Fdocuments - in - Inergen Pressure Relief Venting Guide

INERGEN PRESSURE RELIEF

VENTING GUIDE
2-14-97 Page 1
Revised 1-5-98
Introduction
Venting of enclosures protected by INERGEN systems can take many forms. Examples include: Free Venting directly to the
exterior of the building, venting through ducts, venting through unprotected spaces, and venting through protected spaces. It
is the intent of this guide to address the most common methods of venting and offer design parameters to prevent over-
pressurization of enclosures protected by Ansul INERGEN systems.
Pressure venting for an INERGEN system is similar to the design and calculation of the piping for the agent distribution sys-
tem. In both cases a gas is moving through an opening which restricts the flow. The design must deal not only with the pres-
sure loss caused by the device the gas flows through, but also with the friction loss developed by the walls of the piping or
ducts. Friction loss increases as the flow is restricted through orifices regardless of whether these orifices are manifold orifices
and nozzles, or inlet grilles, dampers, louvers, bird screens, etc. All devices must be accounted for in the design and calcula-
tion of the venting system. In addition, if the venting is to be accomplished through multiple enclosures, pressure build-up cre-
ated by restrictions in each of the rooms must also be accounted for. This pressure build-up is cumulative and will definitely
have an effect on the venting for the room being protected.
The main difference between pressure venting systems and distribution piping systems is that the venting system deals with
enclosures and equipment typically rated at pressures less than 50 lbs/ft 2. Any pressure greater than that listed for the enclo-
sure or equipment will likely do some damage to that component.
Early venting recommendations were based on enclosure wall strengths as listed in NFPA 12. It appears that these figures
were based on old construction methods employed in the 1950’s and 60’s. Today’s construction methods, using materials such
as metal studs, movable partitions, and concrete blocks, create walls with lateral strengths much weaker than those encoun-
tered in walls built when the NFPA 12 wall strengths were developed. The only sure way to determine the wall strength of an
enclosure is to obtain that information from the owner of the building or the architect responsible for the buildings design. If this
information is not available, the wall strength will have to be estimated using an appropriate safety factor. This estimate should
be made by the INERGEN system designer after consultation with the owner and/or architect. If the system designer, along
with owner and/or architect, are not able to estimate a maximum wall strength, Ansul recommends the use of 5 lbs./ft 2. This is
a conservative estimate which will generally calculate a vent larger than actually required, but will not require more agent to
reach or hold concentrations.
This guide will provide the INERGEN system designer with the information necessary to design and calculate venting systems
for most spaces protected by INERGEN systems. Complex duct systems and specialized venting system components may
require support by the Distributor Technical Services Department at Ansul.
The following Flow Chart gives a general overview of the steps required to complete the design and calculation of an
INERGEN venting system.

INERGEN VENTING GUIDE

1-5-98 Page 2 Rev. 1
Venting Guide Flow Chart

CALCULATE INERGEN
SYSTEM PEAK FLOW RATE
DETERMINE
ALLOWABLE PSF
CALCULATE ALLOWABLE YES

MULTIPLE AREAS?
PSF PER AREA
NO
CALCULATE FREE
VENT AREA(S)
DEDUCT ELA FROM

DOOR FAN TEST
YES 1
DUCTS? CALCULATE
PRESSURE LOSS
NO
ADDITIONAL
RESTRICTIONS? YES
NO 2
CALCULATE
PRESSURE LOSS
SUM ALL FOR EACH DEVICE
CALCULATE
PRESSURE LOSS PRESSURE LOSSES
RESIZE FREE NO TOTAL PRESSURE RESIZE RESIZE

VENT AREA LOSS ACCEPTABLE? COMPONENT DUCT
YES
COMPONENT FINAL FREE VENT

SIZE CHANGE? AREA AND
COMPONENT SIZES
NO YES
DUCT SIZE
YES
CHANGE?
NO
NOTES: 1 Use tables and charts attached to this guide.

