CO2 Systems
Carbon Dioxide Fire Suppression System
Composition: Pure carbon dioxide gas.
Mechanism: Rapidly reduces oxygen concentration to suppress the fire.
Important Note: Not suitable for occupied spaces due to asphyxiation risks.
Advantages
- Cost-effective and widely used across various industries
- Non-conductive, making it safe for electrical equipment
- Leaves no residue after discharge
- Effective on Class A, B, and C fires
- Penetrates areas that are difficult to reach with water or foam
- Long service life with minimal maintenance
Applications
- Unmanned stations
- Power plants
- Marine platforms
- Engine rooms
- Industrial machinery
- Flammable liquid storage areas
- Printing presses
- Industrial processes involving flammable liquids or metals
System Types
High-Pressure Systems
CO2 is stored in high-pressure cylinders as a liquid. When discharged, it quickly converts to gas and expands to reach all areas of the protected space.
Low-Pressure Systems
Used for larger applications, these systems store CO2 in refrigerated pressure vessels and are suitable for installations requiring large quantities of agent.
Safety Considerations
CO2 systems must be designed with appropriate safety measures, including pre-discharge alarms, time delays, lockout valves, and warning signs. Personnel safety training is essential for any facility using CO2 systems.