Fire Alarm and Clean Agent System

Design & Engineering

19.02.2016
Rahul Srivastava

Electrical Engineering Department

Contents
1. Typical System Architecture of Fire Alarm System and Clean Agent System
2. Classification of Devices and Application
3. Description of the Fire Alarm System Components
4. System Design
5. Design Procedure of Fire Alarm System
6. Design tools
7. AutoCAD , SPEL and SP3D interfacing

3. Description of the Fire Alarm System Components

Basic components of a fire alarm system

3. Description of the Fire Alarm System Components

[A] Alarm Initiating Devices

Types

Application

3. Description of the Fire Alarm System Components

Heat
Detectors

Automatic Fire Detectors

Application

1. Fixed-Temperature Heat Detectors

1. General Alarm

2. Rate-of-Rise-Compensated Fixed
Temperature Detector

2. Pre-signal

3.Rate-of-Rise Detector
4.Combination Detector
5. Linear Heat Detector
Non Integrated type
Integrated type

1. Typical System Architecture of Fire Alarm System :(1/2)

1. Typical System Architecture of Fire Alarm System :(2/2)

Clean Agent Fire Suppression Systems

1. Introduction
A solution is quick acting, waterless, gas-based systems that provide a first line of defense
against fire.
The typical clean agent system must activate and flood the protected area with a
predetermined concentration of gas within 10 seconds .
Although the percentage of clean agent required varies by system type, the overall design
remains the same.
Since these systems act quickly to extinguish the fire, it is important that the operation
sequence, including alarms and supervisory signals, be coordinated with the overlaying
automatic sprinkler protection.
This is also the reason that the sprinkler contractor is often the first to be involved with these
types of opportunities.
The Standard on Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems is NFPA 2001, which was organized in
1991 to address various clean agents being developed to replace the Halon family of
products.
Halons, which by the early 1980s were used in a wide variety of applications, were discovered
to have a significant damaging effect on the ozone layer. As a result, the 1987 Montreal
Protocol on Ozone Depleting Substances effectively banned the future use of Halon gases
in fire protection.
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Clean Agent Fire Suppression Systems

Several alternatives to Halon were developed, the most popular of which were
hydroflourocarbons, or HFCs. HFC-227, which is marketed today under brand names such as FM200 (Dupont) and Solkaflam 227 (Solvay Fluor).
Effective at fire suppression and, like Halon, does not damage electronics or other protected
assets. While HFCs cause minimal damage to the ozone layer, they unfortunately have a large
global warming potential. Although not banned from use in fire protection, HFCs were identified
by the 1997 Kyoto Protocol on Greenhouse Gas Emissions for their negative environmental
impact.
To address the need for a more environmentally friendly extinguishing agent, 3M pioneered
the flourokeytone, and developed this new clean agent under the brand name NovecTM 1230.
Novec 1230 has proven to be highly effective at fire suppression, has low toxicity, zero ozone
depletion, and minimal global warming potential. 3M is so confident in the environmental
profile of Novec 1230 that they offer a Blue Sky Warranty, which guarantees that the product
will not be banned or restricted due to ozone depletion or global warming potential for a period
of 20 years.
Novec 1230 will not damage electronics and leaves behind no residue, which dramatically
reduces cleanup time and minimizes the downtime of critical IT infrastructure. Novec 1230
works by absorbing heat prior to the generation of a flame, thus interfering with the combustion
process in its earliest stages. A unique feature of Novec 1230 is that it is actually a fluid that
rapidly changes to a gas when discharged from a nozzle.
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Clean Agent Fire Suppression Systems

Manufacturers such as Viking, Tyco, and UTC offer integrated systems to discharge Novec
1230, and other clean agents such as FM-200.
Typical applications for clean agent systems are data centers, server rooms, and IT equipment.

