Product Overview of Pre-Installed Perfluorohexanone Fire Suppression Systems

I. Overview and Scope of Application

1. Introduction to the Fire Extinguishing System

Perfluorohexanone FK‑5‑1‑12 (Novec 1230) is a clean‑agent fire suppressant that operates via a chemical extinguishing mechanism. At room temperature, it is a transparent, colorless, non‑conductive liquid that leaves no residue upon discharge, making it environmentally friendly. Stored in liquid form, it rapidly vaporizes upon release and can be used in total‑flooding and local‑application fire‑protection systems. Perfluorohexanone remains liquid at ambient conditions; with a heat of vaporization only one‑twenty‑fifth that of water and a vapor pressure twenty‑five times higher, it readily vaporizes and exists in the gaseous phase, relying primarily on endothermic cooling to achieve fire suppression. From an environmental standpoint, it truly qualifies as a green, eco‑friendly fire suppressant.

Perfluorohexanone is an important alternative to halon fire‑extinguishing agents. It is a fluoroketone compound—clear, colorless, and odorless—and is super‑pressurized with nitrogen before being stored in high‑pressure cylinders as part of a fire‑suppression system. Its chemical structure is identical to that of 3M’s NOVEC 1230 fire‑suppressing fluid. Typical applications include fire protection for computer rooms, data centers, aircraft, ships, vehicles, libraries, and oil‑and‑gas production facilities. Another key advantage of perfluorohexanone is its excellent environmental profile: its ozone depletion potential (ODP) is zero, its global warming potential (GWP) is 1, and its atmospheric lifetime is only 0.014 years (approximately five days). This makes it a long‑lasting, sustainable replacement for halons, hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), and perfluorocarbons (PFCs). The cabinet‑type perfluorohexanone suppression system is a prefabricated, mass‑produced solution. It is a pipeless, lightweight, automatic fire‑extinguishing device that offers flexible, convenient installation and an aesthetically pleasing design. With no piping losses, it delivers high extinguishing efficiency, rapid response, and zero environmental impact. When a fire occurs, it can automatically discharge the extinguishing agent directly into the protected area, providing fast and hassle‑free protection.

This fire suppression system is equipped with an integrated fire control unit and represents an advanced firefighting solution, primarily designed for use in energy storage systems. It employs perfluorohexanone as its extinguishing agent, offering high efficiency, environmental friendliness, and safety, and has become one of the key benchmarks of modern fire suppression technology.

2. Characteristics of the extinguishing agent

Perfluorohexanone (FK‑5‑1‑12) is an environmentally friendly gaseous fire suppressant widely used in automatic fire suppression devices and systems. The following are the characteristics and fire‑extinguishing advantages of perfluorohexanone extinguishing agents:

1. Low toxicity: Perfluorohexanone is harmless to humans at typical concentrations and does not cause asphyxiation in air.
2. Zero residue: Perfluorohexanone evaporates rapidly after a fire, leaving no residual deposits in the extinguished area.
3. Electrical Safety: Perfluorohexanone is non-conductive, making it suitable for fire suppression in environments where electrical equipment is present.
4. Efficient Fire Suppression: Fullketone boasts outstanding fire‑extinguishing performance, swiftly suppressing fires and effectively containing their spread.

3. The perfluorohexanone fire suppression system is suitable for extinguishing the following types of fires:

a) Solid-surface fires and cultural heritage fires;

b) Fires involving liquids or fusible solids;

c) Gas fires for which the gas supply can be shut off prior to extinguishing;

d) Precision instruments, energized equipment, and electrical fires;

e) Fire involving cooking contents inside cookware.

4. Areas containing the following substances shall not be equipped with a perfluorohexanone fire suppression system:

a) Fires involving oxidizers such as nitrocellulose and sodium nitrate, or chemical products containing oxidizers;

b) Fires involving reactive metals such as potassium, magnesium, sodium, titanium, zirconium, and uranium;

c) Fires involving metal hydrides such as potassium hydride and sodium hydride;

d) Hydrogen peroxide, hydrazine, etc. Can decompose on its own Chemical fires;

e) Deep-seated fires involving combustible solids. 

