Approval Standard

for

Explosion Suppression Systems

Class Number 5700

October 1999

©2002 FM Global Technologies LLC. All rights reserved.

 Foreword

FM Approvals are intended to verify that the products and services described will meet stated conditions of
performance, safety and quality useful to the ends of property conservation. The purpose of FM Approval
Standards is to present the criteria for FM Approval of various types of products and services, as guidance for
FM Approvals personnel, manufacturers, users and authorities having jurisdiction.

Products submitted for Approval shall demonstrate that they meet the intent of the Approval Standard, and that
quality control in manufacturing and/or applications shall ensure a consistently uniform and reliable product or
service. FM Approval Standards strive to be performance-oriented and to facilitate technological development.

For examining equipment, materials and services, FM Approval Standards:

a) must be useful to the ends of property conservation by preventing, limiting or not causing damage
under the conditions stated by the Approval listing; and
b) must be readily identifiable.

Continuance of Approval and Listing depends on compliance with the Approval agreement, satisfactory
performance in the field, on successful re-examinations of equipment, materials, and services as appropriate, and
on periodic follow-up audits of the manufacturing facility or service/application.

FM Global Technologies LLC reserves the right in its sole judgement to change or revise its standards, criteria,
methods, or procedures.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

I. INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 Purpose .............................................................................................................................................................................. 1
1.2 Scope ................................................................................................................................................................................. 1
1.3 Basis for Requirements ..................................................................................................................................................... 1
1.4 Basis for FM Approval ..................................................................................................................................................... 1
1.5 Basis for Continued Approval ............................................................................................................................................ 2
1.6 Effective Date .................................................................................................................................................................... 2
1.7 System of Units ................................................................................................................................................................. 2
1.8 Approval Application Requirements ................................................................................................................................. 2
1.9 Reference Documents ....................................................................................................................................................... 2
II. DEFINITIONS .......................................................................................................................................................................... 3
2.1 Combustion ........................................................................................................................................................................ 3
2.2 Deflagration ....................................................................................................................................................................... 3
2.3 Detonation ......................................................................................................................................................................... 3
2.4 Explosion ........................................................................................................................................................................... 3
2.5 Deflagration Parameters .................................................................................................................................................... 3
III. GENERAL INFORMATION ................................................................................................................................................. 4
3.1 Application ........................................................................................................................................................................ 4
3.2 Approval Categories ........................................................................................................................................................... 4
3.3 Limitations ......................................................................................................................................................................... 5
IV. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................................................................................. 5
4.1 Markings ............................................................................................................................................................................ 5
4.2 Drawings, Plans, and Specifications ................................................................................................................................. 6
4.3 Instructions ........................................................................................................................................................................ 6
4.4 Operational, Physical, and Structural Features ................................................................................................................ 6
V. EXAMINATION AND TESTS ................................................................................................................................................ 8
5.1 System ............................................................................................................................................................................... 8
5.2 System Components ......................................................................................................................................................... 10
VI. OPERATIONS REQUIREMENTS .................................................................................................................................... 12
6.1 Demonstrated Quality Control Program ......................................................................................................................... 13
6.2 Facilities and Procedures Audit (F&PA) ........................................................................................................................ 13
APPENDIX A: UNITS OF MEASUREMENT ......................................................................................................................... 14
APPENDIX B: APPROVAL MARKS ........................................................................................................................................ 15
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I. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Purpose

1.1.1 An Explosion Suppression System is designed to detect an incipient deflagration and suppress it in order
to prevent the full impact of the deflagration from developing. Typically these systems consist of four basic
components: the detector(s), a control unit, suppressant containers, and suppressant dispersers. Some
systems may also include high speed isolation valves.

1.1.2 An explosion is detected in the incipient stage, either by a rise in pressure or the presence of flame within
the protected enclosure. The control unit then actuates the suppressant dispersers to envelop and arrest the
explosion.

1.2 Scope

1.2.1 This standard shall apply to the design, construction, operation, maintenance, and testing of a system for
the suppression of a deflagration by introduction of a suppression medium.

1.2.2 This standard does not apply to devices or systems designed to protect against over-pressure due to
phenomena other than internal explosions.

1.2.3 This standard only applies to systems designed to limit the pressure developed in the protected enclosure
to a level that does not exceed the design strength of the enclosure.

1.2.4 This standard does not apply to systems for isolation or suppression of detonations.

1.3 Basis for Requirements

1.3.1 The requirements of this Standard are based on experience, research and testing, and/or the standards of
other organizations. The advice of manufacturers, users, trade associations, jurisdictions and/or loss
control specialists was also considered.

