Product Overview of Cabinet-Type Heptafluoropropane Fire Extinguishing Systems

One , Overview and Scope of Application

1 Introduction to Fire Extinguishing Systems

Heptafluoropropane ( HFC-227ea ) is a clean‑gas fire suppressant that extinguishes fires through a chemical mechanism. It is colorless, odorless, low‑toxicity, non‑conductive, and does not contaminate the protected object. In particular, it has no adverse impact on the atmospheric ozone layer. , ( ODP With a zero ozone depletion potential, it meets environmental protection requirements and represents a highly promising alternative to halon fire‑extinguishing agents at this stage. This extinguishing agent boasts high extinguishing efficiency, rapid action, and no secondary pollution. The cabinet‑type heptafluoropropane fire‑extinguishing system is a prefabricated, mass‑produced unit. It is a pipeless, lightweight, mobile, automatic fire‑suppression device that offers flexible and convenient installation as well as an aesthetically pleasing appearance. Moreover, it eliminates pipeline losses, delivers high extinguishing efficiency with swift response, and leaves no environmental contamination. In the event of a fire, it can automatically discharge the extinguishing agent directly into the protected area, providing a quick and hassle‑free solution.

This fire suppression system does not include a dedicated cylinder room; the gas cylinders and the entire system are installed within the protected area. It is suitable for small‑area protected spaces such as computer rooms, archives, vaults for valuable items, and telecommunications centers. Multiple cabinet‑type heptafluoropropane gas fire suppression units can also be interconnected to protect larger areas. The system can be integrated with a fire control center or equipped with an independent automatic fire suppression controller, forming a self‑contained solution that offers users convenient and flexible options. For existing buildings requiring the addition of a fire suppression system, cabinet‑type heptafluoropropane units are particularly well suited.

2 , Characteristics of the fire extinguishing agent

1 ) is a colorless, odorless gas with an ozone depletion potential ( ODP ) for  0 , it meets environmental protection standards and is ideal.

Alternative to dragon fire extinguishing agent;

    2 ) It extinguishes fires through both physical and chemical mechanisms, serving as a new-generation, highly efficient, low-toxicity fire suppressant. It requires a low extinguishing concentration, uses fewer cylinders, and occupies minimal space.

 3 ) Heptafluoropropane fire suppressant is non-conductive and water-free, and will not damage electrical equipment, magnetic tapes, documents, or other materials.

 4 ) The minimum design concentration is 7.35% ( V/V );

5 ) The highest concentration without toxic effects ( NOAEL ) for  9% ( V/V ) Can be used in occupied areas.

3 , Applicable Scenarios

1 ) Can be extinguished A 、 B 、 C Various types of fires can be safely and effectively extinguished in occupied spaces.

 2 ) In areas where, after the release of the agent, no trace should remain or where cleaning up residues is difficult;  

3 ) The protected area contains valuable items, priceless treasures, precious archives, as well as software and hardware;  

4 ) Particularly suitable for: telecommunications main control rooms, airport control rooms, bank vaults, archives, libraries, computer rooms, and similar settings.

4 , inappropriate for the occasion

1 ) In situations involving chemical substances such as nitrocellulose and black powder, which can undergo rapid oxidation even in the absence of air;

2 ) Reactive metal —— Storage and production facilities for potassium, sodium, magnesium, titanium, and uranium;

3 ) Storage location for metal hydrides.

II. Flowchart of the Fire Extinguishing System Operation

Figure 1  Flowchart of the Cabinet-Type Heptafluoropropane Gas Fire Suppression System 

III. Composition and Technical Parameters of the Fire Extinguishing System 

1 , Composition of Cabinet-Type Heptafluoropropane Gas Fire Extinguishing System 

The cabinet-type heptafluoropropane fire suppression system consists of fire detectors, an automatic alarm control panel, a fire suppression control panel, and the fire suppression unit itself (see figure). 2 ). This fire suppression system is an independent total flooding system, with one or several pipeless units serving a single protected area. 

This device is equipped with automatic, manual, and mechanical emergency‑manual drive modes.

Figure 2  User‑supplied alarm control panel for a pipeless automatic fire suppression system 

Schematic Diagram of the Cabinet-Type Heptafluoropropane Gas Fire Extinguishing System : (See figure) 3 )

2 Technical Specifications 

2 . 1 Technical Parameters of the Fire Extinguishing System 

Technical Parameters of the Fire Extinguishing System – Table 1

2) Technical Parameters of the Double-Cabinet Heptafluoropropane Gas Fire Suppression System

Table 3

2.2 Fire extinguishing agent cylinder assembly

1) Purpose

Normally, the extinguishing agent is stored; in the event of a fire, the container valve activates and releases the extinguishing agent.

