Professional Documents
Culture Documents
5.2.18
Description:
Mechanical system for monitoring the level of gas in each of the cylinders which are part of
a bank of cylinders. The way it works is based on the weight reduction of a cylinder when
there is a gas loss. This system does not consider the real weight of the cylinder.
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Pos Description
1
N2 pilot cylinder
Pressure gauge
Manual lever
Solenoid valve
Depressurization valve
10
Coupling to hose
11
Fig. 5.3.1.1. Pilot Cylinder fitted with valve model LPG 128-90
Valve operation coincides with description in section 5.2.1. Carbon dioxide (CO2) LPG
valve: LPG 128-20.
Installation:
Fix the bracket of the pilot cylinder in the approximate position shown in the drawings (see
example included in Annex I). The height of cylinder bracket should be adequate for a
possible manual operation. Unpack pilot cylinder, fix it onto its bracket and remove the
protection cap. When installed the pressure gauge should be clearly visible and access to
the manual release systems should be free of obstacles. Unscrew the pilot valve head cap to
prevent accidental discharge during Installation of the rest of release system components.
Upon completion of all handling of the release system, replace the pilot valve head cap.
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Note:
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If for any reason, breakdown or under expressed instructions of LPG Technical Service it is
essential to remove solenoid valve from pilot cylinder valve, first, disassemble the blind
cover (14) and the cap (15). As indicated in fig. 5.2.1.1. when the pressure gauge is
disconnected, the pressure supply to the solenoid valve is shut-off. This operation should
be performed with great care and carried out carefully to prevent false operation.
Therefore, the operator should stand sideways to prevent a sudden ejection of the pressure
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gauge. Discharge of the pilot cylinder or the self-contained cylinder may occur and cause
discharge of the cylinder bank. To prevent this, dismantle the head cap of the pilot cylinder
valve or self-contained valve. Next, dismantle the connector (4), the nut (2), remove the
coil (3) and finally loosen the fixing nut (1) with the appropriate round spanner. Now it is
possible to remove the rest of the solenoid valve. Installation is carried out by following the
disassembly procedure in reverse, with the installation of the cap (15) and the blind cover
(14) being the last operation.
After Installation a solenoid valve check that there is no leakage by applying soapy water to
all the solenoid valve body, previously removing connector and coil. Check likewise for
leakage on the valve head (head orifice) prior to notifying that work is completed. The
equipment remains in service when the valve head cap is replaced.
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MODEL
DATA SHEET
2 WAYS
3 WAYS
023
Description:
Device that installed directly on the valve of the auxiliary cylinders it allows the discharge of
the cylinder for pneumatic means.
The pneumatic head is equipped inwardly with an internal piston (2) and with two or three
pneumatic connections (1) depending on the position that occupies in the battery. Once
pneumatic pressure arrives above the piston (2) it produces the opening of the valve
associated to the head.
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5.3.7
Description:
1/4 X 350
1/4 X 700
DATA SHEET
N-40
diameter Teflon hoses fitted with brass ends used to direct the release system gas from
the master cylinders or pilot cylinders to all slave cylinders. The flexible hoses are designed
for a working pressure of 260 bar and a burst pressure of 780 bar. The minimum curvature
is 30 mm and available in two lengths, 350 and 700 mm.
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An electric and manual actuation device for operation of the selector valves. The
assembly consists of a solenoid valve (1) + a manual release (2). The manual
opening enables system operation even in the event of an electrical failure. It is
important to have each valve marked indicating zone that it protects so as to
prevent misunderstanding in the case of manual operation. Its function is to select
the selector valve assigned to be opened for cylinder banks covering more than one
hazard. For further description of the solenoid valve see 5.3.2. For further
description of manual release see 5.3.3.
Installation:
These devices are always mounted on a support fixed to the wall at a suitable height for
manual actuation. Position the valve in such a way that the manual release is always be
accessible. Fix the valve to the support using through bolts. Connect a 4 x 6 copper pipe,
from the pilot cylinder to the inlet (3) and connect the outlet (4) to the appropriate selector
valve, in accordance with the installation drawing.