1.3.2 The requirements of this Standard reflect tests and practices used to examine characteristics of explosion
suppression systems for the purpose of obtaining FM Approval. Systems having characteristics not antici-
pated by this Standard may be Approved if performance equal, or superior, to that required by this
Standard is demonstrated, or if the intent of the Standard is met. Alternatively, systems which meet all of
the requirements identified in this Standard may not be Approved if other conditions which adversely
affect performance exist or if the intent of this Standard is not met.

1.4 Basis for FM Approval

FM Approval is based upon satisfactory evaluation of the product and the manufacturer in the following major
areas:

1.4.1 Examination and tests on production samples shall be performed to evaluate

• the suitability of the product;
• the performance of the product as specified by the manufacturer and required by FM Approvals; and as
far as practical,
• the durability and reliability of the product.

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1.4.2 An examination of the manufacturing facilities and audit of quality control procedures is made to evaluate
the manufacturer’s ability to produce the product which was examined and tested, and the marking
procedures used to identify the product. These examinations are repeated as part of the FM Approvals’
product follow-up program.

1.5 Basis for Continued Approval

Continued Approval is based upon:

• production or availability of the product as currently Approved;
• the continued use of acceptable quality assurance procedures;
• satisfactory field experience;
• compliance with the terms stipulated in the Approval Agreement;
• satisfactory re-examination of production samples for continued conformity to requirements; and
• satisfactory Facilities and Procedures Audits (F&PAs) conducted as part of the FM Approvals’ product
follow-up program.

Also, as a condition of retaining Approval, manufacturers may not change a product or service without prior
authorization by FM Approvals.

1.6 Effective Date

The effective date of an Approval standard mandates that all products tested for Approval after the effective date
shall satisfy the requirements of that standard. Products Approved under a previous edition shall comply with the
new version by the effective date or forfeit Approval.

The effective date of this Standard is October 1, 2000 for full compliance with all requirements.

1.7 System of Units

Units of measurement used in this Standard are United States (U.S.) customary units. These are followed by their
arithmetic equivalents in International System (SI) units, enclosed in parentheses. The first value stated shall be
regarded as the requirement. The converted equivalent value may be approximate. Appendix A lists the selected
units and conversions to SI units for measures appearing in this standard. Conversion of U.S. customary units
is in accordance with ANSI/IEEE/ASTM SI 10-1997, ‘‘Standard for Use of the International System of Units
(SI): The Modern Metric System.’’

1.8 Approval Application Requirements

To apply for an Approval examination the manufacturer, or its authorized representative, should submit a request
to the Hydraulics Group Manager at FM Approvals, Hydraulics Laboratory, 743A Reynolds Road, West
Glocester, Rhode Island (RI) 02814, U.S.A.

1.9 Reference Documents

1.9.1 NFPA 68, Guide for Venting of Deflagrations.

1.9.2 NFPA 69, Standard on Explosion Prevention Systems.

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II. DEFINITIONS
For purposes of this standard the following definitions apply.

2.1 Combustion

A chemical process of oxidation that occurs at a rate fast enough to produce heat and usually light, either as glow
or flames.

2.2 Deflagration

Propagation of a combustion zone at a velocity that is less than the speed of sound in the unreacted medium.

2.3 Detonation

Propagation of a combustion zone at a velocity that is greater than the speed of sound in the unreacted medium.

2.4 Explosion

An explosion is the bursting or rupture of an enclosure or a container due to the development of internal pressure
from a deflagration.

2.5 Deflagration Parameters

Deflagration parameters are numerical terms, determined in accordance with the test methods specified in this
standard, that characterize the contained deflagration of a specified concentration of reactants in a vessel having
a volume of 1 m3.

2.5.1 Maximum Pressure Pmax

The parameter Pmax is the maximum pressure developed by a deflagration as determined by tests over a
wide range of concentrations and under unvented conditions.

2.5.2 Deflagration Index K (bar-m/s)

The deflagration index K is a constant of direct proportionality which defines the maximum rate of
pressure rise with time (dp/dt)m of a deflagration in a volume V, according to the equation:

dp 3
K = ( )m × √V
dt
Kg is used for gases, Kst for dusts
Note: While used widely for engineering purposes, there are limits to the significance of the parameter K as a measure of mixture
reactivity.

a. In general, K cannot always be considered a finite property of the explosive mixture as its value
depends on the volume and geometry of the test vessel, and on the presence or absence of turbulence.
b. Explosion venting is known to greatly affect the reactivity (as expressed by the index K) of a mixture,
particularly for gaseous fuels.

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2.5.3 Fundamental Burning Velocity Su cm/sec

The burning velocity of a laminar flame under stated conditions of composition, temperature, and pressure
of the unburned mixture.

