Fire Alarm Presentation

Fire Alarm and Clean Agent System Design & Engineering

Rahul SrivastavaElectrical Engineering Department

19.02.2016

1. Typical System Architecture of Fire Alarm System and Clean Agent System

2. Classification of Devices and Application

3. Description of the Fire Alarm System Components

4. System Design

5. Design Procedure of Fire Alarm System

6. Design tools

7. AutoCAD , SPEL and SP3D interfacing

Contents

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Basic components of a fire alarm system

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3. Description of the Fire Alarm System Components[A] Alarm Initiating Devices

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Types Application

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Automatic Fire Detectors

1. Fixed-Temperature Heat Detectors2. Rate-of-Rise-Compensated Fixed Temperature Detector 3.Rate-of-Rise Detector4.Combination Detector5. Linear Heat DetectorNon Integrated type Integrated type

1. General Alarm 2. Pre-signal

Heat Detectors

Application

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1. Typical System Architecture of Fire Alarm System :(1/2)

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1. Typical System Architecture of Fire Alarm System :(2/2)

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Clean Agent Fire Suppression Systems

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A solution is quick acting, waterless, gas-based systems that provide a first line of defense against fire.

The typical clean agent system must activate and flood the protected area with a predetermined concentration of gas within 10 seconds .

Although the percentage of clean agent required varies by system type, the overall design remains the same.

Since these systems act quickly to extinguish the fire, it is important that the operation sequence, including alarms and supervisory signals, be coordinated with the overlaying automatic sprinkler protection.

This is also the reason that the sprinkler contractor is often the first to be involved with these types of opportunities.

The Standard on Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems is NFPA 2001, which was organized in 1991 to address various clean agents being developed to replace the Halon family of products.

Halons, which by the early 1980s were used in a wide variety of applications, were discovered to have a significant damaging effect on the ozone layer. As a result, the 1987 Montreal Protocol on Ozone Depleting Substances effectively banned the future use of Halon gases in fire protection.

1. Introduction

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Several alternatives to Halon were developed, the most popular of which were hydroflourocarbons, or HFCs. HFC-227, which is marketed today under brand names such as FM-200® (Dupont) and Solkaflam® 227 (Solvay Fluor). Effective at fire suppression and, like Halon, does not damage electronics or other protected assets. While HFCs cause minimal damage to the ozone layer, they unfortunately have a large global warming potential. Although not banned from use in fire protection, HFCs were identified by the 1997 Kyoto Protocol on Greenhouse Gas Emissions for their negative environmental impact. To address the need for a more environmentally friendly extinguishing agent, 3M® pioneered the flourokeytone, and developed this new clean agent under the brand name NovecTM 1230. Novec 1230 has proven to be highly effective at fire suppression, has low toxicity, zero ozone depletion, and minimal global warming potential. 3M is so confident in the environmental profile of Novec 1230 that they offer a “Blue Sky Warranty,” which guarantees that the product will not be banned or restricted due to ozone depletion or global warming potential for a period of 20 years.Novec 1230 will not damage electronics and leaves behind no residue, which dramatically reduces cleanup time and minimizes the downtime of critical IT infrastructure. Novec 1230 works by absorbing heat prior to the generation of a flame, thus interfering with the combustion process in its earliest stages. A unique feature of Novec 1230 is that it is actually a fluid that rapidly changes to a gas when discharged from a nozzle.

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Manufacturers such as Viking, Tyco, and UTC offer integrated systems to discharge Novec1230, and other clean agents such as FM-200. Typical applications for clean agent systems are data centers, server rooms, and IT equipment.

Each clean agent fire suppression system is uniquely designed to match the specific needs of the protected area. This includes considerations for the type of detection, control panels, tank size/quantity, actuation devices, distribution piping, discharge nozzles, notification devices, and other components.

i) Nozzle: The type and size of discharge nozzles are determined during the design phase of the project. The nozzles, which are manufactured with the precise orifice size required for the system, are UL Listed and FM Approved specifically for clean agent systems.

ii) Piping: Schedule 40 seamless steel pipe is often used for connecting the nozzles to the clean agent cylinders. The steel piping network is then connected to the tank by a flexible steel hose. Since discharge pressures can approach 360 – 720 psi, metallic piping is the material of choice.