Attention:
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Copper conduits should be straight or 90 curved. Observe that the pipe is not flattened or
damaged on curves so as not to obstruct passage of pressure. On runs longer that 300 mm
carry out an expansion bend in the middle, that is, a full circumference which will absorb
the water hammer. The sealing for the copper pipes by means of a bicone. The fixing of the
bicone to the copper pipe should be performed on a workbench and never in situ to ensure
an accurate bicone grip on the pipe, thus preventing leakage. Once adjusted on the bench,
mount on the circuit ensuring that pipe and the bicone reach the seat of the coupling and
tighten the nut using a fixed wrench.
Body
Nut
Bicone
Pipe
Expansion Curve
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Figure. 5.3.9.1. Release system fitted with time delay device + pneumatic siren
Installation:
For different configuration Installation to that shown in above figure, consult the specific
installation drawing.
Connect the diverter (3) onto the check valve on the first bank cylinder. Connect
the discharge hose to the diverter and then to the cylinder. The hose for this
cylinder will be a little shorter (310 mm length) than that for the others. Next,
connect the adapter (8) onto the time-delay inlet and the reducer (9). Next,
connect the pilot cylinder (13) and the time-delay by means of the adapter.
Position the siren in its final location (always inside the protected area), check that the siren
input port (6) is provided with a 1 mm diameter threaded diaphragm. Except the union
between the extension (8) and the valve of the cylinder pilot (13), all of the threaded
unions that are mentioned must be sealed with tape of Teflon (PTFE) taking care of not
covering the first threads in order to avoid cloggings.
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Once all the component assembly has been fixed, make all the copper pipe connections:
from the siren to the diverter (10), between the adapter and the first bank cylinder (11) and
between the time-delay device and the diverter (12). The copper conduits should appear
straight or curved at 90. Observe that the pipe is not flattened or damaged along all its
length so as not to obstruct the flow of pressure. On straight runs and with bends no longer
that 300 mm make an expansion bend in the middle, that is, a full circumference which will
absorb the water hammer. The copper pipe is sealed by means of a bicone. Fixing of the
bicone to the copper pipe should be performed on a workbench and never in situ as it is the
way to ensure an accurate bicone joint on pipe thus preventing leakage.
Body
Expansion
Curve
Typical bicone
joint
Release Nut
system fitted with time
Bicone
Pipe
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5.3.10
Description:
The installation of selector valves (1,2) onto the discharge manifold (3) allows the
coverage of several hazards with one single cylinder bank. The release system
connection for the selector valves depends on the number of selector valves and
the number of cylinders which are to be discharged through each valve. Use the
specific installation drawing for the system to be mounted. In the example
represented in above figure, the cylinder bank covers two zones under the fire
hazard. Both zones require all four bank cylinders for their protection. Once the
pilot cylinder (6) is released, gas flows to the solenoid valve + manual release
(4,5).
- When the solenoid valve actuated is (4), the gas flows to the selector valve (1). The
selector valve opens and the gas continues to flow through the release line until it
opens the four cylinders. Carbon dioxide (CO2) extinguishing agent is discharged
towards manifold and comes out through opened selector valve (1) towards the pipe
system directed to appropriate zone.
- When the solenoid valve actuated is number (5) the operation of cylinder bank is
similar to above operation but discharge is generated through the selector valve (2).
The solenoid valves + manual release (4,5) may be electrically or manually operated. It is
important to have each valve marked indicating the zone that it protects so as to prevent
the misunderstanding in case of manual operation. Connections between the pilot cylinder
and the cylinders are carried out with copper pipe (7). A non-return valve (8) is located on
the outlet of selector valve release line. The release line is provided with a decompression
screw (9) and a depressurisation valve (10).
