elite Explorer

configuration utility allows even the most complexof systems to be easily configured with powerful,network-wide, cause and effect relationships.

Using a familiar graphical user interface, theElite Explorer configuration utility is widely recog-nized as setting the standard for a simple yetpowerful fire system configuration tool. Its simpleand intuitive drag and drop style of interface hasbeen setting the standard for such tools for severalyears and the latest release offers more featuresthan ever before.

Remote communicationsAll Elite fire panels can be supplied fitted with apoint reporting, dual line dialer if required.

With a dialer fitted, system information downto point level can be communicated to a receivingcentre. The dialer uses standard reporting formats(SIA or contact ID) ensuring compatibility with awide range of receivers and can report to multipleaccounts if required.

The complete VES Elite system includes the ULand FM listed Elite two and four loop panelscapable of supporting up to 504 loop deviceseach, UL and FM listed Elite RS one and two looppanels with or without built in dialer UL and FMlisted sensors, loop powered modules, pull stationspanels, annunciators and I/O boards. IFP

Ticking all theright boxes . . .the new fire alarmsystem from VESKentec Electronics Ltd Technical Director Robert Jefferys explains how the newVES Elite fire alarm system ticks all the right boxes.

For more informationcontact: Kentec on +44(0)1322 222121Email [email protected] orvisit www.kentec.co.uk

P. 10 Kentec Profile 13/11/09 1:55 pm Page 10

CGI IFP40 p13 6/11/09 12:20 pm Page 1

PyroPlex IFP40 p00 5/11/09 2:54 pm Page 1


FIRE RATED GLASS

Practice has yet to establish a level of consistencyfrom one practitioner to another. In particular,risk judgements are subjective, influenced by

circumstance and knowledge, and therefore needto be as fully informed as possible. It is now moreessential than in the past to have a deeper andbroader understanding of product behaviour infire, especially as confidence in the assessed risksdepend fundamentally on the products deliveringthe presumed performance.

The importance of performanceUnder a risk-based regime, product reliability anddependability become relatively more importantthan in the past. It is unsatisfactory to rely on singleprescriptive furnace tests, or only a handful of testswhich are limited in range and scope. Selective ref-erence to an individual research paper, unsupportedby reference to others, is also equally as inadequate.That cannot give the breadth of understanding thatis necessary. Risk-based, individualistic design shouldbe guarded about undue generalisation.

If behaviour in real fire conditions is the keyconsideration, then other criteria than thoserecorded in prescriptive tests should be evaluated.The essential characteristics of the product’sunderlying technology are important, togetherwith an evaluation of sensitivity to fire. It is themechanism of change in fire that matters funda-mentally. And an evaluation of mechanism shouldunderpin predictions of likely behaviour. Thismeans looking at the fullest possible test record,the product’s history of performance and the levelof control that the product provides in real firesituations. For example, under real fire situationsdifferent fire-resistant glass products cannot betaken to be the same.

Each fire-resistant glass has its own characteris-tic risk profile – a combination of the quality of theunderlying technology, manufacturing control,manufacturer quality commitment, product makeup and extent of testing – which can only bejudged by evaluating failure mechanisms andproduct robustness from the depth and breadth of

By Mike Wood

Pilkington Group Ltd

New approachesto fire safetydesignA revolution has been taking place as fire safety engineering design strives todevelop a distinctive identity in its own right. The risk-based design concepts andmethods that have emerged tend to ask just as many questions as they answer.

P. 15-20 Fire Rated Glass 13/11/09 1:56 pm Page 15

the individual product test profile. The anticipated fire scenario – the projected

maximum temperature, the rate of temperaturerise, the fire load and duration of the fire – areimportant since some technologies used for fire-resistant glass are not robust enough to performreliably and consistently with the same degree ofconfidence in all fire conditions. Each fire-resistantglass is, in effect, different. Some of the technolo-gies in particular, e.g. toughened glass, are inher-ently more unreliable and potentially more variablethan others in fire, considerations that shouldinfluence the appropriate fire scenarios for theirsafe use.

Prescriptive regulationAuthorities throughout the developed worldrecognise the critical importance of regulation tosecure basic fire safety standards in buildings. Firepresents major hazards for occupants and fire-fighters, significant threats to property, and clearrisks to community wellbeing and wealth. Fire isnotoriously destructive and unpredictable and not naturally subject to the rigours of scientificcontrol. It possesses infinite capacity to surpriseand can develop in ways not entirely anticipatedwhen original design assumptions are made. The risk assessment may not, therefore, bestraightforward.

The traditional route to fire safety regulation is byprescription, i.e. handed down rules and guidancethat are substantially based on experience andhistory. Prescription has served fire safety well, andcontinues to do so. It offers the comfort offamiliarity, consistency, and the application of

traditional custom and practice,building on what has gonebefore, in effect, by a processof gradual evolutionary step-by-step improvement. Prescriptionis relatively easy to apply andfollow, and generally calls forlittle interpretation.

There is an element of faithin the prescriptive approach –that guidelines and recommen-dations have worked and thatthey will continue to do so,even if the built environmentchanges. It is evident that pre-scription applies more suitablyto the common building situa-tions and to more traditionalbuilding and architecturalstyles. Critics would say thatprescription is too rigid, toounforgiving of flexible designand too hidebound by history.Supporters point to a successfulrecord, reflected in falling firedeaths, consistency of applica-tion and the security of whathas been seen to work in thepast. It also has the advantageof being transparent.

Risk-based designAdvocates for prescriptionquestion the risk to fire safetystandards if replaced by individ-ual decision making in what

could become a design free-for-all. There is a con-cern that fire safety might become a lower priorityobjective to other more day-to-day functional andopportunistic objectives, especially when squeezedby a shrinking budget. Advocates for risk-basedapproaches point to the increasing need to beflexible in design, and that no two modern build-ings are alike.

The style of modern buildings in most city cen-tres – increasingly larger, taller, more costly, andmore complex with multiple mixed occupanciesand a range of functional requirements – calls fora different approach. Architectural fashion andstyles of construction have changed dramaticallyover the last thirty years. The widespread use ofglass, and the common employment of largeglazed areas in single installations, is testament tothat. Prescription based on past experience maynot be the most appropriate approach to antici-pate and accommodate architectural change,especially given the fast pace of innovation inconstruction.

There is merit in the risk-based approach. Butthere are justifiable questions of consistency ofapplication and openness to public scrutiny, andthe approach needs to be based on transparentstandards of technical correctness (but without, asyet, an adequate quality control mechanism). Inplace of received wisdom comes an analyticalprocess which should be founded on technicallysound principles, using established facts andrelationships between physical parameters. Itshould ideally be founded on scientific process andoutlook. Practice, however, can drift apart fromprinciple.


NEW APPROACHES TO FIRE SAFETY DESIGNFIRE RATED GLASS



When fire breaks out, you need a glass that keeps its cool.

In the event of fire, Pilkington Pyrostop™ can provide insulation against heat for up to 120 minutes, with Pilkington Pyrodur™ also able to provide full insulation for a short period of time – protecting the property and giving people more than enough time to vacate the building safely. As well as acting as a barrier against hot gases and flames to increase protection, they reduce any panic by turning opaque. Available in a range of thicknesses to suit every need, Pilkington Pyrostop™ and Pilkington Pyrodur™ can definitely stand the heat. For more information visit www.pilkington.co.uk/fireresistant email [email protected] or call 01744 692000 quoting 20500.

Pilkington Pyrostop™ and Pilkington Pyrodur™

•Low cost protection of large areas•Easy Installation and low maintenance•Worldwide approvals•Over 600,000 installations worldwide•Variety of models for all applications

FIRERAY® - The leading light in smoke detectors

FIR

ERA

Y®50

R/10

0R

FIR

ERA

Y®

2000

FIR

ERA

Y®20

00EE

xd

FIR

ERA

Y®

5000

9 Hunting Gate, Hitchin

Hertfordshire SG4 0TJ

T +44 (0) 1462 444740F +44 (0) 1462 444789

E [email protected] www.ffeuk.com

The

Sage

,Gat

esh

ead

prot

ecte

dby

FIR

ERAY®

FIRERAY®

Optical Beam Smoke Detectors

A range of accessories are available:-

Universal Bracketfor the F5000

Reflective Beam Prism Plate(on a Universal Bracket)

Range of PrismInstallation Accessories

P. 17 ads 13/11/09 1:56 pm Page 17

Fire resistanceThe fundamental property of fire resistance is notalways correctly interpreted. For example, fireresistance should not be seen solely in terms ofendurance, i.e. time. Fire resistance for glass, inparticular, needs to be evaluated in more specificterms. The concept of a fire resistance rating forthe building as a whole (“one size fits all” philos-ophy) does not strictly apply, since materials usedin the construction have fundamentally differentsensitivities to heat and different deteriorationmechanisms. Glass, for example, is sensitive tothermal shock or stress and is therefore more

vulnerable to the initial, rapid temperature risecharacteristic of natural fires (which is not reflectedin the standard furnace test). Fire-resistant glasstechnologies that can cope with thermal shock –such as special fire-resistant laminates – are there-fore likely to be more robust in fire.

Fire resistance in standard definitions is taken tobe the ability of a component, or constructionelement of a building, to satisfy defined criteriaevaluated under formalised test conditions,expressed for a specific test time (e.g. typically 30,60, 90,120, 180 minutes). The function of thestandard test is broadly to categorise products forproduct classification. Performance is classified

according to three main criteria: load bearingcapability (as relevant), integrity (ability to act as aphysical barrier to hold back fire) and insulation(an integrity barrier and a shield against all formsof transmitted heat). There is a big performancedifference in particular between insulation andintegrity, differences which carry major implica-tions for use in fire, especially if that fire developsstrongly and lasts several hours. A presumptionthat is also too often taken is that a given time ina fire test correlates directly with the same time ina real fire situation. The performance in practiceunder real fire conditions may be longer or shorter,

depending on the circumstances of the fire andthe fire exposure. The characteristics of the individ-ual product are also very significant.

What a test report does not sayA test report is a factual account of what hap-pened on a particular day, in a particular test. Itprovides a description of the system and its com-ponents as tested. The test report, however, saysnothing about the run up to the test, in particularwhether the product is representative of normalrun-of-the-mill production, or not. A single testreport gives no guarantee that the next test, ifrepeated, would deliver the same result. And there



Fire resistance in standard definitions is taken to be the ability of a

component, or construction element of a building, to satisfy defined

criteria evaluated under formalised test conditions, expressed for a

specific test time (e.g. typically 30, 60, 90,120, 180 minutes).


is no requirement to place failed tests in the publicarena. Consistency and robustness of behaviourcan only be gauged by the number, scope andrange of the full test evidence.

A single test is effectively only an indication oftendency and only allows broad categorisationinto type. A test does not provide a basis for exer-cising choice between different fire-resistant glasstypes, a product, for example, achieving 31 min-utes in the test being deemed to be the same asone achieving 42 minutes (when the difference isat least 30%). Under the conditions of a singletest all products are deemed in effect to be thesame – but in practice there are differences whichcould be significant in a fire if the full risks are to be taken into account. The standard testeffectively provides an artificial black-white distinc-tion between those products that have beendeemed to have attained a minimum standard ofresistance and those that have not, when in realitythe risk evaluations for real fires are rather shadesof grey.

The importance of mechanismThe mode of failure in fire should be a major partof the risk evaluation. For example, different risksapply for mechanisms of deterioration that aresudden and catastrophic, and therefore inherentlyunpredictable (e.g. as characteristic of toughenedglass), compared with those that are gradual andprogressive (e.g. as demonstrated by PilkingtonPyrostop and Pilkington Pyrodur, based on aninorganic intumescent laminated interlayer). Suchstable mechanisms are essentially predictable andcontrollable, with a lower risk profile.

Glass, of course, is transpar-ent. That means a possibilityof high levels of transmittedheat which can lead to highlevels of smoke generation onthe protected, non-fire side bysmouldering of common fix-tures, fittings and furnishings,such as floor coverings. Thereis also the risk of fire transferby secondary ignition. Consid-ering such real fire factors, forexample, leads to a question-ing of how a basic integrityglass can be effective at 90minutes or longer. If the firehas developed for that long,possibly with complete con-flagration of one or morecompartments, then radiantheat levels on the nominalprotected side of the glazingwill be so high that peopleand firefighters are likely to beat high risk, and the fire willhave a high chance of spread-ing by secondary transfermechanisms.

In real fire situations, awider risk evaluation needs totake place. High levels ofsmoke and toxic fumes candevelop from certain types offire-resistant glass laminatesbased on substantially organicinterlayers. An integrity only

glass might also develop high surface tempera-tures on the non-fire side which are capable ofdeveloping intolerable conditions for escapees,allowing high air temperatures to develop by con-vection in the protected space. A glass classified to the new (but seldom used) CEN class EW can suffer from the same difficulties. Both heatand smoke in the escape way can be a risk withsome types of basic integrity glass. But, a glasswith a full insulation function will prevent suchdevelopments and reduce risks accordingly tocorrespondingly low levels.

Such mechanisms are not recorded in standardtests – but they are vital in considering risks in realfire situations and therefore important in makingspecification and product selection decisions.Those decisions are also influenced by the firesafety objectives, the hazards of the building andits occupancy, the assumed design fire scenarioand the anticipated potential fire development ifchance should take over.

ConclusionThe risk-based approach to fire safety design needsa new and more appropriate approach in the wayproducts are evaluated for their fire performance. Italso becomes more important for authorities, regu-lators, designers, specifiers, and even buildingowners, to take a more critical view of design,product and building performance. The key shouldbe fitness for purpose. This needs a more focusedconsideration of product behaviour than has been the case under prescriptive approaches, anapproach which is far less reliant on considerationof only a few prescriptive tests. IFP





FIA COMMENT

With this in mind, the Fire Industry Associationhas long chosen to set its sights on increasingthe standard of fire protection installations in

the UK, so that they are raised to the highest possiblelevel and become the automatic choice for clients andspecifiers.

So what does it take to be a fire protection compa-ny? Well, perhaps surprisingly, anybody can set them-selves up as a supplier and installer of fire protectionsystems. Get yourself a white van, access to the job, acredit card to purchase products and you’re in business!

The one other thing that you will need, of course, isa computer so that you can print your own certificatesthat infer that your work is of the highest standard andthese typically might read ‘We at Friendly Fire take apride in our work at your building, so much so that westand behind it and the proof of its quality is evidencedby this piece of paper’. Some of these certificates mayeven have a legible signature on them!!

The word ‘irony’ is defined by the Little OxfordDictionary as ‘expression of one’s meaning by languageof opposite or different tendency’ and the previousparagraph should be read with that in mind. That’s notto say, however, that it doesn’t happen!

So how do you assure that the fire protection systemsin today’s buildings are of the highest standard? Well inthe UK there are Third Party Certification schemes for sup-pliers, installers and maintainers of fire protection systems.

The UK Government acknowledges these and saysin Approved Document B (the Fire Safety guidance doc-ument) of the Building Regulations of such schemes:

‘Building Control Bodies may accept the certi-fication of products, components, materials orstructures under such schemes as evidence ofcompliance with the relevant standard.

Similarly, Building Control Bodies may accept thecertification of the installation or maintenance ofproducts, components, materials or structuresunder such schemes as evidence of compliance withthe relevant standard.’Similarly within the Government guidance docu-

ments for existing buildings published in support of theRegulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order they stipulate:

‘Third-party certification schemes for fire protec-tion products and related services are an effectivemeans of providing the fullest possible assurances,offering a level of quality, reliability and safety thatnon-certificated products may lack. This does notmean goods and services that are not third-partyapproved are less reliable, but there is no obviousway in which this can be demonstrated.

Third-party quality assurance can offer greatcomfort to employers, both as a means of satisfyingyou that goods and services you have purchased are

fit for purpose, and as a means of demonstratingthat you have complied with the law.’Under these schemes the competence of the com-

panies and its operatives to supply, install, and maintaina particular type of fire protection system is assessed.

For new construction work at the end of theinstallation, the fire protection contractor supplies a‘Certificate of Conformity’ to his client along with thespecification and details of the work done. The FIAbelieves that any Certificate of Conformity that is notbacked by a third party certification scheme whereappropriate should be treated with some distrust. SinceApril 2007 this supply of information has been for-malised in Building Regulation 16B, the rationale of thisbeing that the information can then be used by theResponsible Person as designated in the RegulatoryReform (Fire Safety) Order to operate and maintain thebuilding in reasonable safety.