2. Design

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iii) Tank: The tank holds the agent under pressure and ready for discharge. The basic components of clean agent tank assemblies include the cylinder, pressure gauge and switch, cylinder valve, release device, installation clamp/strap, and flexible hose connection. A protective halo is typically installed on top of the tank to protect the tank valve from damage, which could in turn release the clean agent and cause a safety issue for anyone in proximity. Additionally, tanks must be securely fastened with the installation clamp to prevent violent movement during operation.

iv) Actuation: The actuation system can come from a dedicated system with cross-zoned detection, a fire alarm panel, a pneumatic system, or a plethora of combinations. A variety of signals are communicated to provide alarms and shut-down procedures for the protected area. These signals may also be the initial alarm on the pre-action system. The valve actuator threads onto the tank valve on top of the cylinder. On multi-tank systems, a typical arrangement employs an electric release on the master cylinder with a pneumatic releasing device on all additional cylinders. All tanks will then empty almost simultaneously.

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v) Detection: Heat and flame detectors detect a fire in its earliest stages, while also minimizing the potential for false activation. Additionally, sophisticated aspirating smoke detection systems are frequently employed.

vi) Control Panel: Release control panels must be specifically UL Listed and FM Approved for use with clean agent systems. For maximum flexibility, the panel should be compatible with many different initiating devices including linear heat detection, smoke and heat detectors, water flow indicators, low air pressure switches, and manual pull stations, as well as other pneumatic and electric actuation methods.

vii) Notification Devices: Audible alarms and visual indicators, such as horns and strobe lights, are typically specified on clean agent systems. This includes pre-discharge alarms that provide warning of impending system activation. NFPA 2001 also includes specific information on instruction, safety, and warning signs.

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Detector Description Application

[A] HEAT DETECTORS

Fixed temperature, spot-type

Enclosed Areas (rooms, closets, etc.), primarily for property protection. Not considered an early warning device.

Rate of rise, spot-type Enclosed areas (rooms, closets, etc.); primarily used for property protection where design goals require more sensitive heat detection and response to developing fires. Avoid use in areas of fluctuating ambient temperature. Not considered an early warning device.

Rate compensation Same as for fixed temperature, spot-type heat detectors. Because of sealed design, may be used in dusty and moist areas. Spacing ratings are better due to reduced thermal lag.

Fixed temperature, line-type

Application is similar to spot-type. Used in severe environments, cable trays, wharf applications, and historic buildings.

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[B] FLAME DETECTORS

Infrared/Ultraviolet Special applications such as oil refineries, aircraft hangers, explosion or special hazard protection. Avoid use in areas where detectors are exposed to sunlight or welding unless the detector is listed for this environment. Must have an unobstructed view of the protected area.

[C] SMOKE DETECTORS

Ionization, spot-type Early warning or life safety. This detector is most efficient when flaming fires are expected.

Photoelectric, spot-type Most efficient when smoldering fires are expected or where the smoke has to travel a distance before reaching the detector (“aged” smoke).

Photoelectric, beam-type Used in high ceiling environments such as churches, atriums and warehouses.

Photoelectric, air sampling-type

Used in high value applications, such as computer rooms; also used air sampling-type in high airflow areas and some rack storage application Notification of occupants or others of potentially dangerous conditions, such as the presence of fuel gases or toxic gases such as carbon monoxide shall be permitted.

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[D] CO, GAS AND OTHER FIRE DETECTORS

CO Detectors Signals from carbon monoxide detectors and carbon monoxide detection systems transmitted to a fire alarm system shall be permitted to be supervisory signals.

Gas Detectors Gas detection equipment shall be listed for detection of the specific gas or vapor to be encountered.

Other Fire Detectors Detectors that operate on principles different from those covered by Sections 17.6 through 17.8 of NFPA 22-2010 shall classify as “other fire detectors. Such detectors shall be installed in all areas where they are required either by other NFPA codes and standards or by the authority having jurisdiction.

