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Extinguishing the data centre

A recent article in this publication referred to Fike Corporation’s ProInert gaseous fire protection system and described the fundamental differences between ProInert and conventional inert systems which have been available in South Africa for several years.

There is always considerable hype around the release of a new product accompanied by a similar amount of skepticism as to whether the product will deliver on the promises made. As a result of these concerns, the implementation and full discharge testing of a system is eagerly awaited to determine if the solution meets the expectations of the installation contractor and end user.

The area to be protected is a data centre for a major telecommunications company and has undergone considerable structural upgrades to meet the demands for all new data installations that require improved cooling and ventilation capabilities and an overall cleaner operating environment.

The facility had previously been fitted with a traditional Inert gas extinguishing system which utilised 150 Bar gas storage cylinders which were no longer supported by the original installation company and therefore could not be effectively maintained. The contract was awarded following a selected tender process with several companies participating.

Results of full discharge test

The full discharge test of a ProInert system, designed, installed and commissioned by Masc Solutions and consisting of 71 x 80 litre cylinders has conclusively confirmed that Fike’s ProInert not only achieves the results projected by the computerised design programme but exceeded the expectations of the contractor, consultant and end user reaching the required design concentration well within the 60 second design period and retaining this concentration in full compliance with the ISO standards.

Fike’s ProInert constant flow valve assembly also allows the inert agent to discharge within the required 60 seconds, utilising only the amount required to actually extinguish the fire. That represents an additional savings on agent and cylinder costs.

Other benefits of the ProInert pressure regulated discharge:

* Discharge pipe network typically at least one pipe size smaller in diameter than other systems, reducing costs.

* No orifice plate to install – saving on design and installation costs.

* Direction or selector valve systems use low pressure readily available valves.

* Safer installation since the discharge valve can only deliver the regulated pressure.

* Longer pipe runs possible between cylinders and the protected space.

The future

The recent introduction of 300 Bar ProInert operating systems to the South African market will provide significant advantages to the market, for example:

* Reduction of up to 50% in the quantity of cylinders required to protect the risk area.

* Smaller footprint for cylinder storage.

* No increase in the pipe size or pressure standard.

* Even greater safety factors in comparison to competitor’s offering.

The advantages previously provided by ProInert 200 Bar systems has undoubtedly been enhanced by the introduction of a 300 Bar option and offers end users the comfort of choosing an environmentally safe fire suppression solution with substantial cost savings.

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