High Pressure Water Mist system | Hyper-Mist System
Introduction
Requirements Under FSS Code
Outline of the system
Specifications
Operation
Restoration after use
Alarms
Routine check and maintenance
Tests are to be carried out
Requirements Under FSS Code
Outline of the system
Specifications
Operation
Restoration after use
Alarms
Routine check and maintenance
Tests are to be carried out
Introduction
Conventional gas fire fighting systems have two fatal disadvantages; difficulty in early fire suppression to secure the evacuation of crews and a high rate of fatal accidents caused by human error or system failure.
In order to solve these problems, IMO focused attention on water mist fire extinguishing systems as a method of suppressing and extinguishing fire at its early stage without limiting escape and risking the lives of crews.
In contrast to previous sprinkler systems, these water mist systems have a significant suffocating effect produced by spraying extremely fine mist water, providing effective control of oil fires.
For ships constructed on and after 1st July 2002, the installation of the systems is required in those areas with a high fire risk, in machinery spaces including internal combustion main engines, auxiliary engines, burners for boilers, incinerators and F.O. purifiers.
Since water-mist fire control systems use an evaporation effect of water mist, controlling the particle size of generated mist is a significant factor - smaller is not necessarily better.
Many test results demonstrate that adaptability to actual fire is another important factor.
Significantly different to CO2 systems, these systems require careful consideration of various technical aspects, such as the actual structure of machinery spaces, operating conditions of each machine, type of fire, limitation of applying mist and influence on ambient equipment. It can be said that experience and expertise are essential for designing the systems.
Over the years we have acquired this expertise through conducting a lot of tests and research using extensive facilities, and have gained much knowledge from our experience as a manufacturer of marine fire-fighting equipment. We are confident that we are able to provide excellent products and the best technical services.
In order to solve these problems, IMO focused attention on water mist fire extinguishing systems as a method of suppressing and extinguishing fire at its early stage without limiting escape and risking the lives of crews.
In contrast to previous sprinkler systems, these water mist systems have a significant suffocating effect produced by spraying extremely fine mist water, providing effective control of oil fires.
For ships constructed on and after 1st July 2002, the installation of the systems is required in those areas with a high fire risk, in machinery spaces including internal combustion main engines, auxiliary engines, burners for boilers, incinerators and F.O. purifiers.
Since water-mist fire control systems use an evaporation effect of water mist, controlling the particle size of generated mist is a significant factor - smaller is not necessarily better.
Many test results demonstrate that adaptability to actual fire is another important factor.
Significantly different to CO2 systems, these systems require careful consideration of various technical aspects, such as the actual structure of machinery spaces, operating conditions of each machine, type of fire, limitation of applying mist and influence on ambient equipment. It can be said that experience and expertise are essential for designing the systems.
Over the years we have acquired this expertise through conducting a lot of tests and research using extensive facilities, and have gained much knowledge from our experience as a manufacturer of marine fire-fighting equipment. We are confident that we are able to provide excellent products and the best technical services.
Requirements Under FSS Code
- Spraying nozzles as fitted are to be of the approved type for systems fitted in the machinery spaces. The Administration will need to approve the number and arrangement of the nozzles. Besides, the number and arrangement of the nozzles must be able to ensure an effective average distribution of water at the minimum rate of 5 liter / m2 /minute, in the spaces to be protected.
- If the rate of 5 liter / m2 / minute is considered inadequate and the rate of application is required to be increased, such increased rate must be to the satisfaction of the Administration.
- Steps need to be taken to ensure that the nozzles are not clogged by, the impurities in the water or chips arising out of corrosion of piping, nozzles, valves, air-reservoir and pump.
- The pump must be able to simultaneously supply at the stipulated pressure, all sections of the system in any one compartment to be protected.
- The pump may be driven by an independent internal combustion machinery.
- If, however, the pump is dependent on power being supplied from the emergency generator {installed according to "Chapter II-1, (a) Regulation 42 - Emergency source of electrical power in passenger ships, or, (b) Regulation 43 - Emergency source of electrical power in cargo ships}, the said emergency generator must be able to start automatically, should the main power fail. This will enable the alternative motive power for the pump to be available immediately, in the event of a failure of the main power.
- The independent internal combustion machinery for driving the pump, shall be such that, a fire in the space/spaces, will not affect the air supply to the machinery.
Outline of the system
This system mainly consists of a centrifugal pump, automatic control valves, mist nozzles and control panels.