2.5.4 Effective Burning Velocity Sef cm/sec

The burning velocity of a reactive mixture that may be affected by turbulence, obstacles, or other factors.
These factors produce a faster rate of flame propagation into the unburned mixture than that associated
with a laminar flame for the same mixture. The effective burning velocity can be determined from the
initial portion of the pressure trace in a full-volume, unsuppressed, unvented explosion.

III. GENERAL INFORMATION

3.1 Application

3.1.1 The technique of explosion suppression may be considered for any enclosure in which combustible gases,
vapors, mists, or dusts are subject to deflagration in a gas phase oxidant.

3.1.2 Typical equipment that may be protected by an explosion suppression system includes:
• processing equipment, such as reactor vessels, mixers, blenders, pulverizers, mills, driers, ovens, filters,
screens, and dust collectors;
• storage equipment, such as atmospheric or low pressure tanks and bins;
• material handling equipment, such as pneumatic and screw conveyors, and bucket elevators;
• laboratory and pilot plant equipment, including hoods, glove boxes, test cells, and other equipment.

3.2 Approval Categories

3.2.1 Systems are Approvable for suppression of flammable dust, gas, and vapor explosions.

3.2.2 Dusts have been categorized in hazard classes from ST 0 to ST 3, based on Kst values in bar-m/sec.
ST 0 = Kst 0
ST 1 = Kst 1 to 200
ST 2 = Kst 201 to 300
ST 3 = Kst > 300
Approval listings will indicate the hazard class, by specific test(s), for which an explosion suppression
system has been Approved.
Note: A typical representative dust for Class ST 1 would be corn starch.

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3.2.3 A comparable categorization system has not been developed for vapor and gas hazard classes. A limited
amount of testing, as noted in NFPA 68 (1994), Section 2.5.1, indicates that approximate Kg values, in a
1m3 sphere, for the following three gases are:
Methane 80
Propane 200
Pentane 340
In general, Approval of suppression systems for gas and vapor explosions shall be granted for either
quiescent or turbulent mixture conditions: Approval granted for turbulent conditions shall be deemed to
also apply for quiescent conditions. The required turbulence shall be such that the measured effective
burning velocity (see Section 2.5.4) be at least four (4) times the value of the laminar burning velocity of
the mixture. The actual multiplying value, determined by tests, shall be stated in the Approval listing.
Approval shall apply only to the tested hazard. However, the Approval may be expanded to include other
chemicals or mixtures if a review of data indicates that the following conditions are met.
a. The burning velocity of the material is less than or not more than 10 percent greater than the material
tested.
b. The material is in the same chemical family such as alcohols, aliphatic hydrocarbons, aldehydes,
ketones, etc.

3.3 Limitations

3.3.1 Deflagration suppression will be successful only when the suppressant can be effectively distributed.
Distribution can be adversely affected by obstructions within the protected enclosure.

3.3.2 The effectiveness of an explosion suppression system is limited by the physical and chemical properties
of the reactants in the system.

3.3.3 Explosion suppression is applicable only to systems involving deflagrations that take place in a gaseous
oxidant.

3.3.4 This standard does not apply to explosion suppression involving deflagrations in hybrid (dust/vapor)
systems due to the variability in constituents and/or constituent concentrations.

IV. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

4.1 Markings

4.1.1 The system shall be labeled, at minimum, with the manufacturer’s name and address, model number, serial
number, applicable electrical ratings, date of manufacture, operating and storage temperature limitations,
hazardous location information if applicable, and an FM Approval mark (reproduction art formats are
shown in the Appendix).

4.1.2 All system pressure vessels and containers shall be labeled in accordance with the requirements of the
DOT, the ASME boiler and pressure code, or equivalent national or international requirements as appli-
cable. In addition, the containers shall also be labeled with the name (type) and quantity of suppressant,
model (part) number, serial number, and nominal charge pressure, if applicable.

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4.1.3 Discharge actuators, nozzles, and valves shall be labeled with a model number, part number, or by some
other type of identification that will allow an observer to determine that the correct system components
have been supplied.

4.1.4 Labeling shall be capable of withstanding prolonged exposure to normally expected environmental con-
ditions without loss of legibility or detachment from its mounting surface. Alternatively, the labeling can
be protected from adverse environments by means of an enclosure or other suitable method. Labels listed
by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL) will be considered acceptable.

4.2 Drawings, Plans, and Specifications

The manufacturer shall provide:

4.2.1 Drawings and/or specifications for all the major components of the suppression system. This includes the
control panel and its major components, suppressant actuators and cylinders, detectors, and suppressant
dispersing nozzles.

