The end solution was a self-contained cylinder based open-head deluge system, which led to ‘total flooding’ in the particular risk area. This consisted of a series of water and nitrogen cylinders, equal to the risk and discharge time required by the client, and mechanical activation valves linked to an electronic system control panel. The primary source of activation was using a series of smoke and heat detectors, set up in a double-knock arrangement, to ensure no false activations. Once a ‘confirmed fire’ signal was received by the control panel, an electrical signal was sent to the solenoid valve which allows for a full system discharge through all open nozzles. This was set for the extent of the risk from the machinery, so that no surrounding area was affected by fire spread.

The solution was compact and cylinder arrangements flexible to enable the engineers to install into a variety of different spaces as deemed best by the site management teams.

The system is serviced annually, without a wet discharge test, however all components and electrical control systems are tested for full system integrity.