Data Center Fire Suppression
If you run a data or IT center in the Columbia area, you probably invest in multiple systems designed to prevent downtime. From powerful air conditioning to an uninterruptible power supply to an emergency backup generator, you feel prepared to fend off various scenarios that could cause your system to go down. But what about the possibility of a fire? This also deserves careful consideration.
At State Systems Inc., we have years of experience designing, installing, maintaining, and testing fire suppression systems for data and IT centers across Columbia. We’ll help you choose the right solution for your needs. Then, we’ll provide ongoing services to keep your equipment in good working condition when you need it most.
To request a quote for a new fire suppression system, please call 901-531-6550 or contact State Systems Inc. online today.
Types of Fire Suppression Systems for Data/IT Centers
As you know, water and electronics don’t mix. Since your data center is probably filled with computers, hard drives, and other sensitive equipment, you need something different than ordinary fire sprinklers to protect your investment.
In the past, Halon was the go-to choice for non-water fire suppression, but once it became known that deploying Halon depletes the ozone, it was phased out of use. Existing Halon fire suppression systems are allowed to stay in use, but new installation must utilize an alternative extinguishing agent.
The best option is to install a clean agent fire suppression system. This is a gaseous system that works either by depriving flames of oxygen or heat. The most significant benefit of clean agents is that they leave no residue behind, allowing them to suppress flames without irreparably damaging your IT equipment.
The three types of clean agents most suitable for use in data centers include the following:
FM-200 Fire Suppression
FM-200 is one of the most well-known and trusted clean agents in use today. This colorless, liquefied compressed gas is capable of extinguishing fires in just 10 seconds or less, making it the fastest-acting clean agent available. Its flexible design options make it suitable for many applications, including data centers.
When you install an FM-200 commercial fire suppression system, you’re choosing an eco-friendly fire suppressant that has an ozone depletion potential (ODP) of zero. It’s also safe to discharge FM-200 in occupied spaces and has small storage space requirements.
3M Novec 1230 Fire Suppression
This suppression system works by removing heat from a room, one of the elements of the fire triangle that flames need to continue burning. The agent is stored as a liquid, but it converts into a gas during the discharge process to extinguish the fire without damaging sensitive electronic equipment.
The most prominent advantages of a Novec 1230 fire suppression system include:
- A global warming potential (GWP) of near zero.
- Zero ozone depletion rate
- Safe to discharge in occupied spaces
- Small storage space required
- Simpler piping than Inergen systems
Ansul Inergen Clean Agent Fire System
This type of clean agent is harmless to electronic equipment and safe to use in occupied areas. The agent is a non-toxic gas comprised of 52% nitrogen, 40% argon, and 8% carbon dioxide. It works by lowering the oxygen level in the room so combustion isn’t possible, while still leaving enough air for people to breathe. The discharge process takes about 60 seconds, making Inergen the slowest-acting clean agent.
Our Commercial Fire Suppression Services for Data/IT Centers
As a licensed fire suppression system provider and installer in Columbia, you can count on State Systems Inc. for all your fire protection needs. Here are the services we provide that relate to fire suppression systems:
Design & Installation
Regardless of the extinguishing agent you choose for your IT center, the system requires expert design and installation to function properly. We’ll make sure all the proper components are in place, including heat detectors, pull stations, alarm bells, nozzles and caps, piping, and storage tanks. With our careful design and installation work, you can rest assured that your facility is safe and code compliant.
Maintenance & Testing
Installation is the first step, but it’s far from the last. Local and national fire codes demand that you maintain and test your fire suppression system over the years to keep it in top working condition. We follow these requirements to a tee, providing you with convenient, web-based inspection reports for your records along the way.
Repair & Retrofitting
If you notice something wrong with your fire suppression system, or our technicians discover a problem during routine maintenance, we will perform the required repair. We can also upgrade your system to enhance performance and complete retrofits if your fire protection requirements change in the future.
If you’re ready to install a fire suppression system in your IT center, please contact State Systems Inc. today at 901-531-6550!
