Argotec Extinguishing System: Design Manual

ARGOTEC® EXTINGUISHING SYSTEM
DESIGN MANUAL
99-0500-03
Minimax GmbH
Copy Number: Holder:
UL File EX5248
Minimax GmbH 99-0500-03/30.10.03 Page1

CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION 8
1.1. Foreword 8
1.2. Applicable Standards 9
2. DEFINITIONS 10-11
3. ARGON TECHNICAL DATA 12
3.1. Introduction 12
3.2. Argon Data 12
3.3. Argon IG-01 Specification 12
3.4. Availability of Argon 13
4. PERSONNEL SAFETY 14
4.1. General 14
4.2. Hazard Due to Reduced Oxygen 14
4.3. Exposure to Fire 15
4.4. Hazards During Discharge 15
4.5. NOEL and LOEL 15
Graph 1. Argon/Oxygen Comparison concentration Levels 16
5. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS 17
5.1. Safety Warning Signs, Alarms and Controls 17
5.2. Audible and Visual Alarms 17
5.3. Warning Sign - Manual Release 18
5.4. Warning Sign - Entrances 18
5.5. System Isolation for Maintenance 18
5.6. Discharge Prevention Device and Isolation 18
Fig. 1 Safety Sign - less than 60 seconds evacuation 19
Fig. 2 Safety Sign - over 60 seconds evacuation 20
Fig. 3 Safety Sign - isolate valve closed 21
5.7. Change in Protected Area Volume 22
5.8. Leakage of Argon into Adjacent Areas 22
5.9. Other Safety Considerations 22
5.10. Ventilation After Discharge 23
5.11. Electrostatic Discharge. 23
6. SYSTEM DESIGN PHILOSOPHY 24
6.1. General 24
6.2. Fire Extinguishing with Argon 24
6.3. Limitations of Use 24
6.4. Minimum Design Concentration 25
6.5. Unusual Risks 25
6.6. System Discharges into Non Fire Areas 25
6.7. Information Relating to the Protected Area 26
6.8. Minimum Data Required 26
6.9. System Design Considerations 27
6.10. Detection and Control Systems 28

CONTENTS
7. SYSTEM CONFIGURATION 29
7.1. General 29
7.2. Cylinder Bank 29
7.3. Cylinder Racking 29
7.4. Manifolds 29
7.5. Pressure Reducer 29
7.6. Pilot Cylinder Actuator 29
7.7. Cascade Delay Unit 30
7.8. Pressure Operated Devices 30
7.9. Nozzles 30
7.10. Data Sheet for System Components 30-31
Data sheets
8. DESIGN CALCULATIONS 32
8.1. Argon Quantity Calculation 32
8.2. Argon Concentration Check 32
8.3. Alternative Quick Calculation 33
8.4. Example Calculation 34
8.5. Interconnected Volumes 35
8.6. Uncloseable Openings 35
8.7. Forced Ventilation 36
8.8. Altitude Adjustment 36
8.9. Requirements for Deep Seated Fires 37
8.10. Selection of Cylinders 37
8.11. Discharge Times 38
8.12. Computer Calculation 39
9. NOZZLE SELECTION 40
9.1. Area of Coverage 40
9.2. Floor and Ceiling Voids 40
9.3. Quantity of Nozzles 40
Graph 2 Nozzle Determination 42
9.4. Pressure Relief Calculation 43-45
Graph 3 Pressure Relief Calculation to Determine Flow Factor 46
Graph 4 Argon Pressure / Temperature Graph 47
10. PIPEWORK AND FITTINGS 48
10.1. General 48
10.2. Flanges 48
10.3. Fittings 48
10.4. Pipe Layout within Protected Area 52
Drawing 1 Pipe Isometric Diagram 53
10.5. Pipe Size Calculation 54
Graph 5-12 Pipe Sizing Graphs 55-62
10.6 Equivalent Length of Pipe Fittings 64

CONTENTS
11. REFERENCE DOCUMENTATION 65
VdS Certificates
Institute of Hygiene
12. INSTALLATION OF PIPEWORK 66
13. SAMPLE PROBLEM 67-76

TABLE INDEX
TABLE 1 Relative Hazards to People from Reduced Levels of Oxygen 14
TABLE 2 NOEL and LOEL Values 15
TABLE 3 Minimum Requirements for Occupied Spaces 22
TABLE 4 Flooding Factors 33
TABLE 5 Argotec® Design Concentrations 34
TABLE 6 Argon Design Concentrations for Gases and Liquids 35
TABLE 7 Altitude Correction Factors 37
TABLE 8 Selection of Cylinders 37
TABLE 9 Minimum Pipe Wall Thickness/Schedule

Upstream of Pressure Reducer/Isolation Valve Screwed Fittings 160 bar 49
Upstream of Pressure Reducer/Isolation Valve Screwed Fittings 200 bar 50
Downstream of Pressure Reducer/Isolation Valve Screwed Fittings 51
TABLE 12 Electrical Safety Clearances 63
TABLE 13 Selector Valve Equivalent Lengths 63
TABLE 14 Equivalent Length of Pipe Fittings 64

FIGURE INDEX
FIGURE 1 Safety Sign - less than 60 seconds evacuation 19
FIGURE 2 Safety Sign - over 60 seconds evacuation 20
FIGURE 3 Safety Sign - isolate valve closed 21
FIGURE 4 Nozzle location limitation 43

GRAPH INDEX
GRAPH 1 Argon/Oxygen Comparison Concentration Levels 16
GRAPH 2 Nozzle Determination 42
GRAPH 3 Pressure Relief Calculation to Determine Flow Factor 46
GRAPH 4 Argon Cylinder Pressure / Temperature 47
GRAPH 5-12 Pipe Sizing Graphs 55-62

1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 Foreword
Argotec® Extinguishing Systems using Argon gas, internationally known as extinguishant IG-
01, are manufactured by Minimax GmbH.
The manual is to be used by qualified and trained personnel who design, install and maintain
the company's Argotec® systems and as a guide in the effective application of such systems.
The importance of proper design cannot be over stressed, as design concentrations, application
rates, pressure venting and agent retention must be addressed correctly to ensure successful fire
extinguishing and personnel safety.
The information contained in this manual is based on known technical data. While the aim has
been to anticipate most applications the recommendations should be applied in practical
situations with discretion and due regard to actual local circumstances.
For installation and maintenance see installation and maintenance manual 99-0600-03.
IMPORTANT
Minimax GmbH assumes no responsibility for application of any system other than those
addressed in this manual. The technical data contained herein is limited strictly for
information purposes only. Minimax GmbH believes this data to be accurate, but it is
published and presented without any guarantee or warranty whatsoever. Minimax
GmbH disclaims any liability for any use that may be made of the data and information
contained herein by any and all other parties.
Any questions concerning the information presented in this manual should be addressed to:
Minimax GmbH
Industriestr. 10-12
23840 Bad Oldesloe
Germany
Tel: +49 (0) 4531 - 803 0

Fax +49 (0) 4531 - 803 248

1.2 Applicable Standards
Argotec®, IG-01, extinguishing systems are to be designed, installed, inspected, maintained,
tested and recharged by qualified and trained personnel in accordance with the following:
a) NFPA 2001 latest edition : Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems
and additional if required
ISO Standard/DIS 14520 : Gaseous Fire Extinguishing systems
and additional if required
Other recognised National or International code or standard specified by the end user.
b) All instructions and limitations contained in this manual.
c) All information contained on the Argotec® cylinder nameplate(s).
d) NFPA 70, National Electrical Code, and NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm Code.
e) The US EPA SNAP program.
f) Regulations imposed by the Authority having jurisdiction for the hazard to be
protected.

2. DEFINITIONS
For purpose of clarification, the following general terms used have special technical meanings
in this Manual.
Automatic/Manual Changeover Device

An electrical switch which can change the electrical firing signal for the Argotec® cylinder
bank, to either automatic and manual mode or manual only mode of operation. The switch
would normally be key operated.
Authority
The organisation, office or individual responsible for approving equipment, installations or
procedures.
In determining the acceptability of installations or procedures, equipment or materials, the
authority may base acceptance on compliance with the appropriate design standards.
Client
The person or organisation purchasing the system who will take over initial responsibility for
the equipment and to whom the manuals will be provided. The client may not be the ultimate
system user.
Design Concentration
Concentration of extinguishant necessary to extinguish a fire of a particular fuel, including a
20% safety factor for Class A and 30% for Class B fuels expressed as a percentage by volume
of the protected area.
Extinguishant
Argon gas, internationally identified as Extinguishant IG-01.
Extinguishing Concentration
Minimum concentration of extinguishant required to extinguish the flame of a particular fuel
excluding any safety factor, expressed as a percentage by volume of the protected area.
Gross Volume
Volume enclosed by the building elements around the protected area, less the volume of any
permanent impermeable building elements within the area.
Hold Time
Period of time during which a fire extinguishing concentration must be maintained within the
protected area.
Discharge Prevention Device
A facility which, when in operation, will mechanically either prevent the release of argon from
the Argotec® cylinders or prevent argon from entering the protected area.