2) Composition

It consists of a fire-extinguishing agent, a gas cylinder, a container valve, a pressure gauge, a safety relief device, a siphon tube, and other components.

3) Main performance parameters:

4) Operating Principle

In the event of a fire, the electromagnetic actuator opens the container valve, allowing the extinguishing agent to be discharged from the valve and conveyed through a metal hose to the nozzle, where it is released into the protected space.

5) Features

a. The cylinder assembly is equipped with a safety relief device to prevent hazards caused by excessive pressure inside the fire-extinguishing agent storage cylinders.

b. The entire apparatus features a well‑designed, safe, and reliable structure, with straightforward maintenance.

c. The extinguishing agent can be refilled multiple times.

6) Installation, Operation, and Maintenance Instructions and Precautions

a. During transportation and installation, the extinguishing agent cylinder assembly should not have the solenoid‑actuated actuator mounted on the container valve first, to ensure safety; handle with care, avoid impacts, and keep out of direct sunlight.

b. The extinguishing agent cylinder assembly shall be securely mounted on the extinguishing agent cylinder rack.

c. After the installation of the solenoid‑actuated actuator, the container valve shall be equipped with both automatic and mechanical emergency actuation modes.

d. The pressure within the cylinder assembly must remain within the green zone of the pressure gauge. If the pressure falls below the lower limit of the green zone, the cause of the leak must be identified and the system recharged.

e. The design, manufacture, acceptance, use, and periodic inspection of fire-extinguishing agent cylinders shall be conducted in accordance with the provisions of the current “Safety Technical Supervision Regulations for Gas Cylinders.”

f. After the extinguishing agent has been discharged, the container valve shall be reset and the working diaphragm replaced by the manufacturer or a qualified professional company. The extinguishing agent shall then be recharged to the design‑specified charge.

h. Maintenance and management shall be carried out in accordance with the requirements of GB 50263-2007, “Code for Construction and Acceptance of Gas Fire‑Extinguishing Systems.” 

2.3 Nozzles and Fittings:

1) Purpose

The cabinet nozzle is a total‑flooding nozzle, mounted at the top of the cabinet to discharge the extinguishing agent.

2) Composition

Made of copper alloy.

3) Main performance parameters:

4) Operating Principle

By means of internal pressure, the gas inside is forced into the nozzle, where it atomizes the extinguishing agent through the nozzle orifice, ensuring uniform distribution throughout the protected area.

5) Features

a. The entire apparatus features a rational, safe, and reliable structure, with simple maintenance;

b. Can be reused multiple times.

6) Installation, Operation, and Maintenance Instructions and Precautions

a. The nozzle is mounted on the top of the housing and connected to the high-pressure hose.

b. Each nozzle must be fitted with a rubber gasket to prevent pressure leakage.

2.4 Electromagnetic Actuator

1) Working Principle

In the event of a fire, the DC power output by the fire alarm control panel activates an electromagnet, which in turn releases the actuating mechanism, causing the operating mechanism to move. This action punctures the sealing disc of the actuator valve or container valve, thereby opening the valve and releasing the control gas or extinguishing agent.

2) Structure

It consists of an electromagnet, a release mechanism, and an actuation mechanism.

3) Main performance parameters:

In an emergency, you can pull the safety‑lock lever with your finger to disengage the lock, then strike the manual button to activate the actuator valve or container valve.

Special note: After the electromagnetic actuator has passed inspection, the spring in the operating mechanism is already compressed. To prevent unintended operation during installation, commissioning, and transportation, the operating mechanism is secured by a safety locking pin. Once the entire system has been installed and commissioned and is ready for service, the safety locking pin must be unscrewed, reversed, and securely reinstalled; otherwise, the electromagnetic starter’s operating mechanism will fail to function.

2.5 Cabinet:

The enclosure is fabricated from Q235 steel plate, with an electrostatic powder-coated finish in camel gray (custom colors are available upon request).

The cabinet is designed to house components such as storage cylinders, high-pressure hoses, actuation devices, and cabinet-mounted nozzles. The bottom of the cabinet features anchor bolt holes for secure mounting, while the top is equipped with cable entry ports for connecting external equipment.

2.6 Signal Feedback Device

2.6.1 Purpose

The pressure signal generator is a component that feeds back the signal indicating the opening of a container valve or selector valve in the system to the automatic control section.

2.6.2 Composition

It consists of a valve body, a microswitch, a spring, a piston, and other components.

2.6.3 Application Requirements

Prior to installation, perform a functional check: when supplied with 0.75 MPa of compressed air, the pressure actuator shall operate, and after operation, it must be manually reset.

2.6. Main Performance Parameters:

IV. Equipment Installation and Commissioning

1) Place the GQQ series cabinet-type heptafluoropropane gas fire suppression system securely on the designated installation location and ensure it remains firmly in place.