The water pump draws fresh water from the hull tank and discharges through selected distribution valves to the spray nozzles, which spray mist particles for at least 20 minutes.
The system interlocks with the fire alarm system, and the system is automatically activated when the detector (for both smoke and flame) senses a fire.
It can also be started and stopped from the control panel independently from the fire alarm system.
System is not a fire fighting system for entire machinery spaces, but is a system for initial fire fighting for particular equipment in machinery spaces.
The main fire fighting system must be ready for use when a fire is beyond the control of this system.
Ship s crews are required to be familiar with operation of the fire fighting system for entire machinery spaces as well as this system.
The system interlocks with the fire alarm system, and the system is automatically activated when the detector (for both smoke and flame) senses a fire.
It can also be started and stopped from the control panel independently from the fire alarm system.
System is not a fire fighting system for entire machinery spaces, but is a system for initial fire fighting for particular equipment in machinery spaces.
The main fire fighting system must be ready for use when a fire is beyond the control of this system.
Ship s crews are required to be familiar with operation of the fire fighting system for entire machinery spaces as well as this system.
Specifications
Specifications
A) Water pump
Type : Centrifugal pump
Design rate : 313.3 L/min at 10.5 bar
Motor : 15 kW, 2 poles, 60 Hz,
Drive method : Direct driven type with coupling
B) Distribution valve
Type : Motor driven ball valve
Material of body : Cast stainless steel
C) Pump suction valve
Type : Motor driven ball valve
Material of body : Cast stainless steel
D) Water mist nozzle
Type : Dry type (WN3)
Flow rate : 16.2/19.0 L/min at 8.0/11.0 bar
Material : Stainless steel
E) Level switch for the fresh water tank
Type : Electromagnetic float
Material of float : Stainless steel
F) Control panel (Main control panel & Local control box)
The system can be started and stopped from the main control panel installed outside the machinery room, e.g. in a fire control station, and from local control boxes located near each protected area, which are inside the machinery space and at easily accessible positions in the event of fire.
Type : Centrifugal pump
Design rate : 313.3 L/min at 10.5 bar
Motor : 15 kW, 2 poles, 60 Hz,
Drive method : Direct driven type with coupling
B) Distribution valve
Type : Motor driven ball valve
Material of body : Cast stainless steel
C) Pump suction valve
Type : Motor driven ball valve
Material of body : Cast stainless steel
D) Water mist nozzle
Type : Dry type (WN3)
Flow rate : 16.2/19.0 L/min at 8.0/11.0 bar
Material : Stainless steel
E) Level switch for the fresh water tank
Type : Electromagnetic float
Material of float : Stainless steel
F) Control panel (Main control panel & Local control box)
The system can be started and stopped from the main control panel installed outside the machinery room, e.g. in a fire control station, and from local control boxes located near each protected area, which are inside the machinery space and at easily accessible positions in the event of fire.
Operation
A) Preparation
Even when Hyper-LP system is not in use, the following conditions must be maintained.
1. Sufficient water must be retained in the fresh water tank.
2. Power must be supplied to the operation panels of the Hyper-LP system and to the Starter of the Hyper-LP water pump.
3. The fire alarm system must be in operation.
4. Drain valves and the test valve must be closed.
5. The area around the Hyper-LP water pump must be clear of any obstructions.
B) Interaction with the fire alarm system (Auto activation and manual operation)
Set the System start select switch on the main control panel to AUTO position. Interacted automatic activation with the fire alarm system is only possible in this mode.
START
1. Automatic start
Hyper-LP system will be automatically released into the protected area where fire is detected by the alarm system, and an audible and visible alarm is activated in that protected area.
2. Manual start
Hyper-LP system can be started manually from the control panel whenever needed, independently of the fire alarm system.
STOP
1. After confirming extinction of a fire, the Hyper-LP system can be stopped manually by cancelling the seizing signal from the fire alarm system and pressing the STOP button on the control panel.
2. The Hyper-LP system will automatically shut off after 20 minutes of use.
3. As long as the seizing alarm from the fire alarm system signal is continuously sent, the Hyper-Mist system would be automatically restarted.
C) Manual remote operation without interaction with the fire alarm system
By setting the System start select switch on the control panel to MANUAL position, the Hyper-Mist system can be activated only manually from the control panel.
START
1. Press the start button corresponding to the affected area on the control panel. Water is discharged into the selected protected area.
STOP
1. Press the Stop button on the control panel, and the system stops. Otherwise the system will automatically stop after 20 minutes of use.