For routine maintenance work you as the Building’sManager should look carefully at the documentationthat you are supplied by the fire protection company tosee if it references a Third Party Certification Scheme, ifit doesn’t then you should ask why not as without thisyou only have the word of the company that did thework that it is of the appropriate standard., and theywould say that wouldn’t they?!

As a building gets older, occupiers will makechanges and these may mean that the fire safety mea-sures are weakened. A new tenant may, for example,increase the fire load in a certain part of the building orput in new offices that require extra smoke detectors.In theory all of these changes should be documented inthe CDM (Construction, Design and Management) file.This provides a record of all matters to do with thehealth and safety of those concerned in the construc-tion, management and use of a building.

In summary, the FIA believes that:● The highest possible standard of fire protection is the

only acceptable choice for all involved in the design,construction and maintenance of the UK’s buildings

● To raise the standards in the UK, the industry shoulduse only those companies that are third partycertificated

● A complete CDM file will enable the building’s fireprotection to be properly maintained to meet therequirements of the Building RegulationsBut back to Kenneth Olsen, who also said in 1977

“There is no reason for any individual to have a computerin his home”! Well he certainly got that one wrong. . . .

Similarly the FIA strongly suggests that for yourbuildings that you will also get it wrong if you acceptanything less than the highest standard of fire protec-tion, and that this should be evidenced via third partycertification. IFP

By Graham Ellicott

High StandardsNeeded for FireProtection Systemsin Today’s BuildingsIt was Kenneth Olsen, the founder of Digital Equipment Corporation, who saidin 1977 “The nicest thing about standards is that there are so many of them tochoose from”. Well the FIA disagrees with this statement! There may be a lot ofdifferent standards but for fire protection systems there is only one choice andthat’s the highest possible standard.

P. 21 FIA comment 13/11/09 1:57 pm Page 21


FIRE ALARM PANELS ROUND UP

Based on the company’s proven high-endpanel concept, the Fire Panel 1200 Seriesoffers innovative fire protection in the oneand two-loop segments, combining flexibil-ity and ease-of-use with the reliability of themarket proven Modular Fire Panel Series.

The 1200 Series panel is operated via aneasy-to-use touch screen featuring a large5,7” LCD display and an intuitive userinterface with a clear menu structure. Inaddition, the panel offers various diagnos-tic functions including the display of exten-sive diagnostic information.

Based on the LSN (Local SecurityNet-work) bus system, the Fire Panel1200 Seriesoffers a high level of system stability, andsupports the full range of proven LSNperipheral components. Furthermore, it pro-vides synergies with the existing ModularFire Panel family concerning specification,configuration, maintenance and logistics.

The 1200 series also offers an extensivechoice of modules giving a broad range ofpossibilities for any application. The encap-

sulated modules are extremely rugged andare hot swappable, which means that it ispossible to replace modules in a runningsystem. The standard deployment of the1200 Series panel is one loop. It can be

easily extended to two loops with an addi-tional module.

Moreover, up to three remote keypadscan be connected to the 1200 Series panel.It is also possible to connect the panel toan FMS (Fire Monitoring System) and/or aBIS (Building Management System)

As with Bosch’s other fire-panel series,the 1200 Series panel operates with thenew serial interface for the Bosch Evacua-tion Voice Alarm System.

This allows intelligent and more detailedevacuation control via the serial interfaceand reduces the number of relay outputmodules needed in multi-zone installations.

The Fire Panel 1200 Series also fulfils allrelevant standards, such as EN54-2 A1 andEN54-4 A2.

For more information, please contact:Bosch Security SystemsMrs. Erika GoergeP.O. Box 12 70, D-85504 OttobrunnGermanyTel: +49 89 6290-1647Fax: +49 89 6290-281647Email: [email protected]: www.boschsecurity.com

C-TECs entire range of XFP networkableanalogue addressable fire alarm panelshave attained third-party LPCB approval.

Recognised by governments and regula-tory authorities across the world, theapproval demonstrates that all six of C-TEC’s XFP panels have been extensivelytested for functionality and performance,comply with EN54 Parts 2 and 4 and meetthe overall standards of the Loss Preven-tion Certification Board, the leading inter-national certification body in the fields ofsecurity and fire protection.

Says Charlotte Manley, C-TECs Euro-pean Sales Manager: C-TEC invests mil-lions of pounds in quality control andapprovals and this accreditation underlinesour dedication to manufacturing productsof the very highest standards. The LPCBstamp is the ultimate seal of approval and Ihave no doubt that our investment will

pay off. We have alreadyreceived advance ordersand our overseas cus-tomers are particularlydelighted by the news.

Offering high perfor-mance at a very competi-tive price, the XFP range is ideal for officeblocks, shopping complexes and big indus-trial sites as well as smaller, stand-aloneapplications.

Available as a cost-effective single loop16 zone panel in a plastic enclosure or arobust 1 or 2 loop 32 zone metal panel,XFP panels offer an array of user andinstaller-friendly features including fullcompatibility with Hochikis ESP and Apol-los XP95, Discovery and Xplorer protocols,two independently programmable conven-tional sounder circuits and the ability tointerconnect up to eight XFP main panels

onto a two wire RS485 network. The XFPis also fully compatible with C-TECs newHush Button fire alarm solution for Housesof Multiple Occupation.

For more information, please contact the company’s sales desk on +44 (0) 1942 322744.Alexandra MakinsonMARKETING EXECUTIVEC-TEC Stephens Way Wigan WN3 6PHUnited KingdomTel: +44 (0) 1942 403810Fax: +44 (0) 1942 829867Website: www.c-tec.co.uk

Bosch Fire Panel 1200 Series

LPCBApprovalfor C-TEC’sXFP FirePanels

P. 22-31 Alarm Panels R/U 13/11/09 2:05 pm Page 23


FIRE ALARM CONTROL PANELSCERTIFIED TO EN54-2/4

LVD, EMC, CPD COMPLIANT

AUTOMATIC EXTINGUISHER PANELSCERTIFIED TO EN12094-1 & EN54-2/4


12V & 24V POWER SUPPLIESCERTIFIED TO EN54-4


+44 (0)1942 322744 www.c-tec.co.ukwww.c-tec.co.ukVdS

When it comes to high-quality standards-compliant life safety equipment, you’re safe with C-TEC

C-TEC is the only UK fire panel manufacturer with third-party product certifications andfactory process approvals from the LPCB, BSI and VdS.

Currently trading in over 60 countries worldwide, our commitment to quality is underlined by our ISO 9001accreditation (held since 1994) and our corporate membership of the Fire Industry Association (FIA).

+44 (0)1942 322744

To find out more call our Sales Desk on +44 (0) 1942 322744or visit us at this year’s International Firex Exhibition

To find out more call our Sales Desk on +44 (0) 1942 322744or visit us at this year’s International Firex Exhibition

Your direct line to effective fi re protection.The SecuriSens® MHD 535 Multipoint Heat Detector

Securiton AG, Alarm and Security Systemswww.securiton.com, [email protected]

A company of the Swiss Securitas Group

P. 25 ads 13/11/09 2:05 pm Page 25



The FireBeta XT, XT+ and ECU arethe latest range of extinguishingcontrol systems from KIDDE.

The range covers single area andmulti-area extinguishing systemswith the following:

FireBeta XT Compliant toEN12094-1 provides three detec-tion zones with single area extin-guishing controls.

FireBeta XT+ Is a modular systemconsisting of a 2, 4 or 8 zonedetection module approved toEN54 parts 2 and 4 and up to 4extinguishing modules compliant toEN12094-1.

FireBeta XT+ ECU Is a single areaextinguishing module compliant toEN12094-1 which can be connect-ed to an already installed conven-tional or addressable fire alarmcontrol panel providing the controlsrequired for an extinguishing system.

To compliment the extinguishing controlpanels a range of status indicators areavailable. Up to seven status indicators canbe connected to a single extinguishingarea, through a serial bus connection.

The FireBeta XT Ancillary board fulfilsthe requirements to extend signals fromthe extinguishing system for additionalplant control or interface to a BMS orhouse fire alarm system. 10 Volt free con-tacts are provided on the ancillary board

for signalling status conditionssuch as manual release operat-ed, gas released etc. Up toseven ancillary boards can beconnected to a single extin-guishing area providing distrib-uted control and signaling.

All extinguishing controlsystems are suitable for use withthe full range of Kidde engi-neered fire suppression systemsincorporating 3M™ Novec™1230 Fire Protection Fluid, FM-200®, Argonite® inert gasand Carbon Dioxide.

Further information can beobtained from our website:www.kfp.co.uk

KIDDE FIRE PROTECTIONSrange of addressable con-trol panels represent theultimate flexibility indetection and alarmtechnology.

Microprocessor baseddistributed intelligenceenables systems to betailored to the exactrequirements of a widerange of system configu-rations. Offering flexibilityin design and operation,Kidde panels are ideal forinstallation in manyapplications.

Vega is an open proto-col control panel which is compatible withApollo XP95/Discovery and Hochiki ESPdevices. The Vega panel is expandable from1 to 16 loops in single loop increments. An8 line 40 Character LCD allows ease of onsite programmability, with clear informa-tion relating to fire and fault conditions.

Zonal LED indications for fire and faultsupport the information provided on theLCD, with the panel available in 24, 56, 88or 120 zone versions.

A range of software features are provid-ed to minimise the possibility of falsealarms including day mode, programmabletime delays, investigation timers allow the

user time to investigate the incident beforea full alarm is raised.

Vega supports an extensive range ofoptions including printer facility, repeaterpanels, plug-in option cards, networkingcapabilities including the VegaNET graph-ics display system.

The Vega range is provided in a numberof standard panel configurations, althoughthe modular configuration of the Vegaenables unique panel specifications to becreated on request.

Further information can be obtained fromour website: www.kfp.co.uk

Kidde Fire Protection –Vega

Kidde Fire Protection – FireBetaExtinguishing Control Panels


ZX SeriesThe ZX Series of 1-5 loop networkinganalogue addressable control panels isthe backbone of the MORLEY range.With up to 99 panels on a single networkand a choice of networking configura-tions it is designed for more complex,multi-site networks.

The latest ZX1Se, ZX2Se and ZX5Sepanels have greater loop and powercapability and cost-effective designflexibility, enabling installers to meet alltheir obligations under the DisabilityDiscrimination Act.

The ZXSe is an intelligent analogueaddressable fire alarm control panel. Ithas been designed and constructedaround proven and reliable microproces-sor technology. This simple approach hasproduced a modular, scalable fire alarmplatform suitable for protecting all typesof premises. The ZXSe control panelsupports a total of five industry leadingprotocols, allowing fire detection devicesto be independently selected based onperformance or aesthetic appeal.

The ZX series control panels seamlesslyintegrate with Apollo (Xplorer, XP95 & Discovery), Hochiki ESP, Nittan, Morley-IAS and System Sensor detectiondevice protocols. Designed for maximumflexibility, the ZXSe control panel is sup-ported by a complete suite of peripheralsand software tools. Information on thelocation of fires, faults and system statuscan be easily displayed or printed inmultiple locations. Integration with VoiceEvacuation Systems, paging systems andthird party control systems is supportedthrough a range of peripheral interfaceunits.

This adaptability, support and intelli-gence means that the ZXSe range of pan-els is suitable for new projects, systemexpansions, retrofits and system upgradesin all application areas. Offices, industrialunits, multi-storey buildings, entertain-ment venues, industrial plants andhospitals are just some of the manyapplications that can benefit from the features of the ZXSe range of intelli-gent multi-protocol fire alarm controlpanels.

Dimension SeriesThe Dimension Series of intelligent multi-protocol fire alarm control panels from MORLEY-IAS FIRE SYSTEMS has beendeveloped based on two concepts – sim-plicity and reliability. Just fix the controlpanel to the wall, connect the field wiringand everything else is pre-configured inthe software.

Even programming the control panel issimple. No computer is required and it onlytakes a few key presses to have a workingfire alarm system. First, set the protocol forthe loop devices. Second, “Autolearn” thepanel and finally, “Reset” the panel. The control panel is now protecting thebuilding.

The Dimension series provides additionalfeatures allowing: programmable textmessages to identify the exact location ofeach field device; a class change input for schools; coincidence and verificationdetection (false alarm management);sensitivity adjustment (between day andnight); programmable function buttons;input/output logic; and extensive event-logging.

The result is a feature-rich fire alarmcontrol panel constructed from highspecification components to help both the installer and the end user. TheDimension series is a compact, highperformance and economical fire alarmcontrol panel for the protection of small tomedium sized buildings. It is especiallysuited to small offices, retail units, healthcentres, leisure facilities, cinemas, nursing

homes, sheltered housing and othersimilar applications.

The Dimension Series offers optional 20or 40 fire zones, supports Apollo (Xplorer,XP95 and Discovery), Hochiki ((ESP),Morley-IAS and System Sensor devices,and complies with EN54 part 2 and part 4. If specialised detection applications such as multi-sensor devices, CO detectorsand high sensitivity laser detectors arerequired, additional feature sets can beadded – without the need for costlyupgrades.

Contact details: Morley-IAS by HoneywellCharles AvenueBurgess HillWest Sussex RH15 9UFUnited KingdomTelephone: +44 (0) 1444 238 484Fax: +44 (0) 1273 376984Email: [email protected]: www.morleyias.co.uk



Morley-IAS by Honeywell products

ID 3000 SeriesThe Notifier ID3000 intelligent fire alarm paneloffers a technically sophisticated range of facili-ties and functions, whilst remaining easy toinstall, program and operate. Modern stylingand a variety of aesthetic options are sure towin over facility owners and architects.

The ID3000 is ideally-suited to large facilitiessuch as shopping malls, schools, office build-ings, hospital, hotels, factories and large ware-houses. With its expansion capacity, the ID 3000provides control of 2 to 8 loops, each with acapacity of 98 devices (99 sensors and 99modules) and its modular design allows the userto tailor the panel to their exact applicationrequirements.

It has been LCPB-approved to EN54 Part 2and Part 4. Advanced design and manufacturingtechniques coupled with Notifier’s 50 plus years

of experience at the forefront of the fire indus-try, ensure that the ID3000 sets new standardsin many areas such as product functionality,flexibility, user friendliness and reliability: inshort, everything you would expect from theworld leaders in modern life safety systems.

Notifier by Honeywellproducts



Leading inFire DetectionControl Systems

Conventional Fire DetectionAnalogue Fire DetectionExtinguishant SystemsCustom Engineered

Visit www.kentec.co.uk to order your copy of our new 2010 product catalogue

Sigma CP, Sigma CP-R, K3000

Sigma XT/XT+, Syncro XT+

Syncro ASM MarineSyncro, Syncro AS, Syncro I/OSyncro Matrix, Sigma Matrix

01942 322744 www.c-tec.co.uk01942 322744 [email protected]@c-tec.co.uk

�A complete range of VdS or LPCB certificated EN54-4/A2 power supplies from C-TEC.

�All models offer low current consumption, a fault relay and link-selectable battery charging capacity.

�Ideal for powering beam detectors, auto-dial units, aspirating smoke detectors, fail-secure door systems, sounder control units and more.

�Chassis-only/custom PSUs also available - contact our sales desk for details.

24V 1.5A

24V 3A

24V 5A

24V 1.5A12V 2A

G209196 0786G209197 0786

G208156 0786G208155 0786

P. 29 ads 13/11/09 2:06 pm Page 29

A full range of intelligent sensors, advanceddetection products, input and output devices,repeaters, mimic drivers, printers and otherperipherals complement the ID3000 to bringyou the most complete and versatile fire alarmsystem in the market place. The ID3000 panelscan be networked together either as a true peerto peer network or in a Master/Slave network,extending the total capacity of the system to fitthe largest applications.

The ID3000 is designed in a modular fashion,facilitating installation and servicing whilstmaking the ID3000 very easy to tailor to therequirements of the application. The large LCDgraphic provides easy to read and understandmessages complying with the EN54 standard forprimary user interfaces.

ID 60 Series

The Notifier ID60 Series Single loop intelligentfire alarm panel has been developed for bothinstallers and end users with efficiency in mind,offering a technically advanced range of facili-ties and functions while remaining easy toinstall, program and operate.

The ID-60 Series is ideal for sites where veryhigh detection sensitivity is part of the require-ment, making the ID60 Series the choice forbuildings containing computer rooms andcontrol rooms, for example.

Three models are available in the ID60 series:the compact ID60, the ID61 with internal printeroption and a larger separate power supply andthe ID62 with internal printer option, a largerseparate power supply and added space for 72hours battery back up.

