Chapter 14

© 2008 Delmar, Cengage Learning

Emerging Technologies

Chapter 14


Learning Objectives

• Define the terms interoperability and building information modeling

• Discuss the applications for computer fire modeling and performance-based design

• Explain the concept behind the use of video cameras as fire detectors

• Discuss the purpose of mass notification systems


Learning Objectives (continued)

• Describe the characteristics of a multipurpose piping system

• Describe the characteristics of compressed-air foam fixed fire suppression systems

• Describe the characteristics of aerosol fire suppression systems


Introduction

• Many fire protection systems described in this book have not changed significantly– Performed extremely well when properly designed,

installed, and maintained

• New challenges in the built environment– Require implementation of innovative designs and

technologies to protect life and property

• Emerging techniques will detect, manage, control and suppress fires in the near future


Building and System Design

• Interoperability requires that collaborating organizations use software platform– Share information across applications and disciplines

• Building information modeling: characteristics of a structure composed of intelligent objects

• Computer fire modeling: helps professionals to understand the fire in the building

• Performance-based design: determines the viability of the design goal


Fire Alarm and Detection System Technology

• Alarm and detection systems – Incorporate digital and microprocessor technology– Develop new equipment, systems, and methods to

detect and communicate information


Fire Detection

• High-definition video cameras detect smoke and flame– Analyze digital images that sense changes in pixels

many times faster than ordinary smoke detectors– Video camera sees the smoke before the smoke

detector senses it

• Analyze and compare chemical makeup of gases and particulate matter– Sensing components that react differently to airborne

chemicals by digitizing and processing the readings


System Interface and Communications

• Internet protocol-related capabilities have merged with fire alarm system technology

• Fire alarm systems accessible via the Internet• Fire alarm systems can interface with

communications equipment– Retransmit alarm signals and system information

• Responders determine conditions with sensors, video camera detectors, and other devices


System Interface and Communications (continued)

• Public fire alarm boxes: digital electronics, computers, radio transmitters– Communicate with central stations

• Mass notification systems: may be separate or integrated into the fire alarm system

• Fire alarm notification appliances– Exit-marking audible notification appliances– Addressable notification appliances


Water-Based Fire Suppression Systems

• Past ten years, new technologies such as dry pipe valves have entered market– Do not require opening to reset the clapper valve– Greater air to water deferential ratios

• Emerging technologies related to water-based suppression systems– Development of new fire sprinkler heads and nozzles

• New technologies for some mature applications


Sprinkler Heads and Nozzles• Two examples of emerging technologies:

– Low-flowing sprinkler heads– Heads or nozzles with distinct and specialized

discharge patterns

• Ongoing research to deliver specific head pressure for an installation condition

• On/off sprinkler head that uses alternative sensor/actuator technology– Reduces water damage caused by conventional “one-

shot” fire sprinklers


Residential Sprinkler Systems

• More emphasis on integration of all water systems into one combined system

• Multipurpose piping systems combine domestic water and fire sprinkler systems into one network

• Piping interconnected; water flows from multiple supply lines

• Becoming more important for green buildings


Figure 14-2 This sprinkler head is fed by many water lines and is part of a multipurpose piping system


Fire Pumps and Controllers• Variable speed controllers: adjust the pump

driver speed– Fire pump maintains constant output pressure in fire

sprinkler and standpipe system– Based on the suction pressure and water supply

• Loss of pressure sensed by a switch starts the controller– Once running, pressure switch regulates the driver

speed at preset pressure

• Microprocessor monitors the suction pressure and adjusts the speed accordingly


Compressed-Air Foam Suppression Systems

• New research has solved the foam generation and agent transportation problems

• Protect flammable and combustible liquids and electrical transformer hazards

• Activation by automatic detection or manual operation

• Ability to penetrate a fire plume• Better thermal radiation protection


Aerosol Fire Suppression Systems• Alternative to clean agents and specialized

water-based fire protection systems• Main component: aerosol generator

– Condensed generator: no pipes, nozzles, or pressure vessels

– Dispersed generator: particle chemical agent suspended in an inert gas

• Aerosol product is non-toxic, non-corrosive– Remains suspended in the environment– Eliminates the possibility of re-ignition


Summary• Research and development leads to new

technologies• Interoperability and building information

modeling platforms• Improved annunciation capabilities

– Mass notification systems

• Sprinkler head technology continues to dominate the industry

• Aerosol fire suppression systems recognized and are viable technologies

Chapter 14

Business

water systems

detection systems

alarm systems accessible

residential sprinkler

alarm system technology

system interface

water lines

specialized waterbased