I know that FM200 already was banned in some countries due to its negative effect to the environment

but is still in accordance with NFPA and NOAEL (No adverse affect level for Cardiac sensitization)

Fire suppression systems consist of fire alarm initiating devices, notification

appliances and fire suppression agent. Upon activation of initiating devices, fire
suppression agent such as Novec 1230, FM-200, Halon, Inergen or Carbon
Dioxide will be discharged to protected premises. Amount of fire suppression
agent needed to extinguish fire calculated based on volume of a room (computer
room, paint booth, art storage etc.) The most effective type of clean agent is
Novec 1230, which is also the most environmental friendly clean agent. As of
today Halon is banned in the United States and Halon systems cannot be
installed. FM-200 Clean agent can be installed in US, but is banned in other
countries such as Denmark and Germany due its negative effect on the
environment. In case of activation of Fire suppression system all occupants must
leave protected area. All Fire Suppression systems must be inspected semiannually. Fire Bell Corporation provides compete service, inspection and
installation of suppression systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions regarding DuPont FM-200 waterless fire protection
systems.
1. How does a DuPont FM-200 system work?
2. Who uses DuPont FM-200 systems?
3. How are DuPont FM-200 systems designed?
4. Does the ban on HCFCs affect DuPont FM-200?
5. How will the Kyoto Protocol affect DuPont FM-200 systems?
6. How do I know DuPont FM-200 will be available in the future?
7. Are there any countries where DuPont FM-200 cannot be used?
8. How can I be sure that DuPont FM-200 is safe for people?
9. Is thermal decomposition a problem with DuPont FM-200?
10. Isn't DuPont FM-200 a lot more expensive than other options?
11. Why should I install anything more than a sprinkler system?
12. Is water mist as good as a DuPont FM-200 system?
13. How can I be sure that a DuPont FM-200 system is the right strategy for my application?
14. Can I use DuPont FM-200 on Class C fires?
15. Where can I get a quote on a DuPont FM-200 system?

16. Is it a requirement to have a sign posted on the entry door of the location protected by DuPont FM-200?
17. Is DuPont FM-200 accepted on the U.S. EPA's SNAP list? I cannot find FM-200 in the Federal register
documents.
18. Are FM-200 cylinders required to be located outside the room being protected?
19. Is your product accepted by SOLAS for marine applications?
20. How often do I have to inspect and test the system?
21. Is there a height limitation in sub-floors protected by DuPont FM-200?
22. After a discharge is the residual DuPont FM-200 left in the space hazardous to responding firefighters in
protective gear? Does the gear (which is WMD rated by the manufacturer) need to be taken out of service to be
decontaminated?
23. Are there any post-activation purge/ventilation requirements for your system?
24. Should we install a backup sprinkler system?
25. What are the criteria for sealing up a DuPont FM-200 protected space and how quickly must the door to a
linear accelerator space, for example, close prior to release of the gas?
26. Are there training programs available for DuPont FM-200 that fire departments can receive regarding
applications, safety, and precautions?

1. How does a DuPont FM-200 system work?

DuPont FM-200 extinguishes fires through a combination of chemical and physical mechanisms. A typical design
concentration of 7% v/v provides the required amount of gas to extinguish the flame.

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2. Who uses DuPont FM-200 systems?
DuPont FM-200 systems are a trusted choice for waterless fire protection. Our customers are businesses,
governments, universities, hospitals, and museums around the world with valuable assets to protect against fire. Over
100,000 systems are installed in over 70 countries. Applications range from computer and electronic suites to military
vehicles. From the largest Fortune 500 companies to small art museums: all rely on DuPont FM-200 systems for
fast, effective, and safe fire protection.

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3. How are DuPont FM-200 systems designed?
DuPont FM-200 is stored as a liquid in pressurized cylinders. When discharged, the liquid flows through a piping
network into the protected area, where it vaporizes. The amount of gas delivered from each nozzle is carefully
calculated to deliver the proper amount of FM-200 to each protected area.

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4. Does the ban on HCFCs affect DuPont FM-200?

In a word, no. DuPont FM-200 belongs to the class of compounds called HFCs, or hydrofluorocarbons, which were
actually introduced to facilitate the phaseout of ozone depleting chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs),
hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), and bromine-containing fluorocarbons (Halons).

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5. How will the Kyoto Protocol affect DuPont FM-200 systems?
The Kyoto Protocol concerns itself solely with emissions reduction. The Kyoto Protocol is an effort by the developed
nations of the world to find a way to define a baseline and ultimately reduce emissions of substances that contribute
to global climate warming. It makes no reference to a ban on the use of any HFCs, whether in fire protection or other
uses.

