Faqs

Answers to Your Fire Safety Questions - FirePro UK FAQ

Welcome to our FAQ section, where we address common queries and provide essential information to enhance your understanding of our fire safety products.
What is FirePro?

FirePro is a condensed aerosol fire suppression system that effectively suppresses fire on demand (manually or automatically) by delivering minute particles of potassium based agent within almost any size risk, for virtually all applications. The product is contained in stainless steel ‘generators’ that range in size from very small (20g) to large (5.7kg). Besides all the general certification to be expected for protection from fire, FirePro is the only LPCB & MED ‘Wheelmark’ certificated product for this technology.

How does FirePro work?

Irrespective of size, each FirePro unit contains its own quality checked solid block compound. When charged electrically, the compound changes via exothermic reaction from a solid to a fine particulate. The temperature of the agent on release is controlled by cooling mechanisms and dispersed into the risk via the ports at very low pressure, meaning that over pressure venting is not required.

What is the certified life cycle of FirePro?

Irrespective of size, each FirePro unit has a guaranteed 15 year lifespan as tested by KIWA, once the units are coming up for expiry they can simply be isolated, disconnected, and replaced, ready to serve another 15 years!

Will FirePro harm the environment?

Not at all, the FirePro compound does not contain any CFCs, HCFCs, HFCs or PFAS substances, FirePro has no Ozone Depletion Potential, and no Global Warming Potential. FirePro also carries the green label licence and is listed on the SNAP list of EPA, and the manufacturing process is certified as per ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 14001:2015.

Is FirePro suitable for EX environments?

Yes, FirePro is suitable for EX environments, The ATEX product line has been successfully tested for use in Explosive Atmospheres. The ATEX generators are designed to suppress fires in explosive atmospheres of gas and/or dust mixtures. The ATEX product line is tested and certificated to prove it is intrinsically safe.

How is a system designed?

A FirePro system is designed based on application and environment in which it is installed with, FirePro can be designed as simply as a single generator actuated via BTA (Bulb Thermal Activator) to discharge the agent within an enclosure, all the way to an addressable panel room flood system with an array of box-type generators.

Who installs and supports FirePro?

FirePro is sold in over 110 countries with support across the globe, here in the UK and Ireland we have a handpicked network of approved ambassadors who have all undergone our accredited training program, you can see our list of approved ambassadors here.

What other aerosol products are certificated by LPCB?

None! FirePro is the only LPCB approved aerosol fire suppression product this certification shows that the FirePro product is fit for purpose and has been designed, tested and approved to use as part of essential fire safety equipment.

What certifications and approvals does FirePro hold?

FirePro are certified and approved by various international standards and regulatory bodies, including UL, ULC, BSI, LPCB, KIWA, MCA, ISO and many more! See certification page here.

How quickly does a FirePro system activate in the event of a fire?

This all depends on how the system is designed and if the space is occupied, but FirePro systems are designed to activate within seconds of detecting a fire, providing rapid suppression to minimise damage and risk.

Can FirePro systems be integrated with existing fire alarm systems?

Yes, FirePro systems can be easily integrated with most existing fire alarm and detection systems to provide a comprehensive fire protection solution, for large buildings the FirePro fire suppression panel can be linked back into the house system with the use of relays for 1st stage alarm, 2nd stage alarm, and fault detection.

What periodical inspection & testing is needed with FirePro®

Periodical inspection and testing should only be undertaken by suitably, trained, competent persons, ideally the company should be certificated against LPS 1204 3.2 for competency with condensed aerosol fire suppression systems. The frequency of testing should be a minimum twice per annum, however may be more, determined by a risk assessment for the protected risk.

Is FirePro effective against Lithium-Ion battery fires?

Yes, In the event of a Li-Ion battery fire, the FirePro active agent prevents the formation of highly flammable gases such as Hydrogen The resulting neutralising action ultimately controls the fire and allows the temperature in the enclosure to drop below the threshold necessary for the thermal runaway to sustain itself.

How does FirePro compare to traditional fire suppression systems like sprinklers or gas-based systems?

FirePro offers many advantages over traditional systems, including lower installation and maintenance costs, no water damage (compared to sprinklers), and no need for completely sealed environments (unlike some gas-based systems). It is also effective in a wide range of temperatures and conditions.

What is required if a FirePro® system discharges for any reason?

As soon as it is safe to re-enter the space (or open the enclosure) the agent should be purged to fresh air, either via dedicated extract or forced ventilation. FirePro® like all other condensed aerosols (and some gasses) may leave a residue if the purging does not occur within a short period post discharge. The full instructions are in the basic guidance notes. All attendance and re-instatement works should only be undertaken by suitably, trained, competent persons, ideally the company should be certificated against LPS 1204 3.2 for competency with condensed aerosol fire suppression systems.

How quickly will it be to re-instate cover following a FirePro® system discharge?

Some clients choose the plan for this event by holding spare units on their own premises, which is a minimal cost in expenditure and required storage space. In these circumstances the speed of re-instatement is determined by the speed of the labour to attend site, remove the spent generators, install and commission the new ones. We have over 50 trained ambassadors throughout the UK & Ireland. Re-instatement works should only be undertaken by suitably, trained, competent persons, ideally the company should be certificated against LPS 1204 3.2 for competency with condensed aerosol fire suppression systems.

What is the lead time for purchasing and installing a FirePro system?

From receipt of a PO goods can be delivered to site within 4-6 weeks, but lead times can vary depending on the complexity and size of the installation. Generally, after an initial assessment from an approved ambassador, FirePro UK will provide a timeline for delivery and installation that meets your schedule and requirements.

Do FirePro systems require a power supply to operate?

FirePro systems are designed to be highly reliable and can operate off of building power or independently of an external power supply. They are activated by detection systems that can be either manually or automatically triggered, ensuring functionality even during power outages.

What size of enclosures can FirePro protect?

There are no minimum or maximum sizes of spaces that FirePro can protect, the installation potential of FirePro is endless and there are very few spaces in which FirePro wouldn’t be the first choice.

What is the cost of a FirePro system?

The cost of a FirePro system varies based on the size of the area to be protected, the complexity of the installation, and specific customer requirements. Contact FirePro UK now for a customised quote.

Can FirePro systems be used in heritage or historical buildings?

Yes, FirePro systems are ideal for heritage and/or historical buildings due to their minimal impact on the structure and aesthetics. The non-invasive nature of the system preserves the integrity of valuable and irreplaceable assets, and in the event of a fire the quick discharge and non-damaging particulate ensures protection of the space.

Can FirePro systems be used in hazardous environments?

Yes, FirePro systems are suitable for hazardous environments such as chemical plants, oil and gas facilities, and other areas where traditional fire suppression methods may not be effective or safe. The system's non-toxic and non-corrosive aerosol makes it ideal for these applications.

What is the carbon footprint of a FirePro system as compared to legacy suppression systems?

The carbon footprint of a FirePro system is much smaller than that of legacy fire suppression systems, FirePro systems do not require pipes, tanks, nozzles, or any other non-recyclable equipment. FirePro generators are constructed from fully recyclable steel, so once a system has lived out it’s 15 year life span it can be recycled to make more!

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