Powder fire extinguishing system what. Powder fire extinguishing – how the fire extinguishing module works. Installation and maintenance of powder systems

For security purposes, various systems are installed in the premises. Powder fire extinguishing allows you to quickly and efficiently eliminate a fire. At the same time, the system has its own operating characteristics, pros and cons.

How to put out a fire

Nowadays, many options are used to extinguish a fire when water is powerless. This is due to several reasons:

  1. Many flammable liquids are less dense than water. They envelop the surface of the water with a film, so the scale of the fire becomes larger.
  2. Pouring water onto chemical components and electrical equipment is dangerous. It will be difficult to control the fire.
  3. Extinguishing with water is not effective in every room, for example, in a room with equipment, books, paintings. Because of the water element, what fire could not cope with will be eliminated.

Anhydrous options

Waterless methods can reduce losses and improve the effectiveness of fire extinguishing. These include:

  1. Foam systems.
  2. Gas installations.
  3. Aerosol methods.
  4. Powder fire extinguishing.

This variety allows you to choose the most suitable option for each room.

Powder method

To extinguish a fire, it is necessary to close the supply of oxygen to the fireplace. Powder fire extinguishing performs this task perfectly, since the mixture contains the properties of metal salts.

The extinguishing procedure is carried out as follows:

  1. Upon contact with burning surfaces, the powder heats up, which causes the combustion temperature to decrease, since a lot of heat is spent heating the powder.
  2. The mixture begins to work. With the decomposition of metal salts, gases are formed that do not support fire. An air-powder suspension appears near the combustion site. Because of it, the supply of oxygen stops, which reduces the intensity of the fire.
  3. The powders contain flame retardants.

Automatic powder fire extinguishing can be used to eliminate fires of different classes, whatever the characteristics of the hot substances and objects.

pros

Powder fire extinguishing has the following advantages:

  1. Cheap option.
  2. Easy installation of the system.
  3. Durability.
  4. Suitable for different materials and objects.
  5. Versatility.
  6. Wide range of use.
  7. Safety.

Classification

Automatic powder fire extinguishing system is usually used in non-residential premises where it is undesirable to use water. Such objects include archives, libraries, paper warehouses, museums, chemical plants, automatic telephone exchanges, and equipment rooms.

Powder systems are divided into:

  1. Centralized. The extinguishing agent is supplied from one tank.
  2. Modular. It is supplied in modules in the areas of use. The powder fire extinguishing module consists of everything necessary to spray a fire extinguishing component using a remote control.

The powder is ejected by high pressure gas. Systems are classified according to several criteria.

According to the module design:

  • Gas is generated when triggered thanks to a gas-generating substance.
  • Gas is pre-pumped.

According to the stewing method:

  • Volumetric - enough for the entire room.
  • Surface - the mixture is distributed over surfaces.
  • Local - the powder is applied to some parts.

To obtain fire extinguishing powders, they are used hazardous substances Therefore, premises where these systems are installed must include means of audible notification of danger. There may also be light boards"POWDER! DO NOT ENTER!

When the powder is not used

Powder fire extinguishing systems are effective, but not ideal. They cannot be used in some cases:

  1. Extinguishing components that can burn in an oxygen-free environment, smoldering materials.
  2. Powder must be removed from metal immediately, since metal salts act quickly, which can lead to destruction of products.
  3. Powder is difficult to convey through pipelines. Because of this, it is not easy to use in systems with a centralized supply of material to extinguish fire.
  4. Powders have a negative effect on humans, so they can be used in areas where there are no people.
  5. Cannot be installed in facilities with large crowds of people. When switched on, systems may be life-threatening.

Automation

It must be extinguished immediately after the fire. Then the fire is quickly localized and losses are minimized. Automatic installations reduce the time from ignition to delivery of the mixture. IN production premises and in warehouses where flammable, explosive, and chemical components are present, automation is necessary.

Automatic systems perform many functions:

  • Notifying people about a fire.
  • Fire localization.
  • Maintaining the strength of the building and equipment.

The command to extinguish the fire is given automatically or manually from the control place. Because of physical properties powder is difficult to use in centralized systems. Many operational systems are modular in design.