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3. Description of the Fire Alarm System Components[A] Alarm Initiating Devices

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Manual Fire Alarm Boxes

Types of Manual Fire Alarm Boxes (Stations)1. Non-coded (a) Contains a normally open or closed switch that is housed within a distinctive

enclosure. Once actuated, the box must be reset to restore the unit to normal. (b) Contact and circuit arrangements may very to provide a number of functions simultaneously.

2. Coded (a) Contains a mechanically or electrically driven motor, or an electronic pulse generator. When activated, the motor turns a code wheel causing contacts to momentarily open or close or the pulse generator operates to reproduce the code of the box. The box is required to repeat its code a minimum of three times. (b) Contact and circuit arrangements many very to provide a number of functions simultaneously.

3. Break-glass To initiate an alarm, one must first break glass or some other element. The purpose is to identify which box was operated and to discourage tampering with the box when there is no fire to report.

4. Non-Break-glass A manual fire alarm box that does not have a break-glass feature.

5. Single Action A single action of breaking a glass or other frangible element or pulling a leaver or other movable part initiates an alarm.

6. Double Action Two actions are necessary to initiate an alarm. Either break a glass to open a door or lift a cover to gain access to a switch or lever to initiate an alarm.

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Manual fire alarm boxes may be used for the following types of systems: 1. General Alarm When activated, the fire alarm evacuation signals sound immediately throughout the

premises.

2. Pre-signal Initial fire alarm signals only sound at designated areas. The subsequent actuation of a key switch on the box (or control panel) causes an evacuation signal to sound throughout the premises.

Break-glass Fire Alarm Box

Addressable Module Break Glass Unit Initial

Pre-Actuator

Actuator

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3. Description of the Fire Alarm System Components[B] Automatic Fire Detectors

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1. Heat Detectors

a. Fixed-Temperature Heat Detectors:

These detectors initiate an alarm when the detecting element reaches a predetermined fixed temperature. Because of inherent thermal lag, when the detector actually operates, the temperature of the air surrounding the detector has always extended considerably higher then the set point of the detector.One form of a spot-type fixed temperature detector uses a fusible element made from a eutectic metal alloy that melts rapidly at a predetermined temperature (commonly 135°F). Automatic sprinklers, fire dampers and door fusible links commonly use a similar material. The operation of the detector destroys either the entire unit (or at least the operating element) which the person who maintains the system must replace. Another form of spot-type fixed-temperature heat detector uses a bimetallic element. After operating, the bimetallic type automatically restores when the temperature falls to a point below the set point of the detector.

Used where speed of operation is not required.Used where other types cannot be used.Less sensitive.The oldest type of automatic fire detection device.Exhibit the lowest false alarm rate of all automatic fire detector devices.

Combination of Fixed Temp & Rate of Rise Heat Detectors are available.

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b. Rate-of-Rise-Compensated Fixed Temperature Detector : In a slowly developing fire, this form of detector responds when the temperature of the air surrounding the detector reaches a predetermined level. In a rapidly developing fire, the detector anticipates the air temperature reaching the operating point, and accelerates the operation of the detector. This produces a fixed temperature detector with virtually no thermal lag.

c. Rate-of-Rise Detector: A rate-of-rise detector will operate when the rate of temperature increases from a fire exceeds a predetermined level, typically around 5°F in twenty seconds or 15°F per minute. Small, normal changes in ambient temperature that can be expected under non-fire conditions will not operate the detector. These detectors are available as both line-type or spot-type detectors, and are restorable. Shall be used in stable but dusty environments, example garages, battery room.Shall not be used where sudden rise is expected, Example kitchen.

d. Combination Detector: Detectors can contain more then one element to respond to a fire. Examples include a combination rate-of-rise and fixed-temperature heat detector, or a combination of a smoke detector and a heat detector.

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e. Linear Heat Detector: For some applications, the use of a linear heat detector is an option to consider. These may be installed in head to reach areas, or areas that are subject to high heat. The detector is contained within a cable which when exposed to heat that is greater than its rating, will short circuit, causing an alarm.