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Installation:
Once the storage system is installed (bracket, cylinders, manifold, selector valves and
connection elements) proceed to mount the release system. Fix the bracket for pilot cylinder
and tighten the cylinder to it (6). Mount the support (11) and install the solenoid valves +
manual release (4,5).
Mount the pneumatic heads (12) on the cylinders. Mount the outlet pilot cylinder "T" and
depressurisation valve (10) and decompression screw (9). Join the cylinders by flexible
hoses (13). Lastly, install the copper pipe (7). Copper conduits should be straight or 90
curved. Observe that the pipe is not flattened or damaged on curves so as not to obstruct
passage of pressure. On runs longer that 300 mm carry out an expansion bend in the
middle, that is, a full circumference which will absorb the water hammer. The sealing for the
copper pipes by means of a bicone. The fixing of the bicone to the copper pipe should be
performed on a workbench and never in situ to ensure an accurate bicone grip on the pipe,
thus preventing leakage. Once adjusted on the bench, mount on the circuit ensuring that
pipe and the bicone reach the seat of the coupling and tighten the nut using a fixed wrench.
Expansion
Curve
Bicone type
Body
Nut
Pipe
Bicone
With regard to the electrical installation, it is important not to confuse the electrical
connections of the solenoid valves + manual release (4,5). Otherwise it is possible that the
extinguishing order dictated by the detection system may produce discharge of
extinguishing agent into a different enclosure from that specified. Therefore, it is advisable
to identify separately each solenoid coil.
IMPORTANT: It is advisable that the length of cables belonging to
each solenoid valve be such that it will not be
possible to mix up their position (the long cable for
the solenoid valve which is farthest away and the
shorter cable for the one that is nearest).
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Test:
During the installation of the selector valves, manually test the movement for each selector
valve that makes up the system. Open and close to check that the selector valve movement
is clear and does not strike any movable or fixed part or itself (walls, copper pipes, etc.).
Pneumatic test.
Refer to the sketch enclosed at beginning of this section.
1st)
Disconnect the pneumatic supply between the selector valves and the release heads
on heads side. Carry out this operation for all selector valves otherwise there is a risk
of an accidental discharge.
2nd)
Plug blind the free end of conduits feeding the release heads.
rd
3 )
Disconnect the pneumatic supply between the pilot cylinder (6) and the solenoid
valves + manual release (4 or 5) on the cylinder side. In their place connect a
nitrogen pressure source or clean and dry compressed air set at 10-15 bar.
4th)
Open slowly the pressure route from the pressure source. Now the pressure is
retained by the solenoid valves + manual release ( 4 and 5).
5th)
If the coil of one of solenoid valves, for example (4) is energised together with the
pressure source indicated, it must be observed that the associated selector valve (1)
opens by the effect of the pressure. Now check this pneumatic circuit for integrity
with the help of soapy water.
6th)
Shut off the pressure supply from the pressure source and depressurised the line by
energising the solenoid valve (4) tested. To finish manually close the valve with the
help of the lever supplied with the selector valves.
7th)
th
8 )
To finish, leave the pneumatic release system connected in accordance with the
drawing specifications. Pay special attention not to confuse connections between the
selector valves and the bank cylinders.
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5.3.11
Cut-off valve.
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Pipes should be installed in accordance with the isometric drawing accompanying the
project. Measurements, dimensions and pipe quality indicated in the drawing have to
be complied with, as are any modifications relating to pipe dimensions or
measurements that would impair system operation. In case of any modification being
required, the engineering department responsible for the system design should be
notified as appropriate.
Pipe Size
High-pressure System
Max Working
Pressure
Pipe class
Sch 40 or larger
1
1
1
2
140 bar
Sch 80 or larger
2
3
4
Fittings shall be according ANSI/ASA 3000 and shall be rated at least to 3000 lbs/in2.
Welding for pipes smaller or equal to 2" nominal diameter should not be performed
in situ. The connections performed in situ should be threaded.
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5.4.2 Supports.
Every installation should have a minimum of two supports that hold the pipe system.