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6. How do I know DuPont FM-200 will be available in the future?
There is currently no movement to ban DuPont FM-200 or any threat to do so. Remember, FM-200 was created in
response to the need for a clean gaseous fire suppressant to replace ozone-depleting Halon 1301 systems. It is
thoroughly tested, meeting rigorous American and international standards. It is also the only HFC product approved
for fire protection in Germany, a country known for its tough environmental standards.

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7. Are there any countries where DuPont FM-200 cannot be used?
There are no overall or outright bans on DuPont FM-200 anywhere. However, there are a few notable exceptions
where certain countries have created barriers limiting the ability to sell DuPont FM-200 fire protection systems.
Denmark has a general ban on all chemical extinguishants dating back to 1977, over a decade before FM-200 was
invented. Iceland, which enjoys close ties with Denmark, has adopted a similar position. The Swiss government has
stated that HFCs such as FM-200 can be used in cases where the safety of persons in aircraft, special army vehicles,
and atomic installations could not otherwise be adequately assured.
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8. How can I be sure that DuPont FM-200 is safe for people?
Exhaustive testing has been conducted to assess the safety of FM-200, giving it the most comprehensive toxicity
database of any clean agent. In fact, FM-200 is so safe that it is used as a propellant in pharmaceutical inhalers that
dispense asthma medications. FM-200 is a single, pure compound; there is no active ingredient in FM-200.

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9. Is thermal decomposition a problem with DuPont FM-200?
The vast majority (>95%) of applications of FM-200 involve the protection of Class A hazards. Extensive testing shows
that the levels of HF produced in extinguishing typical Class A fires are well below hazardous levels based on the
dangerous toxic load (DTL) of HF. Moreover, these levels present no threat to electronics or other sensitive
equipment. For fast-growing Class B fires, HF levels may exceed the human DTL depending upon the size of the fire
and the volume of the protected area, and HF levels may also present a threat to equipment. In most cases this is a
moot point, as the temperatures and levels of toxic combustion products such as carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide,

and smoke render the atmosphere toxic and corrosive even before the discharge of FM-200. There is no such thing as
an "ordinary combustible fire." Fires are not combustible, they are undergoing combustion.

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10. Isn't DuPont FM-200 a lot more expensive than other options?
Not when you consider the total installed cost of a DuPont FM-200 system is usually only a small fraction of the
earnings potential of the assets being protected. A DuPont FM-200 system takes up to seven times less storage
space than other fire suppression systems. And it's difficult to put a price on safety and peace of mind. DuPont FM200 systems offer the fastest fire protection available.

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11. Why should I install anything more than a sprinkler system?
Water sprinklers do offer effective fire protection for buildings and structures. Water sprinklers are designed to
control fires, limiting the spread of the fire and contain it to its original location long enough to allow professional
firefighters to respond and extinguish the fire before a total building loss can occur. Unfortunately, water will also
ruin computers, electronics, artwork, and more--the very things you wanted to protect. By comparison, a
DuPont FM-200 system provides fire protection for critical or irreplaceable assets contained within a structure. It's
designed to detect and extinguish fires at their earliest stages to prevent any damage or downtime from occurring.

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12. Is water mist as good as a DuPont FM-200 system?
No. Water mist is not a gas, and will not penetrate all portions of an area like DuPont FM-200 gas will. Extensive
testing has shown that water mist systems perform poorly on small fires and are best suited for the suppression of
large fires. Therefore, water mist is not well suited for small or shielded or obstructed fires, exactly the type of fires
most DuPont FM-200 systems are designed to extinguish. It's also crucial to remember that water is electrically
conductive and can be extremely damaging to sensitive electronic equipment or valuable assets.

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13. How can I be sure a DuPont FM-200 system is the right strategy for my application?
If your application is an ordinary combustible, electrical, or flammable liquid fire, then a DuPont FM-200 system is
most likely right for you. The more valuable the assets you wish to protect (including people), the more sense it
makes to use a DuPont FM-200 waterless fire protection system. There are a few instances where a DuPont FM200 system would not be the right choice for fire suppression. Applications not appropriate for a DuPont FM-200
system include:
Applications involving chemicals that are capable of self-oxidizing or generating their own oxygen even without the
presence of air, such as gunpowder and cellulose nitrate; or compounds that are very unstable and can spontaneously
combust, such as hydrazine (rocket fuel) and many peroxides. Processing facilities or areas using pure powdered
forms of metals. Fires fueled by reactive metals such as lithium, sodium, potassium, magnesium, titanium, zirconium,
metal hydrides, and the radioactive elements uranium and plutonium require a different extinguishing strategy. Other
applications where questionable chemicals are part of the fire hazard.
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14. Can I use DuPont FM-200 on Class C fires?

