Description of the Local Protection System

Page
1

Table of Contents

1.0 System requirements

1.1 Description of System

1.2 Description of Main Components

1.3 Testing for Maintenance

1.4 Overhaul and Maintenance

1.5 Commissioning Procedures

1.6 Fire Instruction

1.7 False Alarm

Description of the Local Protection System

1.0

SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS

In order to meet the requirements in the Reg. 10.5.6 of new SOLAS chapter II-2 with regard to
fire fighting, Novenco has developed a system for fire fighting on Local Protection using the new
Novenco NHP5 nozzle in machinery spaces as shown schematically on the enclosed layout
drawing. The system is capable of fire suppression with forced ventilation fans running and
supplying air to the protected area, provided that ventilation outlet are not directed across the
protected areas.
The system is approved according to IMO/MSC/Circ. 913 by all major classification societies.
As standard the system is an automatically operated dry system, i.e. there is no water in the
system until the system is activated, water mist pump is started and the relevant section valve is
opened.

1.1

DESCRIPTION OF SYSTEM

The system is build up to protect local hazardous areas where a fire most often occur, this could
be by spray fire from a leaking fuel pipe or a small pool fire of diesel or lubrication oil.
When fire occurs the detection system will raise the alarm locally, and on the bridge, so that you
will have a warning. The alarm is indicated as specified in SOLAS Reg. ll-2/10.5.6.4 Activation
of any local application system shall give a visual and distinct audible alarm in the protected
space and at continuously manned stations. The alarm shall indicate the specific system
activated.
Seconds after the second detector will activate the system, and water mist will be released in this
specific area. It takes 2 signals from the same area to release the system; this is to avoid a
release by mistake, if welding or other repair is ongoing.
Function
The control of the system is done from a dedicated Release Logic Unit based on inputs from the
ships main fire detection system.
The fire detection is handled by the ships main fire alarm system
The RLU is intended for:
- Receiving automatic release signals from ships main fire system (yard supply)
- Receiving release signals from manual activated push buttons placed in each protected
section
- Manual release by push buttons build-in in the RLU front door
- Indication of activated section by lamps build-in in the RLU front door
-Handling of alarm outputs for sirens/flashlights
-Handling of alarm outputs for AMS VDR etc.
In case there is a failure in the detector system, it is possible manually to release the system on
the RLU or at the locally placed Sprinkler release button. And in worst case the release can be
performed from the pump unit, this is described on the Instruction board placed at the pump unit.
2

Description of the Local Protection System

1.2

DESCRIPTION OF MAIN COMPONENTS

Local Protection nozzle

The Novenco NHP5 nozzle is of the open type.
The nozzles in the system are arranged with spacing according to layout drawing.
Pump starter panel
Get signals from the RLU to the pump, and section valves.
Is normally in AUTO position, so that in case of fire it will operate automatically.
It can be operated manually; this is described on the instruction board placed at the pump unit.
See wiring diagram in section 5.
Pump
Is activated by the pump starter panel, and is dimensioned to cover the largest area regarding
pressure and water flow. This area is shown in section 3, hydraulic calculation, and compared to
the pump curve shown in section 4.
During testing it is not possible to compare pump capacity, and hydraulic calculation, unless the
flow from the Test connection is measured, but maximum pressure against closed valve can be
compared.
Pump data is described in the Grundfos manual
Section valves
The section valves are placed on an anodised aluminium block. Each section valve will open
according to the signal coming from the RLU.
In case of electric failure the valve can be manually opened, by turning the marked release button
on the solenoid valve.
During testing it can be verified if the valve opens by checking the pressure gauge. At the same
time check the other pressure gauges to see if a non-activated valve is leaking.
Ball valve
The valves are standard marine type resistant to the marine environment, they are equipped with
a lockable device that ensures the valve will be kept locked in the correct position.
Air supply
Requirements to the air quality: Normal clean and dry air at 5 to 10 bar.
The air is intended for:
- Purging the pipes after use.
- Testing the system (instead of using water).

Description of the Local Protection System

Shock & vibration
To ensure that our pump unit is capable to withstand the vibrations that are normally present on
the vessels, we have had our pump unit tested at DANAK, an institute that specializes in these
phenomenons. The test is according to EN/IEC 60068-2-64 (1993), a random vibration test that
covers the requirements of the sinusoidal vibration test according to IACS E10 and IEC 60945.
Further more it has been shock tested according to EN 60068-2-27 (15 g in 11 ms.). The pump
unit passed all tests.

Description of the Local Protection System

1.3

TESTING FOR MAINTENANCE

Testing procedure must be done once a month.

1. Close all outlet valves.
2. Open the test valves.
3. Release one section manually by activating the relevant release button on RLU panel.
4. Check that the pump starts, the correct section valve opens, the water is being discharged
through drain valve, and light for Pressure in System is activated on RLU.
5. Reset the alarm on the RLU.
6. Check that the section valve is closed and the pump is stopped.
7. Close the test valve.
8. Repeat the test for other sections.
9. Open all outlet valves.
10. Refill F.W. tank with freshwater.
11. Check strainer if fitted in suction line.
The test is to be recorded in log book.
The test must be co-ordinated with the duty officer on bridge in order to avoid any mistakes.