Minimum Achievable Concentration
The concentration of Argon achieved by the actual quantity released, at the minimum
anticipated temperature of the protected area.
Maximum Achievable Concentration
The concentration of Argon achieved by the actual quantity released, at the maximum
anticipated temperature of the protected area.
The lowest concentration of extinguishant at which an effect has been observed.
LOEL (Low Effect Level)
The lowest concentration of extinguishant at which an effect has been observed. Based on
physiologicaleffects in humans in hypoxic atmospheres. The value is the functional equivalent
of LOAEL values and correspondent to 10% minimum oxygen.
NOEL (No Effect Level)
The highest concentration of extinguishant at which no effect has been observed. Based on
physiologicaleffects in humans in hypoxic atmospheres. The value is the functional equivalent
of NOAEL values and correspondent to 12% minimum oxygen.
Normally Unoccupied Area

Area not occupied by people , that may be entered occasionally for brief periods, such as
transformer bays, switch-houses,.pump rooms, vaults, engine test stands, cable trays, tunnels,
microwave relay stations, flammable liquid storage areas and enclosed energy systems.
Shall
Indicates a mandatory requirement.
Should
Indicates a recommendation or that which is advised but not required.
Engineered System
A system in which the supply of extinguishant is stored in cylinders and is discharged through a
network of pipe and nozzles in which the size of each section of pipe and nozzle orifice has
been calculated. The design flow rates from nozzles may vary according to the design
requirements of the hazard.
Total Flooding System
A fire fighting system arranged to discharge extinguishant into an enclosed space to achieve the
appropriate design concentration throughout the protected area.

3. ARGON TECHNICAL DATA
3.1 Introduction
'Argon' is a naturally occurring inert noble gas which is 1.38 times heavier than air. It is
chemically neutral, electrically non-conductive, colourless, odourless and tasteless. It is a
normal part of the earth's atmosphere and has no detrimental effect on the environment.
Argon has zero ozone depletion potential (ODP) and zero global warming potential (GWP).
ODP GWP
Argon 0 0
It is also considered as a non toxic gas.

Argon is internationally identified as "Extinguishant IG-01" and is listed as such in
NFPA 2001, ISO/DIS 14520 and the US EPA SNAP program as suitable for use in normally
occupied spaces.
Dry clean air is composed as follows:
Nitrogen (N2) = 78.10 Vol.%
Oxygen (O2) = 20.90 Vol.%
Argon (Ar) = 0.93 Vol.%
Carbon Dioxide (CO2) = 0.03 Vol.%
Other gases (-) = 0.04 Vol.%
3.2 Argon Data
Molecular Weight 39.9 g/mol
o
Density at 1 bar, 15 C 1.669 kg/m3
Specific gas constant (as an ideal gas) 208.13 J/kgK
Density ratio Argon/Air at 1 bar, 15oC 1.38
Density ratio Argon/CO2 at 1 bar, 15oC 0.903
Triple point: Temperature -189.2 oC
Pressure 0.669 bar
Critical point: Temperature -122.43 oC
Pressure 48.65 bar
Boiling point at 1013 mbar -185.87 oC
3.3 Argon IG-01 Specification
Purity 99.9% m/m minimum
Acidity 0
Water Content 0.005% by weight maximum
Non-volatile residue None

Suspended matter (sediment) Non-visible
Note - m/m = molecule per molecule
3.4 Availability of Argon
Argon is readily available as it is used in several industrial and medical applications. It is
produced by air separation and available from most gas suppliers in various grades i.e. levels of
purity.
The fundamental principle of air separation has three basic stages; pre-purification,
refrigeration and separation.
Following extraction from the atmosphere the air is purified and compressed with removal of
unwanted components by absorption, freezing out or chemical scrubbing. The air is then pre-
cooled in heat exchangers prior to expansion to produce a partial liquefaction of the mixture.
The separation of the air components is achieved by use of the different boiling points
(liquefaction points) of the gases in the rectification columns where the already liquefied
product mixture trickles down to meet the rising gas mixture.
Oxygen, having the higher boiling point of -185o C, is condensed out of the gas stream and
nitrogen, having the lower boiling point of -196o C vaporises out of the liquid stream. Thus,
gaseous nitrogen collects at the top of the column and liquid oxygen at the bottom.
The crude argon is drawn from the separation process and undergoes further purity stages until
the desired quality is attained.
After processing, the separated liquid gases are stored in vacuum insulated storage tanks before
being loaded into road tankers for distribution.

4. PERSONNEL SAFETY
4.1 General
Argon gas, by itself, it is not dangerous to animal or human life. It is non toxic and is without
secondary reactions in the metabolic processes of animal or human organisms.
Physiological data available in scientific and medical literature supports the view that a brief
exposure to a mixture of Argon and air resulting in an oxygen concentration in excess of 10%
v/v would be tolerated by healthy humans. There is no reason to expect any effect of a brief
exposure to such a mixture in terms of cardiac or respiratory sensitisation.
Having applied Argon to a fire the toxic risk to personnel safety arises exclusively from the
possibility of inhalation of toxic fumes particles from the combustion processes of the fire.
Any hazard to personnel created by the discharge of gaseous extinguishants shall be considered
in the design of the system. Guidance is given in the US EPA SNAP program.
Due reference must be made to statutory responsibility to comply with the Health and Safety at
Work Act, Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) and Pressure Systems
Regulations or any applicable National/European Standards.
4.2 Hazard Due to Reduced Oxygen Level
It should be recognised that as exposure time increases a temporary impairment of cognitive
function and the ability to perform skilled or manual tasks is to be expected as the inspired
oxygen level falls below 15%. See Table 1.
Table 1 - Relative Hazards to People from Reduced Levels of Oxygen (hypoxia)
Source - Paper by A.D. Dayan, Professor of Toxicology - St. Bartholomew Hospital Medical
College
Oxygen Effects and symptoms Rough classification
Level of the potential of
(% / vol ) hazards to people
20,9 Normal inhaled air
19 - 20 None (badly ventilated surroundings)
17 - 19 Hardly noticeable, reduced physical and Harmless
mental performance capability
15 - 17 Noticeable reduced physical and mental Harmless, yawning
performance
12 - 15 Declining performance capability Minor impairment
10 - 12 Declining performance capability, shortage Marked impairment
of breath, dizziness, tiredness
8 - 10 Declining performance capability, danger Hazardous
of collapse and unconsciousness
>6 Immediate unconsciousness, death within Critical immediate
6-8 minutes (fast treatment can save life) Effects
This table shows the normal effects of short-term exposure without taking into account differences in effects due
to individual personal constitution and other circumstances (health, fitness, hemoglobin levels, stress, physical and
mental strains, additional dangerous substances, exposure times etc.)

Argon maximum concentrations typically range from 34% to 52% by volume which
correspond to oxygen levels of 13.8% to 10% respectfully. The design concentration for a
typical class A surface fire is 36,2% of Argon which corresponds to an oxygen level of 13.3%.
Unnecessary exposure of personnel to any extinguishant should be avoided by evacuation from
the protected area prior to discharge.
4.3 Exposure to Fire
It must be remembered that exposure to the products of combustion of a fire may have a more
serious health implication and therefore any person subjected to this type of exposure should
seek medical advice.
4.4 Hazards During Discharge
Users of Argotec® extinguishing systems should be advised of the following potential hazards
due to discharging Argon gas through the distribution pipe and nozzle network.
a) Noise - Discharge of the system causes a loud noise which can be
startling, but not be sufficient to cause traumatic injury.
b) Turbulence - Discharge from nozzles could cause some objects within the
protected area to be dislodged, especially if the objects are
in direct line of the discharge. Such objects should be
properly secured.
c) Temperature - Direct contact with an Argon gas discharge can have a
slight cooling effect but is not sufficient to cause frost bite
or thermal shock.
4.5 NOEL and LOEL
The NOEL, (no effect level) and the LOEL, (lowest effect level) are used in several
international standards to establish minimum exposure levels to extinguishant / air mixtures.
NOAEL and LOAEL values are normally applied to chemicals with known toxic effects,
however, in order that Inert Gas extinguishants can be cross referenced to these standards,
functional equivalents have been agreed based upon the physiological effects in humans in
hypoxic atmospheres
For Inert Gas extinguishants the NOEL corresponds to an oxygen level of 12% by vol and the
LOEL to an oxygen level of 10% by vol.
Table 2 - NOEL and LOEL Values
Level Minimum Level of Equivalent Maximum
Oxygen Concentration of Argon IG-01
NOEL 12% by vol 43% by vol
LOEL 10% by vol 52% by vol

GRAPH 1
Argon / Oxygen Comparsion Concentration Levels
80
6
70
8
60
Oxygen concentration by volumen

Argon concentration by volumen
LOEL
10
50
12
40 NOEL
14
30
16
20
18
10
20
0 20,9
0,0 0,2 0,4 0,6 0,8 1,0 1,2
Argon volumen per room volumen [m³/m³]

5. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
5.1 Safety Warning Signs, Alarms and Controls
The Argotec® extinguishing system should be designed in conjunction with the fire detection
and alarm system to ensure that time delays, audible/visual warning alarms, manual release
points, safety signs and other associated system requirements will be fully addressed within the
overall system design philosophy.
When the extinguishing system is designed and supplied as a separate package the Argotec®
design engineer may not be in possession of specifications relating to the fire detection system,
similarly, the audible/visual alarms, time delay arrangements and electric controls required by
the system may be subject to a scope of supply by others. The Argotec® design engineer must
still take responsible steps to ensure that the client is fully aware of the safety aspects required
for personnel protection. The following information should therefore be included within the
system design.
a) The provision of warning notices and appropriate instruction signs at
entrances to and inside protected areas that a gaseous system is installed.
b) Pre-discharge alarms and time delay to enable evacuation of personnel
before the commencement of discharge.
c) Continuous alarms within entrances to protected areas until the system has
been reset by a responsible person.
d) Controls which are used to discharge the system shall be clearly identified
with both function and area of risk they effect.
e) Facility to isolate the system during system maintenance. Ideally 'system
isolate' should be monitored.
f) When the maximum concentration can be above the LOEL, discharge
prevention devices with visual indication must be provided.
5.2 Audible and Visual Alarms
Alarms shall be provided within the protected area to indicate, where applicable:
a) Operation of the fire detection system indicated by audible and visual alarm,
distinguishable from the building fire alarm.
b) Commencement of time delay period indicated by an audible alarm different from
that in (a) above.
c) Additional visual alarms and signs may be appropriate where there is a high level
of background noise.
d) Visual indication of system operation shall be provided outside the protected area
at all entrances, and the indicator should be identified with the wording 'ARGON
DISCHARGED'.
e) Consideration shall be given to providing alarms and or indication in adjacent areas
where hazardous atmospheres may result from the discharge of the extinguishant.