DuPont FM-200 gas is non-conductive and is suitable for the protection of Class C hazards (hazards involving
energized electrical equipment). Testing has demonstrated the ability of FM-200 to suppress typical Class C fires, for
example fires involving electrically energized cable bundles.

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15. Where can I get a quote on a DuPont FM-200 system?
DuPont has teamed up with the top fire protection equipment manufacturers in the world to provide state-of-the-art
DuPont FM-200 waterless fire protection systems. Please contact us to obtain more information on how a
DuPont FM-200 system can best protect your facilities and valuable assets.

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16. Is it a requirement to have a sign posted on the entry door of the location protected by FM-200?
DuPont FM-200 systems in the United States are typically installed in accordance with NFPA 2001 Standard for
Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems. Section 4.3.5.5 of the NFPA 2001 (2204 edition) states: 4.3.5.5 Warning and
instruction signs at entrances to and inside protected areas shall be provided. The "shall" designation in the NFPA code
is a requirement, not an option.

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17. Is FM-200 accepted on the U.S. EPA's SNAP list? I cannot find FM-200 in the Federal register documents.
The U.S. EPA 40 CFR directs the use of substitutes for halon replacement. FM-200 is indeed included in the U.S. EPA
SNAP listing of halon alternatives. You will find HFC-227ea, the ASHRAE chemical description of the chemical
heptafluoropropane, listed as "acceptable for occupied areas" under the EPA's Significant New Alternatives Program
(SNAP). FM-200 is the DuPont brand name for our HFC-227ea fire extinguishing agent.

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18. Are DuPont FM-200 cylinders required to be located outside the room being protected?
DuPont FM-200 cylinders may be placed in or out of the protected space, depending on the needs of the client.
Both NFPA 2001, Clean Agent Standard and ISO 14520 allow the cylinders to be placed within or outside the protected
space. It is always a good idea to keep the cylinders as close to the protected area as possible and remember to
account for ease of access for service and maintenance.

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19. Is your product accepted by SOLAS for marine applications?
Several of our OEM Fire System partners have marine systems that comply with SOLAS 74, under the IMO MSC Circular
848. As a result, DuPont FM-200 is currently being implemented as an agent of choice for many commercial and
military vessels.

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20. How often do I have to inspect and test the system?

NFPA 2001, 4-1.1, requires clean agent systems be thoroughly inspected by competent personnel at least annually.
Section 4-1.3 requires a semi-annual check of the agent quantity and cylinder pressure.

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21. Is there a height limitation in sub-floors protected by DuPont FM-200?
In general, there is no limit to the height of protection in a sub-floor. In fact, if the sub-floor were 3 meters high it
would be treated exactly like a room for purposes of design. Each manufacturer maintains a system listing to a
maximum nozzle height. Rooms exceeding this height are effectively protected using multiple layers of nozzles, each
layer remaining within the height limitation. There are minimum heights for sub-floors to account for the practical
installation of nozzles and piping. Limitations on system design are the responsibility of the specific system
manufacturers and their respective listings and approvals. You should contact your specific system manufacturer for
further clarification of the limitations on their particular system.

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22. After a discharge is the residual DuPont FM-200 left in the space hazardous to responding fire fighters in
protective gear? Does the gear (which is WMD rated by the manufacturer) need to be taken out of service to be
decontaminated?
The key to responding to a post FM-200 discharge is to evaluate the scope and nature of the fire event. If there was
no fire event, the agent can be safely and quickly removed through conventional air handling (turn on the AC, open
the doors and windows) and will pose no danger to the respondents or the employees working in the space.
DuPont FM-200 is safe for people to breath at normal design concentrations.
In the event of a fire, most DuPont FM-200 systems are designed to respond while the fire event is still in the
earliest stages and very small. In a typical electronic computer facility the fires are low energy, slow growth events.
Early detection limits the potential for fire damage and combustion by products. Modern electronics, however, can
give off a wide range of noxious byproducts when burned. For this reason, it is recommended that firefighters employ
SCBA when re-entering a space. DuPont FM-200 will generate some HF as a result of extinguishing the fire.
In general, there is no requirement to decontaminate firefighter gear after responding to an FM-200 event. There
will be little or no residue, other than possible combustion products from the fire, within the protected space.
Repeated fire tests have been performed, without ever decontaminating the fire suits used by the technicians.