2 Obtain data from component manufacturer or architect.


2-14-97 Page 3
Free Vent Calculation

Ansul has always indicated that venting is an integral part of any INERGEN system and the requirement for pressure relief
venting is mandatory. Per the Ansul Design Manual, a calculation is required to determine the amount of free venting area, in
square inches, to prevent an excessive pressure buildup within the protected volume. The information needed to complete this
calculation includes a calculation to determine the flow rate of air out of the enclosure (equal to the INERGEN system peak
flow rate) and knowledge of what the maximum allowable internal pressure is that the enclosure can withstand.
1. The flow rate out of the enclosure can be determined by calculating the INERGEN system peak flow rate (Q p). This flow
rate is determined from the formula:
2.7 IG
Qp = _____
T
Where: Qp = INERGEN system peak flow rate
IG = INERGEN Agent Quantity Supplied (ft 3)
T = 90% discharge time (min.)
The flow rate calculated is the peak flow which results within the first few seconds of the INERGEN system discharge. This
flow rate is required for the calculations which will be used later in this guide when using ducts in the venting system.
2. Consult owner or architect to determine building wall strength. If this information is not available, Ansul recommends the
use of 5 lbs./ft2 The use of a low wall strength (5 lbs./ft 2) will require larger venter sizes but will not require more agent to
reach or hold concentration.
3. The next step in designing pressure venting for an INERGEN system is to calculate the minimum size of the Free Vent
Area. The formula used to determine the size of the Free Vent is:
0.0855 Qp
X = _________
P
Where: X = The Free Vent Area in square inches.

Qp = The INERGEN agent peak flow rate calculated from the formula listed above.
P = The maximum allowable wall strength in lbs./ft 2 of the weakest surface (walls, ceiling, floor, doors, windows,
etc.) of the enclosure.
Free Vent Calculation
L E
12
M P
FT.
E XA
30 FT.
P R
INERGEN Agent Quantity = (4) 439 ft3 cylinders O T
S P E C T
A C E D 10 FT.
90% Discharge Time = 45 Seconds E
Maximum Allowable Enclosure Pressure = 5 lbs./ft 2
Calculate Agent Peak Flow Rate:
2.7 (1756) = ______
Qp = _________ 4741.2 = FIGURE 1
6322 CFM 000917
.75 .75
Calculate Free Vent Area:
0.0855 (6322) =
X = ____________ 0.0855
______ (6322) =
________ 540.5
____ = 241.7 in2 = 1.68 ft2
5 2.236 2.236
The Free Vent Area calculated is the minimum area required to prevent over-pressurization of the enclosure when the open-
ing is to atmosphere. Atmosphere is described as open air on the outside of a building.


1-5-98 Page 4 Rev. 2
Free Vent Calculation (Continued)

An opening into another enclosure regardless of the size of that enclosure will cause a pressure build up inside both enclo-
sures. The pressure generated in the enclosures will be directly dependent upon the size of the secondary enclosure in
relation to the amount of agent supplied. The larger the secondary enclosure, the lower the pressure generated.
The potential pressure resulting within both enclosures, if completely sealed and not vented, can be approximated with the
formula:
995 V1
P = ______
V2
Where: P = Final pressure in both enclosures (lb/sq. ft.)
V1 = Protected enclosure volume (ft3)
V2 = Total volume of both enclosures (ft 3)
As indicated by calculations, this pressure is prohibitively high unless the second enclosure is extremely large. A second
volume 100 times the protected volume will still retain a pressure of approximately 10 lb/sq.ft. within both enclosures.
Location of Vents and Effects on Concentration

Since the density of INERGEN is very close to that of air, the agent is not affected by gravity to the same extent as Halon 1301
and other clean agents. Gravity will have an effect on leakage of agent from a room; however, that leakage will be slower than
if the agent were heavier as is the case for Halon 1301 and the other clean agents. Therefore, openings will have less of an
effect on leakage if they are located higher on the walls than if they are at the floor level.
Hold time of an INERGEN system will also be affected by air movement through the enclosure. In many cases, this air move-
ment may have more of an effect on leakage than the location of the opening. It will be advantageous to prevent any air move-
ment through the enclosure. Openings at different heights will result in faster leakage than if all openings were at the same
height.
Rooms with normal openings and without any air movement through the enclosure should hold concentration for a minimum
of 10 minutes. Discharge tests have indicated hold times in excess of 30 minutes where the air flow through the enclosure is
negligible. The hold time predictions calculated using the European ISO procedures have been found, through tests, to be
more accurate than the procedures in NFPA 2001, 1996.
Vents should not be located on a wall in the immediate vicinity of a nozzle, where the discharge of agent from the nozzle could
be directed through the opening. Care should be taken to locate the vents away from the flow of agent so as to vent air from
the room instead of INERGEN agent or agent/air mixture.
If multiple vents are installed, all vents should be at the same height on the walls. This will minimize the rate at which the agent
is lost.
Gravity or spring operated dampers will normally close after operation. Pneumatically or electrically operated dampers should be
closed after discharge of the system. If concentration must be held after discharge, dampers must be closed to eliminate airflow
through the enclosure.
When designing a venting system through an unprotected space it is important to consider the affect that the vented products will
have on the unprotected space. Depending on the type of fuel being suppressed, it is feasible that smoke, sparks, or flame may
travel into the unprotected space. Products of combustion and/or heat from the protected space could potentially spread the fire
or put detectors into alarm. A venting system designer should consider the use of a duct system to vent the gases to a safe loca-
tion instead of venting through an unprotected space.
If venting must be through protected spaces, it is recommended that agent be discharged simultaneously into all of the spaces
along the venting path.
Recommended venting design for a selector valve system is to vent each space separately to a safe location rather than through
a protected space.