2. Design
Each clean agent fire suppression system is uniquely designed to match the specific needs of the
protected area. This includes considerations for the type of detection, control panels, tank
size/quantity, actuation devices, distribution piping, discharge nozzles, notification devices, and
other components.
i) Nozzle: The type and size of discharge nozzles are determined during the design phase of the
project. The nozzles, which are manufactured with the precise orifice size required for the
system, are UL Listed and FM Approved specifically for clean agent systems.
ii) Piping: Schedule 40 seamless steel pipe is often used for connecting the nozzles to the clean
agent cylinders. The steel piping network is then connected to the tank by a flexible steel hose.
Since discharge pressures can approach 360 720 psi, metallic piping is the material of choice.

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Clean Agent Fire Suppression Systems

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Clean Agent Fire Suppression Systems

iii) Tank: The tank holds the agent under pressure and ready for discharge. The
basic components of clean agent tank assemblies include the cylinder, pressure
gauge and switch, cylinder valve, release device, installation clamp/strap, and
flexible hose connection. A protective halo is typically installed on top of the tank
to protect the tank valve from damage, which could in turn release the clean agent
and cause a safety issue for anyone in proximity. Additionally, tanks must be
securely fastened with the installation clamp to prevent violent movement during
operation.
iv) Actuation: The actuation system can come from a dedicated system with
cross-zoned detection, a fire alarm panel, a pneumatic system, or a plethora of
combinations. A variety of signals are communicated to provide alarms and
shut-down procedures for the protected area. These signals may also be the
initial alarm on the pre-action system. The valve actuator threads onto the
tank valve on top of the cylinder. On multi-tank systems, a typical arrangement
employs an electric release on the master cylinder with a pneumatic releasing
device on all additional cylinders. All tanks will then empty almost
simultaneously.

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Clean Agent Fire Suppression Systems

v) Detection: Heat and flame detectors detect a fire in its earliest stages, while also minimizing
the potential for false activation. Additionally, sophisticated aspirating smoke detection systems
are frequently employed.
vi) Control Panel: Release control panels must be specifically UL Listed and FM Approved for use
with clean agent systems. For maximum flexibility, the panel should be compatible with many
different initiating devices including linear heat detection, smoke and heat detectors, water flow
indicators, low air pressure switches, and manual pull stations, as well as other pneumatic and
electric actuation methods.
vii) Notification Devices: Audible alarms and visual indicators, such as horns and strobe lights,
are typically specified on clean agent systems. This includes pre-discharge alarms that provide
warning of impending system activation. NFPA 2001 also includes specific information on
instruction, safety, and warning signs.

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2. Classification of Devices and Application

Detector Description

Application

[A] HEAT DETECTORS

Fixed temperature, spottype

Enclosed Areas (rooms, closets, etc.), primarily for property protection.

Not considered an early warning device.

Rate of rise, spot-type

Enclosed areas (rooms, closets, etc.); primarily used for property

protection where design goals require more sensitive heat detection and
response to developing fires. Avoid use in areas of fluctuating ambient
temperature. Not considered an early warning device.

Rate compensation

Same as for fixed temperature, spot-type heat detectors. Because of

sealed design, may be used in dusty and moist areas. Spacing ratings are
better due to reduced thermal lag.

Fixed temperature, linetype

Application is similar to spot-type. Used in severe environments, cable

trays, wharf applications, and historic buildings.

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2. Classification of Devices and Application

Detector Description

Application

[B] FLAME DETECTORS

Infrared/Ultraviolet

Special applications such as oil refineries, aircraft hangers, explosion or

special hazard protection. Avoid use in areas where detectors are
exposed to sunlight or welding unless the detector is listed for this
environment. Must have an unobstructed view of the protected area.

[C] SMOKE DETECTORS

Ionization, spot-type

Early warning or life safety. This detector is most efficient when flaming
fires are expected.

Photoelectric, spot-type

Most efficient when smoldering fires are expected or where the smoke
has to travel a distance before reaching the detector (aged smoke).