2) Connect the electromagnetic actuator and the signal feedback device to the fire suppression control panel, and verify that the wiring is correct. For systems equipped with an automatic fire suppression alarm control panel, the user shall perform the wiring in accordance with the wiring diagram provided on the control panel.

3) Commissioning of the fire suppression system.

4) After the fire suppression system has been commissioned and is ready for operation, set the electromagnetic actuator to the ready‑to‑fire state (for detailed instructions, refer to the section on electromagnetic actuators at the end of this chapter).

V. Use and Operation of Fire Extinguishing Equipment

1. Automatic Control: When the protected area is unoccupied, set the control mode selector switch on the fire suppression control panel to the “Automatic” position, placing the fire suppression system in automatic control mode. If a fire occurs in the protected area, the fire detectors will transmit a fire signal, triggering both audible and visual alarms and simultaneously issuing interlock commands to shut down associated equipment. After an approximately 30-second delay—during which all personnel must evacuate the protected area—the fire suppression command is then issued.

The electromagnetic actuator activates to open the container valve, allowing the extinguishing gas from the cylinder bank to be discharged through a high-pressure hose and deliver the extinguishing agent for fire suppression.

2. Electrical Manual Control: When personnel are working or on duty in the protected area, set the control mode selector switch inside the control cabinet to the “Manual” position, thereby placing the fire suppression system in manual control mode. If a fire occurs in the protected area, press the manual start button on the controller, or open the manual control box located outside the protected‑area door and press the start button inside; the fire suppression system will then be activated according to the procedure described above. Even when the system is in automatic control mode, electrical manual control remains available. Prior to initiating electrical manual control, all personnel must evacuate the protected area.

3. When a fire alarm is triggered, if it is determined during the delay period that there is no need to activate the fire suppression system, the red emergency stop button on the control panel or in the manual control box can be pressed to prevent the issuance of the fire suppression command and halt the system’s extinguishing sequence.

4. Before initiating fire suppression, all personnel must evacuate the protected area; after releasing heptafluoropropane, the required extinguishing soak time must be maintained before re-entering the protected area.

Ensure adequate ventilation by opening windows and doors; personnel shall not enter the protected area until ventilation has been completed, and those who must enter shall wear gas masks.

5. When it is necessary to test the system without discharging the extinguishing agent, press the test button on the operation‑test selector switch to perform the system test.

6. After this device has been used for fire suppression, the components listed below must be returned to their original positions before it can be reused:

(1) Reset the fire suppression controller (see the electrical operating manual);

(2) The piston of the signal feedback device returns to its original position;

(3) Reset the electromagnetic actuator;

(4) Replace the sealing diaphragm of the container valve.

VI. Maintenance and Servicing of Fire Extinguishing Systems

To ensure the reliability of operations, a comprehensive system for equipment inspection and preventive maintenance shall be established in accordance with applicable regulations, operating procedures shall be developed, and qualified personnel shall conduct regular inspections of the equipment and maintain detailed records.

During maintenance and servicing, all procedures must be carried out in strict accordance with the relevant provisions of GB 50263-2007, “Code for Construction and Acceptance of Gas Fire‑Extinguishing Systems.”

1. Daily (runtime) maintenance and upkeep

1) Keep the protected area and control room clean, dry, and well-ventilated.

2) The surfaces of the fire suppression system and the fire alarm control panel are clean and free of dust.

3) The drive’s shear pins and lead seals shall be intact and undamaged.

4) Inspect the equipment’s nameplate and warning signs to ensure they are undamaged and clean and easily visible.

2. Quarterly maintenance and servicing

1) Check the pressure of each fire-extinguishing agent storage cylinder; the pressure gauge reading should be within the green zone.

2) Conduct a visual inspection of all components, including fire‑extinguishing agent storage cylinders, container valves, actuators, high‑pressure hoses, nozzles, pressure transducers, and pressure gauges. The equipment shall show no deformation caused by impact or other mechanical damage; the surfaces shall be free of rust; the protective coatings shall remain intact; nameplates shall be legible; and protective covers, lead seals, and safety signs shall be complete. If any of these issues are detected, the affected components shall be promptly replaced or repaired.

3. Annual maintenance and servicing

1) The opening conditions of the protected area, its intended use, and the types, quantities, and distribution of combustible materials shall comply with the design specifications.

2) Conduct a comprehensive inspection of the fire suppression system: ensure all components are securely connected with no looseness; verify that the extinguishing agent delivery piping and nozzle orifices are free of blockages; and perform thorough cleaning of the system.

3) Conduct simulated alarm and activation tests on the fire‑alarm and extinguishing control panel; the signals and actions related to fire detection, alarm, and fire‑extinguishing control shall function normally. Verify the automatic and manual operating modes of the actuating device, including emergency start and emergency stop; the device shall operate as specified.