Rev. 1 1-5-98 Page 5
Venting System Components

An INERGEN pressure vent can be thought of as a venting system. In most cases the vent will not consist of an open hole
through a wall, but will include components such as inlet grilles, dampers, and exhaust louvers. A venting system may also
include ducts and special components such as weather hoods, and bird screens. Each of these components adds a restric-
tion to the system which will decrease the effectiveness of the Free Vent Area previously calculated. Therefore, the friction loss
through these components must be allowed for in the pressure venting calculations. Many of the pressure drops associated
with these components relate to edge effects as discussed in the previous section.
The location of a device, like a damper in the duct system, can also have an effect on the pressure drop across that device. If
the device has a similar size duct leading into and out of it, the friction loss will be less than if the size of the duct changes
immediately before or after the device. If the device is at the end of the duct, an increase in pressure drop will occur due to the
effect of the sharp exit from the damper. Pressure drop also increases if the duct reduces in size drastically immediately before
or after the damper. This is due to the sudden changes of area which creates edge effect or sharp exit pressure losses.
Pressure drop calculations for all of these components must be completed for every system to assure that the total system
provides enough venting to prevent over-pressurization and damage to the enclosure being protected.
Pressure loss data for these components are not standard. This information must be obtained from the manufacturer of the
component, the architect, or the supplier of the components. Without this information, the Pressure Venting calculations
cannot be completed for the system.
Venting Through an Unprotected Space

When an INERGEN system is protecting a hazard which must be vented into an unprotected space, the second space will
require venting if the resulting pressure from the formula P = _______
995 V1 is greater than the allowable pressure from the room.
V2
The second space must be at least 50% of the volume of the protected space, otherwise another venting option must be used.
One of the steps for a vent calculation is to determine the pressure the walls can withstand. The allowable pressures must be
determined for all spaces that will be involved in the venting process, protected, as well as unprotected spaces. The protect-
ed space, which is the first in a venting sequence, will always encounter the highest pressure. The pressures encountered
through the venting sequence are additive and the sum of these pressures cannot exceed the maximum allowable pressure
in the protected space. Pressure effects on the walls of the protected space, the unprotected space, and the wall between the
two spaces, must be examined and care taken not to exceed the allowable pressure on any wall.
The most cost effective way to size the vents is to cause the vent pressure drops to be equal, or use the allowable pressure
in the protected space and divide it by two to obtain the design pressure to be used in the vent formulas. This will yield the total
minimum vent area required by both spaces. The unprotected space must be able to withstand the pressure used in sizing
the vent in that space. Once these pressures are determined, the maximum total pressure drop across vents added together
cannot exceed that of the protected space, while any pressure utilized within the unprotected space cannot exceed the allow-
able pressure for the unprotected space.
FIGURE 2
000834
Qp = INERGEN Peak Flow rate to be used in vent design formula (CFM)
Pa1 and Pa2 = Allowable pressures in respective spaces, wall strength (lb/sq ft)
Pa1
Pd1 = ____
2
Pd2 = Pa1 – Pd1
Where: Pd1 and Pd2 = Design pressures to be used in venting formula (lb/sq ft)
X1 and X2 = Vent areas for respective spaces (in 2)


1-5-98 Page 6 Rev. 1
Venting Through an Unprotected Space (Continued)