5.3 Warning Sign - Manual Control Point
A sign shall be prominently displayed at each manual control point.
5.4 Warning Sign - Entrances
A sign as shown in Fig. 1 shall be prominently displayed at each entrance to an area protected
by a gaseous system.
by a gaseous system which develops an achieved concentration not greater than the LOEL, but
where the protected area evacuation time is 60 seconds or greater.
by a gaseous system which develops an achieved concentration greater than LOEL.
5.5 System Isolation for Maintenance
To enable system inspection and maintenance to be carried out in safety, means shall be
provided to prevent the discharge from the storage container(s). This ideally should be by
mechanical means, such that cylinder valve operation cannot be achieved.
For systems using electrical actuation the normal means to prevent discharge would be to
isolate the electrical actuation signal from the extinguishant release control panel. This would
be acceptable provided that each cylinder valve actuator is also made mechanically inoperative.
5.6 Discharge Prevention Device and Isolation
Systems where the maximum concentration will be below the NOEL (<43%) may remain on
automatic mode at all times. Automatic/manual changeover device should be provided at the
extinguishing control panel.
Systems where the maximum concentration will be between the NOEL and LOEL
(43 to 52%) can remain on automatic provided the protected area can be evacuated in less than
60 seconds. If evacuation time is in excess of 60 seconds the system should be on manual only
mode while the area is occupied. For these systems it is recommended that automatic/manual
changeover devices be provided at all main entrances to the protected area.
Systems where the maximum concentration can be above the LOEL (>52%) a discharge
prevention device must be employed while the protected area is occupied.
This device must mechanically prevent Argon from being discharged into the protected area
and the device status position must be locally indicated.
The discharge of an Argotec® system may be prevented in several ways.
The design engineer must choose the method most suitable for the specific application.
a) Manual shut-off valve with micro-switch, installed into discharge pipework.
b) Key operated pilot line isolation valve with micro-switch, installed between the
pilot cylinder and the Argon containers.

Figure 1 For systems giving achieved concentrations not greater than NOEL and where
the protected area can be evacuated in less than 5 min. or concentrations not
greater than LOEL and where the protected area can be evacuated in less than 3
min.
Labels to be displayed at entrances to protected areas

Figure 2 For systems giving achieved concentrations not greater than LOEL and
where the protected area evacuation time is 3 min. or greater.

Figure 3 For systems giving achieved concentrations greater than LOEL

Caution Notes
It must be observed that if b) method is used the cylinder valve could be manually operated,
thus discharging agent into a possible occupied area.
If valves are used in discharge pipework then a safety relief valve must be employed to relieve
overpressure. A pressure gauge should also be introduced to this section of pipe or manifold to
give visual indication that the pipe section is pressurized.
5.7 Change in Protected Area Volume
The system user must be warned in the system manuals that any change to the protected area
volume, or addition or removal of contents that were included in the original extinguishing
agent calculation, will affect the design concentration. In such circumstances the system
designer shall be advised in order that a safety check calculation can be made to ensure that
sufficient extinguishing agent is available and to determine if the NOEL and LOEL values have
been exceeded.
Table 3 - Minimum Requirements for Occupied Spaces
Maximum concentration Evacuation Time Auto/man Lock off Warning
Time delay changeover device Sign
device
Up to and including NOEL 5 min. Yes Not required Not required Fig.1
(Below 43%) max.
Above NOEL up to and 3 min. Yes Yes Not required Fig.1
including LOEL (>43<52%) max. (System on
Auto)
Above NOEL up to and 3 min. or Yes Yes Not required Fig.2
including LOEL (>43<52%) greater (System on
See ISO 14520 1.6.2 Table 2 Man)
Above LOEL 30 s. Yes Yes Yes Fig.3
(Above 52 up to 62%) max
The intent of this table is to avoid unnecessary exposure of occupant to extinguishant
discharged. Factors such as the time for egress and the risk to the occupants by the fire shall be
considered when determining the system discharge time delay.
5.8 Leakage of Argon/air Mixture into Adjacent Areas
The system design engineer must address the possibility that following a discharge the
Argon/air mixture from the protected area may eventually leak into another adjacent area.
Special consideration must be given to rooms under a protected area in which the maximum
concentration would have been above the LOEL.
Consideration must be given to alerting and evacuating such areas.
5.9 Other Safety Considerations
The Argotec® design engineer may not be able to control the provision of the following items
but their importance should be advised to the client.
If any item listed is of particular importance to the specific system the designer should include
a note on the system drawings requiring the facility to be provided.
a) Outward opening self-closing doors at exits from protected areas.
b) Adequate aisles and routes of exit which should be clear at all times.
c) Emergency lighting and directional signs as necessary to ensure quick,
safe evacuation.
d) Securing of loose objects and ceiling tiles in close proximity to the discharge
nozzles.
e) Instruction and training of all personnel within or near protected areas, including
maintenance or construction personnel who may be brought into the area, in the correct
action to be taken when gaseous extinguishant equipment operates.
f) Means for post discharge ventilation of protected areas. Forced ventilation may be
necessary.
g) Earth bonding of discharge pipework and, in potentially explosive atmospheres,
the earthing of conductive materials that may become electrically charged during a
system discharge.
h) Provision for prompt discovery and rescue of persons incapacitated in protected
areas. Self-contained breathing equipment and personnel trained in its use and in
rescue practices, including artificial respiration, should be considered, particularly
where the protected area is difficult to egress or where the maximum concentration
may exceed the LOEL.
5.10 Ventilation After Discharge
The client must be advised that following the discharge of any gaseous extinguishing system
the protected area shall be ventilated directly to the open air.
Ventilation may be provided by doors or windows.
Any mechanical ventilation provided should be for extraction only to prevent smoke and
extinguishant from being re-circulated to other areas.
With Argon systems consideration must be given to providing the ventilation at low level.
Controls for the ventilation system should be outside the protected area, preferably at the
system central control panel and should be provided with a notice bearing the wording 'Fire
Brigade Extinguishant Extraction Switch'. Preference should be given to key operated systems.
5.11 Electrostatic Discharge
Pure, clean and dry Argon gas will not cause "electrostatics" during the discharge. However, it
is recognised practice to assume that any gaseous extinguishant could produce static electricity
in a given set of circumstances. Refer to 6.6 for further information.

6. SYSTEM DESIGN PHILOSOPHY
6.1 General
System designs for Argotec® extinguishing systems should be prepared by a trained engineer.
The system designer must ensure that the extinguishant selected is fit for the proposed
application and will meet the authority approval.
The system should include all items necessary for its proper function and address client
specification, relevant national/international codes and standards and the requirements of the
authority.
6.2 Fire Extinguishing with Argon
Argon extinguishes fires mainly by displacing oxygen. The effect, a purely physical one, is
removing the amount of oxygen necessary for combustion of the material in question.
The physical properties of Argon with regard to fire extinguishing are similar to those of CO2.
The difference in density between Argon and air give it penetration characteristics which
ensure that a fire is efficiently extinguished and that the whole volume of space is protected.
As a rule, an effective concentration for extinguishing purposes is achieved when the normal
oxygen concentration in the air of 20.9 % by volume is reduced to less than or equal to 15% by
volume. This level is reached when approximately 1/3 of the volume of air in the room is
displaced by the inert gas which then accounts for more than or equal to 34% by volume of the
ambient air. If the room contains materials with a higher than average oxygen affinity this
concentration will have to be increased.
After the flame has been extinguished it may be necessary to maintain the concentration for a
while until hot surfaces and embers have cooled down, in order to avoid re-ignition.
6.3 Limitations of Use
Argotec® extinguishing systems are suitable for "total flooding" applications including cabinet
protection but are not suitable for "local application" purposes.
Total flooding systems are used to protect fully enclosed hazards that will retain the
extinguishant/air mixture for a specified period (Hold Time).
Argon can be used on the following types of fires:
a) Class A- For fires involving solid materials, the minimum design concentration will
be the extinguishing concentration established by tests plus a 20% safety factor.
Electronic data processing installations are usually regarded as Class A fire risk.
b) Class B - For fires involving flammable liquids and liquifiable solids, the minimum
design concentration will be the extinguishing concentration established by tests,
or in the absence of tests then by cup burner apparatus with adjustment as specified in
Table 6, plus a 30% safety factor. For combinations of fuels the minimum design
concentration will be the highest extinguishing concentration for the individual fuels
concerned plus a 30% safety factor, unless tests have been made on the actual fuel
mixture.
c) Electrical fires involving energised electrical equipment.

d) Deep seated fires - Most class A fires burn initially at the surface and at this stage
they can be rapidly and efficiently extinguished by Argotec® extinguishing systems,
however many class A materials in later stages of combustion produce significant
amounts of glowing embers and may not be totally extinguished at the
concentrations normally employed. These fires are "deep seated" and whilst an
Argotec® system will extinguish the flames, smouldering may continue with the
ongoing production of products of combustion and possible re-ignition after the
extinguishant has dissipated. Argotec® systems can be used to tackle "deep
seated" fires but this can require substantial higher design concentrations and
extended holding times than the design concentrations and holding times required
for surface-type fires involving Class A fuels.
e) Low temperature risks down to minus 18o C and maximum 50o C (See 6.9(j)).
Argotec® systems must not be used for explosion suppression risks.
If there is any doubt concerning the suitability of an Argotec® system for a particular risk
consult the Minimax Engineering office.
6.4 Minimum Design Concentration
As most areas to be protected with a total flood extinguishing system will contain some Class A
materials, the minimum design concentration used shall not be less than 35.9%.
6.5 Unusual Risks
Argotec® systems should not be used on the following fires unless they have been tested and
approved to the satisfaction of the certifying authority having jurisdiction.
a) Chemicals containing their own supply of oxygen i.e. cellulose nitrate.
b) Chemical compounds containing oxidising agents i.e. sodium chlorate, sodium
nitrate.
c) Chemicals capable of autothermal decomposition i.e. organic peroxides.
d) Reactive metals in general.
6.6 System Discharges into non fire areas
Under certain conditions it may be dangerous to discharge a gaseous extinguishing system into
a protected area which is not on fire. Static electricity could be generated by the discharge, and
if the protected area contains a gas/air mixture or dust, then an explosion could occur.
It is therefore advised that extinguishing systems are designed to operate upon confirmation of
a fire condition.
Similarly it is often unwise to extinguish gas flames that are being fed by a bulk supply of gas
i.e. a fractured supply line, as the resulting build up of gas can result in an explosion.
For these risks advice should be sought.