Installation features

The system installation is carried out in the following steps:

  1. System design after inspection of the premises. The project should be created in such a way that it fits the standards of GOST and SNiP. It will also be agreed upon with the Ministry of Emergency Situations.
  2. Preparation of estimates. The price of installation is determined by the architectural and planning features of the room.
  3. Installation.
  4. Commissioning activities.

The number of modules is established on the basis of SP 5.13130.2009. The calculation is performed using 4 methods:

  1. Based on area.
  2. Locally.
  3. By volume.
  4. By cubic capacity.

The appropriate option is determined based on the characteristics of the room and the location of the fire. For example, in objects without shaded areas with ceiling heights equal to the height of the powder spray by the module, a simple calculation is performed. The area of ​​the room must be divided by the area protected by 1 installation. The indicator is recorded in the module data sheet. Local protection is necessary in those facilities where big square, and there are few fire hazardous areas.

During the design, the height of the ceilings and the load on the structural parts to which the system will be installed are taken into account. During module activation, the load on ceiling product increases by 5 times. The load is maintained for 0.2 s. Resistance to actively increased load is taken into account when calculating the fire extinguishing system in those facilities where there are dropped ceilings. Their height must correspond to the optimal spray rate indicated in the passport.

False positives

Spraying of the substance occurs after the sensors are triggered or based on a signal provided from the central console. Its sensors increase efficiency, but may function falsely. This is due to several reasons:

  1. Malfunctions.
  2. Human factor.
  3. Electromagnetic interference.
  4. Starting condition.
  5. Low battery.

Best modules

Security is provided by many systems. But the most popular include the following:

  • Powder fire extinguishing module "Buran - 1.5 - 2 s." It has a double trigger function - from an external signal and its own sensors. Used as an independent tool or part of a system. The body is presented in the form of a flattened shape, which is suitable for administrative premises, entertainment facilities, and shops. The module allows you to eliminate any fires. Runs continuously for 0.5 s. The cost of the equipment is about 1300 rubles.
  • "Buran-8vzr" is explosion-resistant. Used in buildings with a high explosion hazard class. Allows you to protect a large area. Created as a universal system and wall-mounted. The price is about 4800 rubles.
  • Powder fire extinguishing module (MPT Tungus). Created in several types. Operates at temperatures from -50 to +50 degrees. Special systems operate in the range of 60-90 degrees. Can be used to extinguish any fire. Price - 7400 rubles.
  • "Tunguska". Used to quickly extinguish fire. Can be used in hard-to-reach areas where vehicle access is difficult. Used in fire hazardous facilities. The installation contains 9/18 modules.
  • "Impulse-6", "Impulsk-6-1". Suitable for extinguishing any fire at temperatures from -50 to +50. Used in industrial, domestic premises, warehouses. The mixture is supplied by a gas generator. Triggering occurs from an electric pulse. Gas release occurs after activation inside the housing. The mixture is produced under pressure.

Spray Elimination

The powder is simply removed by dry cleaning. Residues can be removed with a vacuum cleaner. A water filter or respirator is also required. The Buran system is cleaned by washing and wiping if the mixture is on varnished surfaces.

If the powder has expired, it must be disposed of in a sealed bag. It can be discarded or used as fertilizer for crops. In this situation, productivity increases and the risk of plant damage by pests decreases.

Powder replacement is carried out in specialized companies that have received a license for their work. But it is advisable to purchase new models, since it will be more effective and safer.

The importance of extinguishing fires using special powder compositions has not lost its relevance for several hundred years. It is simple to explain - only powder fire extinguishing is used in case of fire of some specific substances and materials - light and alkali metals, sodium and lithium, metal-containing compounds.

Powder fire extinguishing principle of operation

Modern fire extinguishing powders differ in composition, degree of grinding and, accordingly, are used to eliminate fires of various classes.

According to their intended purpose, fire extinguishing powders are:

  1. General purpose – extinguishing fires of classes A, B, C.
  2. Special purpose - eliminating the combustion of alkali metals and other substances.

What is the principle of action of powders? The effectiveness of powder fire extinguishing is achieved due to the fact that the fire extinguishing agent acts on the fire in several directions at once:

  1. Firstly, part of the heat from the fire is spent to heat all the powder particles that fall into it.
  2. Secondly, the mixture blocks the further spread of the flame, creating a thick, impenetrable cloud.
  3. Thirdly, the combustion reaction itself is inhibited due to the properly selected composition of the powder mixture.