Photoelectric, beam-type

Used in high ceiling environments such as churches, atriums and

warehouses.

Photoelectric, air samplingtype

Used in high value applications, such as computer rooms; also used air
sampling-type in high airflow areas and some rack storage application
Notification of occupants or others of potentially dangerous conditions,
such as the presence of fuel gases or toxic gases such as carbon
monoxide shall be permitted.
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2. Classification of Devices and Application

Detector Description

Application

[D] CO, GAS AND OTHER FIRE DETECTORS

CO Detectors

Signals from carbon monoxide detectors and carbon monoxide

detection systems transmitted to a fire alarm system shall be permitted
to be supervisory signals.

Gas Detectors

Gas detection equipment shall be listed for detection of the specific gas
or vapor to be encountered.

Other Fire Detectors

Detectors that operate on principles different from those covered by

Sections 17.6 through 17.8 of NFPA 22-2010 shall classify as other fire
detectors. Such detectors shall be installed in all areas where they are
required either by other NFPA codes and standards or by the authority
having jurisdiction.

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3. Description of the Fire Alarm System Components

[A] Alarm Initiating Devices

Manual Fire Alarm Boxes

Types of Manual Fire Alarm Boxes (Stations)

1. Non-coded

(a) Contains a normally open or closed switch that is housed within a distinctive
enclosure. Once actuated, the box must be reset to restore the unit to normal.
(b) Contact and circuit arrangements may very to provide a number of functions
simultaneously.

2. Coded

(a) Contains a mechanically or electrically driven motor, or an electronic pulse

generator. When activated, the motor turns a code wheel causing contacts to
momentarily open or close or the pulse generator operates to reproduce the code of
the box. The box is required to repeat its code a minimum of three times.
(b) Contact and circuit arrangements many very to provide a number of functions
simultaneously.

3. Break-glass

To initiate an alarm, one must first break glass or some other element. The purpose is
to identify which box was operated and to discourage tampering with the box when
there is no fire to report.

4. Non-Break-glass

A manual fire alarm box that does not have a break-glass feature.

5. Single Action

A single action of breaking a glass or other frangible element or pulling a leaver or

other movable part initiates an alarm.

6. Double Action

Two actions are necessary to initiate an alarm. Either break a glass to open a door or
lift a cover to gain access to a switch or lever to initiate an alarm.
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3. Description of the Fire Alarm System Components

Manual fire alarm boxes may be used for the following types of systems:
1. General Alarm When activated, the fire alarm evacuation signals sound immediately throughout the
premises.
2. Pre-signal

Addressable
Module

Initial fire alarm signals only sound at designated areas. The subsequent actuation of a
key switch on the box (or control panel) causes an evacuation signal to sound throughout
the premises.
Initial
Pre-Actuator

Break Glass Unit

Actuator

Break-glass Fire Alarm Box

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3. Description of the Fire Alarm System Components

[B] Automatic Fire Detectors

1. Heat Detectors
Used where speed of operation is not required.
Used where other types cannot be used.
Less sensitive.
The oldest type of automatic fire detection device.
Exhibit the lowest false alarm rate of all automatic fire detector devices.
Combination of Fixed Temp & Rate of Rise Heat Detectors are available.

a. Fixed-Temperature Heat Detectors:

These detectors initiate an alarm when the detecting element reaches a predetermined fixed temperature.
Because of inherent thermal lag, when the detector actually operates, the temperature of the air
surrounding the detector has always extended considerably higher then the set point of the detector.
One form of a spot-type fixed temperature detector uses a fusible element made from a eutectic metal alloy
that melts rapidly at a predetermined temperature (commonly 135F). Automatic sprinklers, fire dampers
and door fusible links commonly use a similar material. The operation of the detector destroys either the
entire unit (or at least the operating element) which the person who maintains the system must replace.
Another form of spot-type fixed-temperature heat detector uses a bimetallic element. After operating, the
bimetallic type automatically restores when the temperature falls to a point below the set point of the
detector.
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3. Description of the Fire Alarm System Components