Non Integrated type 2 current-carrying wires held separated by heat-sensitive insulation of a fixed melting point.Used to provide rapid localized detection of abnormal temperature rises.Used for overloaded or short-circuited high voltage power wiring.Integrated type Electrical Insulation is Temperature dependent.

Protective TapeActuators

Outer InsulationHeat Sensitive

Material

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2. Smoke DetectorsThe result of full-scale fire tests, using typical fires in family living units, have shown that detectable quantities of smoke precede detectable levels of heat in nearly all cases. Thus fire alarm system designers use smoke detectors more extensively today. The common operating characteristics of smoke detectors include the ionization spot-type smoke detector, the photoelectric spot-type smoke detector, liner beam-type smoke detector, the air-sampling smoke detector and the duct-type smoke detector.

a. Ionization Smoke Detector:

An ionization smoke detector has a small amount of radioactive material that ionizes the air in the sensing chamber, thus rendering it conductive and permitting a current flow through the air between two charged electrodes. When smoke particles enter the chamber, they attach themselves to the ionized air molecules and decrease the conductivity between the electrodes. This decrease in conductivity can be measured by an electronic circuit that initiates a fire alarm signal when the reduction in conductivity reaches a pre-set threshold.

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b. Photoelectric Light-Scattering Smoke Detector: In a photoelectric light-scattering smoke detector, a light source and a photosensitive sensor are arranged so that the rays from the light source do not normally fall on the photosensitive sensor. When smoke particles enter the light path, some of the light is scattered by reflection and refraction onto the sensor, causing the detector to initiate a fire alarm signal.Works with light scattering principleContains light and photosensitive sensorDuring normal operation - light does not fall on sensorSmoke in chamber causes light to reflect onto the photoelectric-eye, causing an alarm conditionVery effective for large Particles of smoke, not for small particles of smoke

Sensing Chamber

LightEmitting

Diode

Photo Diode

Partition

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c. Photoelectric Linear Projected Beam Smoke Detector: In a photoelectric linear projected beam smoke detector, a light source and a photosensitive sensor are arranged across a protected space so that the rays from the light source normally fall on the photosensitive sensor. When the smoke particles enter the light path, the intensity of the light is reduced, causing the detector to initiate a fire alarm.

Transmitter, Receiver and Control Unit.

Transmitter/Receiver(Transceiver), A reflector and an Integrated Control Unit.

Motorized Optical Beam Smoke Detector Technology

T

R

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End to End Beam Detector Reflector Type Beam Detector

Requires more of Control wiring and installation costs, as Control unit is near the Receiver.

Requires less of Control wiring and installation costs, as Control unit is near the Transceiver.

Does not need to be aligned as accurately as End to End.

Less susceptible to stray reflections.

More Compact.

Vulnerable to stray reflections.

Less Compact.

FSalient Features of Linear Beam DetectorFire alarm is activated when the signal strength is reduced to between 40 – 90 % for a period of 5 seconds.If the transmitted signal is reduced by 90% for more than 1 sec (event of power failure), fault alarm is generated.Shall be mounted above man/obstruction level

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d. Air-sampling Smoke Detector: In an air-sampling smoke detector, a system of tubing and sampling ports draws a sample of air from a protected space into a detection unit. When smoke particles in the air sample enter a detection chamber, the presence of the particles causes the detector to initiate a fire alarm signal.

Step 1 : Like a vacuum cleaner, sucks air from the protected environment via aspirating pipe by a PUMP.

Step 2 : Samples the quality of air passing through the VESDA detection laser chamber.

100 times more sensitive than the point / line type.Used where high smoke sensitivity is required.Used in area where there is high air flow, such as computer

rooms, Telecoms.Used in historic buildings where point / line type would look

out of place.

NOTE : VESDA is a type of Aspirating type Detector, which has laser based detection technology of XTRALIS make.

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e. Air Duct-type Smoke Detector: Detects smoke for the primary purpose of controlling the propagation of smoke through the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system (HVAC). This helps prevent possible panic and damage from distribution of smoke and gaseous products. These detectors only detect smoke when smoke is circulation in the duct. They sample a small amount of great volumes of air from large areas of coverage. Air duct smoke detectors are not a substitute for:• Area smoke detection• Early warning • A building’s regular fire detection system•Shall be used where standard heat/smoke/flame detectorcannot be used.Used in extract ventilation duct system.• Does not have a PUMP.• Works on Venturi Effect that has probes/pipes that extend into• the duct to sample the air inside the duct.