The maximum distance between the two supports along pipe should never exceed the
following values:
Nominal
Diameter
(mm)
Nominal
Maximum Distance
Diameter (inches)
10
3/8
10
15
15
20
18
25
21
32
24
40
27
50
34
65
35
80
37
100
43
Whenever pipe is more than 2 inches (DN 50) and table distances cannot be adhered
to because of building designs, these distances may be raised to 6m between
supports, as long as they are double.
The pipe supports should be located next to the pipe joints, to elbows and to changes
in pipe direction.
The supports should connect the pipe system directly to the building structure and
should not be used to support other objects. The parts of the building where supports
are fixed should be strong enough to take the load (see table for design load).
Otherwise, additional straps should be fixed to other resistant parts. Only pipes with
nominal diameters less than or equal to 50 mm may be attached to the metallic
structures in the form of trusses or concrete slabs (the design should be approved by
the authorities). The concrete fastening plugs should be located at least 150 mm away
from the edge of the slab.
The distance between the nozzle and its support should be the shortest possible:
For pipes with a smaller or equal diameter to 25 mm, the maximum distance
from support to nozzle should be 01 m.
For pipes more than 25 mm diameter, the maximum distance from support to
nozzle should be 025 m.
Support type hangers or manifold "U" fixings are recommended. Pipe brackets and
other fittings for holding pipes, should completely surround the pipe and be closed.
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Supports should comply with the following minimum requirements for sectional areas
and depth anchoring:
Pipe nominal
Design load
diameter
(N)
Minimum
support
section
(mm)
Thread
size
(metric)
Minimum depth of
anchor for concrete
fastening plugs (mm)
Up to DN 50 (2)
2000
30
30
3500
50
10
40
5000
70
12
40
8500
125
16
50
10000
150
20
60
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5.4.3 Nozzles.
Technical Data Sheet N.015.
Description:
The nozzles are the devices through which the gas is discharged within the protected
enclosure. It consist of an internal core (1) with 4 discharge orifices and a central one which
can be calibrated according to the hydraulic calculations and an external metallic cone (2) to
drive the discharge flow.
OK
FORBBIDEN
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To prevent mistakes during installation, every nozzle should incorporate legible and long
lasting inscriptions indicating the calibration diameter, and the identification of its location in
the drawing with reference to the Project and the system hydraulic calculation. As standard
LPG carry out mechanic engraving (punched) on the nozzle bodies with the above
mentioned inscriptions.
NOTE:
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NOTE:
NOTE:
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24 VDC
Cold consumption:
13 W
Hot consumption:
10 W
Connect to earth.
2
+
1
NOTE:
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All the cylinders, including pilot cylinders, should have an adhesive label attached
indicating their identification number (coinciding with the one engraved on its
shoulder) gross weight, net weight and date of fill.
The paint of all components should be in perfect condition. Repaint those areas
where the paint has been damaged. In case of any oxide, prepare the surface; apply
a coat of metal primer and finish by applying a top coat of paint. The colours for
carbon dioxide (CO2) fire extinguishing systems are: RAL 9011 black for the cylinder
body, RAL 7023 grey for the shoulder and RAL 3000 red for the pipe system.
Hazard protected
Warnings
The notices should be firmly affixed and visible to the parts fitted and must be
resistant to climatic and environmental conditions to which they may be exposed
(dust, dirt, etc.).
The pressure gauge of the pilot cylinder should indicate an accurate pressure
reading.
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Connect to the manifold free port a dry nitrogen cylinder, fitted with the output set at 15
bar pressure in accordance with enclosed sketch.
Remove all nozzles of the system to be blown out. To perform nozzle reinstallation it is
very important to have available isometric drawings or project document where the
location of each nozzle is specified, as the internal calibrated diameters differ for each.
Open the nitrogen cylinder valve. Open the ball valve located at nitrogen cylinder outlet
and keep blowing for approximately 5 seconds
NOTE:
Repeat the operation freeing a different pipe end each time and plugging the remainder
until all the pipe ends are completed.