The ID60 Series supports Notifier’s uniqueVery Intelligent Early Warning (VIEW™) tech-nology. Combined with the patented AWACS™(Advance Warning Addressable CombustionSensing) and DIG (Dynamic Intelligent Group-ing) algorithms, the ID60 series provides themost cost-effective, stable and reliable earlywarning systems without the need to use costlyaspirating detection systems.

The ID60 Series are self-contained, on-siteprogrammable, intelligent panels. They can beprogrammed either from the panel keypad orfrom a PC using the off-line Windows-basedconfiguration tool. An ‘’Auto-Learn” facilityallows the user to install and commission a

standard system with a minimum of effort. Thepanel can also be upgraded on-site via a PCusing the Notifier flash-programming tool,making it easy to upgrade existing sites withthe latest features.

LPCB-approved to EN54 Part 2 and Part 4,the ID60 Series provides one loop capacity of 99sensors and 99 modules, with 16 fire zones and16 non-fire zones, and supports the full Notifierrange of advanced detection devices.

Contact details: Notifier by HoneywellCharles AvenueBurgess HillWest Sussex RH15 9UFUnited KingdomTel: +44 (0) 1444 238 484Fax: +44 (0) 1273 376984Email: [email protected] Website: www.notifierfiresystems.co.uk



Twinflex Two WireSystemIncorporating the Multipoint detector withbuilt-in sounder means the whole systemcan be installed using only one pair ofwires.

Using the Multipoint detector as part ofthe Twinflex 2-wire fire alarm systemmeans that when a detector is wired in,a sounder is too – with no extra wiringrequired. This greatly reduces the numberof points that need to be installed and thetime it takes to install them.

As the Multipoint offers 7 differentmodes of detection, the installation ismade even simpler as this one device suitsall applications. Whatever type of detec-tion is required, for any part of the installa-tion it can be selected by the flick of aswitch at the time of commissioning. Anyone of the 3 different smoke modes, 2fixed temperature heat modes, a rate ofrise mode and a combination smoke orheat mode can be selected.

As the Multipoint detector is availablewith or without a full specification 92dBAsounder (for only a marginal cost differ-ence) no extra devices need to be pur-chased when audible warning is required(meets audibiltiy levels recommended inBS5839 Part 1: 2002). Twinflex callpointscan be run on the same pair of wires asdetectors. Further cost savings can beutilised by using the new combined call-point / sounder. Both detectors and call-points have a selectable EOL module soany device can be set as the end of linemonitor. The panel can also differentiatebetween callpoint or detector alarms.

If extra sound is required, or for areasthat do not require detection, then theHatari Sounder can be used on the sametwo wires, offering sound output of100dBA. It also has a built-in EOL monitor-ing switch.

The panel can accommodate 32 devicesper zone, has separate fault monitoringdisplays for each zone, and a one man

walk test facility. Zones are configuredwithout the need to use resistors or capac-itors on unused zones.

All Twinflex Systems have the‘Checkpoint’ alarm confirmation featuredrastically reducing false alarms.

Repeater panels are also available forthe Twinflex system, which use key switchaccess and have the facilities silence,sound alarms and reset.

The Twinflex system is available from RafikiProtection LtdSpringvale Industrial EstateCwmbran UKNP44 5BDTel: +44(0)1633 865558Fax: +44(0)1633 866656Email: Sales @rafiki.bizWebsite: www.rafiki.biz

Duonet AnalogueAddressable SystemThe Duonet system is a 1-2 loop intelligentanalogue addressable, networkable, firealarm system capable of supporting up-to200 Multipoint combined detector/soundersper loop and a network of up-to 32control panels.

The Duonet panel offers a full networkcapacity of up to 32 panels, each panelhaving 1 or 2 loops capable of supportingup-to 200 Multipoint combined

Twinflex and DuonetSystems from RafikiProtection Ltd


detector/sounders on each loop. The panelsupports two plug in loop cards,giving choice for the size of systemrequirements. Although powerful softwarehas been utilised, operation of the controlpanel remains user friendly with intuitivefuctions. Programming and commissioningof the Duonet system is carried out usingthe Duonet OSP software package,and as well as soft addressing the addi-tional feature of ‘safe initialisation’ allowsdevices to be added or removed from thenetwork easily

As well as offering one of the mosttechnically advanced systems on themarket Duonet also offers the specifier apiece of equipment that is appealing tothe eye. A renowned design company wascommissioned to produce a control panel

that reflects the ‘state of the art’ technol-ogy it encases. The standard black hi-glossfinish panel for maximum visual impact.Many other finishes are available includingbrushed aluminium, walnet and marble if a different ‘look’ is required to make the Duonet panel a showcase product inits technical capabilities and also itsappearance.

The Duonet system is available from Rafki Protection LtdSpringvale Industrial EstateCwmbran NP44 5BDUKTel: +44(0)1633 865558Fax: +44(0)1633 866656Email: Sales @rafiki.bizWebsite: www.rafiki.biz



Sinteso fire control panels forflexible expansionReliable fire protectionand smooth operationdepend on interactionbetween all componentsas well as an under-standable user interface.The Sinteso fire pro-tection system fromSIEMENS is designed forstate-of-the-art solutionsand covers every appli-cation need. All com-ponents are based on a uniform technologyplatform with standardized interfaces (BACnet) and, with theirmodular structure, offer a wide range of system combinations.

Sinteso FC20 control panels allow applications varying fromsmall to large. The FC2030 and FC2060 panels, introduced inspring 2009, can be connected to existing detector lines, mak-ing it possible to gradually update a system. FC2030 is designedfor two loops with up to 252 field devices, and FC2060 for fourloops and up to 512 field devices (extendable to 1512). Existingdetector groups and alarm concepts can be adopted by meansof auto configuration and auto addressing. As a result, modern-ization concepts can be implemented flexibly and with lowexpenses.

The modular system architecture allows up to 32 controlpanels or floor repeater terminals to be networked together viathe FCnet (fire control network) central bus. Even auxiliaryfacilities or remotely located plant buildings are thus easilysafeguarded. The distance between two control panels can beup to 1,000 meters (expandable to over 15,000 meters). Thepanels are integrated via a BACnet interface into a dangermanagement system. Ethernet interfaces allow additionalconnection to heterogeneous networks.

The user displays for all Sinteso control panels are character-ized by a logical, ergonomic user interface. Standard keypadsare available for functional steps that are performed frequently,such as “Confirm” or “Reset”. Remote access and operation viaa PC and a secured connection offer flexibility. As one of theleading providers of fire detection technology, Siemens willfurther advance innovative and efficient solutions to protectpeople, assets, and infrastructure.

Cerberus Pro fire control panelsfor comprehensive safetyThe product portfolio Cerberus Profrom Siemens comprises differentfire control panels, fire detectors,peripheral devices and accessories.It is suited for both standalone sys-tems and extensive networks. Thefire control panels combine highsecurity standards with the latesttechnology. They are competitivefor simple applications, but alsopowerful enough for larger appli-cations: Up to 16 stations such asfire panels or fire terminals can beconnected via C-Web in a redun-dant, EN 54-approved networkwith nodes for more than 512 devices. In addition, an Ethernetconnection is available at each station which allows a maximum of 4 stations to be networked together. BACnet interfaces assure theconnection to danger management stations.

The fire control panels process all messages generated by thesystem and trigger alarm signals. And because requirements varyfrom simple to network-wide solutions, the Cerberus Pro familyoffers three models (FC721, FC722 and FC724). All panels can beaccessed either remotely or on site. The fire control panels and fireterminals are easy and intuitive to operate. They display the requiredinformation in a comprehensible way – centrally or locally on floorlevel. Visibility can be individually configured to display tailoredmessages in selected areas. In the event of an alarm, customizedintervention texts facilitate correct actions.

With its auto-configuration possibility, Cerberus Pro protectspeople and assets right from the start, even during the constructionphase. For this purpose, the control panels automatically configureand import data from all connected detectors and peripheral devices.They also automatically assign them to zones. In addition, all panelshave an integrated degrade mode. This means that even in case ofprocessor failure, the detector communicates an alarm to the panel,setting off all connected sounders including loop sounders.

Contact details:Siemens Switzerland Ltd, I BT CC MC, Gubelstrasse 226301 Zug, SwitzerlandTel: +41 (41) 724 4512 Fax: +41 (41) 723 5490Website: www.siemens.com/buildingtechnologies

Siemens fire control panels



But technology does not need to be ‘high-tech’ for it to be underestimated. Even theseemingly simplest of technologies or

processes (like changing a power plug) can haveits consequences, if you wire it up incorrectly.

As a plumber once said to me whilst repairingmy leaking radiator system, “most of us would notthink twice about repairing a faulty electrical sock-et, but when it comes to mending a leaking pipewe would rather call in the specialist plumber. Buthave you ever heard of anyone drowning whilstrepairing a leaking pipe?”

Fortunately, Government has now stepped in toensure that much of the electrical work, onceundertaken by the DIY ‘specialist’, must now behandled or approved by a professional with Part Pqualification.

So what has this got to do with passive fire pro-tection? The answer is, quite a lot.

Fire stopping is, perhaps, one of the leastunderstood but most commonly installed elementsof all passive fire protection systems. It affects justabout every aspect of any building from the obvi-ous, in the form of a fire door, to the protectionafforded to the myriad of penetrations passingthrough a fire wall hidden out of sight (and mind)above a suspended ceiling.

To the untrained eye it’s not rocket science andin a society conditioned to the expression ‘it doeswhat it says on the tin’, it is not something thatcan be dealt with in an ‘off the shelf’ manner!

In reality, of course, a better turn of phrasemight be ‘It does what it states in the assessment’.For instance, a pipe collar may state that it has

By Wilf Butcher

CEO, Association forSpecialist Fire Protection(ASFP)

PASSIVE FIRE PROTECTION FORUM

Are you ‘safe in t

“Knowledge is a wonderful

asset, but a little knowledge

can be a dangerous thing”.

These were the words

issued from the mouth of

my ‘computer medic’ after

he recently sorted out my

crashed computer, which I

had naively tried to fix

myself!

Fire stopping is, perhaps, one of the least understood but most

commonly installed elements of all passive fire protection systems.

It affects just about every aspect of any building from the obvious,

in the form of a fire door, to the protection afforded to the myriad

of penetrations passing through a fire wall hidden out of sight (and

mind) above a suspended ceiling.

P. 32-33 ASFP Forum 13/11/09 2:07 pm Page 32

been tested to achieve a rating of one hour, butunless you are aware of the make-up of the pipewith which it was fire tested and their combinedperformance during the test, how can you be surethat the collar you have installed is appropriate tothe pipe you wish to protect? Similarly, is a onehour linear fire seal, tested between two concretesurfaces, suitable to be used in a gap betweenconcrete and a dry lined partition? It may well notbe appropriate!

In other words, reading the installation instruc-tions is only part of the story. Unless you under-stand why you are installing the PFP system andwhat the implications might be should you do soincorrectly, there can be no certainty of the com-pleted installation fulfilling its intended function.

In April this year, the Practitioners Forum andthe Business & Community Safety Forum submit-ted a joint ministerial submission to the thenParliamentary Under Secretary, Communities andLocal Government, Sadiq Khan relating to ‘Thedangers of Fires in Timber-Framed Construction’.

The main thrust of this report considers therapid spread of fire and the large amount of heatflux generated from fires within timber-framedbuildings when under construction. However, thesubmission also makes reference concerning com-pleted timber frame buildings and in particular thepotential risk of fire spread which may increasedramatically should there be any aspects of poorworkmanship in areas such as cavity barriers, firestopping, or finish quality.

This is not of course an issue limited to the ini-tial construction phase of a building and the abovesubmission goes on to state that there is concernthat, in the longer term, wear and tear, as well asprofessional and DIY alterations, will increase therisk of fire spread in completed buildings, even ifworkmanship on the original construction is good.

Research carried out by the Association forSpecialist Fire Protection (ASFP), in conjunctionwith the then DTI and ODPM, supports this view inthat its findings indicate that the likelihood of defi-ciencies in installed fire stopping within buildingsof more than two years in age, could be expectedin the majority of buildings.

One of the key achievements of the fire industryover recent years has been the development ofthird party certification schemes, tailor-made to a

range of fire industry disciplines. Within the fireprotection industry (and I comment here specifical-ly in relation to the passive ‘built-in’ fire protectionsector), a third party certification scheme is onewhere the certification and registration of system,material, product or structure installers, provides ameans of ensuring that installations have beenconducted by knowledgeable contractors, toappropriate standards. Such a process is ongoingand subject to a third party auditing process byindependent bodies accredited by the United King-dom Accreditation Service (UKAS).

The ASFP, however, is growing increasingly con-cerned that Third Party Certification schemes arebeing confused with other schemes, sometimesknown as Self-Certification. Self-Certification, by

its very definition, affords no third party auditingprocess but may offer the provision of a certifi-cate-of-conformity to suggest that the work hasbeen carried out in an appropriate manner.

In some industries the Government lends its back-ing to certain self certification schemes. At present,this does not, however, apply to the passive fire pro-tection industry. It is of course possible for anyorganisation to set up a service offering a self certifi-cation training scheme, but without any means offormal accreditation, the essential checks and bal-ances cannot be assured. It follows, therefore, thatany claims to offer assurances through suchschemes should be scrutinised very carefully indeed!

It could be argued that not all passive fire pro-tection is installed by a specialist company, as bycircumstance it often forms just a small part ofanother trade’s activities during the completion ofa project. All the more reason, therefore, for suchnon specialist individuals and companies to beaware of the importance of what they are doing,the correct way to do it and their legal obligationsin ensuring that the fire protection work theyundertake complies with relevant and requiredstandards, regulations, appropriate codes of prac-tice and manufacturers procedures.

Recently published statistics indicate that 2008witnessed the highest UK peace time fire losses ofall time, rising over the previous year by 16%, to arecord £1.3bn. We are constantly reminded thesedays of the importance of sustainable buildings,but there is nothing sustainable about a buildingdestroyed by fire. IFP


PASSIVE FIRE PROTECTION FORUM

n the knowledge’?

In some industries the Government lends its backing to certain self

certification schemes. At present, this does not, however, apply to the

passive fire protection industry. It is of course possible for any

organisation to set up a service offering a self certification training

scheme, but without any means of formal accreditation, the essential

checks and balances cannot be assured.

P. 32-33 ASFP Forum 13/11/09 2:07 pm Page 33

Adv A4 30.09.2009 4:19 PM Page 1

Composite

C M Y CM MY CY CMY K

The new SharpEye 40/40 Series Flame Detectors are designed for long-term, reliable operation in severe,high-risk environments. All 40/40 Series detectors offer enhanced reliability and durability with a full 5-year warranty.

A heated window, fully SIL2 [TUV] certified and EN54-10, FM3260 and DNV performance approved, along with Exhazardous area approvals [ATEX, IECEx, FM, CSA] ensure your peace of mind. Interfacing is also easy - we provide achoice of relay contacts, analogue mA, RS485 Modbus and HART. All of this combined in a compact, lightweight but

rugged package makes the 40/40 Flame Detector the one to choose!The 40/40 Series includes well-known and proven technologies such as triple IR (IR3) and UV/IR, and even a new Multi

IR that allows simultaneous detection of hydrocarbon and hydrogen fires at long distances.

40/40 Series Flame Detectors

keep a SharpEyeon your safety

Headquarters NJ (USA): +1 (973) 239-8398Houston Office: +1 (281) 463-6772

Europe: +44 (141) 578-0693E-mail: [email protected]

Web: www.spectrex-inc.com


HEAT DETECTION

Akey element in the armoury is the Fire Detection and Protection system, which normally comprises of a wide variety of fire

detector types and controls which are designed torapidly identify a fire hazard and prevent or extin-guish the fire before it becomes a danger to plantand personnel.

Optical Flame Detectors are the favoured solutionfor high risk areas and outdoors as smoke and heatdetectors are not effective outdoors. Unlike smokeand heat detectors, the fire/products of fire(smoke/heat) do not have to reach the opticaldetector to be recognised as it can ‘sees the fire(flame) radiation from distances up to 65 meters,within a 100º ‘cone of vision’ in all directions – andraise an alarm within 5 seconds!

Optical flame detectors provide the fastest detec-tion of a fuel fire in the early ignition stage. Thiscapability, adjustable field of view and program-mability make them extremely well-suited for thiscritical duty. Flame detection, with high sensitivityand immunity to false alarms, is an essential deter-mining factor when designing such systems.

Optical flame detectors operate by sensing oneor more wavelengths of electromagnetic radiationemitted by the fuel flames. The precise wavelengthsvary depending on the fuel being burned (thechemical reactions that generate energy in the formof electromagnetic radiation), the oxygen supply tothe flames and environmental conditions that affectthe radiation transmission in the atmosphere.

