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Clean Agent Fire Suppression Cylinder removal, hydrostatic test and refilling

Hegel - Fire Engineering Team

Fires can happen anytime and anywhere, and when they do, they can cause significant damage to property and even loss of life. That's why it's essential to have fire suppression systems in place to minimize the damage caused by a fire. One such system is the Clean Agent Fire Suppression System, which uses a clean agent gas to extinguish fires quickly and effectively. However, like any other system, it needs regular maintenance and testing to ensure it remains functional and effective. In this article, we'll explore the process of Clean Agent Fire Suppression Cylinder removal, hydrostatic testing, and refilling.


Clean Agent Fire Suppression Systems are designed to protect critical assets and high-value equipment in environments where water-based fire suppression systems cannot be used. This system uses clean agents like FM-200 or Novec 1230, which are non-conductive, non-corrosive, and leave no residue. Clean agent fire suppression systems are ideal for use in data centers, telecommunications facilities, museums, archives, and other high-value areas.



The Clean Agent Fire Suppression System is made up of a cylinder filled with the clean agent, a piping network, and discharge nozzles. The cylinder containing the clean agent is the most critical component of the system, and it needs to be maintained and tested regularly to ensure it remains functional.


The first step in the process is to remove the cylinder containing the clean agent from the fire suppression system. This is done by a qualified technician who will follow strict safety procedures to ensure that the cylinder is removed safely and without causing any damage to the surrounding equipment or personnel. The cylinder is then transported to a hydrostatic testing facility for testing.


Hydrostatic testing is a non-destructive test that involves pressurizing the cylinder to a specific level to check for any leaks or deformities. This test is crucial to ensure that the cylinder can withstand the pressure of the clean agent and that it won't rupture or leak during a fire event. If any defects are found during the testing process, the cylinder is deemed unsafe for use and must be replaced.



After the hydrostatic test is completed, the cylinder is refilled with the clean agent and re-installed into the fire suppression system. The refill process involves removing any residual gas from the cylinder and replacing it with the appropriate amount of clean agent. The technician will also ensure that the cylinder is reinstalled correctly and that all the discharge nozzles are functioning correctly.



In conclusion, the Clean Agent Fire Suppression System is a critical component in protecting high-value assets and equipment. Regular maintenance, testing, and inspection of the cylinder containing the clean agent are essential to ensure the system remains functional and effective. The process of removing, testing, and refilling the cylinder should only be carried out by qualified and trained technicians who follow strict safety procedures. By ensuring the system is in good working order, you can have peace of mind knowing that your property and assets are well protected in the event of a fire.

8 Comments


Unknown member
Aug 10, 2023

How frequent shall the hydrostatic test should be conducted and would there be a minimum sampling % for the cyclnder to be tested?

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You can send an official request to our Commercial Team at sales@hegelengineering.com and they will be able to help you.

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