Remove all the plugs and replace the nozzles into their original position.
Disconnect the nitrogen cylinder and reconnect the pressure switch with locking device.
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On manifold, connect a nitrogen cylinder to the pressure switch port (nitrogen or any
other suitable gas) with the output set at 3 5 bar. Insert a T fitted with a or
PN-16 (relief) sphere valve.
Remove all nozzles making up the system to be blown out. To carry out nozzle
reinstallation it is very important to have available isometric drawings or project
document where the location of each nozzle is specified, as the internal calibrated
diameters differ for each.
Connect to the free end a 0-10 bar pressure gauge or a pressure recording device.
Pressure recording may be continuous or carried out only at the beginning and end of
test.
Pressurise the pipe slowly at 3 - 5 bar. Wait for 10 minutes and register the initial
pressure value. Shut off the pressure supply, keeping the pressurisation for 10 minutes.
After 10 minutes, register the pressure again.
s
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Depressurise system by means of the relief valve inserted into the nitrogen connection.
Disconnect the nitrogen supply and reconnect the pressure switch with locking device.
Disconnect the pressure meter and unplug the free pipe ends. Locate the nozzles into
their initial position.
6.1.5 Operating Test for the pressure switch with locking device.
This test should be carried out when the pressure switch is already connected (to the
manifold and to the alarm control panel) and it is not going to be disconnected again. Carry
out this test again in case of pressure switch disconnection for maintenance operations or
for any other reason.
Remove the box electric body without disconnecting the wiring. With the help of a
ballpoint pen or a rod, push the lower piston until the upper terminals in the box are
short circuited by the contact rod. Check that the control panel receives a corresponding
alarm signal.
Re-insert the pressure switch body into its box, replace the box cap and re-arm the
pressure switch
s
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Disconnect the release heads corresponding to the slave cylinder valves. Holding the
head in the hand, remove the internal with pliers piston.
Turn over the piston assembly and reinsert it in the head until it butts, with the stem
pointing towards the bottom part of the head. Reinstall the heads on the valves with
piston turned over.
Attention:
Apply a 50 bar pressure source to the free end of the flexible hose line ( in the figure).
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Pressurise the line. Check the tightness of the flexible hose with soapy water.
After conduct the test, depressurise and replace each head piston assembly to its initial
position.
NOTE:
Reconnect the first bank cylinder to the line coming from the pilot cylinder.
Replace the master or pilot cylinder valve cap.
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Study at length the drawings or installation of the electric circuit supplying the pilot
cylinder solenoid valves.
NOTE:
Remove the nut located on the solenoid valve coil and remove the latter from its
housing on its centre stem. Remove all the solenoid valve coils belonging to the same
release system. It is very important to ensure that they are all out of their housing to
prevent accidental discharge during the test.
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Once coil is energised, insert a suitable easily magnetised object (such as a light
screwdriver) through its centre hole. Proper operation is confirmed if a magnetic field is
produced which retains the metallic object inserted into the coil hole. The minimum
actuating time is 3 minutes during which a gradual heating of the coil may be observed.
Repeat the operation with each of the solenoid valves in the same release system.
To prevent accidents, prior to replacing each coil into its stem, (it is vital not to mix up
each coil position) using the same metallic object check for traces of magnetisation
through the coil hole which may activate the valve.
IMPORTANT:
Slowly place the coil onto the centre stem. If there is any magnetism left, controlled
leakage will take place through the top of the main valve. If so, remove the coil quickly
to interrupt the leakage. Such leakage shows that solenoid valve is still being supplied.
Shut off that supply.
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If for whatever reason controlled leakage is produced through the top of the cylinder
main valve and it would be difficult to eliminate, to prevent the slow discharge of the
cylinder, proceed to carry out 2 or 3 rapid clamping with the energised coil (pulses not
to exceed 1 second) on its stem to stop the leakage. If the leakage is uncontrolled,
contact the Technical Service of LPG Tcnicas en Extincin de Incendios, S.A.