4.2.2 Schematics, final assembly layout, and bills of material (BOM) pertaining to electronic circuit boards.
Information concerning common electronic components and circuit board artwork is not needed.

4.2.3 Material safety data sheets (MSDS) for the suppressant.

4.2.4 Drawings and/or samples of all labels attached to the system and an indication of their location.

4.2.5 A copy of the installation, operation, and maintenance manual for the system.

4.2.6 The Deflagration Index K, burning velocity, and chemical family for all combustibles for which the system
is designed.

4.2.7 Information relating to the calculations and/or formulas for determining type and quantity of suppressant;
dispersing nozzle location, quantity, and size; and detector location, quantity, and type. Specifics are
outlined in Section 5.1.4.

4.3 Instructions

4.3.1 The manufacturer shall provide instructions and/or illustrations for proper installation, maintenance, and
operation of the system.

4.3.2 The manufacturer shall provide specific information pertaining to the allowable volume and configuration
of the protected enclosure, location and quantity of detectors, location and quantity of suppressant nozzles,
explosion index K, and type (group) of combustible dust or gas for which the system is designed.

4.4 Operational, Physical, and Structural Features

4.4.1 Control Units (Panels)

a. Controls shall be powered by commonly available AC line voltage and shall be equipped with a battery
backup system of sufficient capacity to power all detectors, suppressant dispersion actuators, and alarms
for a period of 24 hours. The control shall have a means of maintaining the backup battery at full charge
(typically a “trickle charger”) during normal operation.
b. They shall be equipped with audible and visual alarms and a means for automatic shutdown of a
process, blower, conveyor, etc.

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c. Controls shall be provided with some means of detecting faults in the actuation and detection circuits.
d. Fault detection or discharge of the suppression system shall result in the activation of audible and visual
alarms and activation of the shutdown circuit.
e. The control panel shall be equipped with a switch to activate or deactivate the suppression system.
Switch operation shall require a key or other suitable means of preventing unauthorized operation.
Deactivation of the suppression system shall activate the shutdown circuit and a visual alarm.
f. The control must be capable of operating properly between 85 and 110 percent of its nominal input
power voltage.
g. Activation of the system control circuitry shall result in immediate power-up of detectors and actuators.
h. The control unit shall be capable of operating over a temperature range of at least 32 to 140°F (0 to
60°C).
i. The controls shall be enclosed by a housing capable of protecting components from normally expected
adverse environmental conditions such as corrosive atmospheres, dust, and rain.

4.4.2 Detectors
a. Suppression systems shall be supplied with a minimum of two detectors.
b. An incipient explosion shall be detected by pressure or radiant energy sensors. Pressure sensors may
respond to a rate of pressure rise or at a preset pressure level. Radiant energy may be detected by infrared
(IR), ultraviolet (UV) or optical flame sensors.
c. Pressure detectors shall be capable of withstanding 150 percent of their rated operating pressure without
permanent deformation or change in their system actuation settings.
d. Radiant energy sensors shall be equipped with a means of detecting sensitivity changes due to viewing
lens obscuration. Detection of obscuration shall result in a visual and audible alarm.
e. Radiant energy sensors shall be of the rapid response type. Delayed reaction is allowable only for
applications where there is a possibility for false discharge. The delay shall not be field adjustable.
f. The detectors shall be capable of operating over the expected extremes of temperature external to or
within the protected enclosures, but not less than 32 to 140°F (0 to 60°C).
g. Detectors and mounting hardware shall be capable of operating in, or be protected from, the normally
expected adverse atmosphere or vibration in the protected enclosure.
h. Radiant energy detectors shall not react to direct or reflected sunlight or to artificial light.
i. The specified rate of rise, as related to the response time of the detector, shall not be such as to allow
the internal pressure of the protected enclosure to attain a value in excess of 90 percent of maximum
pressure it can withstand before suppression is attained.

4.4.3 Actuators
a. Suppressant dispersion actuators shall be electrically activated.
b. Actuators shall consist of an electrically fired pyrotechnic or propellant driven device (initiator) and a
rupture disc mounted on the suppressant container. Activation of the device shall cut or fracture the disc
thereby releasing the suppressant into the protected enclosure. Other types of actuators will be considered
on an individual basis.
c. The initiator and disc shall be protected from adverse environments that could hinder or cause
inappropriate operation.
d. The actuators shall be capable of operating over the expected extremes of temperature external to or
within the protected enclosures, but not less than 32 to 140°F (0 to 60°C).
e. Galvanic action between the actuator and suppressant container shall be prevented by use of suitable
materials, isolation from direct contact, or protective coatings.

