Fike Clean Agent System - 2.5 System Design Concept

SECTION 2 – DESIGN
Page 10 of 39 Fike Clean Agent System w/ FM-200™ UL / ULC Ex4623
Revision Date: January, 2010 Manual P/N: 06-215 (Rev G) FM 3010715
2.5 SYSTEM DESIGN CONCEPT
The distribution of HFC-227ea agent to the protected area(s) may be accomplished through one, or more, of the
following piping distribution methods:
 Pre-Engineered System
 Engineered System
 Modular System (Pre-Engineered or Engineered)
 Central Storage System (Pre-Engineered for Engineered)
The method used may depend on several factors including: installation time, the quantity of agent involved,
economic factors, number of hazard areas, available space for placement of storage containers and customer
preferences. Larger projects may require more than one method to address the challenges presented.
Therefore, the designer should be familiar with each of these methods, and the advantages and disadvantages of
each for any particular application.
2.5.1 PRE-ENGINEERED SYSTEMS CONCEPT
Pre-Engineered Systems are simple, balanced-flow configurations that are simple to design and take less time to
install. The Pre-Engineered concept minimizes the engineering effort required to design an effective system by
utilizing a fixed series of nozzles and a tightly defined set of design criteria. As long as nozzle selection, pipe
size, and pipe length limitations are adhered to, computerized flow calculations are not required.
Pre-Engineered Systems can be designed with the containers arranged in modular or central storage
configurations as described below. For more information regarding Pre-Engineered Systems design
requirements, refer to Section 2, paragraph 2.11.
2.5.2 ENGINEERED SYSTEMS CONCEPT
Engineered Systems are more complex and flexible configurations that enable the designer to create a custom
piping network to suit the individual needs of the project. The piping configurations can be balanced or
unbalanced, and the flow splits within the system can vary from point to point. This requires a computerized
hydraulic flow calculation to model the system and verify its performance in accordance with NFPA 2001
requirements prior to installation. Therefore, this design concept gives the designer a great deal more flexibility to
work with, but it will generally take longer to design these systems. In order to perform hydraulic flow calculations
you must have a copy of the Fike HFC-227ea Flow Calculation Software Version 3.0, or higher.
Engineered Systems can be designed with the containers arranged in modular, central storage or manifolded
arrangements as described below.
2.5.3 MODULAR SYSTEMS
Modular Systems can be defined as a design concept where the containers are located throughout or around the
protected area(s). This keeps the discharge piping requirements down to a minimum, but increases the electrical
materials necessary to reach each individual container location.
A modular approach is often desirable (or necessary) for larger applications to reduce the amount of piping
materials and installation labor necessary to complete the installation. In some instances, this approach will be
necessary in order to make the system flow the agent required within the design guidelines identified for an
Engineered or Pre-Engineered System.
2.5.4 CENTRAL STORAGE SYSTEMS
Central Storage Systems can be defined as a design concept where the containers are located in one location,
and piped to the protected space(s) from this location. This concept often requires more discharge piping, but it
decreases the electrical materials necessary to reach the singular container(s) location. This concept may be
more difficult to design due to the increased piping runs involved, and the installation labor will tend to be more
costly.
However, the installation may be more aesthetically desirable to the customer, and it is generally easier to
maintain and service.