II. Fire suppression system Workflow Diagram 

Figure 1  Cabinet-type perfluorohexanone gas fire suppression system Workflow Diagram 

III. Composition and Technical Parameters of the Fire Extinguishing System

1. Composition of the cabinet-type perfluorohexanone suppression fire-extinguishing system

The cabinet-type perfluorohexanone suppression and extinguishing system consists of a fire‑extinguishing controller, an extinguishing agent cylinder assembly, a cabinet, and other components (see Figure 2). This system is an independent total‑flooding fire‑suppression system and offers automatic, manual, and mechanical emergency‑manual actuation modes.

2 Technical Specifications 

2 . 1 Fire suppression system Technical Specifications 

Fire suppression system Technical Specifications   Table One

Technical Parameters of the Fire Extinguishing System   Table Two

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 piping to the protected space via nozzles.

5) Features

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

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

c. The extinguishing agent can be refilled multiple times.

6) Installation, Usage, 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 electromagnetic actuator, the container valve shall be equipped with both automatic and mechanical emergency activation 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 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.

2.4 Enclosure:

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.

2.5 Signal Feedback Device

2.5.1 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.

2.5.2 composition 

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

2.5.3 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.

2.5.4 Main Performance Parameters:

IV. Equipment Installation and Commissioning

1) Place the YF-series cabinet-type perfluoroketone 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. Connect the wires from the smoke detectors and heat detectors to the fire suppression 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 fire‑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. 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 controller 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 perfluorohexanone, the required extinguishing soak time must be maintained before ventilating the area and opening doors and windows. Personnel shall not enter the protected area until ventilation has been completed; if entry is necessary, they must wear a gas mask.

5. 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 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 the 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 replaced or repaired promptly.

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 fire‑extinguishing agent discharge). The discharge indicator light shall illuminate, the signal shall be properly reported, 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 strictly in 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 waste 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.

Pre‑set Perfluorohexanone Fire Suppression System | Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What types of facilities are suitable for pre‑installed perfluorohexanone fire suppression systems?

A1: Suitable for enclosed protected areas such as small and medium-sized computer rooms, distribution rooms, energy storage cabinets, and archive storage rooms; used to extinguish electrical fires, but not suitable for fires involving reactive metals or strong oxidizers.

Q2: What does “pre‑set perfluorohexanone device” mean?

A2: The cylinder assembly is pre‑assembled with nozzles and piping, eliminating the need for a separate cylinder room; it can be installed directly within the protected area, making installation and commissioning straightforward.

Q3: What are the different startup modes of the device?

A3: It is equipped with three activation modes—automatic detection‑based interlock start, on‑site manual start, and mechanical emergency start—fully complying with fire safety regulations.

Q4: Will the full‑fluorinated ketone agent damage precision equipment after it is discharged?

A4: The agent is clean and leaves no residue, has excellent insulating properties, does not corrode electronic components, and allows equipment to resume operation promptly after ventilation.

Q5: How long is the shelf life of the medication, and does the vial need to undergo a hydrostatic pressure test?

A5: The formulation is chemically stable; pressurized‑type cylinders undergo regular hydrostatic pressure testing in accordance with applicable standards, while non‑pressurized models do not require cylinder hydrostatic testing and have components replaced according to the product’s service life.

Q6: Does a large gap in the protected area affect the fire suppression effectiveness?

A6: It has an impact. Before discharge, doors and windows, as well as ventilation openings, must be closed to minimize agent leakage and ensure that the design extinguishing concentration is achieved within the protected area.

Q7: During the system’s delayed‑release phase, may personnel remain inside the protected area?

A7: No, personnel must evacuate within the delay period. After the discharge is complete, entry into the protected area is prohibited to prevent inhalation of the agent’s vapors.

Q8: Can the perfluorohexanone agent be disassembled, reassembled, and refilled independently?

A8: No, the refilling of fire‑extinguishing agents and pipeline maintenance must be carried out by a qualified fire‑protection contractor; unauthorized operations may render the system inoperable.

Q9: Can a single preset device protect multiple protection zones?

A9: Conventional preset-type systems typically protect a single protected zone; to protect multiple zones, they must be used in conjunction with selection valves and configured according to the design scheme.

Q10: What routine maintenance checks should be performed?

A10: Regularly inspect pressure gauges and pipeline joints for leaks, and check the controller’s operating status; have the system tested annually by a qualified maintenance provider.