Case studies - FirePro

Samsung SDI

fire_pro_user — Tue, 22 Nov 2022 22:25:33 +0000

The Client

Samsung SDI Co. is a Korean multinational technology corporation. Samsung SDI operates through its Chemical, Electronic Materials and Energy segments while it thrives as one of the world’s largest manufacturer of lithium ion (Li-ion) batteries. Samsung SDI’s Energy Storage Systems use differentiated design technology and innovate lithium-ion batteries for cutting-edge electric vehicles such as the BMW i3. Samsung SDI is listed in Forbes Global 2000 – World’s Biggest Public Companies.

Risks & Consequences

Samsung SDI’s ESS solutions, using Li-ion batteries, offer on demand power management, power dispatch and renewable energy smoothing for various applications including commercial and utility organizations. Li-ion battery technology, despite being constantly improved, still poses a significant fire hazard. A single defective cell, or one that has been subjected to mechanical, electrical or thermal abuse, may lead to an increase in its internal temperature, triggering a thermal runaway. The resulting fire will develop within minutes and can propagate to neighboring cells if not suppressed and controlled on time.

The Task

Design, supply, install and maintain bespoke automatic fire suppression systems for Samsung SDI’s Energy Storage Systems (ESS) enclosed within standardized intermodal containers. The fire protection systems are commissioned to be compact, durable and reliable. They must have a long life span and be highly efficient and effective. These parameters must be met while remaining environmentally friendly. They must also be able to protect against the complex and challenging Li-ion battery fires. The extinguishing system must be designed according to both local and internationally recognized standards and regulations.

Why FirePro?

The ESS enclosures are not airtight thus gaseous based systems would have had leakage concerns. Furthermore, the inner space is fully utilised thus large equipment (such as pressurised cylinders) are impractical. Samsung SDI’s ESS containers are frequently placed in remote locations as they are designed to work without much attendance. The modularity, compactness and autonomy of the system were favourable factors in the selection process. Most importantly, FirePro technology has proven its ability to efficiently and effectively suppress Li-ion battery fires, neutralize flammable off-gases, and control thermal runaway propagation. FirePro’s environmentally friendly nature and compliance to both local and internationally standards were also favourable considerations.

Results of Implementation

Samsung SDI proceeded to implement the FirePro fire suppression solution since it combined all the operational, environmental and technical considerations required for the ESS containers. FirePro Korea personnel designed and completed the installation of the FirePro system and fire extinguishing generators within a predetermined time frame. FirePro systems currently protect these assets and offer protection against various fire scenarios.

The post Samsung SDI first appeared on FirePro.

Bloomberg

firepro — Sun, 27 Nov 2022 17:16:27 +0000

The Client

Bloomberg L.P. is a US based privately owned financial software, data and Media Company headquartered in New York City. It is a global leader in business and financial information and maintains regional offices in key locations around the world, such as in the city of London. Through its news and data platforms it offers influential decision makers, market insights and a critical edge.

Risks & Consequences

Electrical and mechanical equipment inevitably entail fire hazards that need to be proactively managed. Fire can be caused by human error, equipment failure or other sequences of destructive events. Bloomberg takes no chances with disruption to either its operations or its equipment. Such disruption can be caused by fire. An A, B, C, F, class-of-fire suppression system is therefore essential for its key operational assets. The system needs to ensure that damage to equipment is avoided and or minimized to avoid down time and disruption to business continuity.

The Task

Design and install a rapid response automatic fire suppression system to replace the water mist system at Bloomberg’s London HQ. The Fire Engineers mission is to protect both the Diesel Generator and the Battery Room. This has a dual benefit. First, being the protection of the building and its occupants while the power supply to core redundancy equipment remains intact. This is of paramount importance for the uninterrupted operation and services Bloomberg provides. Specifications called for a long-life system with attested performance capabilities.

Why FirePro?