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4.4.4 Nozzles
a. Suppressant dispersion nozzles and associated mounting hardware shall be capable of withstanding the
effects of any corrosive atmosphere created by the gases or dusts within the protected enclosure. This may
be accomplished by use of corrosion resistant materials, protective coatings, or any other suitable method.
b. Nozzle design shall be such as to minimize the possibility of clogging by the material in the protected
area.

4.4.5 Suppressant Containers (Cylinders)

a. Cylinders shall comply with ASME boiler and pressure vessel code, DOT, or other national or inter-
national requirements as applicable. Approval of other types of cylinders shall require a special investi-
gation.
b. Cylinders that need to be pressurized in order to expel low vapor pressure suppressants shall be
equipped with a pressure gauge marked to indicate an acceptable pressure range for effective dispersion
of the suppressant. Pressure gauges, similar to those found on fire extinguishers, that use a green band to
indicate an acceptable range are considered suitable.
c. Containers for high vapor pressure suppressants, that do not require auxiliary pressurization, shall be
easily weighable or equipped with some means of determining suppressant quantity, on a continuing basis,
after installation.
d. The cylinders shall be capable of withstanding the expected extremes of temperature external to or
within the protected enclosures, but not less than 32 to 140°F (0 to 60°C).

4.4.6 Suppressant
a. Suppressants shall be of the dry chemical type, halon, one of the clean agents listed in NFPA 2001, or
water. Other types of suppressants will be considered on an individual basis.
b. The suppressant shall be effective at the specified extremes of temperature for the cylinder, discharge
valve, and actuator.

4.4.7 Electrical Wiring

a. All wiring to the suppression system and between components of the system shall be grounded and shall
be isolated and shielded from all other wiring to prevent induced currents that could affect operation of
the system.
b. When environmental conditions warrant, conduits shall be sealed to prevent entrance of moisture and
other contaminants.
c. When conduit is used for wiring multiple installations, the wiring for each suppression system shall be
run in separate conduits. Alternatively, each system may be wired with shielded cables run in common
conduits.

V. EXAMINATION AND TESTS

5.1 System

5.1.1 Explosion suppression systems will normally be examined and tested at the manufacturer’s facility or at
a mutually agreeable location.

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5.1.2 The configuration and placement of system components will be examined and compared to the
manufacturer’s drawings and specifications and FM Approvals requirements for explosion
suppression systems.

5.1.3 Evidence shall be provided that all test equipment to be used is in calibration and that there is an
established recalibration program. A copy of the calibration certificate for each piece of test equipment is
required. Calibration certificates must indicate that the calibration is traceable to the National Institute of
Standards and Technology (NIST) or to other acceptable reference standards.

5.1.4 Prior to conducting verification tests the calculations/formulas provided per Section 4.2.7 (above) and the
system configuration determined by the calculations/formulas shall be reviewed for applicability based on
the following minimum information:
a. An explanation of how the calculation and/or method models the physics of the event;
b. Inputs and assumptions required for the calculation method to simulate the event;
c. Suppressant quantities predicted by the calculation method;
d. Nozzle configuration, location, and quantity;
e. Detector type, location and quantity;
f. Expected pressure level at time of suppressant release based upon the total system response time;
g. Expected maximum pressure when suppressed;
h. Expected elapsed time between detection and suppression activation;
i. Considerations on the limits of applicability of the calculations relating to: storage temperature range
of suppressant container, enclosure temperature, air flow, enclosure geometry considerations, and
obstructions within the enclosure; and
j. Duration of post-suppression inerting, if applicable.

5.1.5 The following explosion suppression tests will be performed in order to verify the capability of the
explosion suppression system and the results predicted by the calculations. Tests will be conducted with
each suppressing agent and each nozzle type submitted by the manufacturer.
a. All tests shall be conducted in a vessel with a minimum volume of 1 m3.
Caution: The test vessel shall be located within an enclosure such as a bunker or vault of sufficient
strength to contain any fragments and the pressure developed by explosive failure of the vessel.
b. An unsuppressed explosion will be conducted prior to the suppression test, in the same vessel as the
suppression test, in order to determine or verify the explosion parameters of each combustible dust, gas,
or vapor for which the system may be used.
c. Representative suppression tests will be conducted with each combustible. A minimum of three tests
will be conducted, under the same set of conditions, to verify repeatability. The elapsed time between
detection and suppression activation shall be measured and compared to the expected time noted in 5.1.4.h
above. The suppressant and cylinder shall be conditioned for a minimum of 16 hours at its specified
minimum operating temperature prior to the tests. Alternatively, suppressant containers that are pressur-
ized with an expellant gas and with an agent that is not influenced by temperature may be underpressur-
ized, at room temperature, to the equivalent value at the minimum operating temperature.
d. Suppressed and unsuppressed tests shall be carried out at the worst case concentration and particle size
for dusts and worst case fuel-air ratios for gas and vapors. Moisture content of dusts shall not exceed
5 percent.
e. Unsuppressed and suppressed tests for gaseous mixtures shall be carried out for the initial conditions,
quiescent or turbulent, corresponding to the type of Approval being sought. For turbulent conditions, two
unsuppressed tests shall be conducted with an initially quiescent mixture in order to establish a reference
burning velocity for the mixture. This velocity shall be used to determine the actual multiplier for the