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23. Is there any post-activation purge/ventilation requirements for your system?
There is no requirement within NFPA 2001 for a dedicated exhaust system when using DuPont FM-200. NFPA
requires that the post-extinguishment atmosphere be ventilated in a safe manner. With most installations, this can be
accomplished by simply turning on the air handling units and allowing enough time to dissipate any smoke in a postfire event.
Some jurisdictions have implemented additional local requirements concerning ventilation systems. You should check
with your local authorities.

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24. Should we install a backup sprinkler system?

DuPont FM-200 systems are usually installed specifically to protect the contents of an enclosure and the ongoing
operations of the protected space. Sprinkler systems provide structural protection for a facility or building - Tough to
burn a brick or mortar. Both systems can be installed within a given space, but provide very different levels of
protection against damage.

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25. What are the criteria for sealing up a DuPont FM-200 protected space and how quickly must the door to a
linear accelerator space, for example, close prior to release of the gas?
Because DuPont FM-200 is a gas, it will flow freely wherever the air goes. This is one feature that makes
DuPont FM-200 extremely effective in getting into and around complex structures, finding and extinguishing fires in
the deepest recesses. It will, however, also leak out of the space with equal ease. Generally it is recommended that
doors and significant openings be closed prior to the discharge of the agent. This includes ventilation dampers,
windows, and other normal openings. For the integrity of the space, we recommend performing a room integrity test
with a door fan unit. With all of the normal openings closed, the door fan provides a slight positive and negative
pressure to the space and calculates the total cumulative volume of openings. Using this data allows us to derive a
hold time for the agent concentration. Hold time requirements are usually set by the AHJ and most conventional
enclosures look for ten minutes. This ensures thorough extinguishment and minimizes the potential for reflash of the
fire.

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26. Are there training programs available for DuPont FM-200 that fire departments can receive regarding
applications, safety, and precautions?
We do not have a training program specific to DuPont FM-200 systems, but we can forward information that we
have produced. Materials discuss the use and efficacy of the DuPont FM-200 agent. Contact us for additional
information on system components.

9. I heard FM-200 is about to be banned

from use. Is it true?
Absolutely not. According to a Dupont study, FM-200 is one of the most efficient and safer clean agents. FM- 200
enables high effectiveness, cleanliness, low chemical reactivity, low toxicity, minimal environmental impact, and
competitive system cost. So, it is not going to be banned.
Moreover, FireDetec system and FM-200 currently protect billions of dollars worth of assets in more than 70
countries and is recognized as a mature technology.
FM-200 has been tested and its chemical reactivity assessed. As FM-200 does not react with water, no special
procedures are required when handling it. Furthermore, when humans are exposed to FM-200, no acid or other
chemical compound is created because FM-200 is not metabolized within the human body. Thus, this agent has a
low acute and chronic toxicity, and has been approved by the US Food & Drug Administration. FM- 200 is actually
so safe that it is used as a propellant in pharmaceutical inhalers that dispense asthma medications.
Moreover, it has a low environmental impact, since FM-200 is chemically stable, and hence its atmospheric fate is
not complicated by chemical reactions, such as hydrolysis. That is why it respects the Montreal Protocol, the
Kyoto Protocol, and the new F-Gas Regulations (2014).
Sources: Dupont White Paper, Dupont EPA Snap Status Changes

FM200 News - What is the future of FM200?

Home > Fire Suppression > synthetic agents > FM200 news

FM200 News Bulletin

The fire suppression industry is about to face a crisis of epic proportion.
The events that unfold over the next few months may change the dynamics of the industry
forever.
The manufacturers of FM200 have announced that there is a shortage of the product. We have
also been advised that there is a significant price increase on the product. We believe that the
price of FM200 increased by up to 150% possibly making it the most expensive synthetic fire
suppression agent on the market.

FM200 sustainability
Since the release of the Kyoto protocols, a question has surrounded the sustainability of HFC
gases for use within the fire protection industry.
Unlike the Montreal protocol which set about a ban of Halon 1301 and Halon 1211 (BCF), the
Kyoto protocol excluded HFC gases for use within the fire suppression industry. This ruling was
based on the position at the time as there was no synthetic alternatives to Halon 1301/1211 other
than HFC227, HFC125, FE36 and FE13 etc, all of which are global warming gases.