Summary of operation:
Fixed local application fire fighting system - do not start except in case of fire
This system can be operated both automatically or manually. When the engine room is unmanned condition, make sure switch to be AUTO position which enables automatic starting function.
To start
1. Manual start
(1) the system works when "SYSTEM START SELECT" switch is on both "AUTO" or "MANUAL" position.
(2) in case of fire, press "SYSTEM START" switch for the relevant protected area.
Make sure that water pump is started and water mist is released with indication lamp on the panel.
2. Automatic start
"SYSTEM START SELECT" Switch to be "AUTO" position. As this system is connected to the local fire alarm control panel, water mist is automatically released with visible and audible alarms when the fire detectors are activated. However and if necessary, press "SYSTEM START" switch for the relevant protected area.
To stop
press "SYSTEM STOP" Switch after confirming that the fire has been extinguished.
Note:
1. Press "SYSTEM START" switch again when restarting the system.
2. When "MANUAL" position is selected, the system cannot be started automatically.
3. Fill fresh water, if it is confirmed that fresh water is lacking to operate system.
4. Relevant ventilations will stop when the system starts.
Recommendation
A) When there is a risk of accidental activation of the system due to reaction of the alarm system with smoke or flame caused by
1. try-engine and air-running operation,
2. removal of indicator card for performance test, or
3. maintenance work such as welding work,
it is recommended that the system start switch be in MANUAL mode as described in above paragraph
C) to avoid automatic activation.
B) In case High expansion foam system is used as the main fire fighting system in the engine room, water mist will collapse foam discharged from the system and reduce the performance of the system. Immediate stopping of the Hyper-Mist system is strongly recommended when the High expansion foam system is activated.
Even when Hyper-LP system is not in use, the following conditions must be maintained.
1. Sufficient water must be retained in the fresh water tank.
2. Power must be supplied to the operation panels of the Hyper-LP system and to the Starter of the Hyper-LP water pump.
3. The fire alarm system must be in operation.
4. Drain valves and the test valve must be closed.
5. The area around the Hyper-LP water pump must be clear of any obstructions.
B) Interaction with the fire alarm system (Auto activation and manual operation)
Set the System start select switch on the main control panel to AUTO position. Interacted automatic activation with the fire alarm system is only possible in this mode.
START
1. Automatic start
Hyper-LP system will be automatically released into the protected area where fire is detected by the alarm system, and an audible and visible alarm is activated in that protected area.
2. Manual start
Hyper-LP system can be started manually from the control panel whenever needed, independently of the fire alarm system.
STOP
1. After confirming extinction of a fire, the Hyper-LP system can be stopped manually by cancelling the seizing signal from the fire alarm system and pressing the STOP button on the control panel.
2. The Hyper-LP system will automatically shut off after 20 minutes of use.
3. As long as the seizing alarm from the fire alarm system signal is continuously sent, the Hyper-Mist system would be automatically restarted.
C) Manual remote operation without interaction with the fire alarm system
By setting the System start select switch on the control panel to MANUAL position, the Hyper-Mist system can be activated only manually from the control panel.
START
1. Press the start button corresponding to the affected area on the control panel. Water is discharged into the selected protected area.
STOP
1. Press the Stop button on the control panel, and the system stops. Otherwise the system will automatically stop after 20 minutes of use.
Summary of operation:
Fixed local application fire fighting system - do not start except in case of fire
This system can be operated both automatically or manually. When the engine room is unmanned condition, make sure switch to be AUTO position which enables automatic starting function.
To start
1. Manual start
(1) the system works when "SYSTEM START SELECT" switch is on both "AUTO" or "MANUAL" position.
(2) in case of fire, press "SYSTEM START" switch for the relevant protected area.
Make sure that water pump is started and water mist is released with indication lamp on the panel.
2. Automatic start
"SYSTEM START SELECT" Switch to be "AUTO" position. As this system is connected to the local fire alarm control panel, water mist is automatically released with visible and audible alarms when the fire detectors are activated. However and if necessary, press "SYSTEM START" switch for the relevant protected area.
To stop
press "SYSTEM STOP" Switch after confirming that the fire has been extinguished.
