Wet Chemical Fire Suppression System Smart Protection for Busy Kitchens

What is a Wet Chemical Fire Suppression System: -

  • A Wet Chemical Fire Suppression System is a specialized fire suppression system designed for commercial kitchens and areas with high-risk equipment, such as cooking appliances or industrial processes. It uses a combination of dry chemical or wet chemical agents to quickly suppress fires, especially grease and oil fires that water-based systems cannot extinguish effectively. This system creates a vapor-securing blanket and cools the fire source. Upon activation, the Wet Chemical Fire Suppression System sends a signal to the Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP) to initiate appropriate alarms and notifications.

How it Connects to a Fire Alarm System: -

  • A Wet Chemical Fire Suppression System connects with FACP in two ways
    • With monitor module: –
    • Used to supervise dry contact outputs from Wet Chemical Fire Suppression System (e.g., discharge confirmation).
    • Converts non-addressable signals into addressable ones.
  • With a Manual pull station: –
    • Can be wired to both systems for dual activation.

How the Wet Chemical Fire Suppression System Works: -

  • Wet Chemical Fire Suppression System detects fire via a fusible link: –
    • A small metal component designed to melt at a specific temperature (usually around 360°F / 182°C for kitchen systems).
  • The suppression agent is discharged: –
    • Activation can be automatic (via heat detection) or manual (via pull station). This triggers the actuation mechanism, which opens the suppression agent containers.
  • Relay/ Pull Station sends signal to fire alarm monitor module: –
    • Activation can be automatic (via heat detection) or manual (via pull station). This triggers the actuation mechanism, which opens the suppression agent containers.
  • Fire alarm activates horn/strobe and alerts occupants: –
    • If integrated with a fire alarm system, the Wet Chemical Fire Suppression System sends a signal to trigger audible and visual alarms.
    • This alerts occupants and may notify emergency services or building management.
  • Additional Safety Actions: –
    • Gas and electrical shut-off: The system can automatically cut fuel and power to appliances.
    • Alarm activation: Alerts occupants and can connect to the building’s fire alarm system.
  • System Reset and Recharge: –
    • After discharge, the system must be inspected, recharged, and reset by certified personnel.

⦁ Advantages of the Wet Chemical Fire Suppression System: -

  • Reliable Fire Suppression: –
    • Proven effectiveness in quickly extinguishing fires using dry or wet chemical agents.
  • Automatic & Manual Activation: –
    • Offers both automatic detection (via fusible links or heat sensors) and manual activation options.
  • Customizable Design: –
    • It can be tailored to specific environments like kitchens, mining vehicles, or industrial machinery.
  • Integration with Fire Alarm Systems: –
    • Easily connects to fire alarm panels for enhanced alerting and control.
  • Utility Shutdown Capability: –
    • Automatically shuts off gas or electrical supply to prevent re-ignition.
  • UL/ULC Listed & NFPA Compliant: –
    • Meets industry standards for safety and performance.
  • Minimal Downtime: –
    • Quick discharge and cleanup allow faster return to operations compared to water-based systems.

Disadvantages of the Wet Chemical Fire Suppression System: -

  • Initial Cost: –
    • Installation and equipment can be expensive, especially for large or complex setups.
  • Maintenance Requirements: –
    • Requires regular inspections, testing, and recharging after discharge.
  • Limited Coverage Area: –
    • Designed for specific zones; may not cover entire buildings without multiple systems.
  • Chemical Residue: –
    • Wet or dry chemical agents may leave residue that needs cleaning, especially in food prep areas.
  • Not Suitable for All Fire Types: –
    • May not be effective against certain types of fires (e.g., electrical fires in open spaces).
  • Training Needed: –
    • Staff must be trained to understand activation, reset, and post-discharge procedures. Fire alarm activates horn/strobe and alerts occupants.