By varying the percentage of powder components and changing the main constituent element, mixtures intended for extinguishing are selected different types fires.

Powder fire extinguishing scheme

Installation on site of an automatic powder fire extinguishing installation (AUPP for short) will allow:

  • detect a fire in a timely manner;
  • automatically supply the powder with such intensity as to extinguish the fire and not cause re-ignition.

AUPP can be of a modular or modular design.

In the first case, an n-number of modules (containers with powder) equipped with a launcher (launching device) are installed at the facility. The models are interconnected and also connected to a fire detection system and activation of their launch.

In the case of aggregate automatic transmission units, these installations are presented centralized systems with a single tank for storing fire extinguishing agent and pipelines extending from it, through which the powder enters the fire zone.

The design of a powder fire extinguishing installation includes a diagram on which the designer notes:

  • type of automatic propulsion system used;
  • system components;
  • connection of the installation with others engineering systems building;
  • fire detectors and sirens;
  • manual start devices;
  • doors with sensors, etc.

When preparing a powder fire extinguishing scheme, developers must use the rules for placing fire-fighting equipment (see GOST No. 12.3.046, 12.4.009, NBP No. 88-01, etc.).

Advantages of powder fire extinguishing

You can select a powder composition for objects of any fire hazard class. With the help of PP, fires of classes from A to E are extinguished. In addition, this fire extinguishing option has a number of other advantages:

  • accessibility of installations;
  • simple design and installation;
  • the possibility of long-term storage of powders - from 5 (not less, according to NPB No. 170-98) to 10 years, subject to the rules for operating containers;
  • use for extinguishing specific fires where other substances (water, gas, foam) are not used;
  • versatility – can be used to extinguish a wide range of fires;
  • wide temperature range of application of powders – from –50 degrees. up to +50 degrees. at humidity up to 98%;
  • no need to seal the room when extinguishing, as, for example, is required with aerosol or gas fire extinguishing;
  • fast response - no more than 5 seconds from the time of fire detection;
  • environmental safety – absence of toxic or ozone-depleting elements.

Powder fire extinguishing is actively used in administrative buildings, industrial buildings, warehouse complexes, garages, parking lots, electrical installations, and is indispensable for facilities where there is a risk of fire of alkali metals.

Modular powder fire extinguishing systems

Modular systems, as mentioned earlier, are powder fire extinguishing complexes consisting of interconnected modules.

The design of a separate module is as follows:

  1. The body is metal, filled with OTV inside.
  2. An element that generates gas (or a capsule already filled with gas).
  3. Temperature sensitive sensor.

Gas is needed to create overpressure before starting the powder. If a gas-generating element is built into the module, there may be a slight delay in the release of the extinguishing agent, but the duration of the powder ejection itself increases.

Depending on the purpose of the capital construction project, modular systems of the appropriate size and design are selected.

Modules with an explosion-proof housing (marked “exp”) can be safely installed at fire and explosion hazardous facilities - oil refineries, chemical plants, petroleum product warehouses, etc.

Premises up to 100 cubic meters, without constant presence of people, with periodic visits, are equipped with simple automatic installations powder fire extinguishing. In the same places where large numbers of people are planned - theaters, cinemas, shopping centers and others public places– modular installations are carried out in accordance with GOST No. 12.3.046 and NBP No. 88-01.

In any case, it is advisable to entrust the design and installation of automatic control units to a professional.

Alexei

The problem of protecting property from destructive force uncontrolled fire has existed since ancient times. And for a very long time one of available ways ordinary water was used to eliminate fires.

Despite the fact that it is still used today and is one of the most accessible, it cannot be called effective.

After all, there are cases when extinguishing a fire using water leads to even greater damage. Therefore we have to use alternative methods. These include a powder fire extinguishing module, which is used in cases where:

  • The use of water does not give the desired effect;
  • Using it leads to an even greater spread of fire;
  • She does damage material assets comparable to the fire itself.

What is this equipment?

Automatic fire extinguishing systems make it possible to detect fires at the earliest stages of their occurrence and transmit a message to the control panel. In addition, the Buran powder fire extinguishing module is designed to fight fire using a special composition supplied by spraying.