[B] Automatic Fire Detectors

b. Rate-of-Rise-Compensated Fixed Temperature Detector :

In a slowly developing fire, this form of detector responds when the temperature of the air surrounding the
detector reaches a predetermined level. In a rapidly developing fire, the detector anticipates the air
temperature reaching the operating point, and accelerates the operation of the detector. This produces a
fixed temperature detector with virtually no thermal lag.

c. Rate-of-Rise Detector:
A rate-of-rise detector will operate when the rate of temperature increases from a fire exceeds a
predetermined level, typically around 5F in twenty seconds or 15F per minute. Small, normal changes
in ambient temperature that can be expected under non-fire conditions will not operate the detector. These
detectors are available as both line-type or spot-type detectors, and are restorable.
Shall be used in stable but dusty environments, example garages, battery room.
Shall not be used where sudden rise is expected, Example kitchen.

d. Combination Detector:
Detectors can contain more then one element to respond to a fire. Examples include a combination rate-ofrise and fixed-temperature heat detector, or a combination of a smoke detector and a heat detector.

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3. Description of the Fire Alarm System Components

[B] Automatic Fire Detectors

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3. Description of the Fire Alarm System Components

[B] Automatic Fire Detectors

e. Linear Heat Detector:

For some applications, the use of a linear heat detector is an option to consider. These may be installed in
head to reach areas, or areas that are subject to high heat. The detector is contained within a cable which
when exposed to heat that is greater than its rating, will short circuit, causing an alarm.
Non Integrated type
2 current-carrying wires held separated by heat-sensitive insulation of a fixed melting point.
Used to provide rapid localized detection of abnormal temperature rises.
Used for overloaded or short-circuited high voltage power wiring.
Integrated type
Electrical Insulation is Temperature dependent.
Actuators
Protective Tape

Heat Sensitive
Material

Outer Insulation
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3. Description of the Fire Alarm System Components

[B] Automatic Fire Detectors

2. Smoke Detectors
The result of full-scale fire tests, using typical fires in family living units, have shown that detectable
quantities of smoke precede detectable levels of heat in nearly all cases. Thus fire alarm system designers
use smoke detectors more extensively today. The common operating characteristics of smoke detectors
include the ionization spot-type smoke detector, the photoelectric spot-type smoke detector, liner beamtype smoke detector, the air-sampling smoke detector and the duct-type smoke detector.

a. Ionization Smoke Detector:

An ionization smoke detector has a small
amount of radioactive material that ionizes
the air in the sensing chamber, thus rendering
it conductive and permitting a current flow
through the air between two charged
electrodes. When smoke particles enter the
chamber, they attach themselves to the
ionized air molecules and decrease the
conductivity between the electrodes. This
decrease in conductivity can be measured by
an electronic circuit that initiates a fire alarm
signal when the reduction in conductivity
reaches a pre-set threshold.
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3. Description of the Fire Alarm System Components

[B] Automatic Fire Detectors

b. Photoelectric Light-Scattering Smoke Detector:

In a photoelectric light-scattering smoke detector, a light source and a photosensitive sensor are arranged so
that the rays from the light source do not normally fall on the photosensitive sensor. When smoke particles
enter the light path, some of the light is scattered by reflection and refraction onto the sensor, causing the
detector to initiate a fire alarm signal.
Works with light scattering principle
Contains light and photosensitive sensor
During normal operation - light does not fall on sensor
Smoke in chamber causes light to reflect onto the photoelectric-eye,
causing an alarm condition
Very effective for large Particles of smoke, not for small particles of smoke
Sensing Chamber

Light
Emitting
Diode

Photo
Diode
Partition
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3. Description of the Fire Alarm System Components

[B] Automatic Fire Detectors

c. Photoelectric Linear Projected Beam Smoke Detector:

In a photoelectric linear projected beam smoke detector, a light source and a photosensitive sensor are
arranged across a protected space so that the rays from the light source normally fall on the photosensitive
sensor. When the smoke particles enter the light path, the intensity of the light is reduced, causing the
detector to initiate a fire alarm.

