If you own or operate a business, particularly a restaurant, where the risk of fire is substantial, it pays to install a fire suppression system. For those unfamiliar with the subject, Fire Protection Specialists, the leading suppliers of fire extinguishers and other commercial fire suppression equipment in Bangor, WI, offer some background. Below, they explain what fire suppression systems are and how they work.

What Is a Commercial Fire Suppression System?

A fire suppression system is comprised of three main components: a fire or smoke detector, an actuator, and a piping/delivery system for the extinguishing agent. Depending on the system, the detector will engage the system when it detects smoke or a temperature above a certain heat. The detector breaks or separates and, typically, releases tension on a mechanism that subsequently actuates the system. Although they are designed to work automatically, most systems also allow manual actuation — either remotely or locally. Once actuated, the suppression agent is delivered via a series of pipes and nozzles. The type of nozzle used depends on the type of suppression agent the system employs. There are multiple types of agents.

What Types of Suppression Agents Are Used?

The suppression agent used depends on the environment and the types of fire hazards it contains. For example, in commercial kitchens, potassium carbonate is often used because it is effective at extinguishing grease fires. For applications involving flammable liquids like gasoline, propane, and solvents, synthetic foam or sodium bicarbonate — baking soda — is used. Other applications utilize argon, nitrogen, or carbon dioxide. For ordinary flammable items like paper, cloth, or wood, the suppression agent is often water.

Fire extinguishers and other commercial fire suppression equipment are essential to businesses and can help you keep your facility safe. If you're interested in protecting your business with a fire suppression system, contact the experts at Fire Protection Specialists in Bangor, WI. Visit their website to submit a contact form, or call (800) 658-9463 to discuss your options with a friendly, experienced professional.