A family of fire suppression devices, based on aerosol technology developed in the space program, is manufactured to ISO 9001:2000 standards in the USA. The Stat-X fire suppressant, a patented potassium-based aerosol, works by chemically interfering with free radicals of flame. “It is ecologically safe and without ozone depletion or global-warming potential,” says X-out Fire spokesman Brian Cook. “Tests on class B fires have shown it to be five times more effective than halon and over 10 times more effective than halon alternatives.”
The unit’s aerosol generator, a self contained extinguishing unit, contains the aerosol-forming compound. A controlled combustion in the aerosol generator produces an ultra fine extinguishing agent significantly more effective than alternatives. The aerosol passes through oxidation and cooling filters where its temperature is reduced before it discharges through ports at low pressure. Generator placement in the nacelle or tower provides for the aerosol’s proper flow and distribution.
Competitive agents work by reducing oxygen levels or by cooling. The company says Stat-X aerosol stream contains 1 to 2 micron particles of potassium compounds that provide a large surface-area interaction with the fire. Free potassium radicals in the fire zone bind with the free radicals of the fire (O, OH, H) to rapidly slow and extinguish the fire.
Stat-X suppression systems are designed by certified and authorized distributors using a computer aided design program that uses data on dimensions, areas of leakage, and location of permanent openings, fire class, and other factors to arrive at a system tailored to clients’ requirements.
“The small self-contained generators mount at ceiling height, and hence, take no floor space as conventional systems do. The self-contained units have a patented thermal detector built to the generator — eliminating need for ancillary detection and releasing devices. Units are available in several temperature settings to insure applicability to the equipment being protected,” adds Cook.
Electrically activated fire-suppression units are typically tied to conventional fire detection systems and releasing panels.
Electrically actuated units range in weight from 30 grams (covering up to 0.5 m3) up to 2,500 grams (covering up to 40 m3). These are typically tied to conventional fire detection systems and releasing panel.
Stand alone (thermal) units have their own detection mechanism, eliminating need for separate detection and releasing controls. Suitable for many applications in smaller enclosures, they are available in sizes from 30 grams (covering up to 0.5 m3) up to 500 grams (covering up to 8 m3). Units are constructed of stainless steel components, listed for both area and volumetric coverage, and require no piping, nozzles, or other distribution equipment. This generator acts as its own storage, production, and delivery device.
Stand alone (thermal) units have their own detection mechanism, eliminating need for separate detection and releasing controls.
Cook says Stat-X is suitable for use in normally unoccupied enclosed volumes, and has the advantages of extended hold times and less susceptibility to leakage. It does not break down when exposed to a fire.
X-Out Fire
www.xoutfire.com
WPE
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