Pre-Engineered Vs Engineered Fire Extinguishing Systems – The AST Guide 

Fire extinguishing systems are vital in safeguarding property and lives in the event of a fire. According to the South African Insurance Association, fire-related losses in South Africa amount to billions of Rands each year. It is, therefore, imperative that businesses invest in the right fire protection system to mitigate the risk of fire damage.

Fire extinguishing systems are an essential component of any fire protection strategy, and there are two primary types: engineered and pre-engineered systems. 

While both types share the same objective of extinguishing fires, they differ in their design, installation, and level of customisation.

Pre-Engineered Fire Extinguishing Systems

Pre-engineered fire extinguishing systems are designed for applications where the fire risks are predictable and the fire hazards are generally constant. These systems are pre-designed, pre-packaged, and typically include a set of standard components that are manufactured offsite and assembled on site.

Pre-engineered systems are typically used in smaller commercial and industrial applications, such as restaurants, retail stores, and small data centres. They are generally less expensive than engineered systems and can be installed more quickly since they require less customisation.

An example of this system is Alien Systems and Technologies’ (AST) Pyrostorm – Industrial Impulse Dry Powder Fire Extinguishing System. This is a modular type fire extinguishing unit that is designed for industrial applications. Pyrostorm is a suitable solution for various applications Including: mining applications, heavy plant and industry winding gear, hydraulic oil packs, transformers, oil galleries and pump rooms, rail/ metro systems.

Engineered Fire Extinguishing Systems

Engineered fire extinguishing systems, on the other hand, are designed to meet the specific needs and requirements of a particular application. These systems are custom designed to address the unique hazards of the building or facility and can include a variety of components, such as detectors, alarms, and suppression agents.

Engineered systems are typically used in larger, more complex applications, such as manufacturing plants, power generation facilities, and data centres. They require a higher level of engineering expertise and can take longer to install due to their custom nature.

Pyroshield Inert Gaseous Clean Agent Total Flooding System is an engineered fire extinguishing system offered at AST. Pyroshield is a gaseous fire extinguishing solution that is environmentally friendly and has no adverse effects against human and equipment. It is the ideal solution for to protect; UPS rooms, Archive rooms, Tape stores, Substations and switchgear, sub floors, vaults, process equipment or any other sensitive normally occupied or unoccupied area.

Which Type of System is Right for Your Facility?

When it comes to selecting a fire extinguishing system, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The type of system that is best for your facility will depend on a variety of factors, including the size of the building, the nature of the hazards, and the specific requirements of local building codes and regulations.

Pre-engineered systems are generally a good fit for small to medium-sized facilities where fire hazards are predictable and relatively constant. They are also a good option for facilities where cost and speed of installation are primary concerns.

Engineered systems are better suited for larger, more complex facilities that have unique fire hazards or require a higher degree of customisation. They are also the best option for facilities where life safety is a top priority, such as hospitals and nursing homes.

How Can AST Help?

Investing in the right fire protection system is critical in mitigating the risk of fire damage and safeguarding the lives of occupants in the event of a fire. Selecting the right fire extinguishing system for your facility is an important decision that requires careful consideration, taking into account several factors including the size of the building, the nature of the hazards, and the specific requirements of local building codes and regulations.

A fire protection solutions provider can help you evaluate your needs and recommend the most appropriate system to help ensure the safety of your facility and its occupants. Contact our team of experts to evaluate your needs and recommend the most appropriate fire suppression system for your facility.