FirePro has wide ranging expertise and solid track record regarding these challenging applications. It complies with all national (UK) and international (US/EU) standards and regulations required for these types of systems. Unlike gas, water mist and other systems, FirePro systems do not require a large footprint to be installed in these limited-space applications, nor do they entail any hydraulic pressure tests. Moreover, FirePro’s 15-year lifetime, minimal cost of ownership and ecological firefighting FPC compound makes it the preferred solution for Bloomberg Health & Safety Engineers.

Results of Implementation

After carefully evaluating system characteristics offered by all other competing systems, the fire safety engineers opted for FirePro as the more efficient and long-term cost-effective option. When Bloomberg’s earlier fire suppression systems were due for a mandatory room integrity and hydraulic test FirePro was proposed as the new and value-added fire protection technology. FirePro UK designed, installed and currently protects these enclosures with a system ready to react and supress fire autonomously and protect business continuity.

The post Bloomberg first appeared on FirePro.

Lake Turkana Wind Power

firepro — Mon, 17 Jun 2024 21:39:12 +0000

The Client

Consisting of 365 wind turbines, each with a capacity of 850KW, the Lake Turkana Wind Power project stands as Africa’s largest wind farm project. Its primary objective is to provide clean, reliable, and cost-effective energy. Situated in a remote area 12 km east of Lake Turkana in northwestern Kenya, the project benefits from a unique geographical setting between two mountains, which channel and accelerate wind streams. In addition to increasing Kenya’s national power grid by 17%, the LTWP contributes significantly to the local community’s wellbeing. Through its affiliated NGO, “Winds of Change,” the project fosters community development initiatives and enhances access to education, healthcare, and clean water.

Risks & Consequences

The project’s remote location posed increased risks, necessitating careful planning and execution. Mobilizing staff and materials from Nairobi to Lake Turkana involved travelling a challenging 750 km route for almost two days. Along this route, issues such as community conflicts, communication breakdowns, and a 230 km off-road stretch without internet connectivity added to the complexity. To mitigate these challenges, ongoing communication with local communities was essential, ensuring timely updates and guidance for mobilization efforts within tight deadlines. Additionally, thorough planning was crucial for the supply of equipment and consumable tools, given the limited accessibility to resources in the remote area. Moreover, integrating various protection systems into a central control room posed a significant risk, especially within the short design period. The potential consequences included power disruptions for lengthy periods due to the limited accessibility in remote areas, financial implications due to the loss of equipment and facilities and ecological implications.

The Task

The task was to successfully integrate various applications into a unique and complex project, incorporating FirePro solutions for built-in cabinet systems, DRPC in-cabinet systems, transformer in-cabinet systems, and total room flooding suppression systems. These systems were deployed to safeguard cabinets and electrical panels across multiple areas, including generator rooms, auxiliary battery rooms, control raised floor rooms, and switchgear rooms. Additionally, a graphical interface screen was integrated into a centralized control panel to display the real-time status of each room. Emphasis was placed on ensuring ease of maintenance and minimizing frequency requirements.

Why FirePro?

FirePro stood out as the preferred choice not only for offering both cabinet and total flooding solutions but also for its efficient integration capabilities. With the project’s remote location and tight timelines, FirePro’s ease of installation and 15-year generator lifespan made it the ideal solution. Furthermore, FirePro was the optimal choice because it does not require refilling, a challenging and time-consuming process due to the project’s remote location. Instead, it offers the advantage of replacing activated generators when needed, a process that is more cost-effective and efficient.

Results of Implementation

Following six months of diligent planning, procurement, installation, testing, and commissioning, the project concluded successfully. An advanced graphical interface which provides complete monitoring and control over fire detection was integrated into a centralized addressable fire alarm panel, providing real-time updates on the condition of every protected room and cabinet. The substation is now safeguarded against fire, with the fire extinguishing system equipped to self-activate even in worst-case scenarios. Given the project’s remote location, a dedicated team of professionals will be stationed onsite for the initial year, offering continuous after-sales support, and promptly addressing any challenges. Subsequently, quarterly inspections will be scheduled to ensure ongoing efficiency and safety.

