Comparing Fire Protection Systems: Sprinklers vs. Gas-Based Suppression Systems

1
Comparing Fire Protection Systems Sprinklers vs.
Gas-Based Suppression Systems
2
Introduction
Fire protection systems play a crucial role in
protecting lives, property, and infrastructure
from fire hazards. Two commonly used systems are
sprinkler systems, which use water to control or
extinguish fires, and gas-based suppression
systems, which rely on chemical or inert gases to
smother flames. Sprinkler systems are widely used
in commercial and residential buildings due to
their reliability and cost-effectiveness.
Gas-based suppression systems are ideal for
environments with sensitive equipment, such as
data centers and control rooms, where water could
cause damage. Choosing the right Fire and safety
company depends on the specific fire risks,
building type, and operational needs.
Overview of fire safety regulations in Saudi
Arabia
Compliance with fire safety regulations is
crucial for business owners to ensure the safety
of employees, customers, and property. Failing to
meet these requirements can result in legal
penalties, increased insurance premiums, and
potential damage to the business's reputation.
Partnering with the best fire and safety company
in Saudi Arabia ensures that your business is up
to date with the latest fire safety standards and
avoids costly fines. A trusted fire safety
company provides expert advice, regular
inspections, and maintenance, safeguarding your
business against fire hazards.
3
How Sprinkler Systems Work

• Automatic Activation Sprinklers activate
  individually when the heat-sensitive element
  (glass bulb or fusible link) reaches a set
  temperature.
• Localized Response Only the sprinklers directly
  exposed to heat will activate, minimizing water
  usage and damage.
• Continuous Water Flow Once triggered, water
  continues to flow until manually shut off by fire
  services or system control.
• Connected to Water Supply The system is linked
  to a reliable water source, such as a city
  supply, tank, or pump.
• Different Sprinkler Types Includes wet pipe, dry
  pipe, pre-action, and deluge systems, each
  designed for specific fire risks.
• Effective in Open Spaces Works best in areas
  with good ventilation, where heat can trigger
  activation efficiently.
• Provides Cooling Effect Lowers surrounding
  temperatures, reducing fire spread and preventing
  structural damage.
• Complies with Safety Regulations Meets
  international fire codes and insurance
  requirements for business and residential
  properties.
• Requires Routine Maintenance Regular inspections
  ensure pipes, valves, and sprinkler heads remain
  functional.
• Works with Fire Alarms Often integrated with
  fire detection systems for a coordinated
  emergency response.

4
How Gas-Based Suppression Systems Work

• 1?? Fire Detection Activation
• Uses heat, smoke, or flame detectors to identify
  a fire early.
• Automatically triggers the gas release system.
• 2?? Gas Release Mechanism
• Stored in pressurized cylinders and released
  through a network of nozzles.
• Distributes gas evenly throughout the protected
  area.
• 3?? Oxygen Depletion or Chemical Reaction
• Inert gases (like Nitrogen, Argon) reduce oxygen
  levels below the combustion threshold.
• Chemical agents (like FM-200, Novec 1230) disrupt
  the chemical reaction of the fire.
• 4?? No Residue or Water Damage
• Unlike water-based systems, gas leaves no residue
  and does not damage electronics.
• 5?? Safe for Equipment Sensitive Areas
• Ideal for data centers, electrical rooms, and
  museums where water can cause irreparable damage.
• 6?? Room Integrity is Essential
• The room must be airtight to ensure the gas stays
  concentrated long enough to suppress the fire.
• 7?? Automatic Manual Operation
• Systems can be fully automatic or have a manual
  activation option in emergencies.
• 8?? Post-Discharge Ventilation Required
• After activation, the gas needs to be safely
  ventilated before re-entering the area.