Many combustible materials include hydrocarbons,

By Ian Buchanan

European Manager,Spectrex Inc

Industrial FlameDetectors forHigh-Risk PlantProtectionToday’s industrial installations are protected by a wide array of detection,monitoring, gauging and preventative devices and systems. Protection of highrisk, valuable assets and personnel has never been more vital on installationssuch as those in oil & gas (onshore & offshore), petrochemicals, hazardousmaterial handling and storage, etc.

P. 35-37 Heat Detection 13/11/09 2:07 pm Page 35

which typically generate hot carbon dioxide. In the presence of an actual fire, the radiation intensityin the carbon dioxide peak band is usually high,while little or no radiation is received in the sidebands. Thus, high radiation intensity in the peakband as compared to that in the non-peak, sidebands is used to determine whether a real fire ispresent.

Flame detection has advanced a long way fromthe early days when a simple ultraviolet (UV) sensorwas used. While the UV method was a very goodand fast fire detector, it was also a very ‘good’detector for all sorts of other radiation sourceswhich were not fires, e.g. the sun, arc welding, etc.These false alarms led to a lowering in confidence insuch detectors. They also had a limited detectiondistance – usually 15m at best.

Other types and combinations of sensor typeswere invented over the years, including singleinfrared (IR), double IR, combined UV/IR. All werefound deficient in one way or another, mainly dueto false alarms and/or low sensitivity (short rangedetection).

The most respected and widely used methodtoday is Triple Infrared (IR3) technology using threedifferent IR wavelengths. This type of spectral analy-sis ensures no false alarm to any continuous, modu-lated or pulsating radiation sources other than fire(including sources like black or gray body radiation).The high sensitivity of the Triple IR technologycoupled with its inherent immunity to false alarmsenables substantially longer detection ranges thanpreviously obtained with standard detectors.

This detection approach offers– Fast response (<5 secs)– Long-range detection (up to 65m from fire)– High sensitivity to small fires– Highest immunity to false alarms– High reliability and availability (IEC 61508-SIL2

TUV approved)These performance benefits are combined in the

Spectrex 40/40I IR3 Flame Detector with additionalfeatures to ensure unattended, reliable operationsuch as automatic integral self-test (every 15 mins);heated optics to ensure continued operation inweather extremes; a wide variety of interfaces(relays, milliamp, ModBus, HART); and a longwarranty period (5 years) along with independent

3rd party performance approvals (EN54-10, FM3260 etc.).

These types of detector are used to detect firefrom hydrocarbon fuels, gases and materials, mainlyfocusing on the resultant carbon dioxide (CO2) pro-duced from such fires – along with a lot of otherclever stuff! However, until now, ‘invisible’ hydrogenfires were detected by UV-type detectors as theproducts of the hydrogen fire were different (noCO2 product from the fire) thus detection distanceswere very limited. Now, the Spectrex 40/40M MultiIR flame detector, incorporating four IR sensors,allows simultaneous detection of hydrogen flamesat distances of 30m as well as detecting hydro-carbon fires up to 65m distant.

The increased activity in LNG and LPG processingand storage also requires the use of flame detectorsand recent improvements in the effective detectionrange for such gas type flames (e.g. methane,propane, etc.) means that fewer detectors arerequired to properly protect any given area thanwas previously the case.

Triple/Multi IR detection technology overcomes thelong-time problem of false alarms. One of the prob-lems in detecting small fires in high-risk oil and gasindustries, particularly at long ranges, was the poten-tial for a high false alarm rate. False alarms could begenerated by other electromagnetic radiation sources,which are either termed as “friendly fires”(like flares inthe petrochemical industry) or by spurious radiationsources, such as direct and reflected sunlight, artificiallight, welding, electrical heaters, ovens, and othersources of ‘noise’. A false alarm could result in a costlydischarge of the fire extinguishant; and if the fireextinguishant is of the type requiring replacementbefore reuse, the false alarm may disable the fireextinguishant system until it has been replaced orrecharged and cause facility “shut-down”.

The Spectrex 40/40 Series is also the mostdurable and weather resistant range of flamedetectors currently on the market. Its featuresinclude a heated window, to eliminate condensationand icing; HART capabilities for digital communi-cations; lower power requirements; and a compact,lightweight design.

These detectors are also fully tested to withstandharsh environmental conditions, including strongvibration, elevated temperatures (+85ºC) as well as


HEAT DETECTION

Wavelength

Detection of the flame’s characteristic CO2 emission line by the use of three wavelength bands

.2µ .29µ .8µ 2.7µ 4.3µ

Inte

nsity

UV

Solar Radiation Reaching Earth Surface

UV Detection Region

VIS IR

CO2 Spike


deep freezing conditions (-55ºC), high density fog,rain, snow and other extreme environmentalconditions – making them ideal for installation inisolated (difficult to reach) industrial facilities locatedin Alaska, Siberia or on offshore oil rigs and FPSOs.

ApprovalsSafety Integrity Level (SIL) – this approval means thatthe device has been independently tested by arecognised authority (e.g. TUV), who assessed theoperation of the device and its hardware andsoftware to determine and define the possible fail-ure modes. Various parameters are determinedincluding: – Probability of Failure on Demand (PFD)– Safety Failure Fraction (SFF)– Hardware Fault Tolerance (HFT)– Probability of Failure per Hour (PFH)

This is known as a failure modes, effects anddiagnostics analysis (FMEDA). Full IEC 61508certification includes much more – analysis of prooftest effectiveness, the product design and manufac-turing processes, software criticality, design andtesting. Therefore, users have independent evidenceon the reliability of the product and can use thisdata in determining the overall safety function fortheir process.

Performance to manufacturer’s specification isalso an essential requirement to prove, via 3rd partytesting, that manufacturers’ claims are justified. Inthe USA, Factory Mutual (FM) has a performancestandard for flame detectors, (FM3260), where FMwill witness real testing of the detectors in variousfire scenarios, with various fuels and at differentdistances, and measure the area of detection andthe response time to the fire. In Europe, the EN54-10 performance standard applies to flamedetectors and is a mandatory approval, under theConstruction Products Directive (CPD), for suchproducts when used indoors.

Due to the increased reliability, durability, highquality and performance, SharpEye 40/40 FlameDetectors are approved to IEC 61508 – SIL2 (TUV);performance approved to EN54-10, FM3260 andDNV Marine as well as Ex hazardous area approvedby ATEX, IECEx, FM, CSA and GOST with a resultantextension in the warranty period to 5 years. Thisrepresents a major investment for Spectrex in thedevelopment, design and manufacture processesalong with the high costs of all these 3rd partyapprovals. Most 3rd party approvals also entail aninitial and continuing annual factory assessment toensure that standards, processes and performanceare being maintained.

Better discussed in greater detail in anotherarticle, it is also important to briefly mention theproof testing of flame detectors. The detector’sinternal self-test will regularly check the sensors andelectronics, etc. and provide a ‘fault’ output if anyproblems are found. However, necessarily, theregular self-test will not check the detector’s alarmoutputs as it is done every 15 minutes! Therefore,Spectrex manufactures a range of Flame Simulatorswhich will simulate a ‘real’ fire and provide an in-situ means to fully ‘end-to-end’ loop test flamedetectors, including the wiring connections, controlsystem reaction, etc. The main advantages are thatthese simulators can be used in Ex Zone 1hazardous areas and can test the detector from upto 9 meters away – thus avoiding the high cost ofscaffolding and other access equipment andencouraging proof-testing when it may otherwisehave been deemed too costly or difficult.

SummaryPrimarily driven by the ever-growing requirements oftoday’s industries that require high reliability and avail-ability combined with cost effectiveness in theirdetection equipment for high-risk facilities andprocesses, Flame Detection technologies have devel-oped significantly since the early UV detectors. Smallerin size, larger in brains, modern optical flame detectorsprovide industry with enhanced flame detectioncapability and reliability with much longer detectionranges and minimal (or no) false alarms. IFP


INDUSTRIAL FLAME DETECTORS FOR HIGH-RISK PLANT PROTECTIONHEAT DETECTION



CLEAN AGENTS

The United Nations Climate Change Confer-ence takes place next month in Copenhagen.It will be the 15th “Conference of the

Parties” to the United Nations Framework Con-vention on Climate Change and the 5th “Meetingof the Parties” to the Kyoto Protocol. The aim is toagree a framework for climate change mitigationbeyond 2012. It follows the Climate Change:Global Risks, Challenges and Decisions scientificconference that took place in March.

Inevitably, this means that we can all look for-ward to a new round of debate on the clean agentfire suppression and emissions issues. But, how didwe get to where we are today; what is a clean

agent; and what does the future look like?Right up to the closing years of the 1960s, CO2

(Carbon Dioxide) was pretty much the only avail-able “clean” – more on that word later – dry,gaseous fire-extinguishing agent. Halon gasesbecame commercially available in the late 1960sand were soon adopted as an alternative to CO2,particularly for the protection of areas wherepeople might be present. This was because CO2 ismost certainly not suitable for total flooding appli-cations in normally occupied rooms or enclosures,as its discharge in fire extinguishing concentrationswould be lethal to room occupants.

However, CO2 continues to this day be a

By Graham Collins

Institute of FirePrevention Officers(IFPO) affiliate companymember

Coming Cleanon FireSuppressionThe next move in the quest to save the planet is about to take place in Denmark,and it may well have “clean agent” implications for the fire protection industry.Graham Collins explains.

P. 39-42 Clean Agents 13/11/09 2:08 pm Page 39

popular, versatile and effective fire suppressionagent for total flooding of unoccupied, enclosed,special-hazard areas such as power generationequipment, spray booths and turbines. Whendischarged, it leaves nothing behind to damagesensitive equipment, and with no agent clean-uprequired, business-critical installations can be upand running again in the shortest possible time.

It remains popular because it can be com-pressed into a liquid state which, when maintainedunder pressure, requires a smaller storage foot-print than many other gaseous suppressionagents. Additionally, as CO2 has so many othercommercial uses, refills are readily availablethroughout the world. An essential considerationthough is to ensure that the flooded areas areadequately ventilated after discharge to preventthe accidental exposure of personnel to dangerouslevels of CO2 when investigating the cause of thedischarge.

Despite the fact that, for the past 100 years,CO2 has safely extinguished more fires in unoccu-pied enclosures than any other gaseous suppres-sant it does, mistakenly, come in for some badpress. This is due largely to the connotation it haswith the term “carbon footprint”. However, thereality is that CO2 occurs naturally in the atmos-phere, and the gas used as a firefighting suppres-sant is extracted from a number of natural CO2producing processes. It is then stored until it isneeded. Additionally, its use in fire protection isinconsequential compared with the emissions andenvironmental damage caused by an uncontrolledfire, or the huge quantities of CO2 emitted intothe atmosphere as a by-product of many industrialprocesses and transportation.

Of the Halons, Halon 1301 was by far the mostpopular as a gaseous fire suppression agent andwidely accepted as the industry standard, particu-larly for the total flooding protection of areascontaining high-value electronic equipment. It wasa first-class fire suppressant, but the same could

not be claimed for its environmental credentials.By the mid-1980s scientific evidence showed

that these Halogenated Hydrocarbons were con-tributing to the depletion of the stratosphericozone layer. Halon 1301 had ozone depletionpotential, global warming potential and an atmos-pheric lifetime that was wholly unacceptable tothe international community. So, despite its unde-niable effectiveness as a suppression agent, itsdemise came with the signing of the Montreal Pro-tocol in 1987. This generated a flurry of interest indeveloping alternative, sustainable, environmentally-acceptable and long-term agents. Some turnedout to be more successful than others.

The Montreal Protocol was followed in 1997 bythe Kyoto Protocol on climate change establishingthe goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions,citing a number of gases.

One firefighting agent that became particularlypopular following the Montreal Protocol was theHYGOOD®-brand DuPont FM-200®, a Halocarbonor HFC suppressant. However, the Kyoto Protocolspecifically sought to cap the emissions of green-house gases from HFCs, among others, whichalmost inevitably has led to confusion and ques-tions continuing to be asked about its viability. Theposition should though move a major steptowards clarification if the American Clean Energyand Security Act of 2009 – also known as theWaxman-Markey Bill – becomes law in the USA. Itestablishes a variant of a cap-and-trade plan forgreenhouse gases to address climate change thatwas approved by the House of Representatives inJune.

If this piece of legislation becomes law as it iscurrently written, it will have internationalimplications and should eliminate any furtherspeculations on the future of HFCs. This viewappears to be supported by a recent announce-ment from a climate working group of the UnitedNations Environment Programme (UNEP) that hasconcluded that it will be impractical to pursue a


COMING CLEAN ON FIRE SUPPRESSIONCLEAN AGENTS


complete phase-out of HFCs at the present time.Firefighting is, in any case, a very minor user ofHFCs, and the applications causing the most con-cern for groups such as the UNEP are insulationfoams, air conditioning units and refrigeration.

Understandably, the Montreal and Kyoto proto-cols focused greater interest on inert gases thatcan justly claim to have no environmental down-side. They have zero ozone depletion potential,zero atmospheric lifetime and zero global warmingpotential. Inert gases are non-toxic, they will notharm sensitive electronic equipment, art treasuresor documents, and are safe to use in enclosedareas where people may be working.

These gases are a non-conductive and non-corrosive blend of naturally occurring gases – suchas a combination of N (Nitrogen), Ar (Argon) andCO2 – or, less frequently, a single naturally occur-ring gas. They work by lowering the oxygencontent of the protected area to a point that willnot support combustion but is sufficient to sustainhuman life, in much the same way as CO2, butwithout the lethal implications. The best known ofthese is undoubtedly ANSUL® INERGEN® and theHYGOOD i3 Advantage® brand.

At the same time it was clear that there was aneed for a chemical suppressant that met theindustry’s needs, while satisfying the environmen-tal lobby. The most successful of these is a fluid-based system that uses sustainable, long-term

technology that was developed by 3M. Called3M™ Novec™ 1230 Fire Protection Fluid, it is theagent used in the HYGOOD SAPPHIRE® system.

It utilises new technology and has several majoradvantages over other Halon alternatives. Chemi-cally, Novec 1230 is a fluorinated ketone orfluoroketone – a low toxicity, low vapour pressurefluid, with a boiling point of 49 degrees C, thatexists as a liquid at room temperature, with achemical structure of CF3CF2C(O)CF(CF3)2. Thismolecule was chosen because it provides an idealcombination of fire extinguishing performance,toxicological and environmental properties. Thesuppressant is stored as a low-vapour-pressurefluid that, when discharged, converts into acolourless and odourless gas. Typical total floodingapplications use a concentration of the fluid that iswell below the agent’s saturation or condensationlevel, and the fluid has the lowest design con-centration of any viable Halon 1301 chemicalalternative.

While certain halocarbons and inert gases areused at design concentrations that are below theNOAEL or No Observed Adverse Effect Level, withsafety margins from seven percent, no other firesuppression solution comes close to the SAPPHIREsystem’s safety margin. NOAEL is an importantmeasure, as it represents the level of exposure atwhich there is no biologically or statistically

significant increase in the frequency or severity ofany adverse effects.

This high performance fire-extinguishing agenthas a negligible impact on the environment, withan insignificant global warming potential, lowerthan any of the halocarbon agents acceptable foruse in occupied spaces. When discharged, SAP-PHIRE leaves nothing behind to damage sensitiveelectronic equipment or documents. Comparedwith Halon 1301’s Ozone depletion potential of12.0, SAPPHIRE‘s is zero; its global warmingpotential is 1 against Halon’s 6900; and the agent’satmospheric lifetime is between three and five days,contrasting with Halon’s 65 years. It containsneither bromine nor chlorine and, significantly,Novec 1230 is not included in the basket of “green-house gases” identified by the Kyoto Protocol.

But, with so many options on the market, whatis “clean”? The USA’s NFPA (National FirePrevention Association) 2001 (Standard on CleanAgent Fire Extinguishing Systems) covers bothhalogenated agents and inert gases. The 2008update includes the latest toxicity limitations alongwith complete facts on the different types ofhalogenated and inert gaseous extinguishingagents on the market today. Another importantfeature of this edition is that it includes additionalreferences to US EPA (Environmental ProtectionAgency) SNAP (Significant New AlternativesProgram) approved agents.

