C

Application
Guide

SES Brand

High Pressure CO2 Fire Protection Systems

Proven reliability for

mission-critical
applications
Every enterprise has equipment and facili-

ties that are vital to its operation. Business

would be seriously affected if these were

destroyed by fire. In many cases valuable

assets should not be protected by water or

other similar extinguishing agents, as these

Featuring innovative types of agents often are unable to reach inaccessible
high-performance cylinder valves
parts of the hazard. They can also cause considerable
• Patented cost-saving unibody design
– does not have separate valve and damage — even in excess of that done by the fire itself.
discharge heads.
• Engineered for reliability
Carbon dioxide is a reliable, versatile and efficient fire
– no top or bottom cap joints to leak. fighting agent. It has provided decades of successful
• Simple to set up
– slave valve operates from manifold back pressure operation. It is a dry, inert, non-corrosive gas that will not
... no need for a separate pressurizing line.
damage equipment or materials or contaminate liquids or
• High performance operation
– clear unimpeded right-angled flow path with a low equiva- food. It does not leave any residue to clean-up, and as a
lent length: only five feet (1.53 m) of Schedule 40 black pipe.
result, business down-time is held to a minimum. In addi-
• Easy to maintain
– removable valve seat for quick replacement. tion, carbon dioxide is a non-conductor of electricity, and
• Ingenious force differential valve can even be used without danger in spaces housing high
– uses cylinder pressure to hold the valve closed.
• Machined brass construction for added reliability
voltage electrical equipment.
– no drop-forged parts.

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AGCO2ES130608-1

Systems & Automation

Why CO2... Advantages of CO2 fire extinguishing systems
• A viable agent for the foreseeable future. No ban on its use.
Carbon dioxide is a standard commercial
• Is well established. Has been successfully used for 80 years.
product that is commonly used for
carbonated beverages, for fast freezing • Is a standard commercial product with many other uses and as a result is readily
food, for medical purposes, for available in most towns and cities around the world.
purging pipes and tanks, as well as for • Low agent cost. Beneficial when frequent recharging is a factor, such as with engine
extinguishing fires. It is readily available test cell protection.
in most cities and seaports throughout the • Installed system cost is lower when compared to clean agents.
world. For more than 80 years carbon
• Is stable and inert. Does not decompose when subjected to fire. Does not cause cor-
dioxide has been used for fire protection
rosion or damage materials and equipment.
purposes. The NFPA standard for fire
• Vaporizes completely on discharge. No clean-up of agent required.
extinguishing systems was initiated in
1928, was first adopted in 1929. It has • Protected facilities can be back in operation with a minimum of delay.
been revised approximately 26 times • Suitable for Class A, B and C fires.
since, and represents the accumulated • Four proven and standard methods of application:
knowledge and experience of those who
• Total flooding, surface burning.
have designed and used CO2 systems for
fire extinguishing purposes. • Total flooding, deep seated burning.
• Local application, area method.
• Local application, volume method.
• Accommodates long pipe runs.
• Readily accommodates systems with selector valves (integrated systems that protect
more than one hazard from a common carbon dioxide supply).
• Carbon dioxide discharges by the force of its own expansion. Does not require
super-pressurizing agents, pumps, or other pressurizing mechanisms.
• May be used simultaneously with other types of extinguishing agents with no effect
on extinguishing efficiency.

2 in
(50 mm)

Top View

Solenoid
Actuator
Protection
Cap

Manual
Actuator
Port
Main Valve Slave Piston
Vent Cavity Cavity

Discharge
Port Vent

5 in
(127 mm)

Side View Safety

Relief

1inch 1inch
NPT Thread NPT Thread

Patented SW-50 CO2 Valve

SW-50M SW-50S
Master Valve Slave Valve

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Control Page 2 Application Guide
Systems & Automation
 Carbon Dioxide Fire Protection Systems

CO2 vs Clean Agents

Carbon Dioxide Halocarbon Clean Agent
Agent Cost • Low cost per pound (kg) • High cost per pound (kg)
• Beneficial for frequent recharging • Less agent is required
Testing • Inexpensive due to low agent cost • Expensive due to high agent cost and environmental impact
Availability • Standard commercial product • Only available in major urban areas of industrialized world.
• Readily available throughout the world • Limited recharge facilities available
Proposed • No ban or planned phase-out • Banned in some countries
Usage Ban • Planned phase-out of some ingredients in some countries
• Allowed for fire fighting by UN as essential usage
Agent • CO2 is inert and does not decompose • Halocarbons break down when subjected to high heat
Breakdown • Will not contaminate liquids or food. • Breakdown products can be toxic and corrosive.
Personnel • Lethal for humans and animals • Low level of toxicity, low level concentrations can be tolerated
Safety • Evacuation prior to discharge is required • Evacuation prior to discharge is recommended
Installation • Relatively lower cost • Relatively high cost
Cost • Longer discharge times and small diameter • Shorter discharge times and large diameter piping
piping
Cylinder • Substantial space required and floor loading • Savings in space because comparatively fewer cylinders are
Storage due to the number of cylinders required required
Supply • Widely available commodity • Limited sources for agent, proprietary licensing
• Price determined by the market • Price determined by the manufacturers