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effective burning velocity determined in the turbulent tests. The value of this multiplier shall not be less
than four (4).
Note: Successful explosion suppression of a specific combustible with a specific K will qualify the system
for use with other combustibles of the same type and with equal or lower, experimentally determined,
K values.

5.2 System Components

5.2.1 The configuration of system components shall be examined and compared to the manufacturer’s drawings
and specifications and FM Approvals requirements for explosion suppression systems.

5.2.2 System components that have been previously tested as part(s) of Approved fire extinguishing systems,
agents, flame actuated fire detectors, or automatic releases for extinguishing systems may not have to be
retested. If the manufacturer of the explosion suppression system is using components from another
manufacturer’s Approved fire extinguishing or explosion suppression system those components may not
have to be retested if that manufacturer gives FM Approvals written permission to use test data
from that Approval program.

5.2.3 Suppressant cylinders and actuators.

a. Non-DOT or ASME cylinders shall be pressurized to three times their proof pressure for one minute.
Proof pressure is defined as three times rated operating pressure at 70°F (21°C). There shall be no evidence
of leakage or rupture.
b. Non-DOT or ASME cylinders shall be pressurized to their proof pressure for 30 seconds. Permanent
volumetric expansion shall not exceed 10 percent of the total expansion that occurred under pressure.
c. A discharge actuator and a discharge valve, attached to a cylinder, shall be pressurized to cylinder proof
pressure for one minute. There shall be no evidence of leakage through the actuator, at the valve/actuator
junction, or at the valve/cylinder junction. If agent release is accomplished by means of a valve equipped
with a rupture disc, the disc port can be blocked off with a plate capable of withstanding the proof pressure
or other suitable means.
d. A minimum of three fully charged cylinders with actuators shall be conditioned for a minimum of
30 days at minimum storage and maximum storage temperature. The test samples shall not show a leakage
rate exceeding 0.1 percent of the normal storage weight or 0.2 percent of the nominal expellant gas
pressure, converted to weight. Cylinders shall be of the smallest size that will be supplied.
Note: 1. If the weight of the smallest cylinder with actuator exceeds 130 lb (59 kg), the actuators can be mounted on mock-up
cylinders of any convenient size, shape, and wall thickness as long as the cylinder will contain the vapor or expellant gas
pressure; and the total weight of actuator, cylinder, agent, and expellant gas does not exceed 130 lb.
Note: 2. This test period is subject to extension based upon the ability of the test equipment to detect small changes in weight. The
measured leak rate will then be extrapolated back to a 30 day equivalent.

e. A minimum of two separate fully charged cylinder/actuators shall be stored for one year at room
temperature, one vertically and one horizontally, or in the installation position(s) specified by the manu-
facturer. The test samples shall not show a leakage rate exceeding 1 percent of the normal storage weight
or 2 percent of the nominal expellant gas pressure, converted to weight. Cylinders shall be of the smallest
size that would be supplied.
Note: If the weight of the smallest cylinder with actuator exceeds 130 lb (59 kg), the actuators can be mounted on mock-up cylinders
of any convenient size, shape, and wall thickness as long as the cylinder will contain the vapor or expellant gas pressure; and
the total weight of actuator, cylinder, agent, and expellant gas does not exceed 130 lb.

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f. A sample cylinder/actuator, charged with air or other inert gas to normal operating pressure, shall be
subjected to a salt spray test per ASTM B117. At the conclusion of the test there shall be no visible
galvanic corrosion; minor surface corrosion is permissible. Discharge of the cylinder shall be initiated.
There shall be no evidence of abnormal or failure to discharge.
CAUTION: Discharge of the cylinder is inherently dangerous. Keep all personnel away from the
discharge outlet and restrain the cylinder securely.