Remember: During simulation tests, the electromagnetic actuator must be removed from the container valve.

3) Remove the pressure transmitter for inspection; manually push the piston (to simulate the pressurization associated with agent discharge). The discharge indicator light shall illuminate, the signal shall be properly transmitted, and the system shall be capable of manual reset.

VII. Safety Usage Requirements

1) During transportation, fire-extinguishing devices shall be handled with care; impact, horizontal placement, or inversion is strictly prohibited.

2) Fire-extinguishing agent storage cylinders should be kept away from heat sources, protected from direct sunlight, and stored in a dry, well-ventilated area.

3) During disassembly and assembly, avoid damaging the device’s surface to prevent compromising its appearance.

4) Unauthorized personnel are prohibited from touching or tampering with any components of this device to prevent accidents.

5) Personnel responsible for the installation and commissioning of the equipment shall be familiar with the equipment’s basic structure, operating principles, performance characteristics, and sequence of operations, as well as the basic structure and operational status of each component.

6) Routine maintenance and servicing shall be carried out in strict accordance with the operating procedures to prevent accidental discharge of the extinguishing agent.

7) The air in the protected area shall not contain flammable or conductive dust, nor any harmful substances that could corrode components; otherwise, appropriate protective measures must be implemented, and the equipment must be safeguarded against vibration and impact.

8) Before the system discharges the extinguishing agent, all personnel must evacuate the fire area during the delay period (adjustable from 0 to 30 seconds). Upon completion of firefighting, the ventilation fan must be started first to exhaust the combustion gases before personnel are permitted to re-enter the site.

9) If a leak is detected in the cylinder bank, promptly notify qualified personnel for inspection and repair. Unauthorized refilling by non‑qualified personnel is strictly prohibited; any resulting consequences shall be borne by the responsible party.

10) Other safety measures shall comply with relevant national standards.

Appendix A: Minimum Design Extinguishing Concentrations for Selected Combustible Substances

Table A: Minimum Design Extinguishing Concentrations for Selected Flammable Substances

Appendix B: Minimum Design Inerting Concentrations for Selected Combustible Substances

Table B: Minimum Design Inerting Concentrations for Selected Flammable Substances

Dual-Cabinet Heptafluoropropane Fire Suppression System | Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Which protected areas are suitable for a dual-cabinet-type heptafluoropropane fire suppression system?

A1: Suitable for large and medium-sized computer rooms, distribution rooms, archives, energy storage compartments, and other sizable enclosed spaces; effective for extinguishing electrical fires, but not suitable for fires involving reactive metals or strong oxidizers.

Q2: What does “double-cabinet type” mean?

A2: Composed of two cabinet units—the extinguishing agent storage cylinder cabinet and the initiating cylinder control cabinet—it can deliver a larger extinguishing agent charge, meeting the required extinguishing concentration for large protected areas.

Q3: What startup methods are available for the device?

A3: It supports three operating modes—automatic detection‑triggered linkage start, on-site manual start, and mechanical emergency start—complying with fire safety regulations.

Q4: After the discharge of heptafluoropropane, will it damage equipment?

A4: The agent is clean and leaves no residue, does not corrode electrical equipment, and the equipment can be put back into service after ventilation following fire suppression.

Q5: How long is the shelf life of the medication, and how often are the cylinders inspected?

A5: The chemical agent is stable and can be used continuously under normal operating conditions; steel cylinders must undergo a hydrostatic pressure test every three years, and may only be reused if they pass inspection.

Q6: Do gaps and openings in the protected area affect the fire suppression effectiveness?

A6: It has an impact. During fire suppression, the doors, windows, and ventilation openings in the protected area must be closed to prevent leakage of the extinguishing agent and ensure that the design extinguishing concentration is maintained.

Q7: During system discharge, can personnel remain inside the protected area?

A7: No. The system has a delayed‑release phase upon activation; personnel must evacuate within the delay period, and entry is strictly prohibited after release.

Q8: Can it be disassembled and reassembled, or refilled with chemicals, on my own?

A8: No. Refilling, maintenance, and disassembly must be performed by a qualified fire‑safety‑certified organization; unauthorized operations may render the system inoperable and constitute a violation of fire safety regulations.

Q9: Can multiple independent protected zones be safeguarded?

A9: It can be paired with a selection valve to enable a single dual-cabinet system to protect multiple protected zones, with the appropriate zone receiving agent discharge based on the fire situation.

Q10: What routine maintenance checks should be performed?

A10: Regularly inspect the pressure gauge, check the cabinet for deformation or corrosion, and verify the status of the alarm control panel; have the system tested annually by a qualified maintenance provider.