Transmitter, Receiver and Control

Unit.

Transmitter/Receiver(Transceiver), A
Motorized Optical Beam
reflector and an Integrated Control Unit. Smoke Detector Technology

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3. Description of the Fire Alarm System Components

[B] Automatic Fire Detectors

End to End Beam Detector

Reflector Type Beam Detector

Requires more of Control wiring and

installation costs, as Control unit is
near the Receiver.

Requires less of Control wiring and

installation costs, as Control unit is
near the Transceiver.
Does not need to be aligned as
accurately as End to End.

Less susceptible to stray reflections.

Vulnerable to stray reflections.

More Compact.

Less Compact.

Salient Features of Linear Beam Detector

Fire alarm is activated when the signal strength is reduced to between 40 90 % for a
period of 5 seconds.
If the transmitted signal is reduced by 90% for more than 1 sec (event of power failure),
fault alarm is generated.
Shall be mounted above man/obstruction level
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3. Description of the Fire Alarm System Components

[B] Automatic Fire Detectors

d. Air-sampling Smoke Detector:

In an air-sampling smoke detector, a system of tubing and sampling ports draws a sample of air from a
protected space into a detection unit. When smoke particles in the air sample enter a detection chamber,
the presence of the particles causes the detector to initiate a fire alarm signal.
Step 1 : Like a vacuum cleaner, sucks air from the protected
environment via aspirating pipe by a PUMP.
Step 2 : Samples the quality of air passing through the
VESDA detection laser chamber.
100 times more sensitive than the point / line type.
Used where high smoke sensitivity is required.
Used in area where there is high air flow, such as computer
rooms, Telecoms.
Used in historic buildings where point / line type would look
out of place.

NOTE : VESDA is a type of Aspirating type Detector, which has laser

based detection technology of XTRALIS make.
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3. Description of the Fire Alarm System Components

[B] Automatic Fire Detectors

e. Air Duct-type Smoke Detector:

Detects smoke for the primary purpose of controlling the propagation of smoke through the heating,
ventilation and air conditioning system (HVAC). This helps prevent possible panic and damage from
distribution of smoke and gaseous products. These detectors only detect smoke when smoke is circulation in
the duct. They sample a small amount of great volumes of air from large areas of coverage. Air duct smoke
detectors are not a substitute for:
Area smoke detection
Early warning
A buildings regular fire detection system
Shall be used where standard heat/smoke/flame detector
cannot be used.
Used in extract ventilation duct system.

Does not have a PUMP.

Works on Venturi Effect that has probes/pipes that extend into

the duct to sample the air inside the duct.

Air Duct-type Smoke Detector

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3. Description of the Fire Alarm System Components

[C] Notification Appliances

NFPA 72-2010, Chapter 18 requires that audible appliances provide a minimum sound pressure level of
15dBA above the ambient noise level or 5dBA above a maximum sound level lasting for at least 60 seconds,
whichever is greater. In addition the Life Safety Code 2010 edition and the Americans with Disabilities Act
(ADA) requires that visible appliances be installed to assist in the alarm notification of the hearing impaired.
Strobes must be placed in accordance with NFTA 72-2010, Chapter 4 requirements to ensure proper
coverage while avoiding excessive flash rates that may trigger a seizure with photosensitive epileptic prone
individuals.
NFPA 72 also requires that all audible evacuation signals conform to the American National Standard
Evacuation Signal, ANSI S3.41. This temporal code 3 signal must be synchronized within a notification zone.
The temporal three code is only to be used when total evacuation of a building is to occur.

