What are the Types of Inert Gas Extinguishing Systems?
Argon gas fire suppression systems are available in many different options.
Each type is known for its different extinguishing concentrations and physical properties.
At this stage, engineers determine the most ideal one among inert gas extinguishing systems according to the location to be applied and apply the most accurate design accordingly.
All calculations and designs must be carried out with approved hydraulic calculation programs.
Since alternatives can be provided according to the application area, choices should be made according to where the system will be used and the systems should be installed correctly.
Inert gas extinguishing system types are as follows:
- IG – 01: 100% Argon
- IG – 100: 100% Nitrogen
- IG – 55: 50% Nitrogen + 50% Argon (Argonite)
- IG – 541: 52% Nitrogen + 40% Argon + 8% Carbon dioxide (Inergen)
Expert and competent engineers decide which of these system types to use in line with their calculations.
How is Inert Gas Extinguishing System Design?
There are many processes that need to be done in inert gas extinguishing system design.
The first of these processes is to determine the hazard class.
Determination of the correct design concentration by the designer and the amount of agent depends on knowing the hazard class.
There are three different classes in TS EN 15004-7, 8, 9, 10 standards.
These are; B class, surface A class and high hazard A class.
The minimum design concentration of the hazard classes is used.
Then the amount of extinguishing gas required for a certain volume is calculated.
Then the minimum design percentages are determined according to the system types and hazard classes with four different types of argon-containing gases.
What Should Be Considered When Using Argon Gas Extinguishing Systems?
These systems, which use argon and nitrogen gases as extinguishers, reduce the oxygen concentration.
In this way, it has the principle of stopping the fire.
The gas mixture or inert gas in the system reduces the oxygen concentration to a level where ignition cannot occur.
In this way, the fire is stopped.
The things to be considered in the use of argon gas extinguishing systems are as follows:
- Sealing the pipeline is of utmost importance.
- The pipeline must be tested with nitrogen gas at a certain pressure value for a certain period of time.
- Piping should be done according to the projects verified in the hydraulic calculation program.
- Installation must be carried out by competent engineers and specialists.
Improper installation of any fastener may cause a negative impact on gas distribution. - Pipes and fittings must be used in accordance with the pressure class.
- The room must be absolutely sealed.
- The amount of gas must be calculated in accordance with the standards.
- Openings at cable and pipe passage points must be closed.
- Grilles and openings to ventilation ducts should be checked and closed with the help of automatic dampers.
- Failure to ensure tightness may cause re-ignition of an extinguished fire.
- Since it is important that the gas remains in the room for 10 minutes, Door-fan Room Tightness Test should be performed.
It is very important that experts play an active role in all these transactions and that experts approve the transactions made.
Evenos’ competent staff You can also benefit from the highest level of security with inert gas extinguishing systems, which are installed and maintained by the company and provide problem-free use with regular customer information.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do Inert Gas Extinguishing Systems Work?
Inert gas extinguishing systems, also known as argon gas extinguishing, are known for addressing all basic fire classes and for being safe and clean.
Argon gas is found naturally in nature.
Therefore, it does not have any ozone depleting effect.
Inert gas extinguishing systems that do not harm the environment; Since they are natural, that is, non-chemical gases, they do not have a recycling period in the atmosphere.
The basic principle of these systems in extinguishing the fire is to reduce the amount of oxygen in the environment.
Inert gas extinguishing systems that reduce the extinguishing concentration below 15% end the combustion with oxygen deficiency.
As long as hydraulic calculations allow, inert gas extinguishing systems can protect a large number of rooms in the location.
Which Gases Do Inert Gas Extinguishing Systems Consist of?
Inert gas extinguishing systems consist of argon, argonite, nitrogen and inergene gases.
Is There Any Drawback to Using Inert Gas Extinguishing Systems?
Inert gas extinguishing systems are especially preferred in places with large volumes and are known for their cleanliness, applicability and economy.
Therefore, there are no drawbacks as long as the things to be considered in their use are complied with.