A traditional water-based sprinkler system is the most common form of fire protection found in commercial buildings. Unfortunately, sprinklers can cause major damage to electronic equipment and destroy the very assets they were installed to protect. Since electronics and water don’t mix, what type of fire protection should you seek for your electronic or computer room? The solution is a waterless FM-200 fire suppression system.

What Is the FM-200 Fire Suppression System?

The FM-200 system uses a clean, colorless, eco-friendly fire suppression agent. It deploys quickly and cleanly to stop fires fast and doesn’t require much cleanup. It’s ideal for use in rooms with electrical equipment because common metals (aluminum, steel, stainless steel, brass, lead, cast iron and copper), rubber, plastic and electronic components are unaffected by exposure to FM-200.

FM-200 is comprised primarily of carbon, fluorine and hydrogen (CF3CHFCF3 -heptafluoropropane). The primary fire extinguishing mechanism is heat absorption and a secondary suppression method comes from the thermal decomposition of FM-200 when it makes contact with the flame.

What are the Benefits of the FM-200 Fire Suppression System?

• Fast fire suppression: The FM-200 fire suppression system is capable of extinguishing electrical, flammable liquid, and ordinary combustible fires in 10 seconds or less. When a fire is put out this fast and damage is minimal, you are left with more manageable repair costs, shorter downtime, and extra peace of mind for your employees and customers.
• No leftover residue: In addition to putting out fires fast, the FM-200 system also doesn’t leave behind any oily or particulate residue.
• Acceptable for use in occupied spaces: The EPA lists FM-200 as a safe fire suppression agent when people are present.
• Space-saving solution: The FM-200 system is a valuable fire suppression method if you have limited space. The entire system is contained in cylinders as a nitrogen-pressurized liquid. This option takes up to seven times less storage space than inert gas and carbon dioxide fire extinguishing methods.

Maintaining and Inspecting FM-200 Fire Suppression Systems

Installation is only the first step to ensuring adequate fire protection for your electrical equipment. Proper maintenance and regular inspections ensure the equipment remains in good working order as it ages.

If you require FM-200 fire suppression system installation, inspection, testing, repair, recharge, or replacement, please contact Kauffman Co. We are a family-owned fire protection company that has been serving the Houston, TX area since 2006.