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3. Description of the Fire Alarm System Components

[C] Notification Appliances

a. Bells:

Bells may be used for fire alarm signals where their sound is distinctive and will not be
confused with similar audible signals used for other purposes. Bells are normally
operated by 12 or 24 volts DC (direct current) and may be of the single-stroke or vibration
type connected in parallel.
Bells may be provided with 4-inch through 12-inch gongs (in 2-inch increments). The 6and 10-inch sizes are the most commonly used. Usually, bells with 4-inch gongs are
reserved for use as trouble signals. Generally, the larger the diameter of the gongs the
lower the frequency and the louder the audible signal (expressed in terms of decibels
[dB]).

b. Horns

Horns are provided for applications that require louder or more distinctive signals, or both. Horns may be
operated by either alternate or direct current and may be connected in series or parallel. Care should be
exercised to see that circuits are electrically compatible when powering both types of appliances. Horns that
are manufactured today are generally 12 or 24 VDC.
Horns are usually of the continuous vibrating or electronic type and may be used to provide either coded of
non-coded audible alarm signals. They may be of the surface, flush, semi-flush, single projector, double
projector, or trumpet type.
In very noisy areas, resonating, air-powered or motor-driven horns are sometimes used because of their
inherently higher decibel output. NFPA 72 stipulates that the sound pressure from a notification appliance
may not exceed 110 dBA.
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3. Description of the Fire Alarm System Components

[C] Notification Appliances

c. Speakers:

Speakers are frequently used as fire alarm signaling appliances. Since they reproduce
electronic signals, they can be made to sound like any mechanical signaling device and
have the capability of reproducing unique sounds that are not practical on mechanical
appliances. In addition, they may be used to give live or recorded voice instructions.
Speakers are either direct radiating cone type, or of the compression driver and horn
type.
Speakers are generally operated from audio amplifiers delivering standard output line
levels of 70.7 or 25 volt AC rms. The speakers are driven by an electronic tone generator,
microphone, or voice synthesizer and an electronic amplifier. Two types are in wide use:
Integral that type in which the tone generator amplifier, and speaker are enclosed in a
common housing.
Remote that type in which the speaker is energized from a remotely located tone
generator, microphone and/or voice
synthesizer and amplifier.

d. Sirens:
Sirens usually are limited to outdoor applications but are sometimes used in
extremely noisy indoor areas. Sirens are motor-driven or electronic appliances and
may be either alternating or direct current operated. They are not very practical for
use as coded audible signals.
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3. Description of the Fire Alarm System Components

[C] Notification Appliances

e. Strobes :

Strobe lights operate on the energy discharge principle to produce a high intensity flash of
short duration. These lights are very efficient. The short bright flash is not only attention
getting but is effective when general visibility is low. Strobe appliances come in a wide range
of light intensities and operating voltages. Repetition rates are not allowed to exceed two
flashes per second nor less the one flash every second throughout the listed voltage range
of the appliance.

f. Combination units:

The audible and visible functions can be combined in one unit to produce both sound and light from a single
appliance. For example, the sounder can be a horn, bell, or speaker. The light is required to be a strobe with
specific characteristics as described in Chapter 18 of the 2010 National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code.
Advantages of the combined signals are:
The visible signal localizes the particular audible alarm appliance that is operating.
The visible signal produces a recognizable alarm when an ambient noise level may affect the audible signal.
Persons having impaired hearing can see the visible portion of the alarm signals.
The combined signals are available in all voltages up to line voltage. Twenty-four volt dc units are the most
prevalent. Polarized versions facilitate line monitoring. Two or four-wire connected types permit application
of either a common or separate power supply.
Combination appliances are not required at every location throughout a building. Fire alarm system
designers normally (following the requirements in Chapter 18 of NFPA 72-2010) will design the visible
appliance layout first and then design the audible appliance layout. Then wherever both audible and visible
appliances are in the same general location, those units would be specified as combination units.
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3. Description of the Fire Alarm System Components