6.7 Information Relating to the Protected Area
Before the extinguishing system can be designed certain information must be available which
relates to the area being protected. This information should ideally be obtained by site survey,
however for new build projects the information can only be obtained from the Client or his
engineering consultant. All information gathered on the protected area and surrounding location
should be properly recorded and kept as part of the project documentation, as it may be
required by the authority for system approval.
6.8 Minimum Data Required
a) Name of owner or occupant.
b) Location of building or building in which protected area is located and determine
whether or not the area is normally occupied.
c) Architectural drawings of the area would be advantageous, but a good sketch
drawing of the area is acceptable. Dimension the protected area such that the gross
volume can be calculated. Ceiling and floor void dimensions must be taken into
consideration. Show doors and windows.
d) Indicate and dimension non-flammable, immovable, impermeable objects within the
protected area. From this information the gross volume can be reduced.
e) Indicate and dimension location of major equipment or machinery within the
protected area. A brief description of this equipment should be recorded as it
assists the system designer to fully review the potential fire risk. Storage racks
should also be included.
f) The type, quantity and method of storage of any chemicals, solvents or other such
materials that will be stored in the area. Care must be exercised when reviewing
the storage or use of chemicals and volatile fuels as these substances will establish
the fire risk. In some cases explosion suppression systems may be necessary, or
systems where an inert concentration of extinguishant will be required. If such
risks are encountered consult Minimax Engineering office.
g) Show any beams or other obstructions on the ceiling. These obstructions may
effect the fire detection system but might also effect the location and fixing of the
pipework and nozzles.
h) Locate and size all uncloseable openings, including the height from the floor to the
bottom of the opening.
i) Locate and size air conditionings or forced ventilation equipment. It is important
to know the shut-down run time and vent rate of the equipment as this could have
a significant influence on the time delay and quantity of extinguishant required.
j) Determine the maximum and minimum air temperatures within the protected area.
Also determine height of risk above or below sea level.
k) Investigate if any pressurised air tanks are within the protected area. Determine
their capacity and pressure as this additional volume must be taken into
consideration when calculating the quantity of extinguishant required.

l) Determine the closing time of louvers and run down time of turbines or any other
rotating machinery that is externally ventilated.
m) Establish the possible location for the Argotec® cylinder bank. Determine the area
available, the load bearing capability of the floor upon which the cylinder bank will
stand and the maximum and minimum temperature of this location.
n) Argotec® extinguishing systems require pressure to be vented from the protected
area during the discharge. During the survey it would be prudent to record where
venting areas already exist and where additional self - closing vents could be
installed. In rooms with closeable or self - closing louvers, the louvers themselves
could be used. High level roof vents could be used or maybe smoke vents are
already installed.When the initial calculations are available and the area to be
protected is structurally complete a room integrity test will be carried out using
door fan equipment. Further sealing of the protected area and or the fitting of self-
closing vents will be agreed with the client.
o) An integrity test should be carried out in accordance with requirements in NFPA
2001, Appendix B as a minimum to establish protected area leak rate and
predicted hold time of exinguishant. A hold time of at least 10 minutes should be
achieved or as agreed with client or Authority having jurisdiction.
The above information is the absolute minimum needed to design an efficient as well as an
effective fire extinguishing system. If this information is not available then the best engineering
assumptions can only be made and must be mentioned in written form. As and when the correct
information becomes available the data must be amended and if necessary the extinguishing
system design duly modified.
p) All project drawings and documentation must be prepared in accordance with
client specifications and any appropriate requirements as requested by the authority
having jurisdiction.
Before installation and system acceptance test all design information should have been
established, the design finalised and approved by all interested parties, e.g. client, Authority etc.
6.9 System Design Considerations
During the Argotec® system design procedure the following considerations must be taken into
account:
a) The system shall be designed in accordance with NFPA 2001 and additional
ISO/DIS 14520 or another code or standard as instructed by the client or
certifying authority. The contents of this manual should always be applied.
b) That the system will be of "total flood" application and that Argon IG-01 fire
extinguishing agent is suitable for the expected risk.
c) That the integrity of the building, room or enclosed area will maintain the Argon
gas concentration for the required hold time.

d) That the strength of the protected area walls, ceilings, floors, doors, windows, etc.
will withstand the increase of pressure during the extinguishing discharge time.
The room pressure relief vent will be fitted unless it can be shown that venting
devices are unnecessary due to sufficient vent area being naturally available.
The hydraulic computer calculation programme gives a range of pressures. In the
absence of any building strength pressures then the lowest value should be used in
the calculation.
e) That all uncloseable openings, not required for pressure venting, will be closed
prior to the release of extinguishant.
f) That no other extinguishing agent will be used during the Argotec® system
discharge and up to the end of the hold time.
g) That the physical boundaries of the protected area, including ceilings, offer a
minimum of 30 minutes fire separation. If the ceiling void is not to be protected,
this should be clearly documented as being the clients choice.
h) Is the protected area occupied or unoccupied during normal use. This will
determine whether system lock-offs will be employed together with other
personnel safety devices.
i) That the Argotec® cylinder bank should be located, where possible, outside the
protected area, where it will not be exposed to the fire risk. The cylinder bank
should be as close as possible to the protected area. The cylinder bank storage
area should ideally be:
i) Always easily accessible.
ii) Protected against unauthorised access.
iii) Used only for the purpose of fire protection.
iv) Arranged for easy inspection and maintenance.
v) Able to be illuminated, even during a fire condition (emergency light).
vi) Equipped with permanently located operational instructions notices.
vii) Adequately ventilated and kept at temperatures between minus 18 oC to plus 50
o
C.
NOTE: Although the cylinder bank should ideally be located as close as possible to the
protected area an Argotec® cylinder bank can be located at considerable
distances from the protected area if necessary.
j) Argotec® system cylinders should only be used between the temperature
limitations of minus 18 oC to plus 50 oC
6.10 Detection and Control Systems
The actuation of the Argotec® system would normally be controlled and monitored from a fire
control panel. Detectors installed for use in conjunction with Minimax Argotec systems shall be
UL Listed for the intended application. The control panel used shall be UL Listed for releasing
device service and compatible with Minimax Argotec equipment.

7. SYSTEM CONFIGURATION
7.1 General
As Argon is stored and discharged as a simple compressed gas with ample storage pressure,
pipe runs are not as limited as with other extinguishants, therefore Argotec® systems can be
configured in a variety of ways.
a) Stand alone, single zone systems.
b) Split discharge into interconnected volumes i.e. floor voids and ceiling voids.
c) Multi-zone systems using direction valves from a single cylinder bank.
d) 100% connected reserve.
e) Staged discharge into common manifold.
7.2 Cylinder Bank
The cylinder bank will consist of a number of cylinders filled with Argon IG-01 gas
pressurised at 160 bar or 200 bar at 15o C. Each cylinder is equipped with a cylinder valve and
manual lever. A flexible loop and manifold check valve are used to connect each cylinder to a
common manifold pipe.
7.3 Cylinder Racking
Cylinders are mounted in a free standing frame which accommodates the cylinder weighing
counter balance mechanism.
7.4 Manifolds
2, 3 and 4 way manifolds are available with a nominal bore of 50 mm.
For systems with more than 4 cylinders manifolds are connected together, up to 16 No. in one
row.
Systems that require more than 16 No. cylinders must be interconnected as centre feed or H
feed configurations into a common feed pipe. Alternatively, multiple manifolds may be fed
separately into the protected area.
The system design engineer would need to determine the best technical and commercial
solution to satisfy the client and his specification.
7.5 Pressure Reducer
When Argon is discharged from the cylinder the manifold is pressurised.
The system pressure is reduced down to 60 bar by introducing a pressure reducer after the
manifold.
The minimum pressure reducer orifice is 3 mm, the maximum connection thread is inlet 2 ½”
and outlet 3”.
The computer hydraulic flow calculation will size the pressure reducer.
7.6 Cylinder Actuation
All system configurations can be pilot operated or electrically by solenoid operated actuators.