Air Duct-type Smoke Detector

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3. Description of the Fire Alarm System Components[C] Notification Appliances

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NFPA 72-2010, Chapter 18 requires that audible appliances provide a minimum sound pressure level of 15dBA above the ambient noise level or 5dBA above a maximum sound level lasting for at least 60 seconds, whichever is greater. In addition the Life Safety Code – 2010 edition and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires that visible appliances be installed to assist in the alarm notification of the hearing impaired. Strobes must be placed in accordance with NFTA 72-2010, Chapter 4 requirements to ensure proper coverage while avoiding excessive flash rates that may trigger a seizure with photosensitive epileptic prone individuals.NFPA 72 also requires that all audible evacuation signals conform to the American National Standard Evacuation Signal, ANSI S3.41. This temporal code 3 signal must be synchronized within a notification zone. The temporal three code is only to be used when total evacuation of a building is to occur.

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a. Bells: Bells may be used for fire alarm signals where their sound is distinctive and will not be confused with similar audible signals used for other purposes. Bells are normally operated by 12 or 24 volts DC (direct current) and may be of the single-stroke or vibration type connected in parallel.Bells may be provided with 4-inch through 12-inch gongs (in 2-inch increments). The 6-and 10-inch sizes are the most commonly used. Usually, bells with 4-inch gongs are reserved for use as trouble signals. Generally, the larger the diameter of the gongs the lower the frequency and the louder the audible signal (expressed in terms of decibels [dB]).

b. HornsHorns are provided for applications that require louder or more distinctive signals, or both. Horns may be operated by either alternate or direct current and may be connected in series or parallel. Care should be exercised to see that circuits are electrically compatible when powering both types of appliances. Horns that are manufactured today are generally 12 or 24 VDC.Horns are usually of the continuous vibrating or electronic type and may be used to provide either coded of non-coded audible alarm signals. They may be of the surface, flush, semi-flush, single projector, double projector, or trumpet type.In very noisy areas, resonating, air-powered or motor-driven horns are sometimes used because of their inherently higher decibel output. NFPA 72 stipulates that the sound pressure from a notification appliance may not exceed 110 dBA.

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c. Speakers: Speakers are frequently used as fire alarm signaling appliances. Since they reproduce electronic signals, they can be made to sound like any mechanical signaling device and have the capability of reproducing unique sounds that are not practical on mechanical appliances. In addition, they may be used to give live or recorded voice instructions. Speakers are either direct radiating cone type, or of the compression driver and horn type.Speakers are generally operated from audio amplifiers delivering standard output line levels of 70.7 or 25 volt AC rms. The speakers are driven by an electronic tone generator, microphone, or voice synthesizer and an electronic amplifier. Two types are in wide use: Integral – that type in which the tone generator amplifier, and speaker are enclosed in a common housing. Remote – that type in which the speaker is energized from a remotely located tone generator, microphone and/or voice synthesizer and amplifier.

d. Sirens:Sirens usually are limited to outdoor applications but are sometimes used in extremely noisy indoor areas. Sirens are motor-driven or electronic appliances and may be either alternating or direct current operated. They are not very practical for use as coded audible signals.

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e. Strobes :Strobe lights operate on the energy discharge principle to produce a high intensity flash of short duration. These lights are very efficient. The short bright flash is not only attention getting but is effective when general visibility is low. Strobe appliances come in a wide range of light intensities and operating voltages. Repetition rates are not allowed to exceed two flashes per second nor less the one flash every second throughout the listed voltage range of the appliance. f. Combination units:The audible and visible functions can be combined in one unit to produce both sound and light from a single appliance. For example, the sounder can be a horn, bell, or speaker. The light is required to be a strobe with specific characteristics as described in Chapter 18 of the 2010 National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code. Advantages of the combined signals are: • The visible signal localizes the particular audible alarm appliance that is operating. • The visible signal produces a recognizable alarm when an ambient noise level may affect the audible signal. • Persons having impaired hearing can see the visible portion of the alarm signals. The combined signals are available in all voltages up to line voltage. Twenty-four volt dc units are the most prevalent. Polarized versions facilitate line monitoring. Two or four-wire connected types permit application of either a common or separate power supply.Combination appliances are not required at every location throughout a building. Fire alarm system designers normally (following the requirements in Chapter 18 of NFPA 72-2010) will design the visible appliance layout first and then design the audible appliance layout. Then wherever both audible and visible appliances are in the same general location, those units would be specified as combination units.