Fire Suppression Solutions

Fire Suppression Limited has an alternative to HFC gases called Novec1230. This agent has a
negligible global warming impact. It's atmosphere lifetime is only five days and it has a global
warming potential (GWP) of 1. By comparison FM200 has a GWP of 3500 and Halon had a GWP
of 6400. In layman's terms this means that 3500kg of Novec will have the same global warming
impact as 1 kg of FM200 and 6400kg of Halon 1301.
Novec1230 has Zero ozone depletion potential (ODP), unlike like Halon 1301, therefore it falls
outside both the Kyoto and Montreal protocols.
3M (the OEM) introduced Novec 1230 into the market some 9 years ago. This product has
always been considered a premium product due to its environmentally friendly properties. Fire
Suppression Limited has always endorsed and embraced this product and has supplied it to
some of the largest companies within the United Kingdom and Europe. The product is supported
by the 3M's blue Sky warranty :-

3M's Novec 1230 Blue Sky Warranty

Novec 1230 Fire Protection Fluid doesn't just put out fires. With the new 3M Blue SkySM
Warranty, it also puts your mind at ease. If 3M's Novec1230 Fire Protection Fluid is banned from
or restricted in use as a fire protection agent due to ODP, or GWP, 3M will refund the purchase
price of the Novec 1230 fluid. That's a promise and performance you can take to the bank!

Environmental Issues
Growing pressure has been placed on the fire suppression industry to consider alternatives to
FM200/HFC125/FE36 and FE13 on the basis that there are alternatives to HFC gases. This
pressure has been growing outside the industry too with some of the largest companies ruling out
the use of HFC products within their facilities.
This latest development regards the shortage and pricing of the HFC227ea(FM200) and other
HFC gases will change the dynamics of our industry and raises the following questions:

Why use a fire suppression agent that may be restricted for the use of fire suppression in
time to come?
Why use an agent that is not good for our environment?
Why pay a premium for a product that could be restricted with such a high GWP?
Will there be sufficient stocks to sustain industry demand for both new systems and refills

The Future
Since the ban of Halon 1301, FM200 has been the market leading synthetic fire suppression
agent due to its lower price. We believe that this ethos has made FM200 the most popular
synthetic fire suppression medium over recent years. Due to the latest developments and the
new price hikes this will certainly make FM200 unpopular and we expect that this may have a
further impact on price and availability of the product in the future!
Currently the fire protection industry is struggling to provide prices and availability on FM200.
Prices have already gone up and there is uncertainty as to what the position will be in the future.

Care of Duty
Fire Suppression Limited exercises its duty of care and advises it's customers that there will be
an imminent/immediate shortage of FM200. All existing quotations for FM200 will no longer be
valid, however FSL advise that we do have an alternative and a solution to this problem.

FM200
HFC-277ea is a chemical gas comprises of Hydrogen, Fluorine& Carbon. A commonly known
brand is FM200.
General Information on HFC-277ea (FM200):
How HFC-277ea (FM200) extinguishes a fire is through bringing down the temperature, so that
the combustion reaction is unable to sustain itself.
HFC-277ea (FM200) is only suitable for total flooding applications where the protected area has
the structural integrity to contain the chemical gas that has been discharged.

Although HFC-277ea (FM200) has a Zero Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP), it however has a
Global Warming Potential of approximately 3800.
Upon discharge of HFC-277ea (FM200), a decrease in visibility in the protected room will occur
as the chemical agent is stored in the form of liquid. Mist will therefore be generated when
vaporisation occurs, causing condensation in the air.

Ads by Lights Cinema 1.5betaAlso, it is highly recommended that exposure to HFC-277ea (FM200)
during its discharge should be kept to a minimum as Hydrogen Fluoride (HF), a by-product from
the chemical reaction of halocarbon gas with heat will cause irritation to a bodys tissue surfaces,
and prolonged exposure with increasing concentrations could even prove to be lethal in the
absence of medical intervention.
How it works:
Similar to NN100, HFC-277ea (FM200) is activated after two stages of fire protection field devices
activation.
First stage activation of HFC-277ea (FM200) system:
When the first smoke detector is triggered, the alarm bell situated in the protected room will begin
to ring.
The Evacuate Area Immediately signage situated inside the protected room will start to flash.
Second stage activation of HFC-277ea (FM200) system:
Horn and strobe light situated inside the protected room will being to sound and flash respectively.

Upon the pre-determined 30 seconds countdown delay, HFC-277ea (FM200) will be discharged.
Gas Discharged signage situated outside protected room will begin to flash.
Other information:
Although HFC-277ea (FM200) is used in Singapore, it is banned in certain Scandinavian
countries like Switzerland, Sweden, Denmark and Iceland. For an alternative to HFC-277ea
(FM200) gas suppression system, another reliable gas suppression system will be NN100.