[C] Notification Appliances

Horn/Strobe

Speaker/Strobe

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Chime/Strobe

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System Design

SCOPE
Fire Alarm Plan shall depict the following major details:
Location of Central Fire Alarm Control Panel, MIMIC / HMI display.
Location of Local Fire Alarm Panel.
Location of Smoke Detectors, Heat Detectors (including below false floor & above false
ceiling), Linear Beam Detectors, Manual call points inside every building.
Location of Horn, Strobe inside every building.
Location of Manual Call Points and Horn, Strobe, Siren in plant and Utility areas.
Location of Linear Heat Sensing Cable.
Cable type details and routing in each building, plant & utility areas.
Location of Junction boxes.
Loop diagram for each loop.
Typical installation details of detectors, manual call points, horn, strobe, linear heat sensing
cable, junction box etc.
Relevant Notes & Legends shall be included.
Note:
In case, Clean Agent System Panel is combined with local Fire Alarm Panel as per ITB / project
requirement, all clean agent system panel devices e.g. pre-discharge lamp, discharge lamp,
manual release station, abort switch, solenoid valve etc. shall also be shown in Fire Alarm Plan.

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System Design

3. REFERENCES
Following references shall be used while preparing the Fire Alarm Plan:
ITB
Electrical Design Basis
Job Specifications
Plot Plan with sections
General Notes & Legends
Typical Installation Standards
Civil/ Architectural & Structural drawings of all buildings
Hazardous Area Classification Drawings
Fire Fighting Block Diagram
Fire & Gas Block Diagram
Cause & Effect Diagram
Recommended National and International Codes and Standards
BP / LL / COPQ of past project
Related Drawings issued from Electrical and other department such as Plot Plan, Building
Drawing etc.

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System Design

INSTRUCTIONS
5.1 Requirement for preparing Fire Alarm Plan
a) Fire Alarm Plan shall be prepared based on latest Plot Plan drawings only.
b) Fire Alarm Plan for buildings shall be as per latest Civil / Architectural drawings.
c) HVAC air change data required to calculate indoor detectors quantity.
d) Fire Fighting Block Diagram
e) Fire & Gas Block Diagram
f) Fire Alarm Detection System calculation based on NFPA/ local regulation.
5.2 Key Activities
a) Detectors and MCPs shall be located based on guidelines of NFPA / Local regulation
requirement.
b) Block Diagram for Fire Alarm System shall be prepared based on Fire Fighting Block
Diagram / Fire & Gas Block Diagram / Fire Alarm Calculation / NFPA / Local regulation /
ITB requirement.
c) Fire Alarm Plan shall be prepared in co-ordination / interface with other systems such as
i. F&G (Instrumentation)
ii. HVAC (Piping)
iii. Fire Fighting e.g. Clean Agent System (Piping)
iv. PAGA (Electrical)
v. Lighting (Electrical)
d) Fire Alarm detector shall be located keeping in view the spacing between detectors/
clearance from wall & HVAC duct etc.
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System Design

d) Fire Alarm detector shall be located keeping in view the spacing between detectors/
clearance from wall & HVAC duct etc.
e) Fire Alarm cable route for outdoor shall follow Electrical/ Instrument cable routes as far as
possible or as specified in ITB.
f) Connection of Fire Alarm devices shall be as per Star / Ring topology and necessary JBs
etc. shall be properly located.
g) Field equipment to be installed in classified hazardous area shall have appropriate Ex
protection as per Hazardous Area Classification.
h) The fire detection system in process, storage and utilities area consists of the following:
i. Alarm Push Buttons (Manual Call Points / Break Glass Units)
ii. Linear Heat Sensing Cable for Floating Roof (where ever applicable as per ITB).
i) Fire Alarm in the Plant consists of visual alarm (red flashing light) and audible alarm located
near Alarm Push Buttons.
j) Fire detection system in the buildings consists of the following:
i. Smoke Detectors.
ii. Heat Detectors.
iii. Alarm Push Buttons (Manual Call Points / Break Glass Units).
iv. Heat Sensitive Cable.
v. Linear Beam Detectors.
k) Fire Alarm Plan in the buildings shall cover optical/ acoustical alarm (horn / beacon) located
outside the building near the main entrance and inside the building in the corridor/ main
entrance or in appropriate location as per relevant standard.
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Installation Details
5 ft (1.5 m)

