Comparison of Water, Gas, and Powder Fire Suppression Systems

The choice of an automatic fire suppression system depends on the characteristics of the premises, the presence of people and equipment, and the fire hazard classification. The most commonly used types are water-based, gas-based, and powder-based systems. Below is an overview of their features and application recommendations.

Water-Based Fire Suppression

These systems use water delivered through sprinkler or deluge heads. Activation occurs automatically when fire indicators such as heat or smoke are detected.

Advantages:

• Highly effective for fires involving solid combustible materials;
• Water is widely available and inexpensive;
• Simple operation and maintenance.

Disadvantages:

• Not suitable for extinguishing live electrical equipment;
• Water can damage electronics, documents, and interior finishes;
• In cold environments, pipes require frost protection.

Recommended for: offices, warehouses, public areas. Not suitable for rooms with sensitive electronics or archival materials.

Gas-Based Fire Suppression

These systems deploy inert or chemical gases to suppress fires by reducing oxygen concentration or interrupting the chemical reaction of combustion.

Advantages:

• Leaves no moisture or residue after discharge;
• Safe for use with electrical and electronic equipment;
• Rapid and uniform fire suppression when deployed correctly.

Disadvantages:

• High installation and maintenance costs;
• Requires airtight enclosures for effectiveness;
• Some gases may be hazardous to personnel in the event of leaks or insufficient ventilation.

Recommended for: server rooms, bank vaults, laboratories, museums, and other environments with moisture-sensitive assets.

Powder-Based Fire Suppression

These systems discharge a fine dry chemical powder that suppresses fire by cutting off the oxygen supply to the flames.

Advantages:

• Effective for various fire classes, including electrical fires;
• Operates reliably in extreme temperatures;
• Fast response time.

Disadvantages:

• Significant contamination of the protected area;
• Requires thorough cleaning after activation;
• Can irritate respiratory systems during discharge.

Recommended for: industrial sites, auto repair shops, warehouses, and technical facilities.

Recommendations

For areas with sensitive equipment and high-value property—such as data centers, museums, and commercial offices—gas-based systems are preferable. Water-based systems are suitable for general-purpose buildings where equipment is not moisture-sensitive. Powder systems are best for industrial zones where quick fire knockdown is critical and surface contamination is acceptable.

The final selection should be based on a comprehensive fire risk assessment and comply with applicable regulations such as Federal Law No. 123-FZ, SP 5.13130.2009, SP 486.1311500.2020, and other current standards.

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