Novec 1230 fire protection fluid

World halon designed for use with 3M Novec 1230 Fire Protection Fluid is
engineered to provide clean, fast, people-safe protection for applications
requiring
a
green
solution
to
fire
suppression.
The system is computer calculated to provide system discharge within 10
seconds

Novec for Data Processing & Control

Even a small fire in critical facilities such as data processing centers, airport
control towers, clean rooms, laboratories and computer-controlled
manufacturing operations can result in catastrophic loss by interrupting vital
operations
and
damaging
high-value
equipment.
In these situations, it's important that fires be knocked down quickly before they have a chance to spread - and that sensitive electronics and
other equipment not be damaged in the process of putting out the fire.
3M Novec 1230 Fire Protection Fluid is a highly-efficient extinguishing
agent
that:
Is
electrically
non-conductive
Is
non-corrosive
Rapidly
vaporizes
to
gas
during
discharge
Leaves
no
residue
Does not damage electronics, electronic media and delicate mechanical
devices
Can be safely used on energized equipment, helping to ensure continuity of
operations
during
a
fire
emergency
Safety
Advantages:
Another major advantage of 3M Novec 1230 Fire Protection Fluid is its
wide margin of safety in use - providing more flexibility in system design
compared with other halon alternatives and ensures that occupants can
safely egress the space since the NOAEL will not be exceeded.
Environmental
Non
Five-day
Global

Warming

atmospheric
Potential

Profile:
ozone-depleting
lifetime
of
1

FM200 (HFC227ea) Supply and Cost Issue

Ads by Lights Cinema 1.5betaFirstly G8 Fire is an Independent installation and service provider of Gas
Extinguishant. As we dont manufacture, we sit firmly on the fence of what the clients needs are, not what
we have to promote from the parts bin. We source the best extinguishants and hardware at the most
competitive prices to keep costs to a minimum. We also pride ourselves in maintaining older systems so
they can continue having a cost effective life if fit for purpose.
Since November 2010, there has been many sketchy reports about price rises and lack of availability of the
worlds most popular Fixed Gas Extinguishant, this is known as HFC227ea (FM200) and other linked gases
based on the successful HFC agent.
Many misleading reports are now in circulation that speculate price increases will be upwards of 200%, FM200
is doomed by ban and some will make you believe that its best taken out now and replaced with new systems
before HFC runs out. None of this is accurate, and such nonsense is seemingly based on the opportunity to create
new marketing ploys to fill empty order books, and lock clients into protocols of other agents which could not
freely assessable for competitive tender on future new systems, adjustments or refilling after activations. HFC
will remain competitive to the user because everyone has access to the agent and therefore clients cannot be
locked in should a supplier try to change the goal posts. There is not a formal document in place to date showing
HFC are/or are likely to be banned.
Why the Price Increase:
There are two HFC manufacturing plants; these are found in China and the USA. The China plant suffered some
major damage in mid 2010 and has since out of commission until further notice, so the output has dropped for
the time being. Secondly some of the raw materials for production of HFCs and other Chemical agents have
naturally risen in cost. This has lead to a price rise in HFCs long term. HFC is also used in the Air-conditioning
industry and this market by far eclipses that of fixed extinguishing, so there is a collective need to keep
production going in large numbers. The amount currently stored and available for reclamation is also high, so
realistically there is not going to be the shortages claimed.
However, taking a historic view point, the cost per kg of HFC,s has decreased year on year since the HFC, Halon
& Naf S111 price battles of 1992 to 2004. Halons and NAF was of course banned in 2004 and HFC since then
has had very little competition when it comes to the small Foot space of cylinders and the quantities of
hardware required supporting it versus the overall cost. So the prices we see now are the prices found back in
1998, and since then, prices have fallen year on year which makes it seem like quite a sizable jump. It could be
said, the industry has had a bargain to date which has also stabilized the market place after Halons were banned.
There still is no real substitute for its wide uses and flexibility to date regardless of claims.

HFC 227ea Future Availability and Costs for 2011:

To ensure we didnt create a panic situation, G8 Fire have sourced only suppliers for new and the refilling of,
who have set prices at honest levels and who have secured stocks for 2011. From January 2011 costs per kg have
leveled out at a realistic 40% increase above the 2010 costs experienced.
To show a fair and accurate comparison of costs on the top 4 systems used in the UK; please find the league
below of the actual installed mechanical cost of the combined agent, parts and labour based on a small single
Computer room of a set given size to which HFC and other chemical agents are most suitable for, given that
space for cylinders is at a premium. This shows the difference in expected costs at present and brings it down to
a level all can understand without any sales hype and marketing agenda.