They are among the least expensive and easiest to use, but the powder used in them can harm not only the equipment and structural elements object, but also to a person. If the composition gets on skin or inhalation may cause poisoning.

Types of powder type plants

Buran brand modules are divided into the following categories:

  1. C automatically;
  2. Manual;
  3. Autonomous control.

In Tungus-6 fire extinguishing modules, the source of fire is detected and the substance is supplied regardless of the type of control sources.

In addition, they are classified depending on the design features into:

  • Centralized;
  • Modular.

In the first, the fire extinguishing mixture comes from a common tank. For the second, the composition is located in modules that are installed in each room. Such equipment includes devices used to spray the composition in response to a signal from a control panel.

Most manufactured systems, such as Garant 5, differ in design, which corresponds to the specifics of spraying a substance under high pressure.

In addition, Buran models differ:

  1. Powder module design;
  2. Method of use (self-activating powder fire extinguishing modules).

Depending on the design features gas is pumped into the device in advance or produced internally at the moment of operation.

Fire extinguishing with powder fire extinguishing systems can be carried out:

  1. Locally;
  2. Superficial;
  3. Volumetric.

In the first case, spraying is carried out on the surface where fire is most likely to appear. This surface extinguishing equipment distributes the composition over all surfaces of the object. With the volumetric method, the entire room is filled with a suspension of powder.

Selection criteria for powder type systems

Such installations are used to eliminate fires of various categories and are even suitable for extinguishing live electrical equipment. But in order for the Bison powder fire extinguishing module to work effectively, it is necessary to carefully approach the choice of equipment.

Since various powders are used to fight fire, first of all you should pay attention to their type. Because their expiration dates may vary. And although the price of such modules is low, they are not ideal, since their service life is not long.

The choice of Tungus module type can be divided into two parts. The first is the selection of specific equipment, and the second is checking its safety for people. The fire extinguishing agent used in the Bizon brand module must comply with the requirements of NPB 88-2001. Depending on its type, choose the type of installation. In addition, it must be linked to the classification of fires, in accordance with the requirements of GOST 27331-87.

The type of module is selected in accordance with the hazard indicators and properties of substances stored and used at the facility. The probable method of fire extinguishing is also important, as well as the maximum time for the system to enter operating mode.

The second part, as noted above, should take into account the safety of the Buran model module for humans. You can find the answer to this question using the recommendations of regulatory documents. In this case, you will have to compare the time needed for evacuation with the time it takes to submit fire extinguishing agent. For example, if to extinguish a fire it is necessary to spray within 30 seconds, and people will not be able to leave the facility during this time, then such a fire extinguishing module is not suitable for it.

Watch a video about the Buran model:
Regarding the safety of the powders, from an environmental point of view they are compounds used as fertilizers. But at the moment of spraying the composition with a Tungus brand module, the suspension can enter the human body and lead to negative consequences.

We analyze popular models

Among all fire extinguishing systems presented on the domestic market, the most popular are modules from the Buran series. They are presented in a wide range and it is impossible to consider everything in one article, so we will focus on the most popular models.

The Buran -2.5-2s powder fire extinguishing module is distinguished by double actuation, which can occur from a signal sent from the control panel or from its own sensors. Thanks to such wide functionality, the Tungus brand module is used in various versions:

  • As a completely independent mini-system;
  • As a unit of automatic equipment.

The response delay of the Buran model is no more than 20 seconds when exposed to a fire with an area of ​​up to 0.4 m². In addition, it has a streamlined shape, which allows it to be installed in the interiors of any premises, be it a shopping center or a cinema.

The Buran-8vzr powder fire extinguishing module is no less popular. It belongs to explosion-resistant equipment and can be installed in rooms where fuel and lubricant mixtures are stored, gas stations, and oil depots. This module has a short response time and is capable of protecting large areas. It is equipped with explosion-proof design.

In addition to the automatic modules of the Buran-8 series, there are others that are also in demand among consumers. Among them it is worth noting the models:

  • Tungus;
  • Brand and many others.