5
Advantages of Sprinkler Systems
? Cost-Effective Widely Available Lower cost
and commonly used. ? Automatic Fast Response
Activates instantly when heat is detected. ?
Reliable Proven Decades of successful fire
control. ? Covers Large Areas Ideal for big
buildings. ? Easy Maintenance Long lifespan
with minimal upkeep. ? Prevents Fire Spread
Localized activation stops escalation. ? Safe
for People No toxic effects. ? Effective for
Common Fires Works well on wood, paper, and
textiles. ? Regulation Compliant Meets global
fire safety codes. ? Integrates with Fire Alarms
Enhances overall protection.
6
Advantages of Gas based suppression system
? Fast Fire Suppression Extinguishes fires
within seconds, reducing damage. ? No Water
Damage Ideal for environments where water could
destroy equipment or assets. ? Safe for Sensitive
Equipment Perfect for data centers, server
rooms, museums, and archives. ? Minimal Cleanup
Leaves no residue, reducing downtime and
maintenance costs. ? Effective in Enclosed Spaces
Works well in sealed areas where traditional
sprinklers might be less effective. ?
Non-Conductive Safe for electrical fires as it
does not short-circuit equipment. ?
Environmentally Friendly Options Available Many
modern suppression agents have low environmental
impact. ? Automatic Activation Works with
advanced fire detection systems for instant
response. ? Can Be Used in Occupied Areas Some
inert gas systems (e.g., Argonite, Inergen) are
safe for people. ? Reduced Business Downtime
Since there's no water damage, businesses can
resume operations faster.
7
Limitations of Sprinkler Systems
?? Water damage risk Not suitable for
electronics and valuable assets ?? Limited
effectiveness May struggle with certain fires
(e.g., oil or electrical) ?? Activation delay
Needs significant heat to trigger ?? Risk of
false activation Can cause unnecessary water
discharge ?? High water demand Requires a
strong and continuous water supply ?? Potential
freezing Can be ineffective in extremely cold
environments ?? Maintenance required Regular
inspections needed to prevent clogging or
malfunction
8
Best Applications for Each System
Sprinkler Systems ? Commercial buildings ?
Warehouses factories ? Hotels residential
properties ? Shopping malls retail stores ?
Parking garages underground facilities ?
Hospitals healthcare centers ? Schools
universities ? Airports transportation
hubs Gas-Based Suppression Systems ? Data
centers server rooms ? Museums archives ?
Control rooms electrical equipment spaces ?
Telecommunication facilities ? Power plants
substations ? Laboratories research centers ?
Pharmaceutical manufacturing units ? Oil gas
facilities ? Banks financial institutions ?
Military defense installations
9
Benefits of Fire Safety Compliance

• Less Risk of Fire Following fire safety rules
  helps prevent fires, keeping everyone safe.
• Following the Law It makes sure your business
  follows the law, so you avoid fines or legal
  problems.
• Safer Employees It creates a safer workplace for
  your staff, reducing the chance of injuries.
• Lower Insurance Costs Businesses with good fire
  safety can get cheaper insurance and better
  coverage.
• Keeps Your Business Running Fire safety helps
  avoid disruptions and protects your business from
  losing money.
• Builds Trust Companies with strong safety
  practices are trusted by customers and partners.
• Peace of Mind Business owners and employees feel
  safer knowing there are protections in place.
• Faster Action in Emergencies Having safety plans
  in place helps respond quickly if something goes
  wrong.
• Saves Money It helps prevent expensive fire
  damage, legal issues, and fines.

10
CONCLUSION
Sprinkler systems are the most reliable and
cost-effective solution for general fire
protection, making them ideal for commercial
buildings, warehouses, and residential
properties. They effectively control fires using
water, reducing the spread and potential damage.
However, in environments with sensitive
equipment, such as data centers and museums,
water damage can be a major concern. Gas-based
suppression systems offer a clean, residue-free
solution, ensuring fire is extinguished without
harming electronics or valuable assets. Choosing
the right system depends on the nature of the
protected space, and consulting fire safety
experts like Axontec International ensures
optimal protection.
11
Thank You
Ensure the safety of your business todaycontact
the best fire and safety company in Saudi Arabia
for a comprehensive consultation and risk
assessment
www.axontec.sa