SNAP evaluates and regulates substitutes forthe ozone-depleting chemicals that are beingphased out under the stratospheric ozone pro-tection provisions of the Clean Air Act. Under theClean Air Act, the EPA is authorised to identify andpublish lists of acceptable and unacceptablesubstitutes for Class I or Class II ozone-depletingsubstances. SAPPHIRE, for example, is listed as“acceptable without restrictions”. Other sourcesof information are the Europe Commission’s JointResearch Centre Institute for Health andConsumer Protection’s ELINCS (European List ofNotified Chemical Substances) scheme, and BS ISO14520 (Gaseous fire-extinguishing systems.Physical properties and system design).

Few would doubt that the drive for everimproving environmental performance is inex-orable, and the passage of the American CleanEnergy and Security Act in the USA is predicted toincrease the likelihood that a successor to theKyoto Protocol will be adopted at the forthcomingClimate Change Conference in Copenhagen. TheGuardian’s US environment correspondent notedthat the passing of the Act by the US House ofRepresentatives: “delivers an important boost tothe prospects of reaching an agreement for inter-national action on climate change at Copenhagenthis year.” We must wait and see, but not forlong. IFP


COMING CLEAN ON FIRE SUPPRESSIONCLEAN AGENTS

Graham Collins is anInstitute of Fire PreventionOfficers (IFPO) affiliatecompany member. He can bereached on +44 (0) 1202639277

While certain halocarbons and inert gases are used at design

concentrations that are below the NOAEL or No Observed

Adverse Effect Level, with safety margins from seven percent,

no other fire suppression solution comes close to the

SAPPHIRE system’s safety margin.


Ship Halon Phase OutShip Halon Phase OutShip Halon

GIELLE™

www.giellemarine.com

Retrofi t with Gielle Clean agent fi re suppression systems

• Utilize existing piping• 1 to 1 cylinder/nozzle replacement• Existing Halon Systems / Existing HCFCs Systems• Express service• Worldwide 24h service• Full range of International Approvals

Imo Halon Banking authorized FP.1/Circ.37 - Jan 2009

Gielle / [email protected]

WorldHalonBank.com

Reliable IFP37 4/2/09 4:27 pm Page 1


SPRINKLERS

The industry and new storage sprinklertechnology

In the past we have designed storage systemsusing two basic sprinkler categories: Control ModeDensity area (CMDA) and ESFR. We now have a

new category: Control Mode Specific Application(CMSA).

NFPA 13 for 2007 refers to these sprinklers asSpecific Application Control Mode Sprinklers. Forthe 2010 edition of NFPA 13, the terminology willchange to Control Mode Specific Application(CMSA) and new tables referencing CMSA designcriteria will be added. The industry is already usingthe term: Control Mode Specific Application(CMSA).

Beginning in early 2010, FM Global will have acategory called Storage Sprinklers. As the nameimplies; this will consolidate all storage sprinklers(CMDA, ESFR, and CMSA sprinklers) into a singledocument. Also, they will be changing to a set pres-sure and number of sprinklers to be calculated

based upon protection requirements and thestorage sprinkler to be installed. Fire testing has pro-vided them with extensive data on existing controlmode sprinklers of K-11.2 (160) and larger. Thiseliminates the potential for incorrect interpolationof all the various design factors.

The control mode density areasprinkler (CMDA) The various building heights, types of building con-struction, commodity types and heights, storageconfigurations, and less restrictive obstructionrequirements allow these sprinklers to be used forvirtually all storage applications.

The penalties for using CMDA sprinklers comewith the addition of in-rack sprinklers when theheight of the existing storage exceeds approved lim-its, higher hose stream demands, water supplyduration of up to two hours, and increased systemdemand versus ESFR or new technology CMSAsprinklers.

By Thomas L. Multer

Vice President, ProductTechnology, The ReliableAutomatic Sprinkler Co., Inc.

SprinklerProtection ofStorage FacilitiesNEW Technology = More OptionsWith the development of a new generation of storage sprinklers and theapplicable use of ESFR sprinklers, we are able to use less water, fewer sprinklers,and lower pressures for protection of storage facilities.

P. 45-47 Warehouse Sprinklers 13/11/09 2:08 pm Page 45

The extended coverage, control modedensity area sprinkler (CMDA)NFPA 13 and Factory Mutual Global allow the instal-lation of storage sprinklers that have been testedand approved for up to a maximum coverage areaof 196 ft2 (18.2 m2) or 14 ft x 14 ft (4.2m x 4.2m)maximum spacing. These sprinklers must providethe same level of protection of a standard coverageCMSA sprinkler, while they can reduce the totalnumber of sprinklers installed in a system.

There are currently three extended coveragespray sprinklers, two pendents and an upright thatmay be used for control mode density area storageapplications. The K factors are 16.8 (240), and 25.2(360) for these extended coverage sprinklers. Theirapplication and installation are limited only by NFPA13 and FM Global requirements for control modesprinklers.

Using extended coverage CMDA sprinklers maynot reduce the total water demand, but they willreduce the amount of piping, fittings, and hangersrequired for installation versus standard coverageCMDA sprinklers.

The early suppression fast responsesprinkler (ESFR)Developed by the Factory Mutual Group to protecthigher rack storage without in-rack sprinkler protec-tion, the ESFR is the only suppression sprinkler.Because higher challenge fires could be suppressedwithout the use of in-rack sprinklers, building own-ers were able to be more flexible in their rackarrangements and eliminate the risk of mechanicaldamage inherit to in-rack sprinkler piping andsprinklers.

The ESFR has had an advantage in the past witha hose stream demand of 250 gpm (950 L/m) versus500 gpm (1900 L/m) for most control applications.The duration of the water supply was also one hourwhile control sprinklers could require up to twohours.

Control mode specific applicationsprinklers (CMSA)With a large variety of K factors to choose from,CMSA sprinklers have been developed to accom-

plish the main benefit of the ESFR: eliminate the useof in-rack sprinklers in high challenge storage appli-cations. The difference is control versus suppression.

These spray sprinklers are listed at a minimumoperating pressure and with a fixed number of cal-culated flowing sprinklers for a defined storagescheme and/or a type of commodity. Fire testingwas conducted for the exact storage protection.

Current approvals for CMSA sprinklers include:Class I-IV, cartoned unexpanded plastics in solidpiles, palletized, shelf or bin box, open frame racks,and solid shelves with certain limitations.

The manufacturer’s engineering data sheets mustbe followed exactly for commodity approval, restric-tions of maximum and minimum spacing, clearanceto commodity, obstruction requirements, hosestream allowances, water supply duration, deflectordistance to ceiling, sprinkler temperature require-ments, and any other design and installationcriteria.

For NFPA 13 – 2010, some of the CMSA sprin-klers will be included in new tables for storageapplications. To use any CMSA sprinkler thatreceives UL or FM Global approval under NFPArequirements, the following paragraphs in NFPA 13,2007 apply: 3.6.2.1.2, Definition of a Specific Appli-cation Control Mode Sprinkler, 1.6.1 and 1.6.2:New Technology, and 8.4.9 Specific ApplicationControl Mode Sprinklers.

Paragraph 8.4.9 is the most important. Specificapplication control mode sprinklers (now CMSAsprinklers) must be installed in strict accordancewith their listing. You must use the manufacturer’sengineering data; as it supersedes any NFPArequirement.

Standard coverage CMSA sprinklersThe manufacturer’s engineering data must be usedand not all CMSA sprinklers have the same heightand commodity approvals.

As of this writing there are three standard cover-age (100 ft2/9.3 m2) CMSA sprinklers approved forstorage applications: Tyco’s upright Ultra K17 (K-16.8/240), Viking’s pendent VK592 (K-19.6/280),and Victaulic’s pendent LP-46 (K-25.2/360).

Extended coverage, control modespecific application sprinkler (CMSA)Reliable’s N252 EC CMSA (K-25.2/360) pendentsprinkler is FM approved for coverage areas up to196 ft2 (18.2 m2) or 14 ft x 14 ft (4.2 m x 4.2 m)spacing for building heights up to 30 ft (9.1 m) inheight with storage up to 25 ft (7.6 m). They arealso approved for coverage areas up to 144 ft2

(13.5 m2) or 12 ft x 12 ft (3.6 m x 3.6 m) spacingfor building heights up to 35 ft (10.7 m) in heightwith storage up to 30 ft (9.1 m).

The total system water demand is also lower thanthe ESFR and standard coverage CMSA sprinklersfor buildings of 30 ft (9.1 m) and 35 ft (10.7 m) inheight with Class I-IV and cartoned unexpandedplastic storage.

Fewer sprinklers mean less pipe, fittings, hangers,fabrication expense, shipping expense, field laborand design time.

Again, the manufacturer’s engineering datasheets must be followed exactly for commodityapproval, restrictions of maximum and minimumspacing, clearance to commodity, obstructionrequirements, hose stream allowances, water supplyduration, deflector distance to ceiling, sprinkler tem-perature requirements, and any other design andinstallation criteria.


SPRINKLERS



SPRINKLER PROTECTION OF STORAGE FACILITIESSPRINKLERS

Thomas L. MulterVice President, ProductTechnology

A graduate of the Universityof Nebraska and a formerArmy officer, Tom has been inthe fire sprinkler industry,both in contracting andmanufacturing, for over 37years. He is responsible fornew product developmentand the technical servicesgroup at Reliable and is amember of the NFPA 13, 15,and 308 TechnicalCommittees. He is a longtime member of theEngineering and StandardsCommittee of the NationalFire Sprinkler Association andholds numerous patents onfire protection products.

The Reliable AutomaticSprinkler Co., Inc.Liberty, South Carolina 864-843-5225Email:[email protected]

Sprinkler N252 K-200 K-240 K-360 K-280 K-360EC ESFR ESFR ESFR CMSA CMSA

Maximum Coverage 13.5 m2 9.3 m2 9.3 m2 9.3 m2 9.3 m2 9.3 m2

Pressure 2.8 bar 5.2 bar 3.6 bar 1.4 bar 1.7 bar 2.0 barSprinklers Calculated 8 12 12 12 15 12System Demand 4828 L/m 5507 L/m 5496 L/m 5117 L/m 5564 L/m 6268 L/mHose Allowance 950 L/m 950 L/m 950 L/m 950 L/m 1900 L/m 950 L/mDuration 60 min. 60 min. 60 min. 60 min. 90 min. 60 min.Total Liters 346,680 387,420 386,760 364,020 671,760 433,080

Building Height: 35 ft (10.7 m) Storage Height: 30 ft (9.1 m)

Sprinkler K-200 K-240 K-360 K-280 K-360ESFR ESFR ESFR CMSA CMSA

Maximum Coverage 9.3 m2 9.3 m2 9.3 m2 9.3 m2 9.3 m2

Pressure 6.2 bar 3.6 bar 1.7 bar 2.1 bar 2.1 barSprinklers Calculated 12 12 12 15 12System Demand 6034 L/m 5496 L/m 5724 L/m 6098 L/m 6269 L/mHose Allowance 950 L/m 950 L/m 950 L/m 1900 L/m 950 L/mDuration 60 min. 60 min. 60 min. 90 min. 60 min.Total Liters 419,040 386,760 400,440 719,820 433,140


Sprinkler K-320 K-360 K-320 K-360ESFR UL ESFR UL ESFR FM ESFR FM

Maximum Coverage 9.3 m2 9.3 m2 9.3 m2 9.3 m2

Pressure 2.8 bar 2.8 bar 3.4 bar 3.4 barSprinklers Calculated 12 12 12 12System Demand 6435 L/m 7250 L/m 7192 L/m 8100 L/mHose Allowance 950 L/m 950 L/m 950 L/m 950 L/mDuration 60 min. 60 min. 60 min. 60 min.Total Liters 443,100 492,000 488,520 543,000


Save: Pressure, Water Demand, or Number of Sprinklers Installed Selecting Sprinklers by Pressures, Water Demand, and Area of Coverage

Class I-IV and Cartoned Unexpanded Plastics in Solid-Piled, Palletized, Shelf, or Bin-Box and Single, Double, or Multiple-Row Open Shelf Rack Storage without In-Rack Sprinklers

All flows referenced in the following charts are for comparison only. The actual flows will be higher based upon friction loss in the piping.

Sprinkler N252 K-200 K-240 K-360 K-240 K-280 K-360EC ESFR ESFR ESFR CMSA CMSA CMSA

Maximum Coverage 18.2 m2 9.3 m2 9.3 m2 9.3 m2 9.3 m2 9.3 m2 9.3 m2

Pressure 2.1 bar 3.5 bar 2.4 bar 1.0 bar 1.5 bar 1.1 bar 1.0 barSprinklers Calculated 6 12 12 12 15 12 12System Demand 3143 L/m 4542 L/m 4542 L/m 4432 L/m 4542 L/m 3562 L/m 4432 L/mHose Allowance 950 L/m 950 L/m 950 L/m 950 L/m 1900 L/m 950 L/m 950 L/mDuration 60 min. 60 min. 60 min. 60 min. 120 min. 60 min. 60 min.Total Liters 245,580 329,520 329,520 322,920 605,040 270,720 322,920


Other Considerations for ESFR or CMSAInstallationSmoke and heat vents may be required by building offi-cials when using control mode sprinklers for high piledstorage protection. Fire testing for storage applicationsare not conducted using any type of ceiling openings.

Draft curtains may be required by building offi-cials for use with ESFR systems to separate the stor-age protection areas from control mode sprinklersystems, systems that are used to protect manufac-turing or other non-ESFR areas. CMSA sprinklers areby definition control mode sprinklers and draftcurtains should not be required.

Storage Sprinklers will continue toEvolveSprinkler manufacturers will continue to developnew storage sprinklers; sprinklers that may protect storage applications with fewer sprinklers,less water demand, and lower pressures. Appli-cations such as sloped ceiling approvals andimprovements for dry and preaction systems will allbe researched. However, nothing will eliminate theneed to provide reliable sprinkler protection forstorage applications; sprinklers that have beenthoroughly tested and approved for the actualstorage situation. IFP



SIGNS & PATHS

The International Standard Technical Commit-tee (TC145) is responsible for graphicalsymbols and has worked continuously for

over 20 years to develop the very best safety signsto convey critical safety information.

The main categories of safety signs are in linewith the needs of international requirement foroccupational health and safety management andare incorporated in workplace safety legislation.

Identify, Locate, Inform, InstructWorldwide, safety managers are required by theirdomestic legislation to ensure that all personnelare aware of hazards, the nature of the hazardand the measures to be taken for the collectiveprotection of occupants within the working andpublic environment under their control.

Safety procedures, practice and policies willrequire building managers, property owners and

estate managers to identify hazards and mark thelocation of emergency equipment and life safetyappliances. Safety managers have an obligation toinform and educate all occupants about risk con-trol, prohibit certain behaviour and give mandat-ory instruction to ensure collective protection.

ISO 7010 is soon to be adopted as a Europeannorm and will be automatically adopted as thedomestic standard within all member states of theEuropean Union. All workplaces, including mer-chant and passenger vessels will be required toimplement and display the new graphical symbolsfor safety communication. The objective is toensure that only graphical symbols with the high-est comprehension credentials are used and toensure we are not playing ‘Pictionary’ with peopleslives.

A plethora of graphical symbols are currentlybeing used without these credentials, have little

By Jim Creak

Editor of the Means ofEscape Publication,active member of theBSI technical committeeand Chairman of theHealth and Safety SignAssociation (HSSA)

The commonlanguage for safetycommunicationthat can bringworld harmony!ISO 7010 is now finally published and is being implemented as best practicethroughout the world to communicate the safety message using graphicalsymbols that transcends the barriers to good safety management created bydifferent languages and are universally understood.

Pic courtesy of JalitePLC. www.jalite.com

P. 49-51 Signs & Paths 13/11/09 2:09 pm Page 49

meaning and are untested in accordance with ISO 9186 to ensure comprehension. It is essentialthat if graphical symbols are to be effective, onlystandardised symbols should be used.

Whilst slight variation in public informationsymbols may cause, at worst, slight delay in find-ing a service, or cause embarrassment if you misin-terpret the more abstract toilet sign, a mistake inthe interpretation of escape route signs causingdelay may ultimately lead to death.

Considerable confusion has been caused by theuse of so called “Eurosymbols” for fire exit signs.Pure illustrations from way back in 1977 have beenused, which have no comprehension credentialsand fail the basic understanding that is a function ofknown and effective safety wayguidance convention.

Best practice International Standard ISO 7010graphical symbols for escape route and ISO 16069safety wayguidance convention ensure that anevacuee is progressed using a known conventionthrough the escape route to place of relative safety.


Pic courtesy of JalitePLC. www.jalite.com

SIGNS & PATHS

Progress tothe right

Progressdown

Progress downto the right

Progress downto the left

Progress up tothe left

Progressforward

Progress to the left Progress down to the right


The risk assessment regime required to manageoccupational health and safety will determinerequirements for safety communication acrossareas of reflective management.