The post Lake Turkana Wind Power first appeared on FirePro.

Glencore Mount Isa Mines

fire_pro_user — Wed, 23 Nov 2022 17:05:08 +0000

The Client

Glencore plc (an acronym for Global Energy Commodity Resources) is a multinational commodity trading and mining company headquartered in Europe. It is the world’s third largest family business and it ranks 10th in the Fortune Global 500 list of the world’s largest companies. Glencore is in effect the world’s leading producer and marketer of commodities.

Risks & Consequences

Mining-related fire protection requirements are extensive and dissimilar, as the industry is defined by large operations with high capital investment and complex production processes. Fires and explosions pose a constant threat to miners as well as to the productive capacity of mines. Incidents involving electrical energy present a wide variety of hazards and risks to both personnel and assets.

The Task

Design, supply, install, commission and maintain a fire detection and rapid reaction fixed active fire suppression system for the electrical substation and power transformer located 1.8km underground of the Mount Isa mines in Queensland. The system must be designed according to Australian Standards (AS4487-2013) and be able to provide a fast, reliable and effective response to tackle any fire scenario that can prove extremely dangerous to the mining operations.

Why FirePro?

The mining industry has seen more austere budgetary constraints in Australia as well as across the globe. As a result, Safety Engineers and Operators now demand more ingenious and costeffective solutions across operations. FirePro was selected as the best solution to protect these particular assets because of its effectiveness and very low maintenance requirements. FirePro Generators have a 15 year product life, while the complete system conforms to both stringent international and Australian standards.

Results of Implementation

Glencore’s Mount Isa mining operators and safety consultants gave the green light to the FirePro solution as it combined all the operational and technical parameters required for this challenging project. FirePro distributors in Australia, Fire Safety Equipment, designed the system and its trained and certified personnel completed the installation 1.8km underground, within the required time frame.

The post Glencore Mount Isa Mines first appeared on FirePro.

The Canadian Coast Guard

fire_pro_user — Wed, 23 Nov 2022 17:27:39 +0000

The Client

The Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) is tasked with marine Search and Rescue (SAR), Communication, Navigation and Transportation issues in Canadian waters. It currently operates 119 vessels and 22 helicopters, in conjunction with a variety of smaller craft. CCG’s responsibility covers a 202,080-kilometer long coastline, the longest of any other nation in the world. Under its renewal mandate the CCG is required to build and protect its next generation of vessels and lifeboats stationed across Canada to provide key Search & Rescue (SAR) capabilities.

Risks & Consequences

Each of the 19 meter long (63 ft.) lifeboats can carry up to 10 persons on-board. The vessels will be stationed across Canada providing key Search & Rescue (SAR) services including marine distress response calls as well as assistance to disabled vessels. The requirement to protect personnel from fire along with the vessels’ operational capabilities is critical. Fire risks in Marine applications are unforgiving and may result from electrical faults, battery compartment ignitions, fuel leaks accidents and also from human error. Even a small fire can escalate rapidly and have catastrophic consequences for the ship and people on board. It is thus vital that the fire suppression system is effective against different classes of fire and can operate in adverse conditions.

The Task

Design, supply and install a bespoke engine room fire protection system for 20 “Bay”-class high-endurance self-righting Search & Rescue lifeboats. The primary concerns regarding any system at sea are performance, reliability and effectiveness. Moreover, these fire protection systems are required to be compact, durable and have low maintenance requirements. These considerations must preferably be met while choosing technologies that remain friendly to the environment. The fire suppression system needs to be designed according to local and internationally recognized standards and regulations.

Why FirePro?

FirePro pre-engineered systems are compact and minimize weight and space burden on vessels. Therefore, the precious space available on vessels can be fully utilized for other requirements. Furthermore, they are of proven exceptional reliability and require very little maintenance when compared to other systems, over their 15-year certified lifetime. The modularity, simplicity, and green aspects of the system were additional decisive factors in the selection process.