5.2.4 Actuators
a. A minimum of four groups of actuators shall be test fired. Each group shall consist of the maximum
number of actuators, in series, that would be allowed by the specified control panel. Two groups shall be
conditioned at the minimum cylinder operating temperature, the other two at the maximum temperature.
All samples shall be fired at minimum rated operating current. All must operate.
Note: The total number of samples shall not be less than 30.

b. Actuator materials shall be evaluated for suitability of use in the normally expected environments
within and exterior to the protected enclosure.

5.2.5 Flame Radiation Type Detectors

a. Detectors shall be tested to confirm response to flame radiation of the appropriate wavelength; infrared,
visible, or ultraviolet; when installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. The manufac-
turer’s specified minimum signal intensity and field of view shall also be verified at this time.
b. The detectors shall react immediately upon exposure to the flame radiation signals noted above. There
shall be no indication of delay in response beyond that inherent in the sensing element of the detector.
c. Detectors shall be exposed to direct and reflected sunlight and artificial light. There shall be no evidence
of response to these sources.
Exception: For maintenance and periodic operational tests a means of adjusting the detector for
response to artificial light sources is acceptable. However, such an adjustment shall result in a fault
indication at the control panel and activation of the shutdown circuit for the protected process area.
d. Detectors shall be conditioned, for a minimum of four hours each, at the manufacturer’s specified
operating temperature extremes or at 32 and 140°F (0 and 60°C), whichever is of greater severity. The
detectors shall respond to flame radiation signals of the appropriate wavelength at the specified minimum
signal intensity. There shall be no response to artificial light or detectable increase in response time.
e. The detectors shall also respond to flame radiation signals of the appropriate wavelength and specified
minimum signal intensity at 85 and 110 percent of rated operating voltage.

5.2.6 Pressure Type Detectors

a. A minimum of three samples shall be tested.
b. For preset level type detectors, input pressure shall be increased gradually until the device actuates. The
actual actuation point shall be within the manufacturer’s specification for accuracy or within ±5 percent
of specified value, whichever is less. The test shall be conducted for a minimum of three times. The actual
actuation point shall repeat within the manufacturer’s specification or within ±1 percent of the set value,
whichever is less.
c. For rate of rise type detectors, input pressure shall be applied at the manufacturer’s specified rate of rise
until the device actuates. The test shall be conducted for a minimum of three times. There shall be no
failure to actuate.
d. For differential type detectors, differential pressure, at minimum and maximum static pressure, shall be
increased gradually until the device actuates. The actual actuation point shall be within the manufacturer’s
specification for accuracy or within ±5 percent of specified value, whichever is less. The test shall be
conducted for a minimum of three times. The actual actuation point shall repeat within the manufacturer’s
specification or within ±1 percent of the set value, whichever is less.

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e. One of the sample detectors shall be conditioned, for a minimum of four hours, at the manufacturer’s
specified operating temperature extremes or at 32 and 140°F (0 and 60°C), whichever is of greater severity.
There shall be no significant change in the operating characteristics determined in the applicable tests
noted in b, c, and d above.
f. One of the sample detectors shall be subjected to 1000 operational cycles over the maximum operating
pressure range. There shall be no significant change in the operating characteristics determined in the
applicable tests noted in b, c, and d above.
g. A pressure equal to 1.5 times maximum rated pressure shall be applied to the inlet of any one of the
detector samples for a period of 5 minutes. There shall be no evidence of leakage, permanent distortion,
or rupture. The sample shall operate properly and there shall be no significant change in the operating
characteristics determined in the applicable tests noted in b, c, and d above.
Note: A significant change is defined as one that will result in an unsafe condition with continued use.

5.2.7 Control Units (Panels)

a. A control panel shall be examined for conformance to the manufacturer’s drawings and specifications
and FM Approvals requirements noted in Section 4.4.1 above.
b. The control shall be tested for proper operation by applying a real or simulated signal to the input
connections for the detection devices. The unit shall send a signal to the suppression actuators, activate
audible and visual alarms, and activate the process shutdown circuit(s).The elapsed time between
application of the signal and activation of the suppression output circuits shall be measured and compared
to the expected time noted in 5.1.4.h above.
c. Real or simulated faults shall be introduced into the detection and actuation circuits. The control shall
activate audible and visual alarms and initiate the process shutdown circuit(s).
d. The tests in b and c above shall be repeated at 85 and 110 percent of nominal input power voltage. There
shall be no evidence of operational failure.
e. Deactivation of the suppression system, by means of a switch, shall activate the shutdown circuit(s) and
a visual alarm.
f. A sample panel shall be conditioned, for a minimum of four hours, at the manufacturer’s specified
operating temperature extremes or at 32 and 140°F (0 and 60°C), whichever is of greater severity. There
shall be no failure to operate properly when subjected to the tests in b. and c. above.
g. A sample panel shall be operated on its battery backup system for 24 hours. The panel shall operate
properly when subjected to the tests in b and c above.