Applications
Hazard Area Risk Area Problems Recommended Agent Reasons for Selection
Computer Rooms, Personal Safety Occupied areas
Control Rooms
Laboratories etc.
Glove Pressure Buildup Where pressure sensitive equipment is installed or
Boxes Clean Agents where a negative pressure must be maintained
(NAF-SIII, FM-200)
Ships & Hovercraft Weight and Space Low bulk and weight
Machinery Spaces
Telecommunications Sub Cooling Where rapid cooling resulting from the use of CO2 is
Equipment not acceptable due to temperature-sensitive equipment
Engine Test Cells Rate of Recharge Cost of agent where frequent recharge is probable
Printing Large Openings, Local Open or partially-enclosed spaces. CO2 is the only
Machines Application gas proven suitable for local application.
Carbon Dioxide
Standards & Corrosion (C02 ) Agent does not decompose and discharge does not
Instrument Rooms cause corrosive action
Archives & Deep Seated Fire CO2 is the only gas proven suitable for deep-seated
Fur Vaults Class A fires.

Contact your inControl Systems representative for details concerning the advantages of SES brand clean agent solutions.

Application Guide Page 3

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Systems & Automation
High Pressure CO2 extinguishing
systems explained
High pressure storage systems are comprised of CO2 cylinders
stored at ambient temperatures. At 70 °F (21 °C), the pressure in To Nozzles

this type of storage container is 850 psi (5860 kPa). Discharge Hose
with Check Valve
Low pressure storage systems, on the other hand, are comprised or Discharge Adapter
of CO2 cylinders stored at a controlled low temperature of 0 °F
(-18 °C). At this temperature the pressure in this type of storage
Junction Box
is 300 psi (2068 kPa).

Advantages of high pressure systems

• High pressure cylinders are available in 50, 75 and 100 lb
To Electrical
(20, 34 and 45 kg) capacities. Low pressure containers are Control
typically available in one ton increments. This greater flexibil-
ity among high pressure systems allows the system designer
to allocate storage with greater efficiency, thus saving storage Electrical Connector
space and money.

• Refrigeration of carbon dioxide is not required. Cylinders

can be stored without any special treatment at temperatures Cylinder Strap
between 0 °F and 130 °F (-18 °C and 54 °C) for total flooding
systems, and 32 °F to 120 °F (0 °C to 49 °C) for local applica-
tion.

• Cylinders can be easily adjusted for higher or lower tem-

peratures by underfilling for higher temperatures, or adding
nitrogen for lower temperatures.

• Flexible space requirements – if a single large space is not

available, multiple cylinder banks can be divided and stored
in a number of smaller locations.

• Flexible for weight requirements – if floor loading is a prob-

lem, multiple cylinder banks can be divided and stored in a
number of locations to distribute the floor loading. Master
Cylinder
Assembly
• Electric power is not required for high pressure carbon diox-
ide storage.

Typical Master Cylinder Assembly Installation

Typical High Pressure Setup
(single cylinder application)

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Control Page 4 Application Guide
Systems & Automation
 Carbon Dioxide Fire Protection Systems

Where CO2 is ideal...

Flammable Liquid Storage Chemical Laboratories Transformer Vaults

Oil Circuit Breakers Engine Enclosures Pump Rooms Hydraulic Oil Cellars

CO2 Advantages

Contamination
Deep Seated

Temperature

Down Time/
Application

Unclosable

Discharge
Openings

Extended
Extremes

Flooding

Purging/
Inerting
Local

Total
Fire

Pits
Applications
Engine Test Cells • •
Hydroelectric Generators •
Records Storage •
Dust Collectors •
Fur Storage Vaults • •
Food Milling •
Carding Machines & Cotton Gins •
Linen & Garbage Chutes •
Newspaper Presses •
Rotogravure Printing Presses •
Gas Turbines •
Metal Rolling Mills •
Dip Tanks & Drain Boards •
Open Spray Booths •
Large Commercial Fryers •
Diesel Generator Sets •
Coal Handling, Grinding, Storage • • •
Flo Coat Painting & Laminating • • •
Mixing Tanks • •
Oil Quenching • • •
Metal Processing • • •
Tanning Sprays & Dryers • •
Hazardous Material Storage •
Hydrogen Cooled Generators •
Under Raised Floors • •
Institutional Kitchens •
Industrial Ovens & Dryers • • •
Painting Facilities •

