What is and where is aerosol fire extinguishing used?

Aerosol fire suppression is an innovative technology that combines high efficiency, compactness, and environmental friendliness. Due to its ease of installation, versatility, and safety for equipment, it is widely used in various sectors, from industrial facilities to cultural institutions. Choosing such a system ensures reliable fire protection with minimal costs and risks, making it a promising solution for modern safety needs.

What is Aerosol Fire Suppression?

Aerosol fire suppression is a method of extinguishing fires using specialized aerosol generators that produce a fine-particle aerosol with fire-suppressing properties.

This aerosol fills the space and suppresses combustion through chemical and physical effects on the flame. Unlike traditional methods (such as water, foam, or gas suppression), aerosol fire suppression does not require large volumes of liquid or complex piping systems, making it compact and convenient to use.

How Does Aerosol Fire Suppression Work?

The principle of aerosol fire suppression is based on three main mechanisms:

1. Chemical Suppression: The aerosol contains particles that react with free radicals in the flame, interrupting the combustion chain reaction.
2. Physical Cooling: The aerosol absorbs heat, lowering the temperature in the combustion zone to a level where the flame cannot be sustained.
3. Oxygen Displacement: The dense aerosol partially displaces oxygen from the combustion zone, restricting the fire’s access to air.

The system is activated either automatically (via signals from sensors) or manually, after which the generator releases the aerosol, filling the space in seconds.

Components of an Aerosol Fire Suppression System

An aerosol fire suppression system consists of the following key components:

1. Aerosol Generator: A device containing a solid fire-suppressing compound (typically based on potassium salts) and an activation mechanism.
2. Sensors and Control Panel: Detect signs of a fire (smoke, heat) and trigger the system.
3. Notification System: Audible or visual signals to alert people.
4. Mounting and Protective Elements: Ensure safe placement of generators in the premises.

Generators can be stationary (installed in a fixed location) or portable (for localized use). The system requires no complex installation or piping, simplifying its setup.

Classification of Aerosol Fire Suppression Systems

Aerosol fire suppression systems are classified based on several criteria:

By Activation Method:

• Automatic: Triggered by signals from sensors.
• Manual: Activated by a person (e.g., via a button or lever).

By Generator Type:

• Condensed: The aerosol is formed through the combustion of a solid compound.
• Dispersed: The aerosol is sprayed from a pre-filled reservoir.

By Coverage Volume:

• Localized: For protecting specific zones or equipment.
• Volumetric: For extinguishing fires throughout an entire room.

By Mobility:

• Stationary: Fixed in a specific location.
• Portable: Compact devices for rapid deployment.

Advantages of Aerosol Fire Suppression

Aerosol fire suppression offers numerous advantages over other methods:

1. High Efficiency: Quickly extinguishes fires of classes A, B, C, and E (solid materials, liquids, gases, and electrical equipment).
2. Compactness: Requires no bulky reservoirs or piping systems.
3. Ease of Installation: Does not demand extensive construction work.
4. Environmental Friendliness: The aerosol is free of freons, does not harm the ozone layer, and leaves minimal residue.
5. Equipment Safety: Does not damage technology or valuables, unlike water or foam.
6. Durability: Generators have a long service life (up to 10–15 years).
7. Cost-Effectiveness: Lower installation and maintenance costs compared to gas-based systems.

Applications of Aerosol Fire Suppression

Aerosol fire suppression is used in various sectors due to its versatility:

1. Industrial Facilities: Warehouses, workshops, and power plants, where there is a risk of ignition of flammable materials or electrical equipment.
2. Transportation: Ships, aircraft, trains, and vehicles (especially in engine compartments).
3. Data Centers and Server Rooms: For protecting sensitive electronics without damage from water or foam.
4. Cultural Institutions: Museums, archives, and libraries, where preserving valuables is critical.
5. Energy Sector: Transformer substations and cable tunnels.
6. Residential and Office Spaces: For localized protection of electrical panels or server zones.
7. Military Facilities: Armored vehicles and ammunition depots, where rapid response is essential.

These systems are particularly effective in confined spaces where traditional fire suppression methods may be challenging or hazardous.