The maximum pilotline length is 100 m. 2 pneumatic horns and maximum 10 pneumatic
actuators can be connected to one pilot cylinder. The maximum distance between the pilot
cylinder and the last pneumatic actuator is 40 m.
7.7 Cascade Delay Unit
For systems requiring more than one 16 cylinder bank it is recommended that the cylinder
banks are operated in stages. That is, the total quantity of stored Argon is divided into partial
quantities and each partial quantity is released into the manifold a few seconds after the other.
This cascade effect reduces the peak system pressure and allows an even pressure increase in
the protected area.
The following rules must be applied:
a) Where possible use the same number of cylinders for each partial quantity.
b) Interval between the first and the last released cylinder should be no more than 2 - 3
seconds.
c) For 8 or less cylinders no interval is allowed.
The calculation method has been investigated according to the limitation specified. If the
specified limitations are not maintained, there is the risk that the system will not supply the
designed pressure at the nozzles.
To effect a cascade release the cylinder bank timer mechanism must be suitably adjusted. See
installation manual, Sec. 5.5 for specific directions on setting the timing mechanism.
7.8 Pressure Operated Devices
Pressure operated switches and door release units are available for installation in the discharge
pipework to provide discharge warning, shut down equipment and to close uncloseable
openings.
7.9 Nozzles
The types of nozzles to be used are shown in Section 9.
7.10 Data Sheet for System Components
Data sheet Werknorm M3-32-03 Part 2, summary table
Data sheet Werknorm M3-32-03 Part 1, 200 bar Argon cylinder, page 1
Data sheet Werknorm M3-32-03 Part 1, 200 bar Argon cylinder, page 2
Data sheet Werknorm M3-32-03 Part 3, Argon cylinder valve
Data sheet Werknorm M3-02-01 Part 5, Argon hose
Data sheet Werknorm M3-32-01 Part 4, 200 bar Argon manifold & check valve
Data sheet Werknorm M2-1-15 Part 1, Nozzles RD
Data sheet Werknorm M3-01-06 B1.1 Discharge nozzle
Data sheet A4.3.2E, Pressure reducer
Data sheet Werknorm M3-32-02 Part 1, Cylinder racks Ar-main-M300
Data sheet Werknorm M3-32-01 Part 1, 200 bar Argon cylinder banks
Data sheet Werknorm M3-02-03 Part 1, CO2 /Ar - single cylinder system
Data sheet Werknorm M3-04-08 Part 1, Solenoid release box
Data sheet Werknorm M3-8-1 Cylinder ∅ 25 x H30
Data sheet Werknorm M3-02-07 Part 1, Release box VZ2
Data sheet Werknorm M3-32-14, Safety valve G 1/2
Data sheet Werknomr M3-09-00 Part 1, Control device pneum. SEP-2
Data sheet Werknorm M3-09-00 Part 2, Control device pneum. blocking SEP-2-B
Data sheet Werknorm M3-09-00 Part 4, blocking device MX
Data sheet Werknorm M3-02-07, Disable device mech.
Data sheet Werknorm M3-04-00 Part 1. Manifold set
Data sheet Werknorm M3-04-00 Part 2. Selector valve
Data sheet Werknorm M3-04-00 Part 3. Manifold
Data sheet Werknorm M3-04-01 Part 6, Pilot control valve CO2 - DN 15
Data sheet Werknorm M3-06-03 Part 1. Shuttle valves
Data sheet Werknorm M3-09-10 Part 2. PAE electrical, page 1
Data sheet Werknorm M3-09-10 Part 2. PAE electrical, page 2
Data sheet Werknorm M3-10-04 Part 1, Makrofon MX1
Data sheet A3.2.1E, System structure, page 1

8. DESIGN CALCULATIONS
All calculations in this manual are for fire extinguishing systems. Should an inerting system be
required consult Minimax Engineering Office.
8.1 Argon Quantity Calculation
The amount of Argon gas required to achieve the design concentration, assuming normal efflux
during discharge, shall be calculated from the following formula:
V ⎡ 100 ⎤
Q= ln (1)
S ⎢⎣100 − C ⎥⎦
S = K1 + (K2 x T) (2)
Where:
log e = hyperbolic or naperian logarithm (natural log ln)
T = minimum anticipated temperature of the protected area, oC
K1 = 0.56119 at 1013 m bar (0.5685 at 1000 m bar)
K2 = 0.00205 at 1013 m bar (0.00208 at 1000 m bar)
C = extinguishant concentration, % by volume
V = net volume of hazard, m3 (enclosed volume minus fixed structures)
Q = design quantity, kg
The resulting relationship between the mass of Argon supplied and the achieved Argon
concentration and hence the residual oxygen level is shown in Graph 1.
8.2 Argon Concentration Check
To check Argon percentage concentration values the following formula can be used:
⎡ 1⎤
C = 100 ⎢1 − n ⎥
⎣ e ⎦
Qf S
Where n=
V
e = 2.718
S = K1 + (K2 x T)
NOTE: maximum anticipated temperature of the protected area must be used in this
calculation.
NOTE: The value for Qf in the Argon concentration calculation above should reflect
the possible overfill of the Argon cylinder. Qf should then be calculated as
nominal cylinder fill plus a 5% tolerance multiplied by the number of cylinders.
Qf = (nominal cylinder fill + 5%) x number of cylinders.

8.3 Alternative Quick Calculation
As an alternative a quick quantity calculation can be made by using the flooding factors as
shown in Table 4.
Select the row corresponding to the lowest anticipated temperature of the protected area. Read
off the flooding factor from the column for the required design concentration.
i.e. At 20o C and design concentration of 40% the flooding factor is 0.8482 kg/m3.
Only set design concentrations are given. If the design concentration required is between those
given in the table then interpolation will provide an acceptable flooding factor. If the design
concentration required is outside the range given in the table then the formula shown in section
8.1 has to be used.
Table 4 - Flooding Factors
Temp Specific Argon IG-01 Flooding Factor ( kg/m3 )
°C Volume Design Concentration ( % vol.)
Protected m³/kg
Area 34 36 37 40 42 47 49 58 62
-40 0,479 0,8674 0,9317 0,9646 1,0664 1,1372 1,3254 1,4057 1,811 2,2
-35 0,4893 0,8492 0,9121 0,9443 1,044 1,1133 1,2976 1,3762 1,773 1,9776
-30 0,4996 0,8318 0,8934 0,9249 1,0226 1,0904 1,2709 1,3479 1,7365 1,9369
-25 0,5098 0,815 0,8754 0,9063 1,002 1,0685 1,2453 1,3207 1,7016 1,8979
-20 0,5201 0,7989 0,8581 0,8884 0,9822 1,0474 1,2207 1,2946 1,6679 1,8604
-15 0,5304 0,7834 0,8415 0,8712 0,9631 1,0271 1,197 1,2696 1,6358 1,8243
-10 0,5406 0,7686 0,8255 0,8546 0,9448 0,0076 1,1743 1,2454 1,6048 1,7897
-5 0,5509 0,7542 0,8101 0,8387 0,9272 0,9888 1,1524 1,2222 1,5746 1,7563
0 0,5612 0,7404 0,7953 0,8233 0,9103 0,9707 1,1313 1,1999 1,5458 1,7242
5 0,5715 0,7271 0,781 0,8085 0,8939 0,9532 1,111 1,1783 1,518 1,6932
10 0,5817 0,7143 0,7672 0,7942 0,8781 0,9364 1,0914 1,1576 1,4912 1,6633
15 0,592 0,7019 0,7539 0,7805 0,8629 0,9201 1,0724 1,1374 1,4654 1,6344
20 0,6023 0,6899 0,741 0,7671 0,8482 0,9044 1,0541 1,118 1,4404 1,6065
25 0,6126 0,6783 0,7286 0,7543 0,8339 0,8893 1,0364 1,0992 1,4162 1,5796
30 0,6228 0,6671 0,7166 0,7418 0,8202 0,8746 1,0194 1,0811 1,3928 1,5535
35 0,6331 0,6563 0,7049 0,7298 0,8069 0,8604 0,0028 1,0636 1,3702 1,5283
40 0,6434 0,6458 0,6937 0,7181 0,794 0,8467 0,9868 1,0466 1,3484 1,5039
45 0,6536 0,6357 0,6828 0,7069 0,7815 0,8334 0,9713 10301 1,3272 1,4803
50 0,6639 0,6259 0,6722 0,6959 0,7694 0,8205 0,9563 1,0142 1,3066 1,4574
55 0,6742 0,6163 0,662 0,6853 0,7577 0,808 0,9417 0,9987 1,2867 1,4352
60 0,6845 0,6071 0,652 0,675 0,7463 0,7958 0,9276 0,9838 1,2674 1,4136
65 0,6947 0,5981 0,6424 0,6651 0,7353 0,7841 0,9138 0,9692 1,2487 1,3927
70 0,705 0,5894 0,633 0,6554 0,7246 0,7727 0,9005 0,9551 1,2305 1,3724
75 0,7153 0,5809 0,6239 0,646 0,7142 0,7616 0,8876 0,9414 1,2128 1,3527
80 0,7256 0,5727 0,6151 0,6368 0,7041 0,7508 0,875 0,928 1,1956 1,3336

Table 5 - Argotec® Design Concentrations
Room Equipment Concentration
Electrical Switchgear Room 40%
Electrical Equipment Room 36.2%
Electrical Distribution Room 40%
Electronic Data Processing 36.2%
Computer Room 36.2%
* Consult with head office for detailed requirements.
8.4 Example Calculation
Consider an Electrical Equipment Room 8m × 5m × 3m with a lowest anticipated temperature
of 10o C. Assume that this is a reasonably gas tight enclosure.
Argotec® system will be total flood application with a design concentration for a class A fire.
Design concentration = 36.2% by vol from table 5.
Argon Quantity by Formulae:
V ⎡ 100 ⎤
Q= ln
S ⎢⎣100 − C ⎥⎦
now V= 8m × 5m × 3m
S = K1 + (K2 × T) = 0.56119 + (0.00205 × 10) = 0.58169
120 ⎡ 100 ⎤
Q= x ln ⎢ ⎥
0.58169 ⎣100 − 36.2 ⎦
Q = 92.71 kg Argon
Hydraulic flow calculations are based on 95% of minimum design concentration discharged in
60 sec. therefore Q60 = Q × 95% = 88.08 kg
By alternative calculation:-
Q = V × flooding factor in table 4
Design concentration of 36,2% (say 36%)
Q = 120 × 0.7577
Q = 90.92 kg Argon