Application Guide Page 5

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Principles Properties of CO2 as a Fire Extinguishing Agent
Carbon Dioxide (CO2) is a colorless, odorless, clean, dry, electri-
of Operation cally non-conducting, non-corrosive, non-damaging and non-
deteriorating inert gas, that is approximately 50 percent heavier
A carbon dioxide system consists of a battery of one or more
than air.
cylinders, manifolded together and connected to a system of
distribution pipework terminating in special carbon dioxide Carbon dioxide is a standard commercial product. It is com-
discharge nozzles. These systems are custom designed for the monly used for carbonating beverages, for fast freezing food, for
specific application. The quantity of carbon dioxide required for medical purposes, and for purging pipes and tanks, as well as
the protection of any particular hazard is dependent on the cubic for extinguishing fires. Carbon dioxide is available in most cities
capacity or the surface area of the hazard, together with the type and seaports throughout the world.
of material involved, temperature of the hazard, and with allow-
When inhaled, CO2 produces a tingle in the nostrils, the same
ance for special conditions.
as is experienced when drinking carbonated beverages. Carbon
More than one hazard can be protected by the same bank of Dioxide stimulates breathing (increases the rate of breathing),
cylinders, and these systems are referred to as joint systems. and is useful in small controlled doses in the resuscitation of
Selector or directional valves are utilized to direct the carbon drowning and electric shock victims.
dioxide to the fire area. An interconnected reserve bank of cylin-
Carbon Dioxide is stored in liquid form in high pressure steel
ders is generally recommended for this type of protection.
containers, usually at 850 psig at 70 °F (58 bar at 21 °C). It may
SES Brand carbon dioxide systems may be actuated manually also be stored at 300 psig at 0 °F (20 bar at -18 °C), for special
or automatically. Automatic systems incorporate fire detectors large requirements. One of carbon dioxide’s most valuable
and controls. The fire detectors are located in the hazard area, properties is its amazing high ratio of expansion, approximately
and when a fire occurs, send a signal to the control panel which 450 to 1. Carbon dioxide is discharged from the cylinder by the
releases the carbon dioxide. Automatic systems are electrically force of its own expansion – without the need for pumps or other
operated and always incorporate a manual override feature. pressurizing mechanisms. Carbon dioxide will penetrate every
nook and corner of a space where fire might lurk.
Method of Application On discharge, carbon dioxide creates a cold fog. The tem-
There are two methods of applying carbon dioxide to hazards: perature of carbon dioxide discharging from a nozzle is ap-
• Total Flooding proximately 110 °F below zero. This cloud effect, or fogging, is
• Local Application due to the moisture in the air being frozen by the extremely low
Total flooding injects a sufficient volume of carbon dioxide into temperature of the Carbon Dioxide and fine "snow" accompany-
an enclosure so that an inert atmosphere is created. The en- ing the discharge. The fogging will generally dissipate after a
closure should be reasonably well sealed and doors, vents and few minutes.
other openings should be arranged to close on the discharge of
the system. Enclosures with openings that cannot be closed can How Carbon Dioxide Extinguishes Fire
be protected if known at the design stage. For deep-seated type Carbon Dioxide extinguishes fire by diluting the oxygen content
hazards (insulation, rags, storage vaults, etc.) the enclosure must of the space to a point where it will not support combustion.
be well sealed to retain the carbon dioxide for a long period of Reducing the oxygen content from the normal 21 per cent in air
time. The location and orientation of discharge nozzles for these to 15 per cent will extinguish most fires. For some materials the
applications is not of major concern, minor deviations to project oxygen content must be reduced below 15 per cent, and in some
design can generally be accommodated. cases its concentration needs to go down to as low as six percent
Local application is the method used to protect a specific of the volume. Surface and flash type fires (oils, paints, etc.,) are
hazard (engine, dip tank, etc.) within an enclosure – without quickly extinguished, while smouldering or deep-seated fires
flooding the entire enclosure. Nozzles are arranged to discharge (baled cotton, clothing, etc.) are extinguished by the prolonged
carbon dioxide directly onto the hazard, to build up an inert at- action of a high concentration.
mosphere immediately surrounding the hazard. For this applica- In addition to its smothering action, the reduction in temperature
tion, the layout of piping and nozzles is critical, and deviations due to its rapid expansion will provide some suppression caused
to project design must not be made unless approved by the by the cooling effect.
designer.

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Control Page 6 Application Guide
Systems & Automation
 Carbon Dioxide Fire Protection Systems

Cleanup following a CO2 discharge b) in high value occupancies particularly susceptible to fire,
Carbon Dioxide vaporizes completely on discharge. Whereas the smoke, and water damage.
cost of clean-up and peripheral damage associated with water, c) where clean up of another medium would present a problem,
foam, and dry chemical agents can exceed the cost of the fire
d) where they are as efficient as, but more economical to install
damage itself, cleanup costs associated with carbon dioxide are
than systems using other extinguishing agents.
negligible.
Carbon dioxide will not extinguish fires involving the following
Carbon Dioxide is inert and most materials and equipment are
materials:
totally unaffected by exposure to it. Carbon dioxide is stable,
a) chemicals containing their own oxygen supply such as cel-
even at high temperatures, and does not decompose when sub-
lulose nitrate,
jected to fire, therefore it does not cause metals to corrode.
b) reactive metals such as sodium, potassium, magnesium,
The reduction in temperature, caused by the dramatic expansion
titanium, zirconium, uranium and plutonium,
of the Carbon Dioxide as it discharges from the nozzles, can
c) metal hydrides.
have a strong chilling effect on objects, including cord shock to
delicate electrical equipment. While carbon dioxide will not extinguish these fires, it will not
react dangerously with these materials or increase their burning
Compatibility with other Extinguishing Agents rate. Carbon Dioxide, if used in this type of situation in a total
Carbon Dioxide may be used simultaneously with other types of flooding system, will provide protection for adjacent combus-
fire extinguishing agents for fire fighting purposes. There are no tibles. Local application systems with attendant high velocity
known indications that extinguishing efficiency will be affected. directed discharge should not be used.

