Innovation and technological progress have revolutionised the fire safety sector, leading to the introduction of increasingly effective and efficient solutions.
In this context, the water mist system has proven to be an excellent choice for fire protection.
In the following article we delve into its technical and commercial potential, and highlight the improved characteristics of the high-pressure (100 bar) water mist system compared to traditional sprinkler systems.
Differences between Water Mist and Sprinkler Systems
Firefighting efficiency
With a pressure of 100 bar, the high-pressure water mist extinguishing system is more efficient at extinguishing fires than the sprinkler system. Due to the force generated by the high pressure, the water droplets are fragmented more effectively, creating a larger cooling surface. This water spray enables a rapid temperature reduction in the affected area and greater effectiveness in extinguishing flames.
Less collateral damage
The use of the high-pressure water mist system significantly reduces collateral damage compared to sprinkler systems. The micro-droplets of water mist produced by the high-pressure system reduce the amount of water needed to extinguish the fire.
As a result, water damage is minimised, preserving property and limiting economic losses.
Often systems installed in public places are subject to vandalism due to breakage of the thermosensitive bulb by mechanical action: in the case of the sprinkler, this event would cause flooding of the premises causing damage to the rooms and longer restoration times.
The water mist, on the other hand, using up to 90 % less water than the sprinkler system, would only generate humidity, making the room easily re-exercisable after a few minutes.
Speed of response and greater effectiveness
The high-pressure water mist system is characterised by its rapid response time. The high pressure, unlike the sprinkler, allows for immediate delivery of the water mist, minimising the activation time of the water mist system compared to the sprinkler system. This results in greater effectiveness in dealing with emergency situations and limiting the spread of flames, minimising damage to the affected area.
Versatility
Thanks to its ability to generate a fine, controlled mist, the high-pressure water mist system is extremely versatile.
Unlike sprinkler systems, it can be used in a wide range of environments, including confined and sensitive spaces such as server rooms, museums, nuclear power plants, archives, industrial plants, luxury hotels and boats. The fine atomisation allows for uniform water distribution, ensuring complete coverage of the target area. The pipes used are extremely small (12mm or maximum 38mm diameter), easy to integrate into tight ceiling spaces and cheaper to insulate and heat if required.
Efficiency in the use of water resources
Due to the fragmentation of micro water droplets, the water mist generates a larger cooling surface area using a smaller quantity of water. This results in a significantly lower water reserve required compared to a sprinkler, less space required for the pumping unit, and therefore a smaller technical room.
Maintainability cost-effectiveness and efficiency guarantees
The exclusive use of noble materials (e.g. AISI316) certified for maximum resistance pressures with very high safety factors makes the high pressure system more reliable and safer over time. The fittings used are those that have been appreciated for years in the hydraulics sector.
Sustainability
All of the above features make water mist an environmentally friendly fire protection system for several elements, including:
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up to 90% less water than sprinlker systems
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does not damage
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leaves no residue
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small size, less use of materials and resources
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noble materials with reduced maintainability
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easy to integrate into existing environments
Discover all the technical features of water mist systems