Each watermist system is unique, covering specific applications with specific limitations. These system specific data are found through extensive fire and component testing to available standards and codes, and all data shall be presented in the manufacturers Design, Installation, Operation and Maintenance Manual or DIOM Manual.
In order to match the suitable system to a project, the project specifics / challenges shall be determined.
This includes defining:
– What application type shall be protected? e.g. atrium, office, laboratory, machinery space.
– What type of protection is needed? e.g. cooling, wetting, control and suppression, extinguishment, etc.
– What are the geometrics? e.g. large open volumes, concealed spaces, rooms, outdoor, local areas, etc.
– What fueltypes / risks are found? e.g. Class A fuels, Class B fuels, Class F fuels, potential fast/slow fire spread, etc.
– What is the environment? e.g. open well-ventilated areas, cold areas, hot areas, enclosed areas.
– Other things to encounter? e.g. minimizing water damage, aesthetic looks, detection of fire, minimizing business interruption etc.
When a suitable system is found that matches the project specifics, the next step is to make sure the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) accepts the documentation available. More information about what type of documentation is available for watermist can be found here. Below are some examples of what different AHJs may accept:
– Land market, Worldwide: FM, VDS, UL approved systems,
– Land market, most of Europe: Tests conducted to CEN/TS 14972,
– Land market, Germany: VDS approved systems,
– FM / VDS insured land facilities: FM/VDS approved systems,
– Maritime EU: MED+TA approvals from any classification company,
– Maritime World: TA approval from specific classification companies.
1. Define the application specifics – the challenge,
2. Define a suitable system which matches the application,
3. Define what type approval/documentation the AHJ can accept,
4. Follow the system DIOM Manual together with the AHJ accepted “overall” watermist design standard (e.g. NFPA 750, CEN/TS14972), and the AHJ accepted approval/documentation specifications.