Caution is required where carbon dioxide may be discharged

Use and Limitations
into potentially explosive atmospheres. Electrostatic charging
Carbon Dioxide Systems may be utilized for Class, A, Band C
of non-grounded conductors may occur during the discharge
fires (North American definition). They are particularly useful for
of liquefied gases. These conductors may discharge to other
extinguishing fires in specific hazard areas or equipment:
objects, causing an electric spark of sufficient energy to initiate
a) where an inert, electrically non-conductive medium is desirable, an explosion.

CO2 Safety Precautions where such doors are latched, provide

panic hardware.
nel within or in the vicinity of such areas
(including maintenance or construction
Safeguards must be taken to ensure the safety e) Provide continuous alarms at entrances to people who may be brought into the area),
of personnel in areas where the atmosphere such areas until the atmosphere has been to ensure their correct action when carbon
could be made hazardous by the discharge restored to normal. dioxide protective equipment operates.
of carbon dioxide. The following list, which i) Provide the means for prompt ventilation of
f) Provide warning and instruction signs at
is strongly recommended, is generally taken such areas. Forced ventilation will often be
entrances to and inside such areas. These
from NFPA 12: Standard on Carbon Dioxide necessary. Care should be taken to really
signs should inform persons in, or entering
Extinguishing Systems. dissipate hazardous atmospheres and not
the protected area that a carbon dioxide
a) Provide adequate aisleways and routes of system is installed, and may contain addi- merely move them to another location.
exit and keep them clear at all times. tional instructions pertinent to the condi- j) Carbon dioxide is much heavier than air
b) Provide emergency lighting and directional tions of the hazard. and can collect in pits, cellars and low-lying
signs as necessary to ensure quick, safe g) Provide for the prompt discovery and rescue areas. Care should be taken when entering
evacuation. of persons rendered unconscious in such such areas after carbon dioxide has been
c) Provide alarms within such areas that will areas. This may be accomplished by having discharged.
operate immediately upon detection of the such areas searched immediately by trained k) Provide means to lock off or disarm the
fire, with the discharge of the carbon dioxide persons equipped with proper breathing system during periods of system inspection,
and the activation of automatic door closures equipment. Self-contained breathing equip- maintenance, or modification.
delayed for sufficient time to allow evacuation ment (and personnel trained in its use, I) Provide such other steps and safeguards
of the area before discharge begins. and in rescue practices, including artificial that a careful study of each particular situ-
d) Provide only outward swinging self-clos- respiration), should be readily available. ation indicates are necessary to prevent
ing doors at exits from hazard areas, and, h) Provide instruction and drills for all person- injury or death.

Application Guide Page 7

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Systems & Automation
Standard equipment
and optional components
Cylinder Assemblies
A basic cylinder assembly consists of a pressure vessel, a valve greater than the seal area. This results in a higher force above
and siphon tube assembly, and a charge of carbon dioxide. the piston, which acts to keep the valve closed.

A variety of cylinder sizes are available. They are all designed to To open the valve, the pressure above the piston is vented and
hold pressurized carbon dioxide in liquid form at atmospheric cylinder pressure raises the piston to open the valve. A transport
temperatures, corresponding to a nominal pressure of 850 psi at plug is attached to the valve by a chain and must be attached
70 °F (58.6 bar at 21 °C). to the discharge port when the cylinder is disconnected from the
discharge piping.
All cylinders are seamless. They are manufactured and tested
in accordance with the A pressure relief safety
requirements of Trans- To To Nozzles disc, incorporated into
port Canada and/or Electrical Control the cylinder valve, is
Manual
Department of Trans- Actuator designed to release
port (USA), Specification pressure should the
3AA-1800 or higher. cylinder be subjected
Large cylinders having to exceptionally high
capacities of 35, 50, temperatures or other
75 and 100 pounds abnormal conditions.
(15.9, 22.7, 34 and 45 SW-50M SW-50S SW-50S The disc rupture point
kg) are made of steel. is in the range of 2,600
Small cylinders, used to 3,000 psi (182.7 to
for special applications, 206.8 bar). The safety
have capacities of 10 Master Master Slave Slave Slave Slave
disc nut is of a type that
and 15 pounds (4.5 will relieve pressure
and 6.8 kg) and may without cylinder recoil.
be made of aluminum
The SW-50M master
or steel, depending on
valve can be operated
availability. For systems with three or more cylinders interconnected, two cylinders
manually, by pres-
must act as masters and have solenoid and/or manual actuators
Except for special sure actuator, with a
arranged for simultaneous operation.
temperature conditions, solenoid valve kit, or
all cylinders are filled to by direct back pressure
their specified weight with liquid carbon dioxide. Cylinders are from the discharge manifold. The SW-50S slave valve can be op-
not partially filled. erated only by direct back pressure from the discharge manifold.