Results of Implementation

FirePro systems were expertly designed and installed in the engine rooms of the Search & Rescue vessels, to protect the engines and other critical equipment. The technology is approved by several IACS members based on IMO requirements, the Transport Canada and ULC. FirePro currently protects these vessels and their personnel allowing them to safely carry out life saving missions across Canada.

The post The Canadian Coast Guard first appeared on FirePro.

Pan American Silver

firepro — Sat, 10 Dec 2022 21:27:16 +0000

The Client

Pan American Silver Corporation is a Canadian mining company with extensive operations in Latin America. The company owns mines and other projects in Mexico, Peru, Bolivia, and Argentina. It is one of the world’s biggest miners of silver, in addition to gold, zinc, lead and copper. Pan American Silver was founded in April 1994 and was listed on Nasdaq in 1995. The company currently operates six mines, including Morococha.

Risks & Consequences

Fire incidents in Mining Operations are linked to combustible or flammable liquids, electrical hazards and combustible dust. Fire inside a Machinery Workshop can easily spread throughout the mine, endangering the lives of miners and other personnel, as well as cause severe damage to assets and operations. Harsh conditions and remoteness of the mining operations make these events extremely hazardous for any mining corporation. These fires, although rare occurrences, if and when they do take place, they can have catastrophic results.

The Task

Design, install and commission a dependable automatic fire suppression system for three Machinery Workshops inside the Morococha mine - one of the largest silver reserves in the world located 4500 meters above sea level. The Workshops utilize expensive, critical equipment. To safeguard them and the people working half a kilometer below the earth’s surface, the issue of a fire risk needs to be addressed. This requires a compact, modular and effective solution capable of suppressing fires, while significantly reducing the risk of collateral damage.

Why FirePro?

FirePro solutions are dependable, effective and can protect from multiple classes of fire. Their modularity and compactness make them easily transportable through tight spaces which is an important and decisive issue for the mining industry. Furthermore, the 15-year product lifespan, the certified ambient operating temperature (of as low as -54⁰C) and other traits differentiate FirePro from other technologies. Additionally, FirePro will not contaminate the site upon activation. Overall, the exceptional quality and the significant attributes including ecofriendly-ness, have established FirePro as a game-changing player in the fight against fire in mining industry operations.

Results of Implementation

The fire protection engineers selected the FirePro solution since it combined all the operational and technical parameters required for this mission critical project. DEAL engineers designed and installed the system according to NFPA and local authorities’ requirements. The fire protection specialists carried out the installation, employing all the necessary safety precautions. DEAL currently protects with the ever ready to activate bespoke FirePro automatic fire suppression systems, the Machinery Workshops of this extremely important national asset.

The post Pan American Silver first appeared on FirePro.

Kokam Co.

firepro — Wed, 02 Nov 2022 21:00:05 +0000

The Client

Kokam Co. is a global leader in the design and manufacturing of rechargeable battery solutions. It currently holds over 150 patent listings and it was the first company to develop high capacity lithium-ion polymer batteries worldwide. With the rise of grid-connected renewable energy sources, Kokam’s Energy Storage Systems have been recognized as the most effective solution.

Risks & Consequences

The demand for electricity along with the need to stabilize power grids and the efficient use of renewable energy stored in Li-ion batteries are ever increasing. Despite their many advantages, Li-ion batteries pose the main fire hazard in ESS, if subjected to electrical or mechanical abuse. In the event of a single-cell failure, the resulting thermal runaway will cause an exothermic reaction, leading to serious fires, explosions, and propagation to adjacent cells. Failure to adequately protect against fire in these situations can cause serious damage and have dire consequences.

The Task

Design, supply, install and maintain tailor-made fire detection and suppression systems for the high voltage energy storage Power Conversion Systems (PCS) and Energy Storage Systems (ESS). PCS are electric power conversion systems located inside 40-foot mobile containers which can convert and/or distribute the surplus from similar size Energy Storage Systems (ESS) enclosures. The fire protection systems must be compact, reliable, long lasting and efficient. Most significantly, they must be able to mitigate the risks associated with the unique challenges presented by Li-ion battery fires. The extinguishing system must be designed according to both local and international standards and regulations.

