PAFSS
Pneumatically Actuated Fire Suppression Systems
PAFSS is an exceptionally versatile fire suppression range, with a large catalogue of extinguishing technologies available.
As a result, this makes it suitable for almost any type of fire risk.
PAFSS systems are made in the UK to exacting standards.
Principals of Operation
At the heart of any PAFSS system is the special detection tubing which acts as a linear heat and flame detector. PAFSS detection tubing is completely flexible and is installed throughout the risk areas of the enclosure, providing fast and effective detection.
Upon flame impingement or high ambient temperature, the pressurised detection tube ruptures with a burst at the hottest point and by depressurisation the cylinder valve is activated. The extinguishing agent is then discharged from the connected cylinder through either the burst hole (Direct) or pipework (Indirect) at the heart of the fire.
Principals of Operation
At the heart of any PAFSS system is the special detection tubing which acts as a linear heat and flame detector. PAFSS detection tubing is completely flexible and is installed throughout the risk areas of the enclosure, providing fast and effective detection.
Upon flame impingement or high ambient temperature, the pressurised detection tube ruptures with a burst at the hottest point and by depressurisation the cylinder valve is activated. The extinguishing agent is then discharged from the connected cylinder through either the burst hole (Direct) or pipework (Indirect) at the heart of the fire.
Problem
There are many situations where assets and property are under threat from the risk of fire, either because of the unattended nature of their operations or simply their remote location. Unattended risks can be present in for example: laboratory fume cupboards, automatic machinery, engines and offshore wind turbines (which are characterised by their remote locations).
All these applications, along with many others, are a challenge since human intervention in the event of a real fire situation is highly unlikely or just not possible. In addition to this the fire could be difficult to identify, for example smouldering, damaged or poorly installed wiring inside an electrical cabinet which could present a real problem.
The unattended nature of these operations means that if a fire was to develop it would be very likely that by the time external flame, heat or smoke detecting devices became aware of the situation the fire may have spread to surrounding equipment and assets.
Solution
PAFSS fire suppression systems require no power for detection or to operate making them ideal for unmanned or unsupervised applications. PAFSS detection tubing is installed throughout and very close to the risk areas in the protected application, providing fast and effective detection. Upon flame impingement or high ambient temperature, the pressurised detection tube ruptures with a burst at the hottest point. Depending on the system type, the pre-selected extinguishing agent is then discharged from the connected cylinder through either the burst hole directly at the heart of the fire or via separate pipework and nozzles.
The simplicity of PAFSS systems and the nature of the linear pressurised detection tubing means that it is possible to protect some very challenging applications with a fire suppression solution. The detection tubing is very flexible which means it can be installed in tight spaces such as electrical panels, harsh environments such as engine compartments and recycling machines with relative ease.
Dealing with the fire situation at source in this manner means that the fire is extinguished extremely quickly and prevents the fire from spreading to neighbouring enclosures, equipment and the wider building, significantly reducing the risk of injury to personnel and losses caused by equipment down time and operational disruption.
Applications for PAFFS include:
Electrical distribution cabinets, process control cabinets, communication racks.
Fume cupboards, chemical stores, flammable material stores.
Plant / machinery engine protection, industrial process equipment.
Machining centres, injection moulding machines, robotic welding machines.
Mobile electrical generators, wind turbines.
Buses, boats, trains – engine compartments.
System Selection
System Selection
Direct
Direct Fire Suppression Systems
Direct PAFSS are efficient and simple self-activating systems for small enclosed hazard areas. They are failsafe against malfunction.
Upon flame impingement or heat, the pressurised detection tube (which is connected to a cylinder containing the suppression agent) ruptures with a burst at the hottest point. The agent is then discharged through the burst hole directly at the heart of the fire.
Indirect
Indirect Fire Suppression Systems
Indirect PAFSS are efficient and simple self-activating systems for larger enclosed and even open hazard areas.
Upon flame impingement or heat, the pressurised detection tube will burst and by depressurisation will activate the cylinder valve to open. The agent is then released through separate pipework and nozzles which are aiming at the hazard area.
Both Direct and Indirect systems are available in both low pressure and high-pressure formats, depending on the most appropriate extinguishant selected.
Automatic fixed fire suppression systems for electrical enclosures.
This video animation shows the operational principles and some of the applications the system can be used on.
On guard 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
These PAFSS systems were the first in the World to be certified to the new LPCB standard, LPS 1666.
Which extinguishants can be used in PAFSS?
Novec 1230 (View details)
CO2 (view details)
ABC Powder
BC Powder
AFFF (Foam)
Other extinguishants available on request
What does PAFSS stand for?
What is the meaning of Pneumatic?
What is a Pneumatic valve?
In the first context, a pneumatic valve is a device that is used to control or modulate the flow of air (or another inert gas) in a pneumatic system. They do so by controlling the air or gas at the source, regulating its passage as needed into tubing, pipes, or devices in an automated pneumatic system.
Difference between a Solenoid and Pneumatic valve?
A solenoid valve is one that operates by use of electricity. A pneumatic valve is similar, but instead of utilizing an electromagnetic force to move the plunger and open or close the valve, a compressed air line is used to force the plunger to move.
What is Pneumatic Activated Fire Suppression?
Benefits of PAFSS:
Simple to install and maintain.
Easily fitted to new or existing equipment.
Fast, automatic detection and extinguishing.
Linear heat and flame detection tube, allowing for an unlimited number of detection points.
Highly reliable PAFSS detection tubing.
Remains unaffected by dirt, dust, debris and oil.
Resistant to many chemicals.
Flexible detection tubing can be located adjacent to the identified risk areas, providing fast effective detection.
Stainless steel discharge pipework and nozzles.
Vital in potentially corrosive environments.
Requires no power supply for detection or actuation, remaining operational during power interruption.
Superbly engineered specialist valves and pressure vessels.
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IPH are experts in the designing, installing and servicing of PAFSS Fire Suppression Systems for all applications and requirements.
A Leader in the Industry
IPH Fire Solutions was originally formed in 2003 with an office located in the North West just outside Manchester. Since then, IPH have continued to expand, offering fire suppression services both across the UK and on an International level.
IPH Fire Solutions are specialists in:
When you specify a system for fire protection, lives, livelihoods and the environment are at stake. At IPH, we pride ourselves on offering expert advice to support your decision, ultimately delivering the appropriate fire solution when looking to safeguard all things in your care.
Do you need a Fire Solution?
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Do you need a Fire Solution?
CONTACT OUR DEDICATED TEAM TODAY
IPH UK Head Office
Unit 2, Grove House, Booth Street,
Lancashire, BB4 5JA