What is PAFSS? Your Essential Guide to Pneumatically Actuated Fire Suppression Systems
Considering installing an automatic fire suppression system at your commercial premises? Here’s everything you need to know about Pneumatically Actuated Fire Suppression Systems (PAFSS).
In high-risk commercial environments, fire suppression systems play a key role in protecting lives, property and assets. PAFSS, or Pneumatically Actuated Fire Suppression Systems, are an advanced and efficient fire safety solution that can detect fires at the source and automatically extinguish them – instantly and without the need for staff intervention or even electrical power.
What exactly is PAFSS?
PAFSS are advanced, self-activating systems designed to quickly detect and extinguish fires in enclosed spaces. In commercial settings, there are plenty of instances when putting out a fire at the source is the safest course of action, helping minimise damage and saving lost business time. PAFSS was developed for this purpose.
Using a flexible detection tube, the systems provide reliable protection for equipment and property, and they can slow the spread of a localised fire so that staff and visitors have more time to evacuate safely. The systems don’t need human intervention or electricity, so they’re also ideal for unmanned areas.
How Does PAFSS Work?
PAFSS uses pressurised detection tubing which is installed throughout the risk area. When the tubing detects heat or smoke, it ruptures at a “hot spot” and the appropriate extinguishing agent is released and directed at the source of the fire. The main commercial fire alarm system is then automatically notified and an alarm goes off.
There are two types of PAFSS systems:
Direct: the extinguishing agent is released through the tubing and aimed directly at localised fires.
Indirect: the extinguishing agent is released through separate pipework and nozzles, great for combatting fires in larger areas.
The Benefits of PAFSS
PAFSS systems offer peace of mind with their fast, automatic operation and robust design. These are their main benefits:
- Automatic system with no need for electricity, keeping staff safe.
- Fast intervention, preventing the unnecessary spread of fires.
- Flexible tubing for an unlimited number of fire detection points.
- Easy installation on both new and existing equipment.
- Highly reliable with tubing that’s unaffected by dirt, dust or oil.
- System monitoring for remote management and control.
- Top quality components expertly engineered using stainless steel.
Where Can PAFSS Be Used?
Automatic fire suppression systems can be installed in all kinds of places, from public transport to industrial warehouses. Here are some common examples of where they’re most useful:
Electrical Enclosures
Small enclosures like CNC machines and servers are everywhere in factories and warehouses, but if a fault or wiring issue occurs they can pose a fire risk. That’s where fire suppression comes in. Pressurised detection cubes are mounted outside the enclosure with tubing inside. If a fire starts, the tubing bursts and releases an extinguishing agent right at the source, stopping the fire in its tracks.
Material Storage
Fume cupboards and other storage areas can be particularly risky due to their enclosed design and the chemicals they contain. To keep things safe, detection tubing is installed inside, alongside nozzles that release the right extinguishing agent when needed. Pressure gauges keep an eye on the system, triggering the agent release and setting off an alarm if there’s a problem.
Kitchens
Kitchens, especially in restaurants and cafés, are one of the most fire-prone workplaces. That’s why fire suppression tubing is often installed throughout kitchen spaces, ensuring multiple detection points. Nozzles are placed above cooking appliances, and if a fire breaks out, a pressure switch automatically shuts off the gas and electricity. There’s also a manual actuator, so staff can activate the system before it kicks in too.
Workshops and Welding Benches
Welding benches and other workshop areas can be equipped with fire suppression systems to handle any sparks or unexpected flames. The extinguishing agent, either foam, water or gas depending on the type of work being done, offers the best protection for worst case scenario.
Why Choose Midland Fire to Install Your PAFSS?
Midland Fire is an authorised and registered installer of both direct and indirect Jactone PAFSS® systems. That means our team is experienced and specialised in the design, installation and servicing of the systems for businesses of all sizes, across a range of industries. Take a look at our recent PAFSS installation project at Aston University.
Our clients rave about us thanks to our expert personnel, each one a fully qualified fire alarm engineer, as well as the support that you’ll get from us through each stage of your project. We have 25 years of experience, so you know that with Midland Fire, you’re in safe hands.
Looking for Fire Suppression System Installation for Your Business?
Our friendly team is on hand for all your PAFSS needs. We provide a free consultation, in which our experienced engineers will advise you on the best solution for your business. We can then go on to design and install your PAFSS system, providing you with ongoing maintenance and support once the system is in place.
We also offer fire risk assessments and a range of security services, making sure your company is the safest it can possibly be at all times.
At Midland Fire WE PROTECT. Contact us today for your free consultation.
Your Burning Questions Answered
What does PAFSS stand for?
PAFSS stands for Pneumatically Actuated Fire Suppression Systems. They are automatic systems designed to quickly detect and put out fires at the source.
Are PAFSS systems suitable for small businesses?
Yes, they’re highly versatile and can be tailored to businesses of any size. A PAFSS system is a great option for small businesses as they’re compact, easy to install and work automatically.
We already have fire extinguishers, do we need automatic fire suppression?
PAFSS systems detect and put out fires at the source, suppressing them quicker than a person could. The system is fully automated, meaning staff can evacuate the area safe in the knowledge that the fire will be extinguished, and they won’t waste time attempting to extinguish it themselves.
The system also helps avoid injury to personnel. 99% of staff will have never used a manual fire extinguisher previously, meaning they may operate it incorrectly resulting in harm and injury, either from the device or the fire itself.
How often do PAFSS systems need maintenance?
We recommend servicing your PAFSS system bi-annually to ensure it’s performing to the best of its abilities and remains fully compliant with UK fire safety regulations.
