Low pressure CO2 fire suppression systems have been gaining popularity as a top choice for clean, cost-effective, and convenient fire suppression for larger hazards. The agent is stored at a lower pressure and is thus less agent is discharged over a longer period of time. Longer discharge times can ensure the prevention of re-ignition.

These systems are most commonly used to protect areas that require multi-suppression cycles, expansion capabilities, or numerous/large hazards. Low pressure systems use CO2 as the extinguishing agent. CO2 extinguishes fire by diluting the oxygen that supports combustion. It is an inert gas that can be used for total flooding or local application.

For certain applications, switching to a low-pressure CO2 suppression system can provide the most effective extinguishment and suppression for a facility.

High-pressure CO2suppression systems store CO2in cylinders and are intended for smaller fires. Cylinders can hold up to 100 pounds per tank. Once discharged, there is no more CO2 in the tank.

In contrast, low-pressure systems store CO2in one large tank versus several cylinders. These tanks are able to hold anywhere from 2,000-6,000 pounds of CO2per tank. When a low-pressure system is discharged, there will still be Co2 in the tank (not all agent is discharged) for another discharge as needed. It’s essentially one big system to protect all hazards versus several cylinders.

• Cost-effective- Less expensive to replenish than other agents; CO2fill is a fraction of the cost and fills are needed less frequently.
• Clean – Agent leaves no residue; no need for costly clean-up.
• Low maintenance– Fill connections easily accessed without the need for personnel.
• Convenience- No need for hydraulic testing; fewer fills required.
• Fast acting– CO2 penetrates the entire hazards area in seconds, before fire can get out of control. The ability for multiple discharges ensures extinguishment.
• Adaptive- Wide range of uses, types of fires, and can be used for multiple hazards.
• Less down time- No residue, so no need for clean-up.
• Compact- Requires less room to store equipment; large tank vs. cylinders; can be stored indoors or outdoors.
• Environmentally friendly– Requires a smaller footprint for agent storage; CO2 is a basic element and a naturally occurring by-product of combustion so leaves no long-lasting environmental impacts.

Due to the adaptable qualities of low-pressure fire suppression systems, they are ideal for a wide range of hazards. This means that almost any facility can benefit from low-pressure systems, though these systems are most commonly used in large manufacturing or industrial facilities.

The size of the tanks and ability to hold more CO2 makes these systems effective for larger or multiple hazards that might otherwise require many cylinders of CO2.

The most common applications for low-pressure CO2 systems include:

• Coal Handling, Grinding and Storage Systems
• Warehouses and Flammable Materials Storage
• High Voltage Switchgear Buildings
• Manufacturing and Industrial Processes
• Automotive Industry
• Power Generation Enclosures
• Printing Applications
• Rolling Mills and Metal Processing
• Fume Handling Systems
• Cement Plants
• Industrial Fryer Process Lines

Most often, the sales team at Fire Systems will recommend low-pressure fire suppression systems to customers with a lot of discharges. Converting to a low-pressure system can mitigate costs on recharges. This means that customers can have their tanks filled less often, saving both time and money.

Fire Systems technicians can install, inspect, and repair most types of fire suppression systems. As experts in fire suppression, you’ll work with a highly trained team of professionals to help you choose the most efficient and cost-effective system for your facility. From install to inspections, Fire Systems ensures you’ll receive the best system for your needs keeping your building safe and compliant each and every day.

Call Fire Systems, Inc. today at 770-333-7979 or visit our website to find out more information on suppression systems and all of the ways that Fire Systems can protect your building.