8.5 Interconnected Volumes
In two or more interconnected volumes where free flow of Argon can occur, the quantity shall
be the sum of the quantities calculated for each volume.
If volumes require different concentrations the higher concentration shall be used for all
interconnected volumes.
Table 6 - Argon Design Concentrations for Gases and Liquids
Hazard Extinguishment 0/0 Minimum Design 0/0 O2 %
Acetone 35,3 45,8 11,3
Acetonitrile 35,3 45,8 11,3
Aviation gas 34,2 44,5 11,6
n-Butanol 38,5 50,0 10,5
Cyclohexane 39,0 50,7 10,3
Diesel no.2 29,1 37,8 13,0
Ethanol 43,4 56,4 9,1
Ethyl acetate 37,8 49,2 10,6
Ethylene glycol 33,2 43,2 11,9
Gasoline unleaded 39,6 51,4 10,2
Heptan 40,2 52,3 10,0
Hexane 39,6 51,4 10,2
Hydraulic oil no.1 30,2 39,3 12,7
Isopropanol (100%) 37,6 48,9 10,7
JP - 4 34,3 44,6 11,6
JP - 5 33,8 43,9 11,7
Methane 37,3 48,5 10,8
Methanol 47,2 61,3 8,1
Morpholine 41,0 53,2 9,8
Nitromethane 37,1 48,2 10,8
Propane 43,0 55,9 9,2
Toluene 30,3 39,4 12,7
Xylene 27,4 35,7* 13,4
NOTE: Values derived using NMERI standard cup burner method
If there is any doubt concerning the suitability of an Argotec® system for a particular fuel gas
or liquid fire or if a material is not listed in the above table consult the Minimax Engineering
Office.
∗ When calculating Argon quantities for gas or liquid fires the minimum concentration should
not be less than that for a Class A fire i.e. 36,2% by volume.
8.6 Uncloseable Openings
To prevent loss of agent through openings to adjacent hazards or work areas, openings shall be
arranged to close automatically before or simultaneously with the start of the Argon discharge.
This can be done by self-closing door devices, fire curtains or steel shutters. Where reasonable
confinement of agent is not practicable, protection shall be expanded to include the adjacent
connected hazards or work areas.
Special considerations should be taken into account when designing a fire suppresion system
for an enclosure that can not be sealed or closed before the fire suppresion system is
discharged. The loss of agent through the opening needs to be compensated for by some
method.
Compensating for uncloseable openings can be handled through extending the discharge time,
which in turn extends the period of agent application. A method of determining the additional
agent required / rate of application can be accomplished by conducting an enclosure integrity
test.
8.7 Forced Ventilation
Forced-air ventilating systems shall be shut down or closed automatically where their continued
operation would adversly affect the performance of the fire extinguishing system or result in
propagation of the fire. Completely self-contained recirculating ventilation systems shall not be
required to be shut down. The volumen of the ventilation system and the associated ductwork
shall be considered as part of the total hazard volumen when determining the quantity of agent.
If there is a short run down time but the quantity of air removed is significant, additional Argon
must be applied. The additional Argon must be discharged within the discharge time laid down
for the system.
This additional gas must be added to the basic Argon quantity as calculated in Section 8.1.
All such cases must be referred to the Minimax Engineering Department.
8.8 Altitude Adjustment
The design quantity of Argon shall be adjusted to compensate for ambient pressures that vary
by more than 11% (equivalent to approximately 1000m of elevation change) from standard sea
level pressures 760 mm Hg at 20o C). The ambient pressure is affected by changes in altitude,
pressurisation or de-pressurisation of the protected enclosure, and weather related barometric
pressure changes. The adjusted Argon quantity is determined by multiplying the quantity
determined in section 8.1 by the ratio of average ambient enclosure pressure to standard sea
level pressure.
The ratio's relating to variations in altitude are given as correction factors in table 7.
This additional gas must be added to the basic Argon quantity as calculated in Section 8.1.

Table 7 - Altitude Correction Factors
Equivalent Altitud Correction Factor Equivalent Altitud Correction Factor
meters ft
-3000 1,11
-2000 1,07
-1000 1,13 -1000 1,04
0 1 0 1
1000 0,885 1000 0,96
1500 0,83 2000 0,93
2000 0,785 3000 0,89
2500 0,735 4000 0,86
3000 0,69 5000 0,82
3500 0,65 6000 0,78
4000 0,61 7000 0,75
4500 0,565 8000 0,72
9000 0,69
10000 0,66
8.9 Requirements for Deep Seated Fires

Risks involving deep seated fires should be referred to the Minimax Engineering Department.
8.10 Selection of cylinders
The preferred Argon cylinder is the 200 bar 80 litres capacity. The following range of cylinders
is also available:
Table 8
Fill, Argon Fill, Argon
Cylinder capacity, litres @ 160 bar @ 200 bar
kg kg
80 22,1 28,3
79 21,8 27,9
67 18,6 -
Argon cylinders are not partially filled, therefore to determine the number of cylinders required
divide the quantity of Argon (Q) by the selected cylinder size fill quantity.
Example: Number of cylinders = (Q + 10 %) /80 litre fill cylinder
NOTE: Up to 10 % may be added to the calculated quantity of Argon (Q) to ensure that
sufficient pressure is available towards the end of the cylinder(s) discharge.
= (92.71 + 10 %) /22.1
= 4.61 No. cylinders (rounded up 5 no.)

Therefore 5 No. 80 litre cylinders filled 22.1 kg.
Therefore Qg = 110.5 kg (total nominal fill of Argon in all cylinders).
Caution It is possible that the actual quantity of Argon (Qg) in the cylinders could
exceed the NOEL or LOEL values, therefore a check calculation must be
made using the formula shown in 8.2.
Argon Concentration check using an assumed max. temperature of 15o C.
C = 100 (1 - 1/en) (see 8.2)
Where:- Qf = (22.1 + 5%) x 5
= 116.025
S = 0.58169 (from 8.4)
V = 120 (from 8.4)
Q f S 116.025 x 0.58164
N = = = 0.56242
V 120
⎛ 1 ⎞
C = 100 ⎜1 − 0.56242 ⎟
⎝ e ⎠
C = 43.02%
Therefore: The Argon concentration has increased from 36.2% to 43.02%. In this case
the NOEL value has been reached.
See table 3 for possible system implications with respect to Auto/manual and system isolate
features if the concentration vales exceed either the NOEL or LOEL values.
8.11 Discharge Times
Argotec® extinguishing systems should be designed to discharge 95% of the design quantity
within 1 minute, i.e. 95% of Q (see 8.4).
This quantity of Argon is known as the Q60 value. Using the computer program the nozzle,
pipework and pressure restrictor will be sized in order to discharge a percentage of the total
quantity of stored Argon in 60 seconds i.e. Q60/Qg..
The balance of the stored Argon will continue to discharge at an exponentially decreasing rate
for approximately a further 3 minutes.
Discharge time for local injection (cabinet protection) of electronic equipment like computers
with the ARGE nozzle is 20 seconds.
In this case the Argotec® extinguishing systems should be designed to discharge 95% of the
design quantity within 20 seconds, i.e. 95% of Q (see 8.4).
This quantity of Argon is known as the Q20 value. Using the computer program the nozzle,
pipework and pressure restrictor will be sized in order to discharge a percentage of the total
quantity of stored Argon in 20 seconds i.e. Q20/Qg..
The balance of the stored Argon will continue to discharge at an exponentially decreasing rate
for approximately a further 1 minutes.

8.12 Computer Calculation
Minimax design systems in accordance with NFPA 2001 and have produced a computer
calculation programme evaluated by UL.
Part 1 of the computer programme can be used to determine the quantity of Argon according to
the NFPA formula. This section will also calculate the vent area required to safeguard against
protected area over-pressurisation.
Part 2 of the programme is used to determine the pipework, nozzle and restrictor sizes for a
chosen set of system parameters. Argon quantities that have been manually calculated can be
input.
The maximum range of flow splits is 90% to 10% for bullhead or side outlet.
If the ambient temperature of the location for the cylinders varies more than ± 5 °C then the
determination of the pipework, nozzle and restirctor size has to be run at maximum and
minimum temperature. The system must be calculated with exactly the same pipe network
including lengths, nozzle orifices, pressure reducers, etc.
The first calculation to determine the pressure reducer and the nozzles has to be run at
maximum temperature to ensure that the pressure behind the pressure reducer is not more than
60 bars and to calculate the necessary pressure relief aperture.
The second calculation has to be run at minimum temperature to ensure that the Q60 quantity is
discharged in 1 minute and the nozzle pressure is above the minimum nozzle pressure. If the
quantity discharged in one minute is less then Q60 increase the input for Q60 and repeat the first
calculation at maximum temperature to determine the pressure reducer and the nozzles again.
Reset the Q60 quantity to the original value and repeat the second calculation at minimum
temperature without a new determination of the reducer and the nozzles. Check if both
calculations are inside all limitation.
In case of “dead-end” pipe with no nozzle like a selector valve pipe these section must be
included in the calculation so that the volume of the whole pipe system is taken into
consideration.
For pipe network that include multiple separate hazards and selector valves, the piping for each
hazard shall be calculated separately, and must include the “dead-end” piping noted above.
The maximum pipe volume is reached if the pressure in the Argon cylinder drops to 2/3 of the
“original” pressure to fill the pipe system with the start pressure.
For further information consult the "Minimax Argon Design Program" manual chapter A 3.4E
issue 09/00.
The calculation method has been investigated for specific types of fittings, types of pipe, and
pipe inside diameter. When the specified limitations are not maintained there is the risk that the
system will not supply the designed quantity of extinguishing agent.
For more detailed information consult Sec. 5.16 of the Installation and Maintenance Manual.