The pressure inside the cylinder will vary as the temperature Single cylinder systems simply require a single SW-50M with
changes. In general, the ambient storage temperature for stan- a manual actuator and/or a solenoid valve. This is generally
dard cylinders used in local application systems should be be- referred to as a master cylinder. For systems with two cylinders
tween 32 °F and 120 °F (0 °C and 49 °C). For standard cylinders interconnected, only one master valve is required. The other
used in total flooding systems, the ambient storage temperature cylinder is operated by a SW-50S slave valve. For systems with
should be between 0 °F and 130 °F (-18 °C and 54 °C). three or more cylinders interconnected, two cylinders must act as
masters and have solenoid and/or manual actuators arranged
Two cylinder valves are available: the SW-50M (master) and the
for simultaneous operation.
SW-50S (slave). Both are manufactured of brass with an optional
nickel plated finish. The valves are of the force differential type A rigid siphon tube is used in all cylinders to ensure liquid
using a piston seal. The pressure above the piston is maintained discharge. All cylinders must therefore be installed in the normal
at cylinder pressure, but the area at the top of the piston is upright position.

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Systems & Automation
 Carbon Dioxide Fire Protection Systems

Discharge Bends assembled on site to suit the space

To Nozzle To available.
Nozzles
and Discharge Adapters
A discharge bend is used to connect For installation of three or more cylin-
the cylinder valve outlet to the system ders, Discharge
a variety of arrangements can be
Discharge
manifold and discharge piping. This Bend fabricatedBend
by the installer.
flexible hose allows for the temporary
Swivel Swivel
The single row, wall mounting arrange-
misalignment of the cylinders on instal-
lation, and for ease of cylinder removal ment is recommended for installations
for maintenance. The cylinder end of the of up to five cylinders.
hose has a swivel connection for ease of Discharge Check Valve
Double row, free standing arrange-
Adapter
installation. ments have the advantage (particularly
A discharge bend with a built-in check for systems using main and reserve cyl-
valve must be used when cylinders are inders, and for joint systems), that any
Typical single cylinder Typicalcylinder
manifoldcan be removed for recharging
manifolded together. The check valve is
discharge bend discharge bend (slave)
locked onto the hose assembly and must without disturbing the others. However,
not be separated from it. If a cylinder this arrangement requires two aisles
assembly is disconnected from the dis- and considerably more space.
To Nozzle To Nozzles
charge bend, and if the system operates The double row, wall mounting ar-
while the cylinder is disconnected, the rangement is generally used when suf-
check valve will ensure that anDischarge
appre- Discharge ficient space is not available for a free
ciable quantity of carbon dioxide will
Bend Bend standing arrangement or for a single
not discharge from the disconnected Swivel Swivel row wall mounting arrangement.
discharge bend.
For marine applications, additional cyl-
Flexible discharge bend adapter combi- inder supports are required. Two straps
nations are available for single cylinder
Discharge Check Valve or sets of retainers must be used.
systems where a check valve is not Adapter
required. When the discharge adapter is Check Valves
used without the flexible bend, a union A range of check valves are available.
connection mustTypical
be installed
singleclose to
cylinder Typical manifold These are used to isolate the main
the cylinder for easedischarge
of installation
bendand discharge bend (slave) cylinder manifold from the intercon-
maintenance. nected reserve cylinder manifold. In the
It is important that neither the discharge manifolds of joint systems they are also
bends nor the discharge adapter be mounted onto the cylinder used to prevent the discharge from activated cylinders causing
valve during transportation and storage. The transit plug must activation of the other cylinders in the bank.
remain in place on the cylinder valve until the cylinder is installed
and secured in its bracket. Bleeder Valves
Bleeder valves are used in the manifolds of main and reserve
Cylinder Brackets banks of cylinders, as well as in the manifolds of systems that
The cylinders can be arranged to be bracketed to a wall or to have selector valves (joint systems). The bleeder valve vents acci-
be free standing when no wall is available. Straps for single dental check valve leakage (that could discharge the other bank
cylinder wall mounting installations are available from your or banks of cylinders) from one bank to the other. The valve
inControl Systems dealer. Brackets for multiple wall mounted is normally open and closes when manifold pressure reaches
installations and frames for multiple cylinder free stand- approximately 20 psi (1.4 bar) to prevent loss of CO2 under
ing installations are normally supplied by the installer, and normal discharge conditions. The pipe connection is ½" NPT.