Alarm Notification Devices

Manual Fire Alarm Boxes (Stations)

NFPA-72
(2013) Clause

Explanation

17.14.1

Manually actuated alarm-initiating devices for initiating signals other than for fire alarm shall
be permitted if the devices are differentiated from manual for fire alarm boxes by a color
other than red and labeling.

17.14.5

The operable part of a manually actuated alarm initiating device shall be not less than 42 in.
(1.07 m) and not more than 48 in. (1.22 m) from the finished floor.

17.14.6

Manually actuated alarm-initiating devices shall be permitted to be single action or double

action.
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Installation Details

Manual Fire Alarm Boxes

(Stations)

NFPA-72
(2013) Clause

Explanation

17.14.8.1

Manual fire alarm boxes shall be used only for fire alarm initiating purposes.

17.14.8.2

Manual fire alarm boxes shall be installed so that they are conspicuous, unobstructed, and
accessible.

17.14.8.3

Unless installed in an environment that precludes the use of red paint or red plastic, manual
fire alarm boxes shall be red in color.

17.14.8.4

Manual fire alarm boxes shall be located within 5 ft (1.5 m) of each exit doorway on each
floor.

17.14.8.5

Additional manual fire alarm boxes shall be provided so that the travel distance to the nearest
manual fire alarm box will not exceed 200 ft (61 m), measured horizontally on the same floor.

17.14.8.6

Manual fire alarm boxes shall be mounted on both sides of grouped openings over 40 ft (12.2
m) in width, and within 5 ft (1.5 m) of each side of the grouped opening.

39

Installation Details (Initiating Devices)

NFPA-72
(2013) Clause

Explanation

17.4.7

Where smoke detectors are installed in concealed locations more than 10 ft (3.0 m) above the
finished floor or in arrangements where the detectors alarm or supervisory indicator is not
visible to responding personnel, the detectors shall be provided with remote alarm or
supervisory indication in a location acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction.

17.4.8

If a remote alarm indicator is provided for an automatic fire detector in a concealed location,
the location of the detector and the area protected by the detector shall be prominently
indicated at the remote alarm indicator by a permanently attached placard or by other
approved means.

17.4.9

Where required by 17.4.7 and unless the specific detector alarm or supervisory signal is
indicated at the control unit (and on the drawings with its specific location and functions),
remote alarm or supervisory indicators shall be installed in an accessible location and shall be
clearly labeled to indicate both their function and any device or equipment associated with
each detector.

40

Installation Details

For areas where people are sleeping, sounder devices should produce a minimum 75dB(A) at
the bed-head with all doors shut. In buildings likely to provide sleeping accommodation for the
hearing impaired, consideration should be given to the incorporation of both audio and visual
devices.

41

Types of CI Cable
CIC - Requires Strict Compliance to the Installation Criteria for the CIC Electrical Circuit
Protective Systems.
CI Follow NEC 760 applicable criteria for Power-Limited Fire Alarm Circuits.

42

Panel Distribution and Configuration

43

References
Document Number

Document Title

NFPA 72 (2013 Edition)

National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code

NFPA 2001 (2012 Edition)

Standard on Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems

SEI-HC-EL-C015

QCP Check List for Fire alarm

SEI-HC-EL-C027

QCP Check List for Block Diagram of Fire alarm System

SEI-HC-EL-F014

MTO-Fire Alarm System (NF)

SEI-HC-EL-W009

Work Instruction for Fire Alarm Plan

SSD0023EEC

IND Engineering Specification for Fire Alarm System

44

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