Description of the Local Protection System

1.4

OVERHAUL AND MAINTENANCE

Nozzles
The nozzle heads must never be painted or damaged, as this will reduce their capacity.
10% of the nozzles must be inspected each year regarding damage to the nozzle and
deflector pins.
Ball valve
Activate the valves from time to time to make sure that the valves are operating as intended.
Section Valves (Solenoid Valves)
The Section valves are checked during testing, if the valve has difficulties closing it might be that
the pilot orifice is clogged. Dismantle and clean with air, at the same time it is recommended to
check the diaphragm and O-rings for cracks due to aging.
Pump
Examine the centrifugal pump at regular intervals. During testing it must be observed that it can
maintain a constant pressure, and that there is no cacophony. If the pump is not performing as
intended, please check the Grundfos manual for guidance.
Strainer
If a strainer if fitted in suction line before pump, it must be cleaned at regular intervals e.g. in
association with testing.
Pump starter panel
Check that electrical equipment inside the panel has not loosened.
Check that wires and screws are tightened. Check that the insulation for the wires is not damaged
due to vibrations.
Release Logic Unit (RLU)
Check that electrical equipment inside the panel has not loosened.
Check that wires and screws are tightened. Check that the insulation for the wires is not damaged
due to vibrations.
The system must be checked at regular intervals, if problems occur during testing, please check
the manual for guidance.
PLEASE NOTE THAT THERE IS SOME RISK THAT WATER WILL BE LEFT IN THE SYSTEM
EVEN AFTER PURGING, THEREFORE PRECAUTIONS MUST BE TAKEN IN CASE THE
VESSEL WILL ENTER FROSTY AREAS, AS THE PUMPUNIT IS NOT DESIGNED FOR THIS.

Description of the Local Protection System

1.5

COMMISSIONING PROCEDURES
1.

Check the entire installation with regards to workmanship.

2.

Test the entire water pipe system (before mounting of nozzles) to at least 1.5 times
maximum working pressure and flush pipes with water using the pump.

3.

Check that the nozzle and detector installations are correct according to installation
guidelines.

4.

Close the section outlet valves. Start the pump manually from the pump starter panel
and check the pump outlet pressure. If the pump is working against closed outlet valve
the pressure can be compared to the pump data - index 4. Correct pressure and flow
can only be compared to the data sheet if you are able to determine the flow coming
from the test/drain valve.

5.

Switch selector switch on pump starter panel to 0 position on pump motor starter panel.

6.

Check that release signals from ships main fire detection system gives the correct
section release. Check one section at a time. When all signals are checked

7.

Switch selector switch on pump starter panel to Auto position on pump motor starter
panel.

8.

Switch on power supply on the pump starter panel, reset the pump unit on the RLU.

9.

Remain all outlet valves closed. Open the test/drain valve and activate the manual
release buttons on the RLU front: Check that the pump starts and that there is pressure
at the right section valve (Right solenoid valve operates).
Repeat the test for other sections. When the test is completed the valves must be reset
to stand-by.

10. A 30 seconds water mist discharge is to be carried out for at least one section.
11. After testing, the pipes must be purged with compressed air through valve (air supply).
12. Novenco recommends that a filter is installed in the suction line, if fitted, it must be checked
when commissioning is completed.
It is advisable to flush all piping from the section control valves to the nozzles, as
experience has shown that many impurities are found here. During flushing
nozzles should be removed.

Description of the Local Protection System

1.6

FIRE INSTRUCTION

Alarm
In case of fire in any part of the machinery spaces with automatic/manual local protection system,
the alarm in the Fire Control Station will sound incessantly. Moreover, the alarm lamps on the RLU
will light up, as will the warning signal/lamps placed in the protected area.
Actions in Case of Alarm
Locate the fire immediately. Follow the ships fire muster plan.
Disconnection of the System when the Fire is extinguished.
Assure that the fire has been extinguished; the pump will be stopped by turning the Auto-0-Man
switch to -0- position on the Pump Starter Panel at Pump Unit. The system can be set back to
standby position when all alarms are reset on the RLU and the Auto-0-Man switch on the Pump
Starter Panel is in -Auto- position.
Purge pipes with compressed air through valve (air supply) after fire.
Normal Standby Condition (Automatic Release).
All manual valves at the pump unit must be open, except the air supply valve and the test
valves, which should be closed. Switch for the sprinkler pump to be in AUTO position. All valves
can be locked in required position.
IF WELDING OR SCHEDULED WORK IS CAUSING SMOKE, HEAT OR FLAME IN THE
ENGINE ROOM, SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS SHOULD BE MADE IN ORDER TO AVOID
AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER RELEASE.
Manual Release
Manuel release can be done from the RLU, or breaking the glass on the sprinkler release button
will activate the system.
Mechanical Release
The system can also be started manually from the pump starter panel by turning the Auto-0Man to -MAN- position. Open the relevant section valve manually by rotates the small screw on
the solenoid valve. (This screw must in normal conditions always be kept in closed position)
Each valve is marked with section area.
Additional Remote Release
If the Engine Control Room is not classified as a Fire Control Station, the RLU can not be
placed inside the Engine Control Room except if a Remote Release Panel is placed in the Fire
Control Station, connected to the system, so that manual remote release can be done from an
area outside the engine room.

Description of the Local Protection System

1.7

False Alarm

False alarm may occur in the following case:

A.
B.
C.
D.

Electric malfunction in the system.

Temperature higher than limit of the smoke/heat detectors.
UV light in the wave length of 185 260 nm at the flame detectors.
Exhaust gas due to leak at gasket or broken pipe.

TRACE THE CAUSE OF A FALSE ALARM IMMEDIATELY, RECTIFY THE FAULT AND
NOTE IT IN THE LOG BOOK.