Application Guide Page 9

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Control
Systems & Automation
Discharge Nozzles removed from the actuator only for these
Two types of discharge nozzle are two purposes. Otherwise the plug must
available: total flooding type and local remain tightly connected at all times.
application type. Total flooding nozzles
The hand lever on the manual actuator
are used where an even distribution of
can be operated from a remote loca-
gas is required throughout an enclosure. Nozzle orfice Nozzle orfice
sized to suit tion. This issized
achieved
to suit by connecting a 1/16
Local application or directional nozzles design requirements design requirements
-inch diameter stainless steel cable to the
are used where a concentration of carbon
Wall Nozzle end of the lever, and running the cable
dioxide is required on a particular surface (Total Flooding) through ½ -inch conduit or 3/8 -inch pipe
or piece of equipment.
to a pull box using corner pulleys at each
Nozzles are designed to discharge change in cable direction.
large volumes of carbon dioxide without
Using a mechanical dual junction box,
freezing. For local application use (when
two remote pull boxes can be joined to
installed in accordance with their approv-
operate one master cylinder arrangement.
als), the velocity of discharge from the Nozzle orfice Nozzle orfice
sized to suit
design requirements
sized to suit
design requirements
Or, one remote pull box can be used to
nozzle is reduced to prevent agitation and
operate two separate manual actuators.
splatter of the hazardous material which Vent Nozzle
could spread the fire. (Total Flooding
Automatic Control
All nozzles have a drilled orifice. The Electric actuation is achieved by using a
nozzle orifice size will vary depending on solenoid valve kit. The solenoid valve is
the flow and the location of the nozzle a normally closed device, closed when
in the system. It is important that nozzles de-energized and open when energized.
are installed exactly as specified on the The standard solenoid voltage is 24 VDC,
project drawings, otherwise system per- but other voltages and special enclosures
formance will be jeopardized. (including explosion-proof) are available
by special order. The standard electric
The wall type and vent type nozzles
connection is by a DIN connector, and a
areNozzle
used orficeexclusively for total flooding
Nozzle orfice
sized to suit sized to suit cable assembly is available for ease of
installations. The S-Type nozzle may
design requirements also
design requirements
connection to field wiring.
be used for total flooding installations,
however, its cost normally restricts its use S-Type Nozzle The solenoid coil is designed and rated
to local application installations. The S- (Total Flooding or Local Application) for continuous duty service. However, it is
Type nozzle may be fitted with flanges to recommended that the actuating circuit
enable it to be mounted onto sheet metal equipment enclosures incorporate a shut-down device (e.g. a pressure switch or time
and ductwork. It may also be supplied with a frangible disc to delay relay) to open the circuit when the cylinder is empty.
prevent clogging of the orifice. Special finishes for nozzles are
When the coil is energized for a long period of time, the sole-
available and can be provided by special order to suit project
noid enclosure becomes hot. This is a safe operating tempera-
requirements.
ture and will not damage the solenoid. Any excessive heating will
be indicated by the smoke of burning coil insulation.
Manual Control
A manual actuator is used to operate the carbon dioxide system The solenoid valve connects directly to a special adapter on the
manually and locally at the cylinders. The actuator is screwed into SW-50M cylinder valve. The discharge side of the solenoid valve
a port on the top of the SW-50M cylinder valve. When two master is connected to the pressure port on the manual actuator with
cylinders are required, the levers of the two actuators are joined supplied 3/16 -inch braided hose. When de-energised, the sole-
together with a connecting link for simultaneous operation. noid valve opens allowing pressure from above the main piston
of the cylinder valve to operate the actuator and open the valve.
The actuator has a hole in the side of the main body fitted with
a blank plug. This hole allows the actuator to be operated from The solenoid should be connected to a Listed control panel that
an external pressure source. It is also used to connect to the is powered through a separately fused circuit, and that also
discharge from the solenoid valve (when used). The blank plug is incorporates battery backup power.

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Control Page 10 Application Guide
Systems & Automation
 Carbon Dioxide Fire Protection Systems

Control Panels
Any control panel specifically listed for extinguishment control
(releasing panel) that provides continuous supervision, and that
is compatible for the interconnection of all devices, may be used.
Listed control panels provide fully supervised detection, signal-
ling and activation control – as well as audible and visual an-
nunciation of the system status. They also provide battery backup
power, and control of auxiliary equipment.

Initiating Devices
Initiating devices such as heat detectors, smoke detectors, and
manual stations should be listed devices compatible with the Solenoid
Manual
control panel being utilized. See the respective manufacturers in- Valve
Actuator
struction manuals for installation and operating details. A remote
electric manual station should be included in all automatic electric
systems. This allows the system to be manually actuated should a
fire be visually detected before an automatic detector operates.

Pressure Operated Switch

The pressure operated switch connects to the carbon dioxide dis-
charge piping and operates when the system discharges. The switch
may be wired with contacts in the open or closed position. Opera-
tion causes the electrical switch contacts to reverse position. Switches
can be used to confirm system discharge, to operate alarms, to
shutdown motors, pumps, fans and conveyors, to release magnetic Header Safety
door holders, etc., automatically when the system discharges. This pressure relief device is installed in sections of closed piping
such as between selector valves and the cylinder manifold. It is a
The switch may be mounted in any position, but preferred instal-
frangible disc assembly designed to rupture if trapped CO2 ex-
lation is with the pressure connection (CO2 supply line) entering
pands and the line pressure exceeds 2,650 to 3,000 psi (182.7
from the bottom. The switch enclosure is rated for standard and
to 206.8 bar). The body is made of brass and the pipe connec-
weatherproof conditions. When the line load of the equipment to
tion is ½" NPT.
be operated is greater than the switch rating, the switch should
be used to break a relay holding-coil circuit.
Gas Operated Siren
This unit sounds an alarm by means of carbon dioxide pressure.
Pressure Release Trip
It is connected to the discharge piping of the system, or to a
The pressure release trip can be used to release dampers, close
separate independent carbon dioxide cylinder.
fire doors, windows, louvres, fuel supply valves, to open dump
valves, etc., automatically when the system discharges. The Sirens should be located throughout the hazard area in order to
equipment to be operated must be weight or spring loaded, or ensure an audible alarm will be heard on the activation and dis-
be pivoted off centre. The release trip is connected to the carbon charge of the carbon dioxide system. Due consideration should
dioxide discharge piping for operation when the system dis- be given to the normal background noise in the area.
charges. Cable from the equipment to be controlled is looped
If the carbon dioxide system incorporates a delayed action de-
over the pressure release operating stem. When the trip is oper-
vice, the siren must be arranged to operate at the same time that
ated, the stem retracts and the cable is released.
the delayed action device is initiated.