Where installation of fire extinguishing system modules is required

Installation of such equipment is usually carried out in residential buildings or at industrial enterprises. At the same time, the class and power of the Tungus-9 model depend on the specifics of the protected object. Although all automatic fire extinguishing systems must perform the following functions:

  1. Automatic notification to the control panel;
  2. Fire localization;
  3. Preventing destruction of the structure of the facility.

If you are interested in the list of premises where a Tungus powder fire extinguishing module must be installed, then refer to the regulatory documents, one of which is NPB 110-03. According to it, automatic powder fire extinguishing systems are installed at facilities where identifying and localizing fires using primary means, such as fire extinguishers, is impossible or difficult.

Most effective way extinguishing a fire is blocking the flow of oxygen to the fire site.

The automatic powder fire extinguishing system accomplishes its task thanks to chemical properties salts various metals included in fire extinguishing mixtures.

The operating principle of fire extinguishing powders is as follows:

  • As a result of the contact of the powder with a burning hot surface, it heats up. Thus, the combustion temperature is significantly reduced because energy is spent on heating the powder;
  • Upon reaching the threshold temperature in the heated fire extinguishing agent, the decomposition reaction of metal salts begins, which is accompanied by the release of various gases that do not support the combustion reaction;
  • The gas-powder suspension formed as a result of the reaction displaces oxygen from the source of fire, which significantly reduces the intensity of the fire.

Advantages, scope and exceptions

  • Local automated systems are among the cheapest, both in installation and in operational maintenance;
  • Installation of systems is quick and simple, requiring no additional costs;
  • The shelf life and use significantly exceeds the serviceability time of other systems (gas);
  • There is no need to seal the room during fire extinguishing;
  • Can be used at any temperature environment.

There are no strict restrictions or recommendations on where powder fire extinguishing can be used; it is suitable for eliminating fires of any class, including specific ones. Particularly effective in cases where the use of water is not possible. The powder can be used for extinguishing:

  • Liquids;
  • Flammable gases;
  • Solids, including alkali metals;
  • Indispensable when extinguishing connected electrical equipment.

The use of a powder fire extinguishing system also has certain limitations:

  • Ineffective when extinguishing materials that can burn without access to oxygen or smoldering substances;
  • After completing the extinguishing process, the powder must be immediately removed from metal surfaces to avoid reaction with metal salts and the risk of chemical corrosion processes;
  • You can use such a system only after, since the powder has a negative effect on humans. For the same reason, it is prohibited to install automation on powder fire extinguishing systems in buildings with a large number of people;
  • It is quite difficult to centrally supply powdered fire extinguishing agent through pipelines in systems with centralized supply.

Types of powder fire extinguishing systems

Depending on the location of powder storage, installations are divided into:

  1. Centralized, when the substance is supplied to the fire site from the main container through pipelines;
  2. Local modules are devices that store fire extinguishing agent and have a supply system in one monoblock. Such devices can be controlled centrally.

Depending on the activation method, the following settings are distinguished:

  • – the process of detecting a source of fire and releasing a fire extinguishing agent is carried out without external intervention or control. Typically, such devices do not depend on external power sources, which significantly increases their reliability and likelihood of operation.
  • Automatic - after detecting a source of fire, an alarm signal is sent to the remote control. Triggered by an external command;
  • With manual start, remote or local. They are usually not equipped with fire detectors, but have a duplicate activation system.

Design and design features of modules

  1. Metal body;
  2. Fire extinguishing powder;
  3. Gas-generating element or capsule with injected gas;
  4. Launcher;
  5. Temperature sensitive detector.

The powder from the capsule is released under gas pressure. There are two types of devices: the first type has a capsule with pumped gas, the second type has a built-in gas-generating device (GU) that begins to produce gas only after activation. In this case, there is a slight delay before triggering, but the duration of the powder emission increases significantly, which has a positive effect on the effectiveness of fire extinguishing.

Depending on the material from which the device body is made, there are explosion-proof and standard powder fire extinguishing modules. This must be taken into account when choosing a model for installation in fire or explosion hazardous facilities.

According to the type of installation, the modules are:

  • Ceiling - the most effective positioning, since the device can cover the maximum volume of the room;
  • Wall-mounted - the same devices are only mounted on special brackets. Used for targeted extinguishing of electrical installations and distribution cabinets, racks with flammable substances.
  • Floor-standing is not a very common installation method. Not all models are suitable for this method, but only those designed for this purpose.