The areas are outlined in Internationalobligations for employers under occupation healthand safety legislation. These obligations start withthe Identification of hazard, the Identification ofsafety equipment, including escape and theIdentification of fire fighting equipment includingalarms.

Hazard Safety Equipment Fire Fighting

Employers are further required to Locate hazardand safety equipment, including escape route andappropriate fire fighting equipment. Identificationand Location are the cornerstone of effectivesafety communication and are specific require-ments of workplace legislation.

Following Location and Identification, a goodcommunication strategy will include measures toreduce and Control risk.

The Control of risk will include the prohibitionof behaviour or an activity that is likely to have anadverse effect on the risk matrix or may exacer-bate the consequences of an incident.

Prohibition

The Control of risk and the collective protection of building occupants will require employers,building managers and authority personnel toinstigate and enforce mandatory measures to betaken.

Mandatory

Finally and probably most important is that safetysigns, their meaning and the action to be taken ornot taken following them are part of a formalTraining, Instruction and Education process forpublic buildings, schools, colleges, universities, andthe workplace.

Identify, Locate, Inform, Instruct.

ReferencesBS EN ISO 14001:2004 – Environmental managementsystems – Requirements with guidance for use.

BS ISO 16069:2004 – Graphical symbols and signs –Safety signs – Safety wayguidance systems (SWGS)

BS ISO 17398:2004 – Safety colours and safety signs –Classification, performance and durability of safetysigns.

ISO 7010:2003 – Graphical symbols – Safety coloursand safety signs – SΩfety signs used in workplace andpublic areas.

ISO 9186:2001 – Graphical symbols. Test methods forjudged comprehensibility and for comprehension.

ISO 3864-1:2002 – Safety colours and safety signs –Part 1 safety signs in workplaces and public areas.

ISO 3864-4:2009 – Graphical symbols – Safety coloursand safety signs – Part 4 colorimetric and photometricproperties of safety sign materials.

EC Safety Signs Directive (92/58/EEC).

IFP


THE COMMON LANGUAGE FOR SAFETY COMMUNICATION THAT CAN BRING WORLD HARMONY!SIGNS & PATHS

Jim Creak, Editor of theMeans of Escape Publication,is an active member of theBSI technical committee andChairman of the Health andSafety Sign Association(HSSA). Jim has over 25 yearsexperience in researching,contributing andparticipating in task groupson the subject of SafetyWayguidance Systems(SWGS) for marine, industrialand high rise buildingapplication.

Explosivehazard

Breathingapparatus

Fireextinguisher

Smokingprohibited

Mobile phonesprohibited

Drinking/eatingprohibited

Wear headprotection

Wear eyeprotection

Wear footprotection



EXTINGUISHERS

Economic and health burden by a fire

Several surveys in Germany achieved the sameresult independently: after a blaze 43% of theconcerned companies did not start business

again and had to declare bankruptcy. The remain-ing companies forfeit their reliability and lostcustomers and market shares. And after only threeyears further 28% of the companies disappearedalso from the market. In other words: Three quar-ters of the companies concerned by a blaze did notsurvive such a desaster.

In case of a residential building fire 17,000 envi-ronmental toxins are released. The environmentalpollution can be much greater in case of fire inindustrial plants. High smoke emissions withburden of the residents, release of toxic gases, con-tamination of water by emerging chemicals withrisk for the drinking water supply, contamination ofthe soil: consequences, which occur in case ofblazes in industrial plants.

Recognise and assess dangers in timeIn view of the immense economic and environ-mental liability risks the persons responsible devel-op a greater problem awareness of the meaning ofthe safety and fire protection. Particularly smallindustrial enterprises require a clearly defined risk-management-policy. But this often lacks inoperational everyday life. Basis of a risk manage-ment system is the proper analysis of the risks, thecompany is subject to. In a first step all potentialthreads are compiled. Subsequently these possibledamaging events are evaluated concerning the

frequency and seriousness, with which they canaffect the company. On the basis of this analysisappropriate measures must be taken for theircoping.

Most frequent causes of fireArson, open fires, lightning, electricity and humanerror are counted among the most frequent causesof fire. For example a fire in hospitals arises oftenby unattended candles (advent wreath). The staff iscalled to the invalids or to an assignment andleaves the burning candles unattended. Also smok-ing belongs to the most frequent causes for fireand explosion damages. Smoking as well as use offire and open lighting is forbidden in rooms andareas which are at risk of fire and explosion. Roomsand areas are considered as fire-endangered inwhich highly inflammable materials exist in danger-ous quantity, egg. production and storage areaswith flammable materials. Rooms and areas areconsidered as explosion-endangered, in whichgases, vapors or dusts, which form explosive com-posites with atmospheric oxygen in dangerousquantity, e. g. stores with flammable gases andliquids, paint shops, rooms with flammable dusts.The disregard of ban on smoking resp. its tolera-tion can have in case of emergency not only civiland criminal law consequences, but also cause theloss of the coverage for the company.

The solution: Fire extinguishersFires do normally not arise self. They are mainlycaused by human activity and refrain. They can be

By Dr. Wolfram Krause,

Nils Falter

and Anna Maria Mrcela

A fire in an industrial enterprise can have incalculable consequences: theeconomic damage can bring the company to the brink, environmental damages,caused by the fire, present a high liability risk. Therefore it is of existentialsignificance for the companies to detect the manifold risks early, to assess themcorrectly and to take the necessary measures.

Fire extinguis h

For further details, contact:Minimax Mobile ServicesGmbH & Co. KGMinimaxstr. 1D-72574 Bad UrachTel: +49 (0)7125 154-229Fax: +49 (0)7125 154-166Email:[email protected]:www.minimax.dewww.minimax-mobile.com

P. 52-53 Fire Extinguishers 13/11/09 2:10 pm Page 52

avoided by human care. Who knows a lot aboutthe possibilities of fire fighting, helps to reduce oravoid damages. The earlier a fire is detected, themore effective it can be fought and the lower thedamages are. Ideally an existing fire detectorreleases alarm and thereby initiate measures for firefighting, the warning of persons in a building and,for property and personal protection, it alertsresponsible security staff or the fire brigade. If a firearises, a fire extinguisher is suitable for immediateuse for fighting minor fires and initial fires. Itcontains extinguishing agent, which is emitted bypressure, stored or produced at taking into opera-tion. Portable fire extinguishers are regulated ineurope by the European Standard EN 3. Fireextinguishers must be type tested and certified.The red painting of the device serves for easyfinding in case of fire.

A survey of the German Fire Protection Manu-facturers Association “bvfa” in the year 2006 hasshown: 82% of the fires in companies could beextinguished already before arrival of the firebrigade with the fire extinguishers, which are atdisposal in the company.

In Germany it is legally prescribed to have fireextinguishers at disposal in the company. Thequantity of the fire extinguishers to be provideddepends on the type and size of the company.

Behaviour in case of fireFor the effectiveness of rescue and fire fightingmeasures the correct Behaviour of the personsaffected is of major significance. Everyone should know about the use of extinguishers andwhat to do and how to behave in dangeroussituations.

An effective fire protection byselection of the right partnerAn effective fire protection can only be achieved byan overall plan which is adapted to the individualrequirements – so called holistic fire protectionconcept. All necessary single measures for firefighting must be combined optimal. Thereby thefollowing shall be achieved: the guarantee of the personal protection and consideration of theenvironmental protection acc. to the legal prescrip-tions especially for companies and the mainte-nance of the manufacturing and supply capabilityas well as the securing material assets.

As an fire extinguisher producer with the highestrate of vertical integration, Minimax MobileServices GmbH & Co. KG stands for reliableoperability, longevity, sophisticated technicaldesigns and top ‘Made in Germany’ quality.

Through automated production processes andhigh-quality technical standards, we are able tomeet all of our clients’ financial requirements.

In addition to tried and tested fire extinguishingadvantages, such as:● A single-lever fitting for uniform operation of all

device types ● standard stand pins for secure positioning whilst

preventing corrosion on the bottom of thecontainer.

● thermoset inner layer for wet extinguishers toguarantee excellent protection against corrosioninside the container.

● specially layered CO2 propellant gas cartridgesto guarantee the permanent operability of wetextinguishers

● A CO2 overcharge for foam extinguishers foreven extinguishing agent spreading during thewhole operation.

Manufacturers should also be committed to inno-vation with new generations of fire extinguisherssetting up new standards:

More powerful than everThe increased capacity of a new generation is areal attention grabber. Improved extinguishingsolution formulas and carefully aligned device con-figuration ensure excellent extinguishing power.

More user friendlyRevised operating instructions simplify extinguisherhandling through the use of more symbols and lesstext. As a result of this, even untrained users cansafely operate the extinguisher in the event of afire. The colour-highlighted operating elementslock, compression lever and hose handle ensuresafe handling in the event of a fire.

More multi-faceted Product ranges should be expanded to includenewly-developed housing made of impact-resistance high-performance plastic with tried and tested single lever operation. The advantage of this material is a weight reduction of up to one kilogram in comparison with other housingversions.

More environmentally friendly The use of high-performance extinguishingsolutions which are completely harmless to bothanimals and humans, for safe extinguishing withno sustained risks for the environment should bean obligation.

Finally we should also look to design extinguisherscreating aesthetic accents.

For special applications, fire extinguishers don’thave to be red, that shows a special design edition:Fire extinguishers with motives designed individuallyaccording to customers preferences ensure anoriginal way of combining safety and style intastefully arranged objects.

Thanks to the versatile and sophisticated air-brush technique, creativity has no limits. There isthe possibility to select from numerous suggestedmotives. In addition you can create your owndesign and have it artistically rendered or you showyour company logos, crests or emblems. The shinyand hand-polished chrome extinguishers arealready considered classics among the designseries; through their timeless elegance.

In the 21st Century those new generations of fireextinguishers will safe life, and combine environmen-tal aspects while protecting your properties. IFP


FIRE EXTINGUISHERSEXTINGUISHERS

s hers

P. 52-53 Fire Extinguishers 13/11/09 2:10 pm Page 53


CABLES

The reality for the vast majority of fire safetysystems, and particularly for fire detectionand alarm systems, is that no matter how

sophisticated they are, if the cable used in theinstallation fails, the equipment is invariablyrendered useless. While this is a serious considera-tion for every type of building, in a shoppingcentre it has the very real potential for the conse-quences to be of catastrophic proportions, eventhough these buildings are recognised as beingamong the safest and generally best managed andmaintained.

Part of the problem is that, increasingly, shoppingcentres are getting larger and many are complexmulti-use, multi-occupancy buildings incorporating

commercial offices, leisure centres, undergroundcar parks, hotels and apartments. This, and thefact that many of the individual retail units havetheir own fire detection and alarm provisions,means that many shopping centre fire safetyinstallations are extremely complex. However,human factors also have to be taken into account,as they can have an equally significant impact onevacuation time and, hence the need for firesafety systems to remain in operation for extendedperiods should a fire occur.

The shopping public’s behaviour is, at times,irrational or even bizarre. When automatic firedetection triggers an alarm, their response is oftenanything but automatic. Time is often squandered

By Mark Froggatt

Marketing ServicesManager, Draka UK

Shopping forthe Right CableSolutionSerious shopping centre or shopping mall fires are infrequent, thanks to thestrenuous efforts that go into ensuring fire safety. However, as Mark Froggattexplains, many of their often complex fire safety systems are totally dependenton the performance and reliability of the cabling.

Highcross leisure andretail centre, Leicester

P. 55-57 Shopping Centre Pro. 13/11/09 2:11 pm Page 55

in non-evacuation activities; a phase known to fireengineers as “pre-movement time”, during whichshoppers are trying to figure out what is happen-ing and what, if anything, they should do. Evenwhen they do decide to evacuate, they may notmake an immediate start even though they maybe in mortal danger.

If this sounds somewhat far-fetched, there isplenty of hard evidence. For example – and it is justone of many documented instances – a fire follow-ing an explosion in an electricity sub-station at theBroadway shopping centre in Sydney, Australia

turned into what the local newspaper referred toas “a comedy of errors”. Apparently, disgruntledcustomers were decidedly reluctant to stop shop-ping to evacuate the complex and, when theyfinally condescended, the centre’s car park operatorslowed down evacuation by insisting that parkingtickets were handed in at the exit to the car park.

So, ensuring that the cabling will maintain itsoperational integrity while this incomprehensiblebehaviour is going on is vitally important, becausecountless lives may be at risk.

Fortunately, such cable is readily available. Forexample, Draka’s Firetufplus 0HLS halogen-free

circuit integrity alarm cable was chosen for thenew Highcross leisure and retail centre in Leicesterin the UK. 70,000 metres of the cable, installed intwo phases, powers the fully-networked firedetection and alarm system and the public addresssystem that covers all of the centre’s public areas.

The development links directly to the adjacentShires shopping centre and adds 110,000 squaremetres of retail space to the city of Leicester, makingit equal in size to the internationally renownedBullring shopping complex in nearby Birmingham. Itincorporates three major department stores and a

spectacular covered mall with 120 leading-brandstores. 125,000 visitors experienced the venue’sopening day, highlighting the scale of the fire safetychallenges faced by every leisure and retail venue.

The decision to specify the Draka cable wastaken because of its proven ability to maintain theessential circuit integrity when exposed to fire, andcontinue to provide power to the fire detectionand public address systems. Firetufplus meets theEnhanced category of BS 5839-1:2002+A2:2008(Fire detection and fire alarm systems for build-ings. Code of practice for system design, installa-tion, commissioning and maintenance), and is


Westfield ShoppingCentre, London

CABLES

There is no reason to suppose that the public’s affection for the

convenience offered by shopping centres is going to decline, or

that they are likely to reduce in size or fire safety complexity.


manufactured to BS 7629-1:1997(Specification for 300/500 V fireresistant electric cables having lowemission of smoke and corrosivegases when affected by fire.Multicore cables).

The cable is also halogen-free,which means that it does not emithalogen gases and burns withoutproducing large amounts of densesmoke. By comparison, under fireconditions, the standard PVCcables used widely in the con-struction industry emit hydrogenchloride gas, which has a suffocat-ing odour that is detectable ineven very low concentrations.

Equally important, like all Drakacables, Firetufplus is tested andthird-party approved by LPCB (LossPrevention Certification Board) andBASEC (British Approvals Servicefor Cables). These third-partyapprovals provide the installationcontractor and Highcross’ man-agement with a truly meaningfulguarantee that the cable is to thestandard claimed for it. It provides60 minutes fire and mechanicalprotection, followed by 60 min-utes of fire, mechanical impactand water protection.

From the contractor’s viewpoint,Firetufplus also offered several on-site benefits, as it retains theease of installation associated witha pliable cable. These include: lowertermination costs; availability in longlengths; and twisted core construc-tion to improve signal clarity. Itsselection also called for no special tools or training.

However, this level of enhanced circuit integrityfire performance needs to be surpassed in certainbuildings that call for a cable that satisfies themore demanding requirements of BS 7346-6:2005(Components for smoke and heat control systems:specifications for cable systems). These are build-ings that, in England and Wales, are affected byApproved Document B (Fire safety) 2006 of theBuilding Regulations that came into force in 2007.

This specifies the fire performance requirementsof various types of fire-rated cables for maintain-ing circuit integrity to protect people – both build-ing occupants and fire and rescue personnel – andsafeguard property and the environment in largeor complex buildings. This is to ensure that there isa robust power supply in any building where lifesafety is dependant upon the reliable operation ofactive fire precautions or electrically-operatedpassive measures. This includes buildings withsophisticated fire detection and alarm systems;smoke venting systems; electrically-operated firedoors and smoke curtains; firefighting lifts; pres-surisation and depressurisation fans; motor-drivensmoke control dampers; and pumps for sprinklersystems and wet-risers.

Referring back to the earlier comments on thegrowing number of multi-use, multi-occupancyvenues and their often complex evacuationchallenges, this must surely apply to any numberof shopping centres, and particularly those

designed on fire engineering principles.Again, a solution is available. Firetuf Powerplus

– a 600/1000V SWA (Steel Wired Armoured)power cable – incorporates high-performancematerials to achieve the maximum 120-minuterating when subjected to the integrated testing ofBS 8491: 2008 (Method for assessment of fireintegrity of large diameter power cables for use ascomponents for smoke and heat control systemsand certain other active fire safety systems). Thisdemanding integrated testing regime involvesflame irradiation exposure, direct impact and high-pressure water spray testing.