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Horn/Strobe Speaker/Strobe Chime/Strobe

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System DesignSCOPEFire Alarm Plan shall depict the following major details:Location of Central Fire Alarm Control Panel, MIMIC / HMI display.Location of Local Fire Alarm Panel.Location of Smoke Detectors, Heat Detectors (including below false floor & above falseceiling), Linear Beam Detectors, Manual call points inside every building.Location of Horn, Strobe inside every building.Location of Manual Call Points and Horn, Strobe, Siren in plant and Utility areas.Location of Linear Heat Sensing Cable.Cable type details and routing in each building, plant & utility areas.Location of Junction boxes.Loop diagram for each loop.Typical installation details of detectors, manual call points, horn, strobe, linear heat sensingcable, junction box etc.Relevant Notes & Legends shall be included.Note:In case, Clean Agent System Panel is combined with local Fire Alarm Panel as per ITB / projectrequirement, all clean agent system panel devices e.g. pre-discharge lamp, discharge lamp,manual release station, abort switch, solenoid valve etc. shall also be shown in Fire Alarm Plan.

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System Design3. REFERENCESFollowing references shall be used while preparing the Fire Alarm Plan:ITBElectrical Design BasisJob SpecificationsPlot Plan with sectionsGeneral Notes & LegendsTypical Installation StandardsCivil/ Architectural & Structural drawings of all buildingsHazardous Area Classification DrawingsFire Fighting Block DiagramFire & Gas Block DiagramCause & Effect DiagramRecommended National and International Codes and StandardsBP / LL / COPQ of past projectRelated Drawings issued from Electrical and other department such as Plot Plan, BuildingDrawing etc.

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System DesignINSTRUCTIONS5.1 Requirement for preparing Fire Alarm Plana) Fire Alarm Plan shall be prepared based on latest Plot Plan drawings only.b) Fire Alarm Plan for buildings shall be as per latest Civil / Architectural drawings.c) HVAC air change data required to calculate indoor detectors quantity.d) Fire Fighting Block Diagrame) Fire & Gas Block Diagramf) Fire Alarm Detection System calculation based on NFPA/ local regulation.5.2 Key Activitiesa) Detectors and MCPs shall be located based on guidelines of NFPA / Local regulationrequirement.b) Block Diagram for Fire Alarm System shall be prepared based on Fire Fighting BlockDiagram / Fire & Gas Block Diagram / Fire Alarm Calculation / NFPA / Local regulation /ITB requirement.c) Fire Alarm Plan shall be prepared in co-ordination / interface with other systems such asi. F&G (Instrumentation)ii. HVAC (Piping)iii. Fire Fighting e.g. Clean Agent System (Piping)iv. PAGA (Electrical)v. Lighting (Electrical)d) Fire Alarm detector shall be located keeping in view the spacing between detectors/clearance from wall & HVAC duct etc.