Note:
1. Press "SYSTEM START" switch again when restarting the system.
2. When "MANUAL" position is selected, the system cannot be started automatically.
3. Fill fresh water, if it is confirmed that fresh water is lacking to operate system.
4. Relevant ventilations will stop when the system starts.
Recommendation
A) When there is a risk of accidental activation of the system due to reaction of the alarm system with smoke or flame caused by
1. try-engine and air-running operation,
2. removal of indicator card for performance test, or
3. maintenance work such as welding work,
it is recommended that the system start switch be in MANUAL mode as described in above paragraph
C) to avoid automatic activation.
B) In case High expansion foam system is used as the main fire fighting system in the engine room, water mist will collapse foam discharged from the system and reduce the performance of the system. Immediate stopping of the Hyper-Mist system is strongly recommended when the High expansion foam system is activated.
Restoration after use
Restore the system after discharging water mist into protected areas following the procedure below;
A) Turn off the power breaker on the main control panel.
B) Open the distributing valve manually in the protected area where water was discharged.
C) Drain remaining water in the pipe line through the drain valve or drain plugs.
D) Blow air through the pipe to remove the water between the distributing valve and mist nozzles completely.
E) Close the drain valve or drain plugs.
F) Set the select switch on the pump starter panel to MANUAL.
G) Open the manual valve for pump suction valve by manual and water discharging test line.
H) Press START on the pump starter panel to activate the pump. Air in the pump must be released at this time.
I) Stop the pump and close the manual valve on the water discharging test line.
J) Turn on the power breaker on the main control panel. The automatic valve will be automatically closed.
K) Make sure that every condition listed in recommendation above is satisfied.
A) Turn off the power breaker on the main control panel.
B) Open the distributing valve manually in the protected area where water was discharged.
C) Drain remaining water in the pipe line through the drain valve or drain plugs.
D) Blow air through the pipe to remove the water between the distributing valve and mist nozzles completely.
E) Close the drain valve or drain plugs.
F) Set the select switch on the pump starter panel to MANUAL.
G) Open the manual valve for pump suction valve by manual and water discharging test line.
H) Press START on the pump starter panel to activate the pump. Air in the pump must be released at this time.
I) Stop the pump and close the manual valve on the water discharging test line.
J) Turn on the power breaker on the main control panel. The automatic valve will be automatically closed.
K) Make sure that every condition listed in recommendation above is satisfied.
Alarms
A) An audible and visual discharge alarm is activated in the protected area, wheel house, and engine control room where Hyper mist is released.
B) A fresh water tank low level alarm (LOW ALARM) is provided on the main control panel. Pay close attention to the water level in the tank to ensure full water supply.
Routine check and maintenance
A) Everyday
1. Make sure sufficient water is available in the fresh water tank.
2. Make sure power is properly supplied to the operation panels and the Starter of the Hyper-LP water pump.
3. When the fire alarm system is interlocked to the Hyper-LP system, make sure that the alarm system is normal condition in monitoring.
4. Make sure the drain valve and the test valve are closed.
5. Keep the area around the Hyper-LP water pump clear of any obstructions which interfere with the operation.
B) Every 6 months
1. Check the operation of the Hyper-LP water pump and discharge water from the test line.
2. Operate the automatic valves in order to prevent sticking. Open the valve manually.
C) Annually
1. Check and clean the strainer of the Hyper-LP water pump suction line.
D) Mist Nozzles
Check and clean the strainers inside the mist nozzles used for discharging water to protected areas after operation.
Also, cleaning the strainers inside all mist nozzles is recommended during maintenance at a dockyard.
1. Make sure sufficient water is available in the fresh water tank.
2. Make sure power is properly supplied to the operation panels and the Starter of the Hyper-LP water pump.
3. When the fire alarm system is interlocked to the Hyper-LP system, make sure that the alarm system is normal condition in monitoring.
4. Make sure the drain valve and the test valve are closed.
5. Keep the area around the Hyper-LP water pump clear of any obstructions which interfere with the operation.
B) Every 6 months
1. Check the operation of the Hyper-LP water pump and discharge water from the test line.
2. Operate the automatic valves in order to prevent sticking. Open the valve manually.
C) Annually
1. Check and clean the strainer of the Hyper-LP water pump suction line.
D) Mist Nozzles
Check and clean the strainers inside the mist nozzles used for discharging water to protected areas after operation.
Also, cleaning the strainers inside all mist nozzles is recommended during maintenance at a dockyard.
Tests are to be carried out
1 ). PRESSURE TIGHT TEST:
Pressure tight test to be carried out if required by class rule requirement. (by the yard).
Caution: Do not apply pressure to the fresh water tank.