Installation diagram and symbols

An automatic powder fire extinguishing installation (AUPP) has significant advantages in installation and subsequent operation and does not require frequent and complex maintenance.

The use of remotely controlled modules makes the automatic control device very effective and ensures not only timely, but also safe operation. There is no need to lay pipelines and allocate a separate room for installing a central tank for storing fire extinguishing agent.

On the diagram symbol The powder fire extinguishing module is displayed depending on its modification:

  • MPP – type powder fire extinguishing module;
  • N – (added in parentheses immediately after the module type designation) – normal design;
  • SV - medium-height, up to 3.5 m;
  • B – high-rise from 3.5 to 6 m;
  • N – (added at the end) wall;
  • C – (added at the end with a hyphen) – self-acting;
  • T – temperature response range -60 - +90°С, Numbers next to the designation indicate displacement or expansion temperature range according to the table;
  • Vzr – explosion-proof housing.

Review of the most popular models

Powder fire extinguishing module Hurricane 5, the model is made in an explosion-proof housing. Used to provide fire safety in explosive areas, warehouses for storing explosives, in mines and underground workings.

The product consists of a body filled with fire extinguishing powder, a source of cold gas, a bypass valve, a spray aerator, a mounting device and an outlet for connecting communication networks.

Response time – 4-6 seconds. The time it takes for the device to consume all the powder (up to 6 kg) is 2-3 seconds. In this case, the remainder of the substance in the body will be no more than 3% of the original volume.

Powder fire extinguishing module Buran 8 U. The device consists of a housing in which 7 kg of fire extinguishing powder is placed, the gas-generating element is equipped with an electric activator. A burst disc attached to the top flange inside the housing and a release nozzle attached to the bottom.

Response time 5 sec. Operating period 1 second. The powder remaining in the body should have no more than 10% of the original mass. The device is capable of protecting an area of ​​32m2 and a volume of 60m3. The device can be used either independently or as part of an automated fire extinguishing system. Activation can be carried out by any controller that is able to provide an input starting current power 100mA.

Powder fire extinguishing module Tungus 10. A universal device that can be equipped with any type of activator. It can be installed both on the ceiling and on the floor, for which the mounting brackets on the body have a special shape.

Powder mass 9.5 kg, response speed 3-10 sec, operating time 1 sec. Protects an area of ​​36 m2 and a volume of 2016 m3 with a maximum room ceiling height of up to 15 m.

Automated powder fire extinguishing modules have proven themselves as effective remedy fire fighting, which can be successfully used both at special facilities and in ordinary premises.

Each of the automatic fire extinguishing systems existing today has its own advantages and disadvantages. In addition, when choosing the type of fire extinguishing installation, you should take into account the features of its application, which are determined by:

  • fire class;
  • features of the facility (premises) to be equipped with a fire extinguishing system.

In addition, as a rule, the cost of equipment and its installation is also an important factor for the customer. It is from these positions that automatic powder fire extinguishing is the most preferable option. Of course, subject to compliance with standards that determine the possibility of its installation in specific premises.

Let's look at these questions in more detail.

Operating principle of automatic powder fire extinguishing.

Fire extinguishing when using such a system is achieved by supplying fine powder to the combustion zone by spraying it in the fire zone. This achieves:

  • cooling of the fire area as a result of the transfer of part of the heat to the powder particles and energy consumption for its melting;
  • reduction in the volume of incoming oxygen as a result of dilution of the burning medium with products of thermal decomposition of the powder;
  • inhibition (slowing down) chemical reaction combustion.

Depending on the composition of the powder mixture, various combinations of the listed factors can be achieved.

Powder can be supplied to the combustion zone different ways. The most commonly used:

  • gas supply high pressure;
  • pressure resulting from the explosion of a pyrotechnic cartridge.

By the way, each of these methods has an additional extinguishing effect. The gas jet and shock wave of the explosion, in addition to supplying powder, can also lead to flame failure, which serves as a factor that increases the efficiency of the system.

Advantages of powder fire extinguishing.

First of all, these should include:

  • simplicity of the device;
  • low cost;
  • wide range operating temperatures and versatility of application.