Why FirePro?

The modularity and compactness of the FirePro fire extinguishing system were two of the decisive factors in its selection for the protection of the equipment within the 40-foot container enclosures. Also pivotal in equal measure of importance for the selection process was the ability of the FirePro system to address the complex and challenging fire risk. In the event of a Li-ion battery fire, the FirePro active agent suppresses fire, neutralizes off-gases, and controls thermal runaway propagation. Additionally, FirePro systems are environmentally friendly and require minimum maintenance over their 15-year certified lifetime.

Results of Implementation

FirePro total flooding fire suppression systems installed in both Power Conversion Systems (PCS) and Energy Storage Systems (ESS) to protect mission critical high-voltage electrical equipment offer peace of mind to operators in case of a fire emergency. With no piping required and no pressurized cylinders, the systems were easily and quickly installed to protect the at-the-cutting-edge-of- technology Kokam equipment without posing a threat to personnel or the environment. In short FirePro then, has effectively reduced operational hazards and financial losses due to down times for all stakeholders.

The post Kokam Co. first appeared on FirePro.

Pfizer

fire_pro_user — Tue, 22 Nov 2022 22:35:57 +0000

The Client

Pfizer Inc. is an American multinational pharmaceutical corporation. Pfizer is named after German-American Charles Pfizer who cofounded the company with his cousin Charles Erhart in 1949 as a manufacturer of fine chemicals. Today it is among the world’s largest pharmaceutical companies as it develops and produces medicines and vaccines for a wide range of medical disciplines.

Risks & Consequences

Pharmaceutical companies utilize chemicals which are highly flammable and require fire protection measures. While these chemicals rarely, if ever, spontaneously combust, it is important to address potential sources of fire ignition. These sources can be attributed to human error, malfunctions in electrical equipment, or heat-generating machinery. Fires not only result in the loss of materials but also pose a risk to human lives. Furthermore, the consequential damage disrupts business activities, leading to significant financial losses, including the need for repairs or replacement of damaged equipment and infrastructure.

The Task

Design, supply and install a fire suppression system that is able to protect various flammable materials in a regional raw materials storage facility. System prerequisites called for a modular, compact, low maintenance total flooding fire firefighting. The system needed to be capable of extinguishing A, B and C classes of fire since the storage housed diverse materials. Ultimately the facility’s fire risks needed to be minimized in regards to loss of materials and consequentially disruption of business continuity.

Why FirePro?

The specific project had three major challenges. The first challenge was that the installation and commissioning and full operation for the fire suppression system was to be concluded in just 48 hours. The second challenge was that the specific storage facility had openings which were large enough to render a gaseous based system inapplicable. Lastly, the storage area is consistently used to its maximum capacity, leaving little room for large equipment like pressurized cylinders, which is crucial for the facility’s routine operations.

Results of Implementation

Pfizer proceeded to implement the FirePro system fire suppression solution since it combined all the operational and technical parameters required for the project. FirePro Egypt personnel from Advanced Systems designed and completed the installation of the FirePro generators and system in the warehouse within 48 hours. FirePro environmentally friendly technology protects assets and reduces down times to the minimum.

The post Pfizer first appeared on FirePro.

Eurostar

fire_pro_user — Thu, 07 Jul 2022 17:04:00 +0000

The Client

Eurostar is the high-speed rail service directly linking Britain to mainland Europe via the Channel Tunnel. It started operating in 1994, providing city center to city center services. The service is operated by 27 eighteencoach Class 373/1 trains which run at up to 300 kilometres per hour on a network of high-speed lines. Eurostar is the dominant operator on the routes that it operates, carrying more passengers than all airlines combined.