Once the coil is replaced onto its stem, replace the hexagonal nut and the valve head
cap.
NOTE: For whatever reason it is decided to SEPARATE THE MAIN VALVE BODY*
FROM A SOLENOID VALVE STEM it is imperative to disconnect the main valve
gauge first. This operation shuts off the pressure supply to the solenoid valve.
CAUTION: THE CYLINDER IS FILLED AT HIGH PRESSURE. See 5.2.1, 5.2.2 and
5.3.8. for further information.
In case of malfunction, LPG recommends not to dismantle the stem of the solenoid
valve but to submit the Master cylinder + solenoid + valve assembly to the LPG
technical service department for verification.
* Or the cap that is installed at the same position on the master cylinders.
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7 MAINTENANCE.
Carbon dioxide (CO2) fire extinguishing systems should be subject to a preventive
maintenance program ensuring the proper operation in case of fire. This program and the
maintenance operations should comply with regulations applicable in the country or region
where the system is installed. In this section applicable Spanish Law is taken as a basis for
the installation maintenance. As a manufacturer, LPG advises all system owners and end
users to demand, as a minimum, execution of the maintenance operations described in this
manual.
The safety manager as well as personnel in charge of maintenance operations should be
properly trained in system operation, the required safety conditions for maintenance and
the effects of carbon dioxide (CO2) on personnel and property. They should also know and
have access to system connection drawings, design project, maintenance and inspection
files, including the hand-over inspection.
During maintenance operations, which require execution of any of the tests described in
section 6, wear a protection mask and gloves.
In the event that an carbon dioxide (CO2) system is designed to consist of a release abort
system (Cut-off valve) prior to each maintenance operation set such a system in the
"ISOLATION" position. This valve position directs the pilot cylinder discharge towards an
escape external to the system, thus preventing the actuation of the cylinder bank. When the
maintenance operations are finished, do not forget to reset the release abort valve to its in
service position.
Regulatory requirements for maintenance of the carbon dioxide (CO2) installations.
Given that carbon dioxide (CO2) systems are fire fighting elements, at a domestic level
(Spain), they are covered in the Regulatory application frame for Installations and Fire
Fighting Apparatus (RD. 1942/1993). Annex III consists of extracts from the most
important Regulation points on system maintenance. In brief, this rule specifies the
following:
1st)
The last person responsible for the maintenance of the installation is the final user or
owner of such.
2nd)
In all cases, the maintainer as well as the user or owner, should keep written proof
of compliance of the preventive maintenance program, indicating, as a minimum, the
operations carried out, the results of verifications and tests and replacement of
defective parts carried out. Annotations should be up to date and should be at the
disposal of the appropriate official inspection services.
3rd)
LPG has carried out a maintenance program in compliance with all the Regulatory
specifications for Fire Fighting Installations and Apparatus, including other maintenance
operations recommended by LPG as a manufacturer. This program specifies the following
terms and operations:
Quarterly:
a)
Check the general condition of installation using the list in Annex III, Checklist for
maintenance inspection of gas systems.
b)
Check that the installation identification notices, the user and warning signs as well
as the cylinder adhesive labels are in their appropriate location.
c)
The safety apparel for system handling and maintenance are in perfect condition.
d)
Check the general condition of the check valves, joints. Check the absence of
obstructions that does not allow its right operation.
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Annually:
a)
Nozzles: in dusty atmospheres check that the discharge orifices are not obstructed.
b)
Releases: carry out an operating test for the solenoid valves. The test is described in
section 6.1.7. in this manual.
c)
Alarms: check the audible and visual function of the alarm devices, giving the
instructions from control panel. Check the pressure switch with locking device for
operation according to the test described in 6.1.5.
In unusually dirty and dusty environments the pipe distribution system should be
blown out with dry nitrogen, in accordance with section 6.1.3.
