Frequently Asked Questions

There are 4 commonly used inert gases and mixtures used in gas suppression systems; 

IG-55 (50% Argon, 50% Nitrogen)

IG-541 (50 Argon, 42% Nitrogen, 8% CO2)

IG-100 (100% Nitrogen)

IG-01 (100% Argon)

Each has it's own advantages. 

Inergen is a trade name for an IG-541 gas suppression system which compromising 50% Argon, 42% Nitrogen and 8% CO2

Argonite is a trade name for an IG-55 gas suppression system which compromising 50% Argon and 50% Nitrogen.

Each fire suppression system has it's own advantages and disadvantages and the same goes for gaseous fire suppression systems. Check out our comparison table to find out more.  

Inert gas suppression systems work by flooding the protected area with enough gas to temporarily deplete the oxygen level and where the composition of the resulting mixture is safe for human occupancy but combustion of the protected material is not sustainable. 

The enclosure is also tested to ensure that the mixture is retained for an additional 10 minutes after discharge to prevent re-ignition.

There are 2 commonly used chemical / synthetic gases used in fire suppression systems in the UK: 

FK-5-1-12 (Novec 1230) 

HFC-227ea (FM-200)

Due to environmental restrictions, HFC-227ea is becoming less popular in new systems. 

Novec 1230 is a trade name for FK-5-1-12 extinguishing fluid manufactured by 3M.

FM-200 is a trade name for HFC-227ea extinguishing fluid manufactured by DuPont.