9. NOZZLE SELECTION
The Argotec® system utilises three nozzle types:
a) For orifice diameters of 3.0 to 12.7 mm diameter, the half-inch RD nozzle is used.
b) For nozzle diameters below 3.0 mm in diameter, usually used in void protection,
the MX nozzle is used.
c) For cabinet protection, the ARGE nozzle is used.
The actual drilling sizes to be used will be selected by the Minimax Argon Design Programme.
The minimum nozzle pressure is 35 bar.
9.1 Area of Coverage
For total flood of rooms 0,3 m up to 5 m high, RD ½ nozzles shall be evenly arranged with an
area coverage of each nozzle of maximum 30 m².
Spacing from any wall to the nearest nozzle shall not exceed 3 m.
Distance from each nozzle to the further point of the coverage area shall not exceed 3,9 m
For enclosures over 5 m in height additional nozzles may be required at intermediate heights.
Such designs should be agreed with the Minimax engineering department.
For total flood of rooms 0,2 m up to 0,4 m high, MX ¼ -H nozzles shall be evenly arranged
with an area coverage of each nozzle of maximum 12 m².
Spacing from any wall to the nearesr nozzle shall not exceed 2 m
For total flood of rooms 0,1 m up to 2 m high, ARGE nozzles shall be evenly arranged with an
area coverage of each nozzle of maximum 4 m².
Spacing from any wall to the nearesr nozzle shall not exceed 1 m
9.2 Floor and Ceiling Voids
In floor voids of less than 1.5 m in height, the area coverage of each nozzle should be reduced
to 12 m2.
Spacing between nozzles should not exceed 4 m.
Spacing from any wall to the nearest nozzle should not exceed 2 m.
Special consideration should be given to physical obstructions and additional nozzles added as
deemed necessary.
9.3 Quantity of Nozzles
Using Graph 2 - Nozzle Orifice Diameter selection, select curve 1 to 4 dependent on the
discharge ratio Q60/Qg factor.
For the maximum nozzle drilling diameter of 12.7 mm the maximum quantity of Argon
discharged per nozzle in 60 seconds can be obtained (i.e. Curve 1 = 23 kg/min/nozzle).

To determine the minimum number of nozzles required, divide the quantity of Argon to be
discharged in 60 seconds (Q60) by the maximum quantity per nozzle.
Using a plan of the area to be protected the nozzles should be arranged evenly throughout the
area with due regard for the limitations imposed by :
a) Height of enclosures
b) Area coverage per nozzle (avoid siting nozzles that could cause splashing of
flammable liquids)
c) Spacing between nozzles and walls
d) Physical obstructions to be overcome
Nozzles should be added to the layout until all of the design criteria is met.
Figure 4 Nozzle location limitations

GRAPH 2

91.74 x 95 %
Example Discharge ratio Q60 / Qg = = 0.79
110.5
Using Graph 2 - Nozzle Orifice Diameter Selection select curve 2.
For 12.7 mm nozzle dia the specific quantity Q60 per nozzle is approx. 32 kg/min
87.15
Q60 / 32 = = 2.72 round up to 4 nozzles for balanced system.
32
Enclosure dimensions = 8m x 5m x 3m High
Less than 30m2 per nozzle - yes
Less than 5m between nozzles - yes
Less than 3m from walls - yes
Any physical obstructions - no
Therefore 4 nozzles are adequate for this system.
9.4 Pressure Relief Calculation - Direct to atmosphere
The protected area must be safeguarded against over-pressurisation when it is flooded with the
extinguishing agent.
This is achieved by introducing pressure relief apertures which must be capable of venting the
volumetric flow of the released Argon.
The following formula can be used to calculate the pressure relief aperture size.
83.53 x M
X =
P
Where X = aperture area (cm2)
M = mass flow for pressure relief (kg/min)
P = building strength (Pa or N/m2)
The value P should be obtained from the building owner or architect, however if this
information cannot be obtained then the following figures can be used:
light building construction = 300 Pa
normal building construction = 600 Pa
heavy building construction = 1200 Pa
M = FF × Q60
Where FF = flow factor determined from Graph 3
Q60 = min quantity discharged in 60 sec. (Q x 95%)
(See 8.4)
Qg = gross quantity of Argon (kg) supplied (see 8.10)

Example calculation
design quantity of Argon Q = 91.74kg

supplied quantity of Argon Qg = 110.5 kg
91.74 x 95%
Q60/Qg = = 0.79
110.5
from Graph 3 read Q60/Qg scale 0.79 against FF scale. FF = 2.62
M = FF × Q60
= 2.62 × 87.15 = 228.33 kg/min
83.53 x M
Substitute for M X=
P
use normal building construction P = 600 Pa
83.53 x 228.33 19072.40
X= = = 778.78 cm²
600 24.49
NOTE: The above pressure relief calculation will give a higher aperture area than
the computer hydraulic flow calculation. This is because the computer
calculation works on the actual mass flow of Argon as opposed to an
estimated mass flow, which allows for a factor of safety for estimating
purposes.
The Minimax Argon Hydraulic Flow Calculation Programme can also be used to determine
pressure relief aperture size.
If a ventilation duct is connected to the aperture then pressure drop calculations must be
provided to show that the correct level of venting is maintained.
9.4.1 Volumetric Flow Rate (V; m3/hour)
This is the volumetric flow rate of Argon/air mixture being vented through the ducting.
This variable can be determined by any of the following methods:
a) The Hydraulic Flow Calculation Program (see pressure relief section of printout).
or
b) From the Formula
M x 60
V =
ρ
Where V = Volumetric Flow Rate (m3/h)
M = Mass Flow for Pressure Relief (kg/min)
ρ = Density of Argon = 1.613 kg/m3
9.4.2 Gas Velocity (W;m/s)
This is the velocity of Argon/Air mixture being vented through the ducting.
This variable is determined by the following formula:
167 x M
W =
ρxX
Where W = Gas Velocity (m/s)
M = Mass Flow Rate of Vent Gas (kg/min)
ρ = Density of Argon = 1.613 kg/m3
X = Vent Area (cm2)

GRAPH 3
Pressure Relief Calculation

to determine flow factor
4,0
3,8
3,6
3,4
3,2
3,0
Flow factor FF
2,8
2,6
2,4
2,2
2,0
1,8
1,6
0,400
0,450
0,500
0,550
0,600
0,650
0,700
0,750
0,800
0,850
0,900
0,950
1,000
Flooding proportion Q(60)/Qg

GRAPH 4
Argon Cylinder Pressure / Temperature
275
250
225
200 Bar at 15°C

Pressure (bar g)
200
160 Bar at 15°C
175
150
125
-40 -20 0 20 40 60 80 100
Temperature (°C)

10. PIPEWORK AND FITTINGS
10.1 General
Pipework shall be noncombustible and able to withstand the maximum expected pressures and
temperatures without damage. Pipework except for flexible connectors shall be of metal. Steel
pipework should be as in Tables 9, 9a, 10, 11, 11a and 12, which specify the minimum
schedule or wall thickness to be used for steel pipe in the listed material specification.If tubing
is used.only tees, elbows, etc. shall be used for changes in flow direction, the tubing may not be
bent.
Pipe and fittings shall be free of burrs, spelter and rust.

Argotec® systems are of either 160 bar or 200 bar cylinder pressures (see 7.2).
Argotec® system distribution pipework will consist of high and low pressure sections divided
by a pressure reducer (see 7.5)
160 bar systems - the high pressure section will be at 160 bar and
the low pressure section will be at 60 bar max.
200 bar systems - the high pressure section will be at 200 bar and
the low pressure section will be at 60 bar max.
If the system requires an isolation valve (see 5.6) or direction valve (see7.1(c)), then it must be
installed upstream of the pressure reducer in the high pressure section of the distribution
pipework. The valve(s) must therefore be of suitable pressure rating - i.e. 160 bar or 200 bar.
The introduction of isolation/direction valve(s) defines that the distribution pipework upstream
of the valve is of closed section. Closed section pipework will be subjected to the full cylinder
pressure - i.e. 160 bar or 200 bar.
10.2 Flanges
a) For open sections of pipe, flanges shall be of forged carbon steel, raised face,
complying with: class 600
10.3 Fittings
For high pressure and closed sections of pipe, fittings shall be as follows:
a) 3000-lb forged steel
For open-ended pipe downstream of the pressure restrictor, fittings shall be as follows:
a) class 300 malleable iron or ductile iron
b) 1000-lb rated ductile iron or forged steel
c) class 600 flanged joints
Copper, copper alloy or stainless steel tube may be used without additional protection against
corrosion.
The grade of stainless steel, copper and copper alloy should be chosen in consultation with the
manufacturer with regard to the duty to be performed.
For these systems, container and valve manifolds are hydraulically tested at the manufacturer's
works to a minimum pressure of 1.5 times the design pressure and a test certificate issued.
Table 9
MINIMUM PIPE WALL THICKNESS / SCHEDULE

UPSTREAM OF PRESSURE REDUCER / ISOLATION VALVE
SCREWED FITTINGS 160 bar SYSTEMS
PIPE SIZE DIN 2448/2458 ASTM (seamless) ASTM A 53 GRADE B

A106B S
15 - SCH SCH
80 80
20 - SCH SCH
80 80
25 4,0 SCH SCH

160 160
32 4,5 SCH SCH

160 160
40 5,0 SCH SCH

160 160
50 5,6 SCH SCH

160 160
65 7,1 SCH SCH

160 160
NOTES:
1. WALL THICKNESS IN mm OR SCHEDULE
2. WALL THICKNESS ARE DERIVED FROM THE MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE
WORKING PRESSURE FORMULA PUBLISHED IN NFPA 2001