The HFC227ea Fixed Fire Extinguishing System = 4148.77p

The IG55 Proinert Fixed Fire Extinguishing System = 4806.79p
The Novec 1230 Fixed Fire Extinguishing System = 5145.98p
The CO2 Fixed Fire Extinguishing System = 5322.43p
The prices show at present, HFC227ea is still the most cost effective Installed agent on the market for small to
medium size installations, larger Installations benefit from the Inerts such as IG55 where space is not such a
commodity.
More on the pros and cons of each agent can be found on the Products page of our web site, as each system has
its merits and drawbacks when suited to a risk and its location.

Firex Exhibition 2011

We are to attend Firex on May 16th to May 19th for the 1st time within the new Fike Village concept. The
stand we occupy J14, is only small, but is designed as a focal point for Fire trade clients to discuss portfolios of
gas extinguishing that will surround us.
We use this opportunity to meet potential new and existing clients. New products on show will be hosted by
Fike.
Firex is a venue weve been looking forward to attending since forming in 2004. The stand will be manned by
Kevin Cooper for the week, with Roy Stone, Liz Cooper and Gareth Powell in part time attendance, so should
you wish to meet them in person, please contact us for timetables.
New Products on show:
New valve designs for HFC227ea
IG55 (Commonly known as Argonite) In Fike Proinert cylinder Packages
IG541 (Commonly known as Inergen) In Fike Proinert cylinder Packages
IG100 (Commonly known as Nitrogen) In Fike Proinert cylinder Packages

G8 Fire on the move

In October 2010, G8 Fire recently moved from Camberley Surrey, to Hook Hampshire. The move was brought
about by our successful growth that eventually lead to G8 out growing the older premises in both office and
workshop space. The new building becomes a very welcome relief to all in G8!

G8 Fire and Fike Distributor Award

For the 2nd year running, G8 Fire has been awarded UK Distributor of the year by the Fike Corporation, based
on gross sales activity in 2009. Last year for year end 2008 we received the Golden Pilot award, but for year
end 2009 we are now awarded the Flying nozzles.
Below is the presentation of the award to our Managing Director Kevin Cooper, from the Fike UK Managing
Director Mark Austin.

New Installation Manager

Gareth Powell has recently been promoted from within the ranks of G8, and has been appointed as our new
Installation Manager. Gareth originally from a Data / Comms background has been with G8 Fire since
September 2006, and due to hard work and attention to detail, has earned his right to fill the role to which to date
has been exemplary. We hope Gareth will enjoy the role for many years to come.

Gareth Powell, Installation Manager

F-Gas Regulations due July 2010

Ads by Lights Cinema 1.5betaF-gas is a first for the Extinguishing industry in that, if the end-user are neither
maintaining or allowing a 3rd party company (Fire Alarm Company) who are not trained and cannot show a
certificate of competency, the lack of such, will result in the end user being fined by the Government. This action
of course will be very much frowned upon if a Fire Company claiming such training has not completed such a
course. Competency in Gas Extinguishing is a hard argument if it cannot be proved on paper, so in this case
special training for employees and company certificates have to be completed before any works are carried out
on systems.
The systems this regulation applies to are commonly known as HFC227ea (FM-200) HFC-23(FE13)
and HFC125 (FE-25, ECARO). There are few others, but these are rare in Europe.
Kyoto Protocol which is governing Global Warming issues recognizes that F gases are a family of chemicals
that contain fluorine. Since the ban on Halon usage in fixed fire suppression systems, hydro fluorocarbons (HFC,
s) have become widely used due to their zero ozone depletion potential. However, F gases are grouped as
greenhouse gases which contribute to global warming if emitted to the atmosphere and as such have become
subject to regulations aimed at containing and reducing their emission. However they are not earmarked for a
ban and thus still for sale. The family of HFC gases is commonly used for Car/Home/Office/Industrial: Air
conditioning, Refrigeration, Aerosols, Foam Sealants, and Fire Suppression. So as most extinguishing systems
are found in large complexes, the End-user will be aware at some point of the f-gas regulation.
Now with this regulation in mind, along with some recent accidents and fatalities centred on improper handling
of high pressure extinguishing cylinders in the UK, G8 Fire along with Insurance companies take training,
competency and accreditation very seriously. The future will get tougher for extinguishing but however G8 fire
have for the past 5 years have gained a 100% accident free record, a good reputation and the correct proof of
competency without compromising costs to our clients. These are notably:
F Gas Certification. Certificate No. 0010
NSI FireGOLD Scheme. BAFE SP203 Reg. No. NSI169 Certification No.FIR/G/10074
ISO 9001: 2008. BAFE SP203 Reg. No. NSI169 Certification No.FIR/G/10074
BAFE Scheme SP203. BAFE SP203 Reg. No. NSI169 Certification No.FIR/G/10074
SAFE Contractor scheme. Certification No.N00101627
Waste Control. As a carrier of controlled waste Registration No.CB/PN5873BP
Specialist Insurance. By Sutton Specialist Risks Policy Number, SSR109026983
ECS Heath & Safety Assessment: For all G8 Engineers