Changeover Switch When connected to the carbon dioxide system piping, the alarm
The change-over switch is a rotary type used to direct automatic will cease when the gas discharge has been completed. If it is
actuation to a main or reserve cylinder bank when main and desirable or necessary for the sirens to operate for a longer
reserve cylinders are provided. The switch should be located period of time than will be allowed by the system discharge time,
adjacent to the cylinder bank or in a secure area. a separate independent carbon dioxide cylinder must be used.

Application Guide Page 11

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Control
Systems & Automation
Applications
Time delay installation, multiple cylinders, with gas operated sirens

Sirens
in protected
area
To Nozzles

Pressure
Switch
Time Delay Actuator

1/8" pipe
or 3/16" copper tube
Actuator

Stop Valve

Actuator
Discharge
Discharge Solenoid Bend
Adapter

Master Master Slave Slave Slave Slave

10 lb CO2 Cylinder
(or size to suit)

Main and reserve cylinders

To
Electrical
Control To Nozzles

Changeover
Switch Pressure
Switch
Manifold
Bleed
Valve
Check
Manual Valve
Actuator
Junction Discharge
Box Bend

Solenoid
Valve Kit
Electrical
Connector

Master Slave Slave Master

Main Reserve

Cylinder
in
Control Master Slave Page 12 Slave Master
Bracket

Application Guide
Systems & Automation Cylinder Cylinder Cylinder Cylinder
 Carbon Dioxide Fire Protection Systems

Bracket Installation
Single bank, wall mounting is recommended for installations of up
to five cylinders. Freestanding arrangements allow for multiple banks
while maintaining sufficient access to all cylinders for maintenance or
replacement purposes.
Top View

36"
(91cm)

Single Bracket
Typical Bracketing Layout Standard Industrial Installations
Single Bank, 100 lb Cylinders

Top View

36"
(91cm)

15"
(38 cm)

Double Bracket
Typical Bracketing Layout Marine Installations
Double Bank, 100 lb Cylinders

Strap Installation
For floor mounted cylinders against a solid wall. Mounting
bolts must be anchored to a solid structural member.

Top View
H 2/3 3/4
H H

1/4
H

Two Cylinder Two Cylinder Industrial Marine

Installation Installation Installation Installation

Application Guide Page 13

in
Control
Systems & Automation
Cylinder Assemblies
Carbon dioxide cylinders may be located If cylinders are located in a hazardous Cylinders should be installed in the
inside or outside the protected space, (explosion-proof) area, the cylinder so- normal upright position. All cylinders are
although it is preferable to locate them lenoid control and all other components provided with a siphon tube.
outside the space. When they are installed should be approved for such use, and the
within the space they protect, a remote installation of all materials needs to be
manual control should be installed to done in an approved manner.
ensure the system can be actuated from a
safe location outside the fire area.

The cylinders should be located to pro-

vide convenient access so that they can
be readily inspected and easily removed
after use for recharging. They should not
be installed where they will be exposed to
the weather elements or the direct rays of
the sun. Cylinders should not be installed
where they will be subjected to tempera-
tures of less than 0 °F (-18 °C) or higher
than 130 °F (54 °C), unless otherwise
specified.

10 lb. 35 lb. 50 lb. 75 lb. 100 lb.

(4.5 kg.) (15.9 kg.) (22.7 kg.) (34.0 kg.) (45.4 kg.)
Dimensions

Top of actuator Width Height Height Height Height

(master cylinders only)
of of to discharge to top to top
Top of valve cylinder cylinder port of valve of actuator
Discharge port
Top of cylinder 6.73" 18" 20.35" 22.6" 27.6"
10 lb. (4.5 kg.)
(17.1 cm) (45.7 cm) (51.7 cm) (57.4 cm) (70.1 cm)
8.63" 35" 37.35" 39.6" 44.6"
35 lb. (15.9 kg.)
(21.9 cm) (88.9 cm) (94.9 cm) (100.6 cm) (113.3 cm)
8.50" 51" 53.35" 55.6" 60.6"
50 lb. (22.7 kg.)
(21.6 cm) (129.5 cm) (135.5 cm) (141.2 cm) (154.0 cm)
9.25" 56" 58.35" 60.6" 65.6"
75 lb. (34.0 kg.)
(23.5 cm) (142.2 cm) (148.2 cm) (154.0 cm) (166.6 cm)
10.56" 58" 60.35" 62.6" 67.6"
100 lb. (45.4 kg.)
(26.8 cm) (147.3 cm) (153.3 cm) (159 cm) (171.7 cm)

in
Control Page 14 Application Guide
Systems & Automation
 Carbon Dioxide Fire Protection Systems