Carry out re-stamping of the cylinders (slave cylinders and pilot cylinders), in
accordance with the Regulations established by the Ministry of Industry and Energy
for Pressure Apparatus, MIE AP-7 Complementary Technical Instruction.
b)
Carry out a hydraulic test for integrity of the flexible hose and the manifold. This test
consists of subjecting the components to a hydraulic test, pressurising up to 15
times the component working pressure.
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8 USE OF INSTALLATION.
8.1 GENERAL FUNCTION OF A FIRE EXTINGUISHING SYSTEM.
The following sketch shows a typical carbon dioxide (CO2) installation:
Pos Description
Pos
Description
Slave cylinder
Control Panel
LPG Valve
Master cylinder
Manifold
10
Lighted sign
Nozzle
11
Detector
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The automatic release signal comes from the detectors (6). The detectors operate by
sending a signal to the control panel (7) when a fire is detected inside the room.
The control station then initiates a fire extinguishing protocol, which may be different for
each installation, but it always includes, as a minimum, actuation of the alarm signals
(sirens, visual devices, etc.) during a delay time, which generally lasts 30 seconds. This
delay time is the time personnel inside the room have to vacate immediately and in
order to leave the room where the visual/audible alarm signals operate.
At the same time, the control panel sends an instruction to open the master cylinder valve
(3). At this moment it is IMPOSSIBLE TO STOP THE DISCHARGE OF THE
EXTINGUISHING AGENT, which will be produced imminently.
It is advisable to introduce simulated evacuation of personnel occupying the area protected
by carbon dioxide (CO2) during the 30 seconds discharge delay.
The pipe where gas from all cylinders is collected, is called the discharge manifold (4). A
pressure switch is located on the manifold (11), which sends a signal to the control panel to
indicate that the agent discharge has begun.
Gas flows through the pipe system to the nozzles (5) and is expelled at high velocity
towards the fire.
System manual actuation is also possible by means of the Release Push Button (9). This
device should only be used WHEN THE ROOM HAS BEEN VACATED. Use of this device
involves the same operation described above for actuation of the automatic fire detection
systems. If the delay time is over and the discharge has not been produced, actuate the
cylinder bank manually. (See 8.4. Actuation in the event of failure of fire extinguishing
system automatic actuation).
Gas is discharged from the nozzles at high velocity. So suitable means of room evacuation
should be provided, as far as possible from the direct reach of the nozzle. The strength of
extinguishing agent discharged is not enough to raise heavy objects (computers, tables,
cupboards, machines), nor raise personnel but it can raise papers, light books and movable
objects located near the discharge nozzle.
Appropriate warning signs should be affixed not only in the enclosure protected by the
installation but also at the cylinder storage areas. Appropriate warning signs should provide
instructions in case of the fire alarm. The storage area should be provided with instructions
for manual system actuation including requirements to previously check that the area to be
protected has been VACATED. (See 8.4. Actuation in the event of failure of fire
extinguishing system automatic actuation).
Appropriate warning notices should be affixed inside protected room informing its occupants
about the type of protection and modes of actuation in case of fire. All these signs should be
clearly legible and resistant to environmental conditions. It is advisable to provide adhesive
labels in red or green background and white letters. Notices should incorporate at least the
following messages:
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Typical sign inside the protected enclosure:
For better extinguishing action, all inlets of air which might re-ignite the fire should be
prevented. Once discharge is complete, wait a minimum of 30 minutes prior to activating
room ventilation, so as to prevent fire re-ignition. It is advisable to call the fire brigade at
the time of activation of room ventilation.
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The pressure switch is located in the storage area, mounted on the discharge manifold pipe.
To operate, pull hard to remove the safety pin (3). Operate the lever (1) by pulling hard
backwards and downwards. The nitrogen cylinders are filled at a pressure of 100 bar, so
there is a certain regression of the lever.
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To operate, pull hard the safety pin (1). Operate the lever (2) with force backwards and
downwards.