However, there are a number of specific disadvantages that limit the scope of this method:

  • low efficiency when extinguishing fires with combustion without air flow in the thickness of the material;
  • possible chemical interaction of the powder with metal structures;
  • impossibility of use with the ventilation system running;
  • potential danger to human health.

The last point requires more detailed explanation. Possessing low toxicity, the fire extinguishing powder, however, due to its high concentration and small particle size, has a specific effect on respiratory system body. Also important is the factor of a sharp decrease in visibility at the moment the fire extinguishing equipment is activated and an increase in the possibility of panic.

Thus, the use of automatic powder systems limited in public areas. Such installations can only be installed if the evacuation of people is ensured before fire extinguishing begins and if the system is manually turned on.

In general, the scope of application of powder fire extinguishing is quite wide, for example:

  • extinguishing electrical installations without removing voltage;
  • fire extinguishing in archives, warehouses and other places where valuable items and documents are stored;
  • extinguishing chemical substances, petroleum products, etc.
The use of powder fire extinguishing is not recommended in industries where there is a concentration of a large number of equipment with small open contacts (automatic telephone exchanges, relay control points).

MODULAR POWDER FIRE FIGHTING SYSTEMS

Modular fire extinguishing systems are characterized by a number of positive aspects:

  • small dimensions of the system as a whole;
  • high reliability;
  • ease of installation and maintenance;
  • Possibility of spot installation directly near an object with a high fire hazard.

The fire extinguishing module is a housing filled with a powder mixture. In the upper part of the housing there is a gas generator, which is activated after supplying electrical signal. There are also modules that operate autonomously when the ambient temperature reaches a certain level.

The lower part of the case is usually made of aluminum and has notches along the entire surface. When a signal is sent to the gas generator, gas begins to flow into the housing with the powder. After reaching a certain pressure, the membrane (lower part of the body) ruptures along the notch lines and the powder is thrown into the flame area. From the moment the signal is given until the powder is ejected, more than 2 seconds pass.

By the way, there are executions modular systems, in which only the fire extinguishing mixture is contained in the modules. In this case, the powder is released through a centralized gas supply through a specially equipped pipeline. This option is much more expensive and is not used as often.

The operating principle of all modular systems is almost the same. The differences lie in the volume of the case, which can range from 0.3 to 50 liters. In some designs the lower part of the housing may not be destroyed. Instead of a bursting disc, a special nozzle is used, which serves to direct the flow of powder.

Among the disadvantages of modular systems, it should be noted that this design, by definition, provides for one-time use. If it was not possible to extinguish the fire the first time, then the use of other fire extinguishing means, including manual ones, is required.

INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE OF POWDER SYSTEMS

The design, installation and maintenance of automatic powder fire extinguishing systems is carried out by specialized organizations that have the appropriate licenses from the Ministry of Emergency Situations.

When drawing up a project, the following should be taken into account: geometric parameters premises equipped with a fire extinguishing system, as well as possible classes of fires, which are determined by the presence of certain materials and factors in the premises.

All premises equipped automatic fire extinguishing must have a fire warning system, as well as information boards:

  • "exit";
  • "powder don't come in";
  • "Powder go away."

In addition, during installation it should be taken into account that when the fire extinguishing module starts, the load on the supporting structure increases many times over. Its exact value is indicated in the technical documentation, but on average this value is about 3-5 masses of the equipped module. There should be no obstacles in the powder spray area that would restrict access of the fire extinguishing mixture to the fire site.

All electric start circuits must be able to continuously monitor their integrity and performance. In addition, the requirements for automatic system fire alarm, which controls fire extinguishing more strictly than one operating in autonomous mode.

Maintenance of a powder fire extinguishing system involves maintaining the functionality of the system as a whole. The activities carried out for this purpose are determined by the list of routine fire extinguishing maintenance works. Also, to quickly restore system functionality, an exchange fund of modules is provided at the facility.

The number of spare devices depends on the size of the object and is determined by those already mentioned regulatory documents. It should be noted that this material only provides general idea about the design and installation procedure for automatic powder extinguishing.

It is impossible to outline all the subtleties and nuances of this process within the framework of one article. But the main points that you need to pay attention to are listed here.

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