A106B S
8 1 - -
12 1,5 - -

Table 10

UPSTREAM OF PRESSURE REDUCER / ISOLATION VALVE
SCREWED FITTINGS 200 bar SYSTEMS

A106B S
15 - SCH SCH
80 80
20 - SCH SCH
80 80
25 4,5 SCH SCH

80 80
32 5,0 SCH SCH

160 160
40 5,6 SCH SCH

160 160
50 6,3 SCH SCH

160 160
65 8,0 SCH SCH

160 160
NOTES:
2 WALL THICKNESS ARE DERIVED FROM THE MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE

A106B S
8 1 - -
12 1,5 - -

Table 11

DOWNSTREAM OF PRESSURE REDUCER / ISOLATION VALVE
SCREWED FITTINGS
Pipe Size DIN 2448/2458 ASTM (seamless) ASTM A 53 GRADE B

A106B S
15 2,6 SCH SCH

40 40
20 2,6 SCH SCH

40 40
25 3,2 SCH SCH

40 40
32 3,2 SCH SCH

40 40
40 3,6 SCH SCH

40 40
50 4,0 SCH SCH

40 40
65 4,5 SCH SCH

40 40
80 4,5 SCH SCH

40 40
NOTES:
2 WALL THICKNESS ARE DERIVED FROM THE MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE

A106B S
8 1 - -
12 1,5 - -

10.4 Pipe Layout within Protected Area
Argon extinguishing agent is delivered to the protected area through a distribution pipe network
and liberated into the area through discharge nozzles.
When establishing a route for the pipe the system designer should take into consideration the
following:
a) It should not, if possible, pass through any other high risk area.
b) It should be direct as possible from cylinder bank to protected area.
c) It should, if possible, be run at one elevation, however even high changes in
elevation are possible, but must be checked by hydraulic flow calculation.
d) It should be endeavored to achieve a balanced pipe configuration as this makes the
hydraulic flow calculations easier, however unbalanced systems can be
accommodated.
e) Ideally it should not pass through an occupied area.
f) Downstream pipework should not exceed a 80 mm nominal bore. If, due to the
mass flow of Argon, a larger pipe is needed then two distribution pipe runs are
preferred.
g) Where exposed electrical conductors are present and, where practicable,
clearances no smaller than those given in Table 12 shall be provided, between the
electrical conductors and all parts of the system that may be approached during
maintenance. Where these clearance distances cannot be achieved, warning
notices shall be provided and a safe system of maintenance work shall be adopted.
See also NFPA 2001, Sec. 1-6.2.
h) It should be provided with a dirt trap at the end of each line, after the last nozzle.
The system should be so arranged that all normal operations can be carried out with safety to
the operator.

Pipe Isometric Diagram
DRAWING 1

10.5 Pipe Size Calculation
The size of pipes shall be determined by the Minimax Argon Flow Calculation Programme,
however, pipe sizes can be estimated for quotation purposes by using the following procedure.
From the example Electrical Equipment Room, (see page 33)
discharge ratio Q60/Qg = 0.79
Using the discharge ratio figure (0.79) select the correct graph (graph 5, 6, 7 or 8).
(In this example use graph 7).
This provisional pipe sizing is downstream from the pressure restrictor, therefore the start
pressure is approx. 60 bar with the minimum pressure at the nozzle around 45 bar, however
lower pressures can be tolerated provided the discharge time is maintained.
The Minimax hydraulic computer pipe flow calculations should always be used for final system
design.
Determine the equivalent length of pipe run from the furthest nozzle to the restrictor.
From the respective graph read of equivalent length against Q60 flow rate. Curve intersection
will give pipe diameter. The larger pipe size should be used.
From Drawing 1:
Pipe 1 to 2 = ND 50
Pipe 2 to 3 = ND 25
Pipe 4 to 5 = ND 32
Pipe 5 to 6 = ND 25
Pipe 5 to 8 = ND 25
Pipe 6 to 7 = ND 20
Pipe 8 to 9 = ND 20
Manifold pipe = ND 50
When estimating the equivalent length take the actual pipe run length and add 20% to take into
consideration elbows and tees. Special attention must be taken when there are valves in the
pipework, the following equivalent lengths can be used for estimating purposes.
See Tables 13 and 14.

GRAPH 5

GRAPH 6

GRAPH 7

GRAPH 8

GRAPH 9

GRAPH 10

GRAPH 11

GRAPH 12

Table 12 - Electrical Safety Clearances
Maximum rated voltage Minimum clearance from any point on or about the
permanent equipment where a person may be required to
stand (measure from position of the feet)
To the nearest unscreened To the nearest part not at
live conductor in air (section earth potential of an insulator
clearance) (see note 2) supporting a live
conductor (ground clearance)
kV m m
15 2.6
33 2.75
44 2.90
66 3.10
88 3.20 2.5
110 3.35
132 3.50
165 3.80
220 4.30
275 4.60
NOTE 1. This table is based on Table 3 ISO/DIS 14520-1.
NOTE 2. The term insulator includes all forms of insulating supports, such as pedestal and
suspension insulators, bushings, cable sealing ends and the insulating supports of
certain types of circuit breaker.
Table 13 - Selector Valve Equivalent Lengths

Valve Size Equivalent
length
1" (25 mm) 0.2m
1¼" (32 mm) 0.2m
1½" (40 mm) 0.3m
2" (50 mm) 0.4m
2½" (65 mm) 0.4m
NOTE: The above procedure is for estimation quotation purposes.

For actual pipe sizes computer hydraulic flow calculation should be used.
The above equivalent lengths apply to full bore "ball" valves.

10.6 Table 14 - Equivalent length of pipe fittings
SCREWED
Diameter 45o 90o T-through T-side

Nom mm Elbow Elbow
m m m m
3/8 10 0,18 0,40 0,24 0,32
1/2 15 0,24 0,51 0,30 1,04
3/4 20 0,30 0,67 0,43 1,37
1 25 0,40 0,85 0,55 1,74
1.1/4 32 0,52 1,10 0,70 2,29
1.1/2 40 0,61 1,30 0,32 2,65
2 50 0,79 1,70 1,06 3,41
2.1/2 65 0,94 2,00 1,25 4,08
3 80 1,20 2,50 1,55 5,06
WELDED
Diameter 45o 90o T-through T-side

Nom mm Elbow Elbow
m m m m
3/8 10 0,06 0,15 0,15 0,49
1/2 15 0,09 0,21 0,21 1,04
3/4 20 0,12 0,27 0,27 0,85
1 25 0,15 0,33 0,33 1,10
1.1/4 32 0,21 0,46 0,46 1,40
1.1/2 40 0,24 0,52 0,52 1,60
2 50 0,30 0,67 0,67 2,10
2.1/2 65 0,37 0,82 0,82 2,50
3 80 0,46 1,00 1,00 3,11

11. REFERENCE DOCUMENTATION
Included in NFPA 2001
Accepted by US EPA
Accepted in UK through HAG
Approved by German Health Authorities
Approved by German VdS
BSI Draft Code of Practice
Included in LPC Report on alternatives to Halon

1301
Included in DTI Halon phase out guide

12. INSTALLATION OF PIPEWORK
Refer to Installation Manual for the installation and erection of distribution pipework.

13. SAMPLE PROBLEM
This section shows the actual printouts of the input and output for the computer program based
on the sample already used in section 8 and 9.
Input project data
Input quantity calculation formula

Input room temperature and concentration
Input room geometry

Input additional room data
Output quantity calculation

Input max. room pressure
Input cylinder data

Input pipe work

Input nozzle
Output calculated nozzles

Output pressure calculation
Output pipe pressure

Output pipe pressure
To demonstrate the situation of other design temperatures then 20°C the calculation is extended
to 30°C storage temperature.
Input cylinder bank data at 30°C

Output pressure calculation at 30°C
Output pipe pressure at 30°C

Output pipe pressure at 30°C

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ARGOTEC® EXTINGUISHING SYSTEM

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Minimax GmbH 99-0500-03/30.10.03 Page1

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TABLE 1 Relative Hazards to People from Reduced Levels of Oxygen 14

TABLE 2 NOEL and LOEL Values 15

TABLE 3 Minimum Requirements for Occupied Spaces 22

TABLE 4 Flooding Factors 33

TABLE 5 Argotec® Design Concentrations 34

TABLE 6 Argon Design Concentrations for Gases and Liquids 35

TABLE 7 Altitude Correction Factors 37

TABLE 8 Selection of Cylinders 37

TABLE 9 Minimum Pipe Wall Thickness/Schedule

TABLE 13 Selector Valve Equivalent Lengths 63

TABLE 14 Equivalent Length of Pipe Fittings 64

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FIGURE 1 Safety Sign - less than 60 seconds evacuation 19

FIGURE 2 Safety Sign - over 60 seconds evacuation 20

FIGURE 3 Safety Sign - isolate valve closed 21

FIGURE 4 Nozzle location limitation 43

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GRAPH 1 Argon/Oxygen Comparison Concentration Levels 16

GRAPH 2 Nozzle Determination 42

GRAPH 3 Pressure Relief Calculation to Determine Flow Factor 46

GRAPH 4 Argon Cylinder Pressure / Temperature 47

GRAPH 5-12 Pipe Sizing Graphs 55-62

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Tel: +49 (0) 4531 - 803 0

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Automatic/Manual Changeover Device

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Normally Unoccupied Area

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It is also considered as a non toxic gas.

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Argon / Oxygen Comparsion Concentration Levels

Oxygen concentration by volumen

Argon volumen per room volumen [m³/m³]

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Labels to be displayed at entrances to protected areas

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Labels to be displayed at entrances to protected areas

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Labels to be displayed at entrances to protected areas

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Qf = (nominal cylinder fill + 5%) x number of cylinders.

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