Risks & Consequences

The obvious fire risks involved in Relocatable Equipment Buildings are mainly related to electrical faults that can appear in the electrical equipment without of course discounting dangers from human error and lightning strikes. The consequences of fire in these buildings are discontinuity of service, endangerment to passengers and loss of equipment in one of Europe’s busiest railways.

The Task

Design, supply, install, commission and maintain a fire detection and rapid reaction fixed active fire suppression system for Relocatable Equipment Buildings (REBs). The installation site is where maintenance is carried out for all Eurostar trains operating from the United Kingdom and it is designed to accommodate eight service roads. The task was to provide a rapid response, reliable and efficient firefighting system to tackle a fire scenario that can prove highly disruptive to operations and consequentially endanger passengers.

Why FirePro?

The four REB rooms are situated amongst the tracks with 11,000- volt live lines running overhead leading to the main depot where trains are routinely serviced. As a result, access is restricted and can only be obtained on foot, which presented a challenge in installing the fire suppression system at that location. The only feasible way to do this was to hand carry all the equipment which called for a modular system that used light weight and easy to carry components. Importantly, the fire suppression system had to require as little maintenance as possible.

Results of Implementation

The FirePro systems installed across all REBs match the project’s specific provisions and requirements. Each battery cabinet has its own system, so if fire is detected through the linear heat cable within a cabinet, then only the fire suppression system of that cabinet activates. FirePro generators have been installed in such a way so that they can be easily removed and facilitate the maintenance of the batteries.

The post Eurostar first appeared on FirePro.

The London Eye

firepro — Mon, 12 Aug 2024 20:26:20 +0000

The Client

The London Eye, or the Millennium Wheel, is Europe’s tallest observation wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames. Since its opening in 2000, the 135-meter tall structure, with its 32 high-tech glass capsules, has become an iconic symbol of modern London. Accommodating up to 25 people per capsule, it offers unparalleled panoramic views, attracting 3.75 millions of visitors annually and firmly establishing itself as a premier tourist attraction. The iconic landmark is dependent on its essential power and standby infrastructure for continued operation, almost every day of the year.

Risks & Consequences

The 10-year overhaul of the original HFC gas suppression system identified issues with the enclosure integrity as well as the environmental concerns with HFC agents due to their high global warming potential and long atmospheric lifetime. FirePro’s condensed aerosol suppression technology provided the end-users with an environmentally friendly alternative, and with minor modifications, an approved and cost-effective engineering solution.

The Task

New fire suppression solutions in both room total-flooding and in-cabinet configurations should be provided to protect the landmark’s electromechanical assets. After presenting compelling evidence of FirePro’s efficacy, compliance and benefits, Global Fire & Security was awarded the project. Before installing and commissioning the FirePro systems, they safely removed the existing gas suppression systems. Some enclosures featured large louvered openings, posing an agent leakage and holdtime challenge. Using the manufacturer’s leakage calculation tool, the FirePro systems were engineered with an additional timed agent release fulfilling the requirements of BS EN 15276 to which FirePro systems are BSI and KIWA certified.

Why FirePro?

FirePro is currently the only condensed aerosol suppression system with LPCB certification. Supported by a large network of independent, third-party certificated, fire safety service providers, it ensures that design, installation and after-sales services are offered at the optimum time, quality and cost. The certification is provided by BRE on the basis of LPS 1204 Issue 3.2. The process is backed by readily available materials and full technical support from FirePro UK. Reference installations with fully satisfied users were available for the team’s inspection. Clients also benefit from a 15-year product lifespan confirmed by LPCB, BSI, UL, VDS and KIWA, offering a sustainable and environmentally sound solution.

Results of Implementation

The implementation took only a few weeks and was completed without disrupting the general public’s enjoyment of the London Eye, one of the UK’s premier tourist attractions. The seamless installation of FirePro’s advanced suppression systems ensured enhanced safety without compromising visitor experience. The project’s success highlights FirePro’s efficiency and reliability, providing robust fire protection while maintaining normal operations.

The post The London Eye first appeared on FirePro.