Suppression Systems

Suppression systems offer an alternative approach to traditional sprinkler systems, making them ideal for environments where water could be ineffective or even damaging. While certain suppression systems still utilize water, they deliver it in a fine mist that minimizes the risk of soaking the area, using significantly less water overall. Other suppression systems rely on specialized agents, such as gas, foam, or chemicals, tailored to specific fire risks and environments. At Aotea Fire, our extensive expertise in fire protection allows us to recommend and implement the ideal suppression system for your unique needs, ensuring optimal safety and minimal disruption.

Gaseous Suppression Systems

Gaseous suppression systems control fires by reducing the oxygen level in the environment, effectively suffocating the fire. These systems are particularly suited to environments containing sensitive electronic equipment, such as server rooms, data centers, or other locations where water could cause irreparable damage. Gaseous suppression is also ideal for enclosed spaces like cabinets or control rooms where conventional water-based systems would be impractical.

The gases used vary depending on the specific application and environment. Carbon dioxide (CO₂) is a common choice for non-occupied spaces due to its high efficiency in displacing oxygen; however, CO₂ is unsuitable for areas with personnel present as it poses an asphyxiation risk. For spaces where people may be present, alternative inert gases, such as argon, nitrogen, or custom-mixed compounds, offer safe, reliable fire suppression without depleting oxygen levels to dangerous degrees. These systems activate quickly to prevent the spread of fire while protecting valuable equipment and assets from water damage.

Chemical Foam Suppression Systems

Chemical foam suppression systems are designed to create a thick layer of foam that smothers the fire, effectively cutting off its oxygen supply. These systems are often employed in high-risk areas where flammable liquids are stored or processed, such as in industrial facilities with electrical transformers, fuel storage tanks, or oil-processing areas. Foam suppression can also be found in aircraft hangars, chemical plants, and fuel refineries, where the rapid spread of fire could lead to devastating consequences.

In commercial kitchens and food preparation areas, specialized foaming agents are used in a more localized manner to tackle grease fires. These clean agents are specifically formulated for environments where frequent clean-up and minimal damage are key priorities. The foam blankets the fire quickly, cooling the area and preventing re-ignition while being easy to clean up afterward. This approach makes foam suppression ideal for protecting restaurant equipment, exhaust hoods, and cooking surfaces from fire-related damage.

Water Mist Suppression Systems

For areas where a controlled use of water is needed but traditional sprinklers would be excessive, water mist suppression systems are a versatile solution. These systems release ultra-fine droplets of water that absorb heat and reduce oxygen in the immediate area, effectively suppressing the fire while minimizing water use. The fine mist disperses evenly, cooling the fire rapidly without flooding the space, making water mist systems suitable for locations where excessive water would be problematic—such as libraries, museums, and archival storage facilities.

Chemical Agent Suppression Systems

Chemical agent suppression systems utilize dry chemicals or clean agents to suppress fires by interfering with the chemical reactions that sustain them. These systems are often employed in applications where fast-acting suppression is crucial, such as in high-hazard environments with volatile materials. Dry chemicals like monoammonium phosphate or sodium bicarbonate are typically used to handle combustible metal fires or fires involving flammable liquids. Clean agents, such as FM-200 and Novec 1230, are effective in enclosed spaces with sensitive equipment, where quick suppression with minimal residue is essential.

Why Choose Aotea Fire for Your Suppression System Needs?

Aotea Fire offers comprehensive expertise in specifying, designing, and installing suppression systems that are tailored to the unique risks and requirements of your facility. Our team assesses your environment and recommends the best-suited suppression solution—whether it’s a gaseous system for a server room, a chemical foam system for a fuel storage area, or a water mist system for a delicate archive. By choosing the right suppression system for your needs, we help safeguard your property, personnel, and equipment while minimizing damage and clean-up.

With Aotea Fire, you’re assured of a suppression system that aligns with New Zealand’s stringent safety regulations and industry standards. Our expertise in implementing reliable, advanced suppression technology makes us the trusted partner for facilities of all sizes and types, delivering fire safety solutions that provide security, efficiency, and peace of mind.