Ordering Information
Carbon Dioxide Cylinder Assemblies 10610330 Check Valve, 3/4 inch
Includes cylinder, Nickel Plated SW-50 Valve, siphon tube, and carbon 10610739 Check Valve, 1-1/2 inch
dioxide 10610700 Check Valve, 2 inch
06-0299 10 lb capacity, master 10610702 Check Valve, 3 inch
06-0300 15 lb capacity, master
06-0301 35 lb capacity, master Auxiliary Equipment
06-0302 50 lb capacity, master 06-0246 Pressure Release Trip
06-0303 75 lb capacity, master 06-0247 Pressure Operated Switch (in pipe)
06-0304 100 lb capacity, master 06-0275 CO2 Operated Siren
06-0305 100 lb capacity, slave 06-0276 Manifold/Header Safety, 1/2 inch, brass
04-0343 Bleeder Valve, 1/2" for joint systems
Cylinder Valve Actuators 06-0345 Pneumatic Time Delay c/w wall straps
06-0310 Manual/Pneumatic Actuator, Nickel Plated 06-0348 Manual Actuator, brass, for 06-0345 & 06-0347
06-0344 Connecting Link, Nickel Plated 04-0499 Pneumatic Adapter for 06-0348
06-0322 Solenoid Valve Kit, 24 VDC Standard 09-0003 Manual Discharge Station (Electric)
06-0329 Solenoid Valve Kit, 24 VDC Explosion-proof 09-0005 Change-Over Switch
06-0238 Solenoid Valve Kit, 12 VDC Standard 12-0050 Door Warning Sign, English
06-0239 Solenoid Valve Kit, 120 VAC Standard 12-0057 Door Warning Sign, French

Cylinder Mounting Straps Cylinder Valves

04-0332 Single cylinder strap for 10 & 15 lb units 06-0285 SW-50S Slave Valve, nickel plated
04-0146 Single cylinder strap for 35 lb unit 06-0286 SW-50M Master Valve, nickel plated
04-0147 Single cylinder strap for 50 lb unit
04-0309 Single cylinder strap for 75 lb unit Remote Cable Control
04-0148 Single cylinder strap for 100 lb unit 01-0005 1/16" Stainless Steel Cable (price per foot)
04-0012 Cable Clamp for 1/16" Cable
Accessories 06-0245 Corner Pulley (90 degree)
06-0237 Discharge Bend & Check Valve Assembly for SW-50 cyl- 06-0259 Latch Type Pull Box c/w cable nipple
inder valves 06-0248 Conduit Bracket
06-0242 Discharge Bend c/w Discharge Adapter for SW-50 cyl- 06-0258 2/1 Cable Junction Box
inder valves
04-0299 Discharge Adapter for SW-50 Valve Copper Tubing And Brass Fittings
08-0018 Tube, 3/16" OD x 0.032" wall, soft copper (50 foot coil)
Nozzles 08-0007 Connector, 1/8" NPTM x 3/16" tube
08-0016 Bushing, 3/8" NPTM x 1/8" NPTF
06-0358 1/2 inch, total flooding, side wall, brass 08-0031 Elbow, 1/8" NPTM x 3/16" tube
06-0360 1/2 inch, vent type 08-0039 Elbow, 3/16" x 3/16" tube
06-0291 1/2 inch, local application, 'S' nozzle nickel plated 08-0096 Elbow, Street 3/8" NPTM x 3/8" NPTF
06-0353 Flange & seal set for "S" nozzle 08-0097 Elbow, Street 3/8" NPTM x 1/2" NPTF
08-0015 Tee, 3/16" x 3/16" x 3/16" tube
08-0065 Union, 3/16" x 3/16" tube
Directional & Check Valves
08-0066 Bleed Valve, 1/8" NPTF ends
30610047 Selector Valve, 1/2 inch, screwed
30610048 Selector Valve, 3/4 inch, screwed
Pipe Fittings, Steel Mi
10610371 Selector Valve, 1 inch, screwed
10610369 Selector Valve, 1-1/2 inch, screwed 08-0082 Elbow, street 3/8" NPTM x 3/8" NPTF
10610370 Selector Valve, 2 inch, screwed 08-0081 Elbow, Street 3/4" NPTM x 3/4" NPTF
10610733 Selector Valve, 3 inch, screwed
20480482 Actuation Kit for Selector Valves with manual actuation. Manuals
06-0347 Selector/Stop Valve, 1/2"-3/4" brass, R1 type 50-0019 Installation & Maintenance Manual
06-0140 Check Valve, 1/2 inch

Application Guide Page 15

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Control
Systems & Automation
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Control 245 Riviera Drive, Unit 3 Telephone Email Website
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