The utilization of carbon dioxide (CO2) gas as a fire suppressant has been prevalent in various safety and industrial contexts due to its rapid oxygen displacement capability. Unlike methods such as water, which aims to reduce fire heat, a CO2 fire suppression system operates by displacing oxygen to quench the fire.
Typically, a CO2 fire suppression system is employed to safeguard delicate electronics within enclosed spaces, where conventional water sprinkler systems might pose a risk of equipment damage. The protected area is tightly sealed to prevent air ingress or egress when the doors are shut.
Storage cylinders containing high-pressure CO2 gas are positioned in proximity to the protected space. These cylinders are interconnected via manifolds to ducts leading into the sealed area, designed to saturate the space with CO2 in the event of a fire outbreak.
Upon detecting smoke, the CO2 fire suppression system initiates the release of CO2 gas into the area while simultaneously activating an alarm to alert occupants to evacuate immediately. CO2 concentrations exceeding 5% can induce asphyxiation, potentially causing occupants to lose consciousness.
Various industries opt for CO2 fire suppression systems over alternative solutions due to the inert nature of carbon dioxide, which avoids reactions with metals or plastics. This attribute makes it particularly suitable compared to water, which can lead to rust through oxidation.
For instance, facilities such as data centres or server farms rely on CO2 fire suppression systems to safeguard their sensitive electronic infrastructure. Following the extinguishment of the fire, affected components can be swiftly replaced, and operations can resume.
Marine engine rooms prefer CO2 over water for fire suppression due to its non-damaging properties to electrical and mechanical components, as well as the impracticality of introducing water into vessels at sea. Notably, CO2 fire suppression systems are mandated by the U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, and commercial shipping entities.
CO2 fire suppression systems are commonplace across a spectrum of applications including data centres, CNC machines or machines in the precision engineering industry, voltage transformers, rolling mill operations, flammable liquid storage facilities, and for safeguarding industrial generators and turbines.
Unlike foaming agents or water-based methods, CO2 systems entail no cleanup or residue.
The primary advantage of CO2 as a suppression agent lies in its inert nature, which mitigates the risk of equipment damage. Carbon dioxide inflicts no harm and necessitates no cleanup post-testing or fire incidents. While addressing the aftermath of the initial fire may be necessary, there are no remediation efforts for water or foam damage typical of alternative suppression techniques.
Canco Services has decades of experience installing and servicing CO2 fire suppression systems. If you would like to learn more, don’t hesitate to reach out to us!