2 ). AIR BLOW TEST (to be carried out by shipyard) 5 — 9 bar air pressure to be applied for blowing pipelines. (by the yard) 3 ). SYSTEM OPERATION TEST (Carried out without water pump operation)
Preparation
1. Remove the wiring of the water pump motor in the starter panel.
2. Remove the destruct plate of the "SYSTEM START" switch.
3. Make sure all indication lamps are lighting when push the "LAMP & BZ TEST" switch.
4. Make sure all water is drained from the line between the fresh water tank and the Hyper-LP water pump.
3-1. REMOTE MANUAL OPERATION
1. Push the "SYSTEM START" switch on the main control panel or local control box. (The following condition is to be confirmed.) a. The water pump suction valve is opened with an "OPEN" lamp on the main control panel.
b. The distribution valve is opened.
c. The water pump running with a "RUN" lamp on the main control panel.
d. Indication of the "MIST DISCHARGE" lamp on the main control panel and AMS panel.
e. Sounding of the alarm device in the protected area and AMS panel.
3-2. AUTOMATIC OPERATION Apply the alarm signal from the Fire detecting system and the same confirmation as the above item 3-1 shall be carried out.
4 ). ALARM TEST
4-1. Freshwater tank low level (if applicable) The electric wire of the level switch is by-pass, and the low-level alarm shall be Confirmed on the main control panel and AMS panel.
4-2 Electric source failure The non-fuse breaker is cut off, and the electric source failure alarm shall be confirmed on the AMS panel.
5 ). INTERLOCK TEST 5-1. Ventilation fan stop (if applicable) Push the "SYSTEM START" switch, and the stop of the ventilation fan is confirmed.
6 ). WATER DISCHARGE TEST (from the test piping)
Preparation Check wiring and piping around the water pump. Open the test valve.
Caution: Make sure the distribution valves are not to be opened otherwise water will be discharged into Engine room.
Operate the water Pump and make sure its proper operation and proper water discharge from the test line.
For DNV Class Ship A 30 seconds water mist discharge is to be carried out for at least one section.
7 ). TREATMENT AFTER TEST The line from the fresh water tank through the Hyper-LP water pump to the distribution valve must be filled with fresh water.
Pressure tight test to be carried out if required by class rule requirement. (by the yard).
Caution: Do not apply pressure to the fresh water tank.
2 ). AIR BLOW TEST (to be carried out by shipyard) 5 — 9 bar air pressure to be applied for blowing pipelines. (by the yard) 3 ). SYSTEM OPERATION TEST (Carried out without water pump operation)
Preparation
1. Remove the wiring of the water pump motor in the starter panel.
2. Remove the destruct plate of the "SYSTEM START" switch.
3. Make sure all indication lamps are lighting when push the "LAMP & BZ TEST" switch.
4. Make sure all water is drained from the line between the fresh water tank and the Hyper-LP water pump.
3-1. REMOTE MANUAL OPERATION
1. Push the "SYSTEM START" switch on the main control panel or local control box. (The following condition is to be confirmed.) a. The water pump suction valve is opened with an "OPEN" lamp on the main control panel.
b. The distribution valve is opened.
c. The water pump running with a "RUN" lamp on the main control panel.
d. Indication of the "MIST DISCHARGE" lamp on the main control panel and AMS panel.
e. Sounding of the alarm device in the protected area and AMS panel.
3-2. AUTOMATIC OPERATION Apply the alarm signal from the Fire detecting system and the same confirmation as the above item 3-1 shall be carried out.
4 ). ALARM TEST
4-1. Freshwater tank low level (if applicable) The electric wire of the level switch is by-pass, and the low-level alarm shall be Confirmed on the main control panel and AMS panel.
4-2 Electric source failure The non-fuse breaker is cut off, and the electric source failure alarm shall be confirmed on the AMS panel.
5 ). INTERLOCK TEST 5-1. Ventilation fan stop (if applicable) Push the "SYSTEM START" switch, and the stop of the ventilation fan is confirmed.
6 ). WATER DISCHARGE TEST (from the test piping)
Preparation Check wiring and piping around the water pump. Open the test valve.
Caution: Make sure the distribution valves are not to be opened otherwise water will be discharged into Engine room.
Operate the water Pump and make sure its proper operation and proper water discharge from the test line.
For DNV Class Ship A 30 seconds water mist discharge is to be carried out for at least one section.
7 ). TREATMENT AFTER TEST The line from the fresh water tank through the Hyper-LP water pump to the distribution valve must be filled with fresh water.
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