The gas extinguishing system relies on discharging a sufficient amount of gas into the burning area, which reduces the oxygen concentration in it in order to extinguish the fire. The types of gases used in this system vary and include:

• Carbon dioxide (CO2): This gas is commonly used to fight fires caused by oils and fats in industrial and commercial kitchens and other places containing sensitive equipment. This gas reduces the oxygen concentration in the burning area and breaks down the chain of chemical reactions that occur in the fire.

CO2 gas is stored in high-pressure metal cylinders and installed in the area that needs protection. When the system is turned on, gas is released into the burning area rapidly to lower the oxygen concentration in the area and extinguish the fire. The carbon dioxide extinguishing system is characterized by speed and effectiveness in extinguishing the fire, and it does not leave any residue or traces on the equipment and surfaces in the burning area.

•  Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs): This gas is used as an alternative to chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), the use of which has been banned due to its negative impact on the environment. HFCs gas is used in automatic fire extinguishing systems in industrial and commercial buildings and facilities. It is safe for use in closed spaces and does not leave any side effects on the equipment.

HFCs are non-toxic, non-flammable and contain low levels of butane and propane, reducing harmful environmental impacts. HFCs are considered one of the sustainable alternatives to the halogens used previously, which caused the deterioration of the ozone layer.

HFCs are stored in high pressure cylinders and the cylinders are installed in the area that is being protected. When the system is turned on, fire suppressants are rapidly released into the burning area to lower the oxygen concentration and extinguish the fire.

The extinguishing system using fire-retardant materials is characterized by its effectiveness and speed in extinguishing the fire, and it does not leave any residue or traces on the equipment and surfaces in the burning area. This system can be used to extinguish a variety of fires, including flammable liquid fires, electrical types of fires, solid material fires and wood fires.

• Nitrogen gas (N2): This gas is used in automatic extinguishing systems in oil, gas and chemical facilities. This gas reduces the oxygen concentration in the burning area and limits the spread of the fire.

Pure nitrogen is stored in special tanks, and when the extinguishing system is activated, pure nitrogen is released into the room or area where the fire needs to be extinguished. Pure nitrogen reduces the percentage of oxygen in the air, which leads to passivation and extinguishing the fire.

One of the advantages of the nitrogen extinguishing system is that it does not leave any residue or deposits after extinguishing, and does not cause damage to sensitive equipment. It is also considered an effective and quick system for extinguishing fires, and does not cause any harm to the environment.

One of the disadvantages of the nitrogen extinguishing system is that it cannot be used in places where there are people, as it can cause them to suffocate due to the reduction in the percentage of oxygen in the air. It also requires a large space to store the tanks, meaning it cannot be used in small areas. The cost of the nitrogen extinguishing system is considered relatively high compared to other extinguishing systems.

Nitrogen extinguishing system is used in many fields, including chemical and petroleum industries, scientific laboratories, power plants, electronic equipment rooms, supermarkets, shops, warehouses, factories, residential and commercial buildings.

Warnings issued by suppliers and manufacturers of the gas extinguishing system must be taken into account, especially warnings related to safety and public health, and the instructions contained in the system’s technical manual must be followed. It must also be ensured that those working on the system are trained on how to use and maintain it properly, and periodic checks of the system are carried out to ensure its safety and readiness to operate in the event of fires.

• Novec 1230 Fire Suppression System is a fire suppression system that uses a colorless, odorless, non-flammable hydrofluorocarbon gas called HFC-236fa. This technology is a safe and effective alternative to the traditional water extinguishing system and can be used in various industries and facilities.

The gas is stored in special cylinders designed to withstand high pressure, and the gas cylinders are installed in strategic locations in the target building or facility. The gas is discharged into the specific location of the fire using special devices, and the gas is directed towards the area where the fire is located, where it works to extinguish the fire quickly and effectively. The Novik fire extinguishing system is effective in extinguishing fires and can quickly and effectively extinguish fires in just a few minutes.

Ultimately, all factors related to a gas extinguishing system must be considered, including cost, effectiveness, safety, public health and the environment, and the optimal decision made based on the specific needs of the site. Appropriate security, health, and environmental regulations and standards must be followed, and employees must be trained to use and maintain the system correctly and effectively.