Electrical fires account for up to 50% of all structural fire incidences.
Electrical cabinets can become a fire hazard if they do not restrict the heavy flow of current running through the circuit.
When the current is not properly controlled, it can lead to a buildup of heat that can cause electrical wires to overheat, which can in turn lead to the melting of insulating materials. Once these materials have melted, any surrounding flammable materials can easily be ignited, exacerbating the fire hazard and increasing the potential for significant damage.
As a result, it is essential to take steps to ensure that electrical cabinets are designed and maintained to safely contain and control the flow of current, and that proper fire suppression measures are in place to minimize the risks electrical fires.
Electrical Panels System Design
FirePro's fire suppression systems are an ideal choice for protecting electrical panels from the dangers of fires. By releasing the potassium-based aerosol that rapidly disperses throughout the panel, the system can effectively extinguish a fire before it has a chance to spread and cause damage.
Causes
Overloaded Circuits
Overloading circuits can lead to a potentially hazardous buildup of electrical energy that can ultimately result in a dangerous and destructive fire event. Such overloading can arise from various sources, including the use of high-wattage appliances, a lack of proper circuit control, and the overall design and capacity of the electrical system.
Old Or Damaged Wiring
Old or damaged wiring can pose a significant fire risk, as it can become brittle and prone to breaking or cracking, which can in turn lead to short circuits and other electrical hazards. This can be especially problematic in older buildings where wiring may not have been updated or replaced in many years.
Faulty Installation
Faulty installation of electrical systems can introduce a wide range of hazards, including the risk of electrical fires. Such issues can arise from poor workmanship, a lack of proper safety measures, or a failure to adhere to relevant codes and regulations.
Poor Maintenance
Poor maintenance of electrical systems can increase the risk of fires by allowing problems to go unnoticed or unaddressed for extended periods of time. This can include a failure to replace worn-out or damaged components, a lack of regular inspections, or a general lack of attention to detail when it comes to electrical safety.
Short Circuit
Short circuits can arise when the electrical current is allowed to flow through an unintended path, leading to a rapid buildup of heat and potential ignition of surrounding materials. This can occur due to a variety of factors, including damaged wiring, faulty components, or an overall lack of proper circuit control.
Insulation Faults
Insulation faults occur when the insulation surrounding electrical wires or components breaks down or becomes damaged, potentially causing electrical current to arc or spark, leading to fires. It's important to regularly inspect electrical insulation and replace any that is damaged or worn to prevent these types of faults from occurring.
Electrical Panels fire suppression challenges
Ventilation
Ventilation openings help to maintain electrical component temperatures inside the enclosure within certain design limits. These openings pose a serious challenge for fire suppression technologies that require a completely sealed enclosure to be effective.
Cluttered cabinets
Electrical components are usually densely packed within the cabinets to help save space and allow for more efficient automation. This allows little room for fire suppression systems to be positioned and protect the cabinets directly at source.
Proximity to combustible material
If a fire in an electrical cabinet is not suppressed on time, it will spread and ignite combustible material in its vicinity. In the case of electrical rooms, the electrical cabinets adjacent to the one on fire will be at risk.
Why FirePro?
Leakage
FirePro fire suppression technology is capable of accommodating for small openings in the enclosure that may lead to loss of agent
Compactness
Thanks to their compact size, FirePro generators are an ideal solution for electrical cabinets as they can fit within the panel, providing direct protection. The smallest generator in the FirePro range has dimensions of 32mm (diameter) and 180mm (height).
Easy to install in new or retrofit projects
FirePro generators are an all-in-one container and are the equivalent of the agent storage tank, piping and nozzles of a pressurized gas system. They are installed directly within the enclosure at risk, without the need for additional space to accommodate for the system.
