Sea-Fire FK-5-1-12 - User Manual

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Overview

Function Description
Important Technical Specifications
Usage Features
Maintenance Features

The device described in this manual is a Sea-Fire FK-5-1-12 pre-engineered fire suppression system, designed for marine and industrial applications. Its primary function is to extinguish fires using a non-ozone-depleting agent, specifically 1,1,1,2,2,4,5,5,5-NONAFLUORO-4-(Trifluoromethyl)-3-Pentanone. This agent is an EPA accepted alternative replacement for Halon, and FK-5-1-12 is a non-conductive and residue-free extinguishing agent that requires no cleanup. The system is designed to provide broad range of applications, including marine, commercial, and industrial use where electrical or flammable liquids are the likely source of fire.

Function Description:

The Sea-Fire FK-5-1-12 system operates by discharging a fire suppression agent into an enclosed compartment to extinguish fires. The system can be activated automatically or manually. Automatic activation is triggered by a rise in temperature within the protected space, detected by a sensitive UL listed glass bulb. Manual activation can be initiated via a pull station. The system is designed to provide total flooding, meaning the agent is distributed throughout the entire enclosed volume.

Important Technical Specifications:

The system is available in various models, including NFG 25-100, NFD 101-825, and NFD 826-1800. These models differ in their maximum enclosure volume and radial reach.

Operating Temperature Range:
- NFG 25-100 Models: 20°F (-7°C) to 130°F (54°C)
- NFD 101-825 Models: 20°F (-7°C) to 130°F (54°C)
- NFD 826-1800 Models: 32°F (0°C) to 130°F (54°C)
Discharge Temperature Range:
- NFG 25-100 Models: 200 - 250°F (93 - 121°C)
- NFG 76-100 Models: 175 - 225°F (79 - 107°C)
- NFD 101-800 Models: 175 - 225°F (79 - 107°C)
- NFD 101-825 Models: 175 - 225°F (79 - 107°C)
- NFD 826-1800 Models: 175 - 225°F (79 - 107°C)
Cylinder Pressure: The system operates at a nominal pressure of 500 PSI (34.3 bar) at 70°F (21°C). Pressure readings are typically within ± 10% of nominal fill pressure.
Cylinder Sizes: The manual provides tables (Table 6, 7A, 7B) detailing the maximum enclosure volume, maximum height, maximum area of coverage, and maximum radial reach for various cylinder sizes (measured in ft³ and m³). For example, an NFG 25-75 model can cover 2 ft³ with a maximum height of 6 ft and a radial reach of 8.7 ft.
Mounting: All NFG Models are approved for vertical or horizontal mounting. NFD 101-825 Models are approved for vertical or horizontal mounting. NFD 826-1800 Models are approved for vertical mounting only.
Cylinder Material: NFG and NFD series cylinders comply with US DOT Specification 39 and PED/PESR. NFD models are built with DOT 4BW welded steel cylinders.
Agent: The extinguishing agent is 1,1,1,2,2,4,5,5,5-NONAFLUORO-4-(Trifluoromethyl)-3-Pentanone, which is a clean agent that leaves no residue.
Electrical Systems: The system can be integrated with vessel electrical systems. Indicator lights (12 VDC and 24 VDC) are used to show system status.

Usage Features:

Ease of Installation: The manual provides detailed instructions for cylinder installation, wall mounting, and cable assembly installation. It emphasizes careful handling of the cylinder and proper routing of cables to avoid physical abuse.
Safety Features: The system incorporates safety pins (pull pins) to prevent accidental discharge during installation and maintenance. These pins must be removed for the system to be operational.
System Status Indicator Light: A green indicator light on the faceplate confirms the system is armed and ready. Loss of system pressure or electrical power will cause the indicator light to turn off.
Remote Pull Station: The system can be activated manually from a remote pull station, which should be located in an easily accessible area.
Engine Shutdown: The system can be configured to automatically shut down engines, generators, and powered ventilation upon discharge of the fire suppression system. This is crucial for effective fire suppression.
Discharge Capability: Manual discharge cables are available in various lengths (1 ft to 100 ft) to accommodate different vessel layouts.
Refillable Cylinders: All NFD Models are refillable, and NFG Models are not.

Maintenance Features:

Regular Inspections: The manual stresses the importance of regular inspections (every 6 months, minimum) to ensure the system's operational readiness. This includes checking the pressure gauge, verifying the indicator light status, and inspecting all components for damage or corrosion.
Pressure Gauge Inspection: The pressure gauge is designed to show proper filling and pressurization. The green section of the gauge indicates proper pressure, while red sections indicate overcharge or undercharge.
Cylinder Inspection/Cylinder Testing: Cylinders undergo periodic inspection intervals (typically 12 years from the date stamped on the cylinder) and must be re-qualified or replaced. Visual inspections are also required every 5 years.
Agent Weight Inspection: The cylinder's weight must be checked every 6 months to ensure the correct quantity of extinguishing agent. A fully charged unit will have a specific gross weight, and a decrease in weight indicates a loss of agent.
Out of Warranty Replacements/Recharges: Sea-Fire NFG models are not refillable and must be replaced. Sea-Fire NFD models are refillable and can be recharged by authorized dealers.
Safety Data Sheets (SDS): The manual includes an SDS for the extinguishing agent, providing information on hazard identification, first aid measures, fire-fighting measures, accidental release measures, handling and storage, exposure controls, physical and chemical properties, stability and reactivity, toxicological information, ecological information, disposal considerations, transport information, and regulatory information. This ensures safe handling and maintenance procedures.
Installation Inspection Checklist: A comprehensive checklist is provided to ensure proper installation and verification of all system components, including cylinder installation, cable assembly, and shutdown restart system. This checklist helps ensure the system meets all safety and performance requirements.