CCNNG Heath & Safety Training: by the ECITB for all G8 Engineers
Asbestos Awareness: to Regulation 10 of SI2739

Costly Re-Activation of Systems After Reset

Ads by Lights Cinema 1.5beta
Engineers be aware.....
In 2010, 3off unrelated sites have experienced Inergen systems re-activating after a standard service panel test
and solenoid testing /reset in separate parts of the country. This of course is a costly exercise as the cylinders
required refilling after.
After the activation testing of the solenoid and witnessing of the pin extending, the panel was reset and the
solenoid pin was reset by the approved tool. Now all clear, the solenoid body was placed back on the cylinder.
However after a few minutes the pin fired again all by itself (no sound or lights from the panel) and the cylinders
emptied, for no reason at all!
On investigation, the solenoid was seen in all three cases as the main suspect and replaced, as the panel showed
no signs of failure. However it has now come to light through talking to a number of senior service engineers in
the country, the true explanation is that some panels, if the solenoid is tested by using the manual call point
button on the front panel or the panel is activated without reset for a long period, will do this because the panel
can hold residual power even after reset, and will let this power go sometime after and in turn activate the
solenoid. Hence this is why a system that has never given trouble then becomes a costly nightmare. It is believed
Earthling faults can also cause this problem.
On this note, If the solenoid is electronically activated, G8 Fire (if asked), will not replace the body of the reset
solenoid back on the cylinder until after a 5 minute resting period following reset. These false activations are not
the responsibility of the person resetting or replacing the solenoid back onto the cylinder, as this action will not
cause a delayed activation.

Over Pressure Venting

On Inert extinguishing systems it has been widely recognized by British Standards, suppliers and installers for
many years, that when installing such systems there is a need for Over Pressure venting to overcome the spike of
pressure that can damage an enclosure. The venting requirement is recognized worldwide and is detailed in
EN15004, BS-ISO14520 and NFPA: 2001 standards. Due to issues with chemical gases that have pressure issues
also but in a different way, change has come for the possible requirement for 2 way venting for HFC227ea
(FM200) & Novec 1230 products in certain conditions. As guidance one or two way venting is now a
requirement for gases as below:
One way Venting is required always when using: a Full flood Inert gas extinguishing system such as IG01, IG55,
IG541, IG100 or typical manufactures names such as Argon, Proinert, Argonite, Inergen, etc
Two ways Venting is required sometimes when using: a Full flood HFC227ea or Novec 1230 chemical based
system. Due to negative pressure build up on discharge that turns into a positive, these gases only need venting
when the enclosure pass rate proven on an Integrity test reaches a certain Level. These levels are measured in
minutes by the test, and received as the known pass rate. The pass rate to which the room will need the extra
venting is as the approximate rule of thumb:
47 min+ pass rate for HFC227ea @ a boundary pressure limit (pressure impulse tolerance) of 500Pa
24 min+ pass rate for Novec 1230 @ a boundary pressure limit (pressure impulse tolerance) of 500Pa
The requirement for 2 way pressure venting on chemical gases will not be automatically quoted by G8 Fire for
on new installations, as this scenario is calculated to only affect say one in 500 systems and can only be proven
for the need with an Integrity test once the enclosure has been sealed.

Is it news, well we think so..

This year the notable job was a small installation at Abbey Road Recording Studios for Ronan Associates. In the
photo below (left to right) Graham Warner and his Lonely Fitters Band, Rob, Mark & Roy take the walk of fame
across the much publicised pedestrian crossing complete with some tools. Call us idiots but with now EMI
thinking of selling the studios, this just had to be done for the recordmind the pun folks but i'm trying to
make this news page enjoyable!