There is no reason to suppose that the public’saffection for the convenience offered by shoppingcentres is going to decline, or that they are likelyto reduce in size or fire safety complexity. Thecurrent record holder is believed to be the BerjayaTimes Square in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. At700,000 square metres it is just short of 100 timeslarger than the pitch at the new Wembley Stadiumin London, England and incorporates 700 specialtyretail shops, 1,200 luxury service suites and 45food outlets.

No doubt there is already a developer orarchitect pouring over the plans to nudge this intosecond place. If so, it will almost certainly have itsfire safety determined using fire engineering prin-ciples that will rely on sophisticated detection andsuppression technology. And that means somecareful shopping for the right cable. IFP


Highcross leisure andretail centre, Leicester

SHOPPING FOR THE RIGHT CABLE SOLUTIONCABLES

Mark Froggatt is MarketingServices Manager at Derby-based Draka UK, He can bereached on +44 (0) 1332345431 or via email [email protected]. Thecompany’s website can befound at www.drakauk.com



GAS DETECTION

By placing transmitters and detectors in theright location and using the latest technologywith new long life sensors, modern systems

can be designed and installed more economicallythan ever before. As an added bonus, they canalso significantly reduce maintenance costs.

The requirements for different gas detectionsystems can vary dramatically from industry toindustry in accordance with the changing environ-ments and the substances found. Whilst somesystems are designed to eliminate the risks tohealth in areas containing toxic substances, othersare used to detect combustible gas leaks andprevent fire and explosions.

Whatever the industry, gas detection systemsshould be designed to meet the exact require-ments of an application, whether ensuring anintrinsically safe place of work or providing atotally failsafe environment. The following appli-cations highlight a few of ways in which gasdetection systems can be used to solve particularindustrial problems.

Food and beverage industryOne of the major raw materials found at both thebeginning and the end of the food and beverageproduction line is water. To be safe and acceptableto the consumer, water has to be treated and all

pipes and vessels have to be cleaned regularly withsterilising fluids. The quality of this sterilisation hasgained considerable significance over recent yearsbecause of the need for (a) a pleasant taste and(b) a lack of odour. Similarly, containers that comeinto contact with food as well as processed rawmaterials, like water, have to be sterilised or disin-fected. Gases such as ozone, chlorine and chlorinedioxide can all be used to achieve these effects.

As part of the process a number of workplacehazards can be produced. Sterilisation can createtoxic gases and, as part of the carbonation andfermentation process, carbon dioxide has to behandled in high concentrations. Chlorine is oftenstored in cylinders and chlorine dioxide can bechemically generated on site. The need for con-trolled temperature and environmental conditionsmeans that refrigeration and cooling systems arewidely used. Cooling fluids such as ammonia,hydrocarbons or halogenated hydrocarbons arecirculated under pressure in the cooling systemand can leak, posing a further danger to workers.

As an example, a small leak of the irritant gasammonia can lead to ill health effects and damageor destroy stored goods. By using a combinationof Draeger Polytron transmitters with long life NH3electrochemical sensors capable of monitoringranges of up to 1000 ppm, fixed gas detection

By Steve Robinson

Business DevelopmentManager, Draeger Fireand Gas DetectionSystems, Draeger SafetyUK Limited

Cost Effective Gas D

Given the life threatening nature of many of the hazards involved, saving moneyis probably not the first consideration when installing a fixed gas detectionsystem. As recent times have highlighted, however, it is a very important aspect.

P. 58-61 Industrial Gas Det. 13/11/09 2:12 pm Page 58


COST EFFECTIVE GAS DETECTIONGAS DETECTION

systems can provide an ideal solution. Sensorsshould be located near the control or piping endof evaporators and valve stations and shouldcertainly not be mounted at the front, back or on top of evaporators.

However, unless the sensors feature a glass-reinforced plastic or stainless steel constructionand have heated optics to reduce the effects ofhumidity, they should be kept out of direct airflowfrom and to the evaporator and away from anymoisture created during defrost. Likewise, theyshould not be installed over doors in refrigeratedareas or the sensor will become a chunk of ice. Incompressor rooms, because ammonia is lighterthan air and will rise first, the transmitter shouldbe installed at ceiling height.

Conversely, carbon dioxide is heavier than airand will collect in poorly ventilated areas or con-fined spaces, displacing oxygen with low-levelclouds. Odourless and colourless, it is a natural bi-product of the malting, fermentation andstorage processes in breweries and wineries. It canalso be used in the carbonation of soft drinks andmineral water in the beverage industry. In thisinstance, infrared transmitters such as the PolytronIR CO2 can monitor concentrations and alert per-sonnel or even switch on fans. Transmitters shouldbe mounted at low levels and be protected frommechanical damage and against water ingress ifthey are washed down occasionally.

RefineriesAn oil refinery is an organised and co-ordinatedarrangement of manufacturing processes designedto produce physical and chemical changes in crudeoil and to convert it into everyday products such aspetrol, diesel, lubricating oil, fuel oil and bitumen.Virtually every process results in the creation ofdangerous gases.

Explosive hazards will need to be monitoredaround non-hermetic compressors and pumps andat LPG storage and filling sites. Toxic and explosivehazards might be found around flanges, whereashydrogen sulphide could be a problem in desul-phurisation plants, and chlorine could pose athreat in water treatment areas. Dangerous gasescan also occur in “odd” areas where leaks havebeen channelled by wind direction or by gravitywhere substances such as LPG, which moves likeswater, find their way into trenches.

Gases obviously need to be detected beforethey reach sensitive locations such as nearby livingquarters or roads, the air intake of a control room,the power plant, and hot spots such as hydroc-rackers and ovens.

A number of gas detection options exist for dif-ferent applications. Perfect for fence-line detectionand coverage of larger areas, for example, theDraeger Polytron Pulsar Open Path gas detector isable to detect hydrocarbon leaks within a line ofsight of up to 200m. Eliminating the need for avapour calibration, the Polytron IR can be calibratedwith one common gas such as propane and,during normal operation, several target gases canbe selected from the internal gas library withoutrequiring re-calibration. IR sensors can also be

used to provide low measuring ranges in leakdetection applications. Catalytic bead sensors suchas the Polytron Ex are ideal to protect againsthydrogen and are available in a HT version for hightemperature applications above 65ºC. For hydro-fluoric acid and hydrogen sulphide, universaltransmitters such as the Polytron 3000 or 7000will accept any Draeger sensor and allow sensor-specific information to be downloaded from theembedded sensor EEPROM.

Solvent storageOne way to save money in a solvent storage areais to install a gas detection system. An accidentalspill of flammable liquid substances can lead to apotentially explosive mixture. A ventilation systemgiving a continuous five-fold air exchange (fivetimes the storage volume per hour) can preventsuch a hazard but, over time, can prove to be veryexpensive, particularly in light of the fact that spillsof this kind are extremely rare. A simple, costefficient solution is to install a gas detectionsystem which allows the ventilation to be kept atlow speed for most of the time (i.e. one fold air-exchange) and which only switches theventilation to five-fold if the gas detection systemdetects increasing or hazardous concentrations offlammable vapours.

Solvent storage monitoring requires area moni-toring, covering a given space rather than having asensor close to the point of every potential leak.Catalytic bead detectors are suitable for monitor-ing an area of approximately 75m2 but, whenusing IR detectors (which allow lower measuringranges and, therefore, lower alarm thresholds), themonitored area can be increased to 200m2.

s Detection


As all flammable vapours are heavier than air,the detectors should be placed very close to thefloor but still be accessible for calibration andmaintenance. Calibration has to be performed forthe substance to which the installed detector isleast sensitive. Once again, IR detectors offer morecapabilities than the catalytic bead variety.

In most cases, an n-Nonane or Toluene calibra-tion is recommended for catalytic bead sensors. Across-calibration using Propane or n-Butane and afactor of 2.3 and 2.0 respectively can be made ifthe stored chemicals are not comprehensively

specified. Greater scope is available with newersensors such as the Draeger Polytron IR Ex. Used todetect a wide range of flammable liquids whencalibrated for methane or acetone, it is relativelysensitive and, therefore, can reliably monitorvapours such as alcohols, ethers, cyclo and glycol-ethers, alkanes and alkyl compounds as well asketones, esters, fuel hydrocarbons, alkyl benzenes(xylene and toluene) and amines. In this instance,the first alarm threshold (e.g. 5 or 10% LEL andrequiring no operator acknowledgement) could beused to switch the ventilation fans into high speed

mode. The second alarm threshold (at 30 or 40%LEL) could be used to switch off power to thestorage facility and to warn the operator.

Sensors saving moneyFast response, stable signals, good measurementperformance, low drift, long extended lifetime,extended temperature ranges, poison resistanceand wide measuring ranges form just part of thesensor selection criteria.

Where the detection of toxic gases or oxygendepletion are concerned, traditional small and

mass produced electrochemical sensors have beeneclipsed by larger, intelligent sensors. These typesof sensor are able to communicate with the trans-mitter and feature an EPROM memory whichstores calibration information as well as gas data,such as target gas and range. Incorporating tem-perature and pressure compensation, this built-inintelligence not only leads to higher accuracy butit also extends calibration intervals to just once ayear. In addition, they offer improved longevitywhich, in turn, means that fewer replacementsensors are required. As a result, the lifetime costs


GAS DETECTION

Solvent storage monitoring requires area monitoring,

covering a given space rather than having a sensor close to

the point of every potential leak. Catalytic bead detectors are

suitable for monitoring an area of approximately 75m2 but,

when using IR detectors (which allow lower measuring ranges

and, therefore, lower alarm thresholds), the monitored

area can be increased to 200m2.


of the system are significantly reduced.Available with a variety of mounting capa-bilities, they also offer better flexibility interms of selectable response times and ppb(parts per billion) test rates.

These sensors are also easy to use. Asthe gas is stored within the sensor itselfand the sensors arrive pre-calibrated fromthe manufacturer, they no longer have tobe calibrated in the transmitter. Further-more, the plug-in construction offers true“plug-and-play” functionality and, onceinstalled in the transmitter, the EPROM willcommunicate with the transmitter withoutfurther intervention or calibration by theoperator.

Better manufacturing techniques andadvances in technology have also improvedthe detection of flammable gases andvapours with traditional pellistor or catalyt-ic bead detectors being replaced by superi-or technologies such as infra red (IR). Evenin the harshest of conditions, the newDraegerSensor IR, for example, is easy toinstall – simply unscrew the pellistor andscrew in the IR. The inclusion of a Wheat-stone Bridge, which is able to duplicate astandard pellistor output, also means that existingcables and control devices from most manufactur-ers can still be used.

IR technology is also more robust and stableand is immune to poisons such as H2S, forexample. As a further benefit, the increasedaccuracy of IR is able to reduce maintenance andcalibration intervals. Instead of the need for six-monthly or, in some cases, the more frequentcalibration intervals required by catalytic devices, IRsystems can extend calibration intervals to oneyear. Together with an overall life expectancy ofmore than 15 years, this technology dramaticallyreduces lifetime ownership costs.

Cabling can also be a consideration and the useof open path IR technology, where a multiple infrared beam is transmitted over a distance of up to200m to a separate receiver can have specificadvantages. Where large areas need to be coveredin perimeter monitoring, for instance, IR sensorscan significantly reduce cabling costs.

Draeger Fire and Gas Detection Systems offersproducts, services and system solutions for allencompassing toxic, flammable and oxygendetection, flame detection and design, build,commission and maintenance of fire and gasdetection systems for protection of personnel andassets. IFP


COST EFFECTIVE GAS DETECTIONGAS DETECTION

Further information isavailable from: Marion MackenzieDraeger Safety UK LimitedUllswater CloseBlyth Riverside Business ParkBlythNorthumberland NE24 4RGTel: 01670 561413Fax: 01670 544475



+1.219.663.1600www.janusfiresystems.com1102 Rupcich DriveCrown Point, IN 46307 U.S.A.

FM-200® is a registered trademark of E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company.

EXPERIENCEDEXPERIENCEDMANUFACTURER. MANUFACTURER.

CUSTOMER FOCUSED.CUSTOMER FOCUSED.

P. 62 ads 13/11/09 2:12 pm Page 62


GASEOUS SUPPRESSION

Clean agent fire suppression systems aresuperior to simple water systems becausethey extinguish a fire faster (and more

efficiently) than water, require no clean-up andprevent smoke and soot damage. Clean agentsextinguish fire as a gas that permeates into cabi-nets, wire-laden ceilings and subfloors and otherobstructed areas (where water cannot reach).Clean agents are uniquely suited to protect elec-tronics hidden within equipment and enclosures,where fires are likely to start. By flooding an areawith a gaseous fire fighting agent, even obscuredor hard-to-reach fires are quickly extinguished,usually long before they are seen.

HistoryFor more than 30 years, Halon 1301 and Halon1211 were the preferred fire extinguishing systemsfor many high value asset and electronic applica-tions, as well as for irreplaceable artifacts thatmight be damaged by water-based systems.However, in 1994, the Montreal Protocol severelylimited, and eventually halted the production ofhalons due to their implication in the destructionof stratospheric ozone.

Prior to this phase-out, an industry-wide effortwas undertaken to discover alternative fire extin-guishing agents. The ideal solution was to find theagents that performed like Halon, but with zero

By Kevin Kenny

Fike Global ProductManager

SelectionConsiderationsfor Clean AgentFire SuppressionSystemsBasic fire protection systems, such as fire sprinklers, provide personal andstructural protection. But when it comes to high-value assets, water can be justas damaging as fire and smoke.

Fike FM-200 systemprotects engineeringfirm’s computer roomfacility

P. 63-65 Gaseous Suppression 13/11/09 2:13 pm Page 63

ODP (Ozone Depleting Potential) and low GWP(Global Warming Potential). As a result of thiseffort, a number of Halon alternatives have beenintroduced to the market since the early 1990’s.Today, the primary choices for clean agent firesuppression are:● Hydrofluorocarbons or HFCs. (Dupont™

FM-200™ and FE-25™ are two of the mostcommonly known HFC agents)

● Perfluronated ketones or PFCs (such as 3M’sNovec™ 1230)

● Inert gases (usually a blend of argon andnitrogen)There are over 300,000 fire suppressions

systems in the world using FM-200 agent, makingit the clear leader. FM-200 has a long track recordof success and is well known by fire professionalsglobally. FE-25 systems (known by the brand nameECARO-25®) have grown in popularity since itscommercial introduction in 2004, mainly due tothe fact that it is the most economical Halonreplacement option. Novec 1230 systems, anotherrelative newcomer to fire suppression, have foundsuccess in projects desiring low GWP. Inert gassystems are popular in Europe and other regionsthat demand the absolute minimal environmentalimpact.

All these agents have shown to suppress fires,and are much more effective than basic watersystems in high-value protected spaces. However,there are other factors that should be consideredwhen evaluating which system is the best for aparticular application.

1. PerformanceHFCs and PFCs extinguish fires by lowering thetemperature below what is required for thecombustion process to occur and/or chemically

interfering with that process. Inert gases extin-guish fires by reducing the oxygen concentrationlevel in the protected space to a point that a firecannot be sustained, yet is still safe for humanoccupation. While both methods are effective, theheat reduction/removal method is much faster andrequires less extinguishing agent percent pervolume.

Though many inert gas systems are moreefficient in hold time (the amount of time a cleanagent must remain in a protected space to extin-guish the fire), than HFCs, HFCS are typically moreefficient than PFCs. More specifically, FE-25 is 15%more efficient in hold time than FM-200 and 25%more efficient in hold time than Novec 1230.

2. CostIn today’s economic climate, cost-effectiveness is avital consideration. Fortunately, clean agentsystems can be designed to meet the budgetrequirements, and still provide a significantly moreeffective method of protection versus sprinklers.Halogenated systems are typically the least expen-sive in terms of initial cost. PFC systems are moreexpensive, and inert gas systems are usually themost expensive in initial costs. For example,systems using FE-25 can be up to 38% less thancomparable Novec 1230 systems. As stated above,FE-25 is an excellent choice for applications thatneed the protection of a clean agent, but want themost economical solution. FE-25 systems are alsowell suited for Halon replacement projects becausemany times an existing Halon piping network canbe used, providing substantial savings versus othersystems.

Inert gas systems are usually the highest initialcost due to the number of containers requiredversus HFCs and PFCs. However, many buildingowners are looking more carefully at the “life-time” costs of a suppression system, includingexpenses for maintenance, refills, and testing overmany years. Because inert gas systems areextremely inexpensive and easy to re-fill, they arepotentially the most cost-effective solution overthe usable lifetime. Additionally, inert gas systemsusing selector valve technology can be very costeffective in large and/or multiple area applications,since one centralized inert gas system can be usedto protect several different risk areas.