VI. OPERATIONS REQUIREMENTS

A quality assurance program is required to assure that subsequent suppression systems produced by the
manufacturer shall present the same quality and reliability as the specific suppression system examined. Design
quality, conformance to design, and performance are the areas of primary concern.
• Design quality is determined during the examination and tests, and is documented in the Approval Report.
• Continued conformance to this Standard is verified by the Facilities and Procedures Audits (F&PA).
• Quality of performance is determined by field performance and as necessary by periodic re-examination and
testing.

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6.1 Demonstrated Quality Control Program

6.1.1 The manufacturer shall demonstrate a quality assurance program which specifies controls for at least the
following areas:
existence of corporate quality assurance guidelines
incoming quality assurance, including testing
in-process quality assurance, including testing
final inspection and tests
equipment calibration
drawing and change control
packaging and shipping
handling and disposition of discrepant materials.

6.1.2 Documentation/Manual
There should be an authoritative collection of procedures/policies. It should provide an accurate descrip-
tion of the quality management system while serving as a permanent reference for implementation and
maintenance of that system. The system should require that sufficient records are maintained to demon-
strate achievement of the required quality and verify operation of the quality system.

6.1.3 Records
To assure adequate traceability of materials and products, the manufacturer shall maintain a record of all
quality assurance tests performed, and shall maintain this record for a minimum period of two years from
the date of manufacture.

6.1.4 Drawing and Change Control

• The manufacturer shall establish a system of product configuration control that shall allow no
unauthorized changes to the product. Changes to critical documents, identified in the Approval Report
must be reported to, and authorized by, FM Approvals prior to implementation for production.
• The manufacturer shall assign an appropriate person or group to be responsible for, and require that,
proposed changes to Approved or Listed products be reported to FM Approvals before implementation.
The manufacturer shall notify FM Approvals of changes in the product or of persons responsible for
keeping FM Approvals advised by means of FM Approvals Form 797, Approved Product Revision
Report or Address/Contact Change Notice.
Records of all revisions to all Approved products shall be maintained.

6.2 Facilities and Procedures Audit (F&PA)

6.2.1 An audit of the manufacturing facility is part of the Approval investigation to verify implementation of the
quality assurance program. Its purpose is to determine that the manufacturer’s equipment, procedures, and
quality program are maintained to insure a uniform product consistent with that which was tested and
Approved.

6.2.2 These audits shall be conducted quarterly by FM Approvals or its representatives.

6.2.3 FM Approved products or services shall be produced or provided at or from the location(s) audited by
FM Approvals and as specified in the Approval Report. Manufacture of products bearing the FM Approval
Mark is not permitted at any other location without prior written authorization by FM Approvals.

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APPENDIX A

UNITS OF MEASUREMENT

PRESSURE: psi – ‘‘pounds per square inch’’

(kPa – ‘‘kilopascals’’)
kPa = psi × 6.895

bar – ‘‘bar’’;
(kPa – ‘‘kilopascals’’)
bar = kPa × 0.01
bar = psi × 0.06895

TEMPERATURE: °F – ‘‘degrees Fahrenheit’’

(°C – ‘‘degrees Celsius‘‘)
°C = (°F – 32) × 0.556

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APPENDIX B

APPROVAL MARKS

REPRODUCTION ART: FM Approval Marks

For use on nameplates, in literature, advertisements,

packaging and other graphics.

1) The FM Approvals diamond mark is acceptable

to FM Approvals as an Approval mark when
used with the word ‘‘Approved.’’

2) The FM Approval logomark has no minimum

size requirement, but should always be large
enough to be readily identifiable.

3) Color should be black on a light background or a

reverse may be used on a dark background.

For Cast-On Marks

4) Where reproduction of the mark described

above is impossible because of production
restrictions, a modified version of the diamond is
suggested. Minimum size specifications are the
same as for printed marks. Use of the word
‘‘Approved’’ with this mark is optional.

NOTE: These Approval marks are to be used only in conjunction with products or services that have been
FM Approved. The FM Approval marks should never be used in any manner (including advertising, sales or promotional
purposes) that could suggest or imply FM Approval or endorsement of a specific manufacturer or distributor. Nor should
it be implied that Approval extends to a product or service not covered by written agreement with FM Approvals. The
Approval marks signify that products or services have met certain requirements as reported by FM Approvals.

Additional reproduction art is available through

FM Approvals
P.O. Box 9102,
Norwood, Massachusetts 02062
U.S.A.

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