Safety First: Nitrogen Generators in Fire Suppression Systems

Fire suppression systems help keep your building safe from fire, but while fire suppression systems can enhance the value of your building and improve outcomes in the event of a fire, this is only true if the suppression system is functioning properly.

Many fire suppression systems sit for years without use because fires are so rare. Oxygen and moisture in fire suppression pipes can cause rust to develop at outlets. Ultimately, this rust buildup can lead to failure of the system when it’s needed most.

The use of a fire protection nitrogen generator in fire suppression pipes can prevent the development of rust that leads to failure of the system. For those properties where nitrogen is used in the fire suppression system, a nitrogen generator is an essential piece of equipment.

Understanding Nitrogen Generators

A nitrogen generator is a machine that produces a steady stream of nitrogen for industrial and production purposes. Nitrogen generators are used in many industries including food and beverage packaging, pharmaceuticals, oil and gas, and more.

Nitrogen generators produce nitrogen by separating the nitrogen in the surrounding air from the other molecules. Membrane nitrogen generators use a membrane to separate the molecules, while pressure swing adsorption generators use a carbon molecular sieve.

The Role of Nitrogen in Fire Suppression

The use of nitrogen is better than other fire suppression agents because it effectively extinguishes fire without causing damage to sensitive equipment and building structures. Compared to water, which can do damage to building materials and electronic equipment, nitrogen is highly effective.

Nitrogen is also better for the pipes and the suppression system itself. Whereas water and oxygen can cause rust in fire suppression pipes, nitrogen does not. This helps control wear and tear on the fire suppression system, to help ensure that the system will continue to work.

Safety Benefits of Using Nitrogen Generators

Some fire suppression systems produce toxic byproducts that can be hazardous to humans and animals. Nitrogen is non-toxic and overall environmentally friendly. Unlike other fire suppression chemicals, nitrogen does not need to be cleaned up and removed from the room to create a safe environment.

In addition, nitrogen generators come with many safety features that help ensure the fire suppression system is overall safe. Installing a fire suppression system that is connected to a nitrogen generator can help ensure the safety of everyone in your building.

Key Safety Features of Nitrogen Generators

When choosing a nitrogen generator for fire protection, it’s important to look for features such as automatic monitoring, built-in safety alarms, and compliance with industry standards.

1. Automatic monitoring and control systems: Automatic monitoring and control systems help ensure that your nitrogen generator is in top-working condition.
2. Built-in safety alarms and alerts: Safety alarms tell you when your nitrogen generator needs maintenance and repair to continue functioning properly.
3. Redundancy and fail-safes in design: Just to ensure that your nitrogen generator will function as expected when you need it, a good generator will have fail-safes in its design. This helps prevent problems like unexpected leaks, failure to perform, and accidents that could lead to injuries.
4. Compliance with industry safety standards: Fire suppression systems are tightly regulated to help save lives. Working with a nitrogen generator manufacturer you can trust helps ensure that your fire suppression system will meet your needs and help stop fires when it’s needed.

Installation and Maintenance Safety

To ensure the reliability of your nitrogen generator for fire sprinkler systems, regular inspections and professional servicing are essential.

Get your nitrogen generator from a trusted manufacturer. On Site Gas Systems produces nitrogen generators that are high-performance, reliable, and made to last. We work with our clients to ensure that each nitrogen generator we manufacture is created for the unique conditions at their worksite.

Train personnel on proper operation and emergency procedures. Training employees responsible for the safe functioning and operation of the nitrogen generator helps prevent problems, mishaps, and miscommunications during a fire.

Inspect your nitrogen generator regularly, and get it professionally serviced. Keep records of how often you’ve serviced your nitrogen generator, and monitor its performance over time to ensure that your nitrogen generator functions as needed to suppress fires.

Regulatory and Compliance Considerations

All new buildings are required to be equipped with an approved automatic fire suppression system. To ensure a fire suppression system complies with regulations, look to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) as well as local building codes. Compliance with local and international codes is essential for the safety of the public and the structure itself.

The use of nitrogen in fire suppression systems has been approved by NFPA 13 and FM Global Data Sheet 2-1. UL product certification, FM approval, and CE certifications may be required to ensure the safe use of nitrogen generators in your fire suppression system.

Maintain a Safe Fire Suppression System With a Nitrogen Generator

Nitrogen is an inert gas that does not cause oxidation or rust-like exposure to oxygen. When it comes to fire suppression systems, the use of nitrogen can slow the production of rust within the system, helping to ensure that your fire suppression system can function reliably when a fire occurs. Nitrogen can also be used without damaging IT systems and sensitive equipment, unlike some other types of fire suppression chemicals.

It’s important to take care of your fire suppression system. Performing regular maintenance can help extend the life of your system. Take proactive safety measures to ensure compliance with regulations.

Use of a reliable nitrogen generator in your fire suppression system is one thing you can do to ensure good results, and On Site Gas Systems can help. To learn more about our nitrogen generators, or to find out what kind of nitrogen generation system would most benefit you, contact us.