3. Environmental factorsEnvironmental considerations are increasinglyimportant to building owners around the world.All clean agent fire suppression systems on themarket are considered “green” due to having zeroODP. But some projects may require a system withthe least amount of environmental impact. Whenthis is the case, inert gas systems (using argon andnitrogen) are typically the preferred choice becausethey are the only systems with zero GWP. Someinert systems include a small amount of carbondioxide in the agent blend, so that should beconsidered when evaluating inert systems fromdifferent manufacturers. A PFC system such asNovec 1230 can also be a consideration for envi-ronmentally-driven projects due to its very lowGWP. Hydrofluorocarbons have a higher GWP thaninert gases or PFCs, although still well below theGWP of Halon.

Recently, there has been much discussionglobally about the use of HFCs in all types of


Fike’s ProInert inert gassystem with patentedself-regulating valve

GASEOUS SUPPRESSION


applications, most notably in refrigeration. Somecountries are beginning to evaluate HFC usage inlight of its environmental impact. In most areasaround the world, HFCs are commonly used in firesuppression, and there is no indication that thiswill change in the foreseeable future, even if HFCusage is reduced in other applications such asrefrigeration. Despite all the speculation and (oftenincorrect) predictions for the future of HFCproducts, building owners should seek the factsabout HFCs for fire protection, and make educateddecisions based on those facts.

4. FootprintFootprint, or the amount of room actually devotedto the fire suppression system, can be an impor-tant factor in applications where space is limited.Due to the necessity for high pressurization, inertgas systems usually require a large number oftanks for a typical space. This may limit the use ofinert gas systems in applications with limitedspace, such as offshore oil platforms, Halonreplacement projects, protected spaces within amulti-tenant building, or smaller urban buildings.When there is limited space for clean agentcontainers, FM-200, FE-25, or Novec 1230 areoften the appropriate choice.

It should again be noted that inert gas systemshave the important distinction of being able tolocate the storage containers far away (up to 61m)from the protected areas. So even if there islimited space for containers within the protectedarea, these systems can still be viable if there isavailable space in another part of the facility, suchas a storage room or garage.

5. Halon replacementInternationally, the production of Halon hasceased, but the replacement protocol of old Halonsystems varies greatly. In addition to the almostworldwide production ban on Halon 1301, numer-ous countries have taken steps to mandate theremoval of these systems, including many parts ofEurope and Australia. Canada has implemented aHalon 1301 phase out plan, including a halt onthe refill of fixed Halon systems beginning in 2010.In addition, the only sources for this gas are recy-cled Halon and inventories produced prior to1994. This limited supply continues to spur theneed for replacement options, even in areas thathave not banned the existence of such systems.

Of all the options, FE-25 demonstrates the

closest performance match to Halon 1301. Due tothe physical similarities between gases, FE-25systems can often use an existing Halon pipingnetwork. FM-200 and Novec 1230 systems offer asimilar general footprint to Halon systems, butusually require new piping.

6. Chemical vs. natural All the clean agent options discussed in this articleare considered safe for occupied spaces. For somebuilding owners, the decision of which product touse comes down to a chemical (“man-made”)solution versus a more naturally occurring solution.Chemical clean agents have definite benefits,including speed, footprint, and cost. Inert gaseshave the benefit of being an absolutely green solu-tion, without any concern of releasing chemicalsinto the atmosphere. Some users may be con-cerned about the concept of oxygen reductionemployed by inert gas systems in occupied spaces.An inert system reduces the oxygen level toapproximately 12% by volume – a level that willnot support a combustion reaction (thus extin-guishing the fire), but is perfectly safe for humanexposure over a short period of time.

Because all the current agents are safe, theissue of chemical versus natural is not aboutperformance, but preference. Fortunately, manymanufacturers of clean agent suppression systemsoffer both types of systems, so the end user hasplenty of options to meet their protection andbudget needs.

SummaryThe world is increasing its reliance on sophisticatedelectronics, telecommunications, data centers,advanced medical technologies, and many othertypes of specialized equipment. Protecting theseunique assets from fire requires more than a simplesprinkler system. It’s important to understand thedifferences between the various clean agentsystems, in order to make well-informed decisionsabout which one to employ. Manufacturers willnaturally try to portray their offerings in the bestlight possible, and may sometimes fail to provide abalanced view of all options. Simply stated, everyclean agent system on the market has benefits,and every system has aspects that could be consid-ered drawbacks. But all clean agent systemsprovide an advanced level of fire protection andshould always be considered for high value assetareas. IFP


SELECTION CONSIDERATIONS FOR CLEAN AGENT FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEMSGASEOUS SUPPRESSION


Fike IFP 40 p66 11/11/09 7:54 am Page 1


FIRE SEALS

The number of manufacturers having listingsfor firestop systems has increased more thanthree-fold. The model codes have gone from

unclear firestopping references to specific lan-guage within a section devoted exclusively tofirestopping. With these code refinements cameincreased enforcement by the local building offi-cials. Architects have become much more aware ofthe need to provide clear and specific details ofthe firestop conditions needed within their build-ing designs. Mechanical, electrical, and plumbingengineers are now automatically incorporatingproper firestopping techniques, which influencethe design of their individual service runs. Thetypes of products offered were only a few, butnow they include: Sealants, putties, mortars,

pillows, boards, wrap strips, devices, etc. Thoughthere have been many changes, there seems to beone persistent question: Whose responsibility is itto do the firestopping? Before we deal with thisissue, we need to review the following: What isfirestopping, why do we need to firestop, andhow are through penetration firestops materialstested?

One way to look at firestopping would be tosay that it is a material or a combination of materi-als used to re-establish the fire integrity of a ratedwall or floor assembly after its rating has beencompromised by the inclusion or exclusion of apenetrant. To simplify, one must maintain the timerated integrity of an assembly after any alteration.As an example, when an insulated pipe is installed

By Randy G. Clark

Rectorseal Corporation

Firestopping – A SharedResponsibility Since I first got my start in firestopping more than twenty-five years ago, I haveseen many changes take place within this still young industry.

Pic courtesy ofRectorseal Inc

P. 67-70 Fire Seals 13/11/09 2:13 pm Page 67

through a two hour rated gypsum wall, that pipehas destroyed the original rating of the wall. If thecontractor follows a tested firestop configurationand properly installs the listed firestop materials,the original rating of the wall with its penetrant ismaintained.

Why do we need to firestop? First of all,firestopping is one of the requirements of the vari-ous building codes. All major building codes haveat their foundation fire codes. The integrity of abuilding during a fire condition must be maintainedin order to have a safe evacuation of its occupants.The integrity also needs to be maintained in orderto provide the firefighters their best opportunity toput out the fire. Secondly, firestopping is a matterof life safety. The lives of the firefighters as well asthose of the building’s occupants could very welldepend on having properly firestopped penetra-tions. Using a product which is part of a recognizedfirestop system configuration will meet the require-ments of the codes.

How are firestopping materials for throughpenetrations tested? Both the industry at largeand the building and code officials recognize theestablished test standard ASTM E814 or UL 1479,“Fire Tests of Through-Penetration Firestops.” Thisstandard was first published in 1981 and had at itsroots one of the oldest fire tests, ASTM E119,“Fire Tests of Building Construction and Materi-als.” ASTM E814 (UL 1479) mandates that the fireendurance of the firestop system configuration benot less than that of the fire rated assembly whentested under a minimum positive pressure and tothe standard time-temperature curve. After thesuccessful passage of the fire endurance portion ofthe test, the entire assembly is subjected to the

erosion, impact, and coolingeffects of a high pressure fire-man’s hose. Both the fireendurance as well as the highpressure hose portions must besuccessfully passed to meet therequirements of this standard.

Then whose responsibility isit to firestop? Let us examineseveral layers of responsibility: Thearchitect/engineer, the local build-ing official, the general contractor,the sub-contractor/specialty con-tractor, and the firestop manu-facturer. It would seem that eachof these entities would have aseparate agenda and at timeswould seem to be adversarial, butwhen it comes to firestopping,each shares a common responsi-bility: Life-Safety. Let us brieflyexamine their responsibility andthe manner in which prior plan-ning could affect the degree offulfillment of this responsibility.

The architect/engineer for theproject is responsible for develop-ing a concept and committing itto paper. He is also responsible forliterally hundreds of building ele-ments, not only specifying whichto use, but also making sure thateach will function as intended andin harmony with the others. Hisdesign and its elements must

meet the local code requirements. However, thedesign configurations can have an impact not onlyon the method of firestopping, but, in turn, canhave an impact on the complexity of the systemand its overall cost. Let us examine some of theseparameters: The selection of materials, the size ofthe opening, the quantity of penetrants within theopening, and the intended conditions as to whichthe penetrants will be subjected.

What about the selection of materials?After the architect has established a design tomatch the owner’s requirements, the variousengineers set to work designing the specific ser-vice runs. These runs may be for electrical conduitor cables, piping for domestic water, steam orchilled water, HVAC duct work, or other services.The choice of a particular run could affect themethod and materials used in firestopping and itsoverall cost. For example, combustible penetrants(especially various types of plastics) are usuallymore difficult than metallic penetrants to firestopand sometimes require the use of special collars orwraps. These collars extend beyond the diameterof the pipe, and because of their anchoring, morespace is required between penetrants. In additionto complications with combustible penetrants,there are types of pipe insulation materials whichare more difficult than others to firestop. Further-more, it is important to make sure that there issufficient annular space provided for the insulationso that an appropriate amount of the selectedfirestop material can be used. The annular spacecreated will be in direct proportion to the size ofhole made within the assembly and the size of thehole made can affect both the methods andmaterials used.



FIRE SEALS


What about the intended conditions theseconfigurations must endure during the life ofthe building? The engineers will select the appro-priate service runs for the duties intended. Theselection of materials will include the type andschedule of pipe, the type and size of insulation,the type and size of cables, and the size andgauge of duct. These materials have been engi-neered to perform within their environment andwithin the appropriate design limits. However,consideration must be given to the firestoppingmethods and materials to be used if these materi-als are placed within fire rated assemblies. Will thepenetrants experience extreme vibration or move-ment? Will the penetrants experience an unusualatmosphere of high moisture, water or chemicals?

Will the penetrants be exposed to elevated temper-atures? These variables could affect the selection ofa proper firestop configuration. In these situationsas in all unusual cases, the manufacturer should beconsulted for a specific recommendation.

What about others who have responsibilityfor proper firestopping? The local buildingofficials (inspectors) have the responsibility bystatute to enforce the locally adopted buildingcode requirements. The inspectors will require that the contractor furnish sufficient documen-tation to show that the installed firestopconfiguration and the products used meet withthe requirements of the code for the particularassembly and penetrants. These inspectors havethe ultimate responsibility to approve or disap-prove any firestop system, whether it is a tested

system or an engineered judgment. The generalcontractor is under contract with the owner toconstruct the project in accordance with the plansand specifications. Therefore, the general contrac-tor has the ultimate responsibility to complete thework, even if the subcontractor (who had the orig-inal responsibility) fails to complete his individualcontract. When it comes to firestopping, it is mostcommon for the contractor making the hole tohave the responsibility to fill it properly. During thelast decade, there has been the growth in thenumber of specialty contractors (applicators) whoconcentrate in the application of firestop materi-als. These applicators will contract for the entireproject or will only subcontract for the firestoppingfrom the other trades on the job site. These

specialty applicators will facilitate a moreconsistent approach to firestopping for the overallproject. In fact, an increased number of specifica-tions call for the firestopping to be done by asingle contractor. Lastly, the manufacturers havethe responsibility to develop and test productswhich will best meet the needs of a rapidly chang-ing building industry. These products not only haveto work, but should also be easy to install and becost effective. The manufacturers also have theresponsibility to furnish sufficient documentationfor their products and for the configuration inwhich they must be installed. If there is anyquestion about the design or use of a particularproduct in a specific condition, the manufacturershould be contacted. The responsibility for properfirestopping is truly a shared one. IFP



FIRESTOPPING – A SHARED RESPONSIBILITYFIRE SEALS

When it comes to firestopping, it is most common for the

contractor making the hole to have the responsibility to fill it

properly. During the last decade, there has been the growth in the

number of specialty contractors (applicators) who concentrate in

the application of firestop materials.


Specify FyreWrap® EliteTM 1.5 Duct Insulation, the innovative shaftalternative and fire-rated duct enclosure.

Wrap It Up

w w w. u n i f r a x . c o m

A FyreWrap® fire-rated duct insulation system lets you wrap up your project in less time at lower cost. This lightweight, flexible material minimizes labor andinstallation time and saves valuable building space.FyreWrap Elite1.5 Duct Insulation offers superior fireprotection and design flexibility including:

■ 1– and 2– hour fire-rated duct protection

■ Systems for grease, chemical fume, HVAC and life safety air ducts

■ Complies with NFPA 96, ICC and IAMPO Codes

■ Solutions for building design and complex jobsite configuration

■ Conserves space as alternative to traditional gypsum shaft enclosures

■ Thin, lightweight, flexible blanket form allows easy installation

■ Utilizes high temperature biosoluble insulation

A FyreWrap product specification in several formats isavailable at search using keywordsUnifrax, FyreWrap, or . For additionalinformation on FyreWrap Elite 1.5 or other products,certifications, code compliance, installation instructionsor drawings, contact Unifrax Corporate HeadquartersUSA at 716-278-3888.

www.arcat.com;www.unifrax.com

FyreWrap Ad-IFP 10/26/09 2:54 PM Page 1


GET YOUR SUBSCRIPTION NOW!!!

IFP IS PUBLISHED 4 TIMES A YEAR – FEBRUARY, MAY, AUGUST AND

NOVEMBER

Name:––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Company/Organisation: –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Address: ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Telephone: ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Fax: ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

E-mail: ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Start Subscription from Issue: –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Subscription Rates: UK £50.00 Europe �60 Rest of World US $70.00

Back Issues: US $18.00, £10.00 or �15 each inclusive of P&P (subject to availability)

METHODS OF PAYMENT:

Website Subscription: –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Cheque: ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Visa/Mastercard No: –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Expiry Date: ––––––––––––––––––––––– Security Code: ––––––––––––––––(last three digits on reverse of card)

MDM Publishing Ltd.The Abbey Manor Business Centre, The Abbey, Preston Road,

Yeovil, Somerset BA20 2EN, United Kingdom

ADVERTISERS’ INDEXSUBSCRIPTIONS








✂ ✂www.mdmpublishing.com

MDM Publishing Ltd.

CGI International 13

Chemetron OBC

C-TEC 25-29

Dafo Fomtec IBC

Detector Electronics 5

Dr Sthamer 51

Draka IFC

Essex Fluid Controls 37

Fike Corporation 66

Fire Fighting Enterprises 17

Firetrace International 9

Flexhead Industries 48

Gielle 43

Halon Banking Systems 41

Janus Fire Protection 62

Kentec 29

Means of Escape 50

Minimax 54

OCV Control Valves 2

Patterson Pumps 11

Pilkington 17

Pyroplex Limited 14

Reliable Fire Sprinkler 44

Securiton 25

Sensitron 62

Spectrex Inc 34

Tyco FSBP 38

Underwriters Laboratories 7

Unifrax 71

Vetrotech – Saint Gobain 19

Vimpex 54

INTERNATIONALFIRE PROTECTIONINTERNATIONAL

FIRE PROTECTION

If paying by credit card please fax details. DO NOT post/mail.Fax: +44 (0) 1935 426926

P. 72 Subs/Ad. index 13/11/09 2:14 pm Page 72

Dafo Fomtec 7/3/09 10:28 am Page 1

Every industry needs a unique fire protection solution

Chemetron Fire Systems offers the widest range of fire protection solutions to suit your needs. Protecting your most vital assets and operations is our mission and passion. Including low pressure CO2, water mist, Argonite™, 3M™ Novec™1230 fire protection fluid and FM-200®; our systems protect the assets most vital to you — data centers, power generation facilities, milling applications, LEED certified projects as well as other high value business systems, to name just a few.

With project management, installation and service Chemetron is the one manufacturer that can unlock the solution to all of your fire protection challenges.

Backed by our experience. Focused on your future.With over 70 years of experience, let Chemetron provide the key to your unique challenge. Call us today at 708-748-1503 ext 411, or go to: www.chemetron.com

The Key to Worldwide Protection.

Kidde_Chemetron_ad_MDM.indd 1 1/21/09 8:35 PM

ifp issue 40

Documents

firetuf range

global voice

mdm publishing

ukan mdm publicationissue

ifpfiretuf1109ifp firetuf

yourspecialist cable

range of applications

page design