For systems fitted with delay time devices, the time delay bottle is fitted with an abort lever
(1).
Remove the safety pin (2) by pulling hard. Operate the lever (1) with force backwards and
downwards.
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8.4 ACTUATION
IN
THE
EVENT
OF
FAILURE
EXTINGUISHING SYSTEM AUTOMATIC ACTIVATION.
OF
FIRE
When extinguishing discharge is not released within delay time specified by the Main Panel
(see Main Panel technical instructions) plus pneumatic delay (30 s) from fire alarm or if you
can see a fire or the alarm system has failed to operate, WAIT UNTIL AREA IS VACATED to
manually actuate extinguishment. The following operations should be carried out quickly
and in order:
1.
The person in charge of manual operation should wear a helmet and safety glasses
which he will find in the storage area, next to the cylinder bank and close to the
warning signs containing the operational instructions for manual discharge.
2.
Visually check the condition of the cylinder bank (flexible hoses, gauges on cylinders
show correct pressure in accordance with labels, selector valves are closed, no leakage
lock off valve in operation position).
3.
For cylinder banks fitted with selector valves, identify the selector valve + manual
release device as appropriate to the zone to be flooded. The solenoid valves + manual
release device should be clearly marked indicating the zone that they protect. Open
manually (see 8.3.5. Manual Opening/Closing of selector valves). It is very important
to activate only the valve appropriate to the zone to be flooded, as in the event of two
or more valves actuating, agent discharge would be directed to several zones.
5.
For cylinder banks fitted with pneumatic time delay devices, abort delay time by
pulling its lever (see 8.3.4. Time delay abort).
6.
Operate the pilot cylinder release (see 8.3.2. Manual Lever Release Operation). This
operation opens the pilot cylinder valve and slave cylinder valves.
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Prior to opening the door or to operating hazard ventilation where discharge has taken
place, wait for the arrival of the fire brigade.
2.
3.
Check visually condition of the carbon dioxide (CO2) installation within the hazard
(general pipe condition, nozzle condition). It is recommended to follow the appropriate
sections on "Check list for routine inspections for carbon dioxide (CO2) fire
extinguishing installations" (contained in Appendix III ).
Verify that all carbon dioxide (CO2) installation cylinders have been discharged ( check
that all pressure gauges indicate 0 bar. All weighing system control modules, if any,
showing red LED illuminated). Otherwise, remove the cylinder head caps manually.
Notify the LPG technical department. If it is not possible to remove head caps
manually DO NOT FORCE THEM. Call LPG technical personnel.
5.
Unlatch the pressure switch (see 8.3.1. Re-assembly pressure switch with locking
device).
6.
7.
Decompress the release line by means of the decompression screw. (see 8.3.6.
Release line decompression). In the event of cylinder banks with selector valves, for
depressurisation operation of the solenoid valves + manual release which control the
opening of the selector valves, the latter should be open.
8.
In the pilot or master cylinder slowly dismantle the manual actuator that will close the
valve. Some little pressure could be vent during this operation.
9.
Close the solenoid valves + manual release which control the selector valves, thus
cutting its electrical supply.
10.
11.
Close the selector valves (see 8.3.5. Manual Opening/Closing of selector valves) in
case they do not close after release line decompression.
12.
Visually check the condition of the carbon dioxide (CO2) installation within the hazard
(component general condition). It is recommended to follow the corresponding
sections on "Check list for routine inspections for carbon dioxide (CO2) installations ".
13.
Disassemble cylinders and odorizer from their brackets and send them to LPG to be
recharged as well as all damaged components for repair or replacement.
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14.
After replacing cylinders and their components, check all system release systems and
reassemble (e.g. replace manual release seals, replace release burst disks, etc.).
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This document includes the following Annexes to Installation, Maintenance and User
Manual for carbon dioxide (CO2) Extinguishing Systems Ref. MU/CO/04/IN REV.00
ANNEX I
ANNEX II
ANNEX III
ANNEX IV
ANNEX V
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