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System Designd) Fire Alarm detector shall be located keeping in view the spacing between detectors/clearance from wall & HVAC duct etc.e) Fire Alarm cable route for outdoor shall follow Electrical/ Instrument cable routes as far aspossible or as specified in ITB.f) Connection of Fire Alarm devices shall be as per Star / Ring topology and necessary JBsetc. shall be properly located.g) Field equipment to be installed in classified hazardous area shall have appropriate ’Ex’protection as per Hazardous Area Classification.h) The fire detection system in process, storage and utilities area consists of the following:i. Alarm Push Buttons (Manual Call Points / Break Glass Units)ii. Linear Heat Sensing Cable for Floating Roof (where ever applicable as per ITB).i) Fire Alarm in the Plant consists of visual alarm (red flashing light) and audible alarm locatednear Alarm Push Buttons.j) Fire detection system in the buildings consists of the following:i. Smoke Detectors.ii. Heat Detectors.iii. Alarm Push Buttons (Manual Call Points / Break Glass Units).iv. Heat Sensitive Cable.v. Linear Beam Detectors.k) Fire Alarm Plan in the buildings shall cover optical/ acoustical alarm (horn / beacon) locatedoutside the building near the main entrance and inside the building in the corridor/ mainentrance or in appropriate location as per relevant standard.

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Installation Details

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NFPA-72 (2013) Clause

Explanation

17.14.1 Manually actuated alarm-initiating devices for initiating signals other than for fire alarm shall be permitted if the devices are differentiated from manual for fire alarm boxes by a color other than red and labeling.

17.14.5 The operable part of a manually actuated alarm initiating device shall be not less than 42 in. (1.07 m) and not more than 48 in. (1.22 m) from the finished floor.

17.14.6 Manually actuated alarm-initiating devices shall be permitted to be single action or double action.

Manual Fire Alarm Boxes (Stations)

5 ft (1.5 m)

Alarm Notification Devices


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Explanation

17.14.8.1 Manual fire alarm boxes shall be used only for fire alarm initiating purposes.

17.14.8.2 Manual fire alarm boxes shall be installed so that they are conspicuous, unobstructed, and accessible.

17.14.8.3 Unless installed in an environment that precludes the use of red paint or red plastic, manual fire alarm boxes shall be red in color.

17.14.8.4 Manual fire alarm boxes shall be located within 5 ft (1.5 m) of each exit doorway on each floor.

17.14.8.5 Additional manual fire alarm boxes shall be provided so that the travel distance to the nearest manual fire alarm box will not exceed 200 ft (61 m), measured horizontally on the same floor.

17.14.8.6 Manual fire alarm boxes shall be mounted on both sides of grouped openings over 40 ft (12.2 m) in width, and within 5 ft (1.5 m) of each side of the grouped opening.

Manual Fire Alarm Boxes (Stations)

Installation Details (Initiating Devices)

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Explanation

17.4.7 Where smoke detectors are installed in concealed locations more than 10 ft (3.0 m) above the finished floor or in arrangements where the detector’s alarm or supervisory indicator is not visible to responding personnel, the detectors shall be provided with remote alarm or supervisory indication in a location acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction.

17.4.8 If a remote alarm indicator is provided for an automatic fire detector in a concealed location, the location of the detector and the area protected by the detector shall be prominently indicated at the remote alarm indicator by a permanently attached placard or by other approved means.

17.4.9 Where required by 17.4.7 and unless the specific detector alarm or supervisory signal is indicated at the control unit (and on the drawings with its specific location and functions), remote alarm or supervisory indicators shall be installed in an accessible location and shall be clearly labeled to indicate both their function and any device or equipment associated with each detector.


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For areas where people are sleeping, sounder devices should produce a minimum 75dB(A) at the bed-head with all doors shut. In buildings likely to provide sleeping accommodation for the hearing impaired, consideration should be given to the incorporation of both audio and visual devices.

Types of CI Cable

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CIC - Requires Strict Compliance to the Installation Criteria for the CIC Electrical Circuit Protective Systems.

CI – Follow NEC 760 applicable criteria for Power-Limited Fire Alarm Circuits.

Panel Distribution and Configuration

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ReferencesDocument Number Document Title

NFPA® 72 (2013 Edition) National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code

NFPA® 2001 (2012 Edition) Standard on Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems

SEI-HC-EL-C015 QCP Check List for Fire alarm

SEI-HC-EL-C027 QCP Check List for Block Diagram of Fire alarm System

SEI-HC-EL-F014 MTO-Fire Alarm System (NF)

SEI-HC-EL-W009 Work Instruction for Fire Alarm Plan

SSD0023EEC IND Engineering Specification for Fire Alarm System

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Documents

Fire Alarm Presentation