For example, if the allowable wall pressure in a protected space, P a1 = 6 lb/sq ft, both vents, X 1 and X2 should be sized with
a design pressure, P d, of 6 divided by 2, or 3 lb/sq ft. Both vents should be sized with flow rates in the formulas being the
same and equal to the flow of the INERGEN system, Q p. During the discharge, the pressure buildup in the unprotected space
will be 3 lb/sq ft. and the pressure in the protected space will be 3 + 3 = 6 lb/sq ft.
If, in the example above, the unprotected space can only withstand an allowable P a2 pressure of 2 lb/sq ft, the vent in that
space will require sizing at P d2 ! Pa2 = 2 lb/sq ft. The protected space vent can then be decreased in size by using the design
pressure of 4 lb/sq ft, or Pd1 = Pa1 – Pd2. The system flow rate is Qp in both formulas. In no case can the sum of the design
pressures used to calculate the vents in the two spaces exceed the allowable pressure, P a1, in the protected space. In other
words, Pd1 + Pd2 ! Pa1.
Venting Through an Unprotected Space

30 FT.
P L E
60 FT.
E XA M 10 FT.
12
E D
FT. C T
T E E
O
P R A C
U N S P
P R
O T
S P E C T
A C E D
E
Qp (INERGEN Agent Flow Rate) = 6322 CFM

Pa1 (Maximum Allowable Enclosure Pressure for Room 1) = 5 lbs./ft 2
FIGURE 3
Pa2 (Maximum Allowable Enclosure Pressure for Room 2) = 5 lbs./ft 2 000832
Calculate Design Pressures:

5 = 2.5 lbs./ft2
Pd1 = ___
2
Pd2 = 5 – 2.5 = 2.5 lbs./ft2
To find the Vent Area (X):
0.0855 (6322)
___________ 0.0855 (6322)
____________ 540.5
_____
X= = = = 341.9 in2 = 2.4 ft2 for each vent
2.5 1.581 1.581


Rev. 1 1-5-98 Page 7
Venting Through a Protected Space

When two adjacent spaces are being simultaneously protected and one space is vented through the second, the guidelines
for determining design pressures are the same as in venting through an unprotected space. Whenever possible, the smaller
space should be vented through the larger space. If not possible, the smaller space must be at least 50% of the volume of
the larger space; otherwise, another venting option must be used. When both spaces are protected, the vent design flow
rates are additive and must be summed as well as the design pressures. The design of the first free vent area in the series
will utilize system flow rate Q p1 and the appropriate P d1 as determined above. The design of the second vent in the series will
utilize Pd2 and the summation of flow rates, Q p1 + Qp2 = Qpd2, which is the design flow rate to be used to determine the area
of the second vent in the series.
FIGURE 4
000835
Qp1 = INERGEN Flow rate in first hazard (CFM)

Qp2 = INERGEN Flow rate in 2nd hazard (CFM)
Qpd2 = Qp1 + Qp2 = Design flow rate for 2nd hazard
Pa1 and Pa2 = Allowable pressures in respective spaces, wall strength (lb/sq ft)
Pd1 and Pd2 = Design pressures to be used in venting formula (lb/sq ft)
X1 and X2 = Vent areas for respective spaces (in 2) determined by venting formula
Any combination of pressures that do not exceed the space allowable can be utilized. However, the most effective vent sizing
will be experienced when the pressure drop across the second vent is larger than the drop across the first vent. The specific
values of these design pressures can be determined by: utilizing the flow rates, the allowable pressure in the first hazard, and
the formula:
Pa1
Pd2 = ______________
.666
1 + ( )Q p1
____
Q pd2
This predicts the design pressure for the second hazard. The design pressure for the first hazard then becomes:
Pd1 = Pa1 – Pd2
Knowing flow rates and design pressures, the free vent areas can be calculated from the standard venting formula. Remember
to keep in mind the fact that the design pressures are additive and the highest actual pressure will be experienced in the first
hazard in the venting series. Check to be sure the sum of the pressures does not exceed the allowable pressure in hazard
number one.


1-5-98 Page 8 Rev. 1
Venting Through a Protected Space (Continued)
Venting Through a Protected Space

30 FT.
P L E
60 FT.
E XA M 10 FT.
12
FT. 2
O M
R O
R O
O M
1
Qp1 (INERGEN Agent Flow Rate for Room 1) = 6322 CFM

FIGURE 5
Qp2 (INERGEN Agent Flow Rate for Room 2) = 31,608 CFM 000832
Qpd2 = 31608 + 6322 = 37930

To obtain the smallest total free vent area, complete the following calculations:
Calculate the Design Pressure for Room 2:
5 5 5
Pd2 = _________ = ___________ = ______ = 3.84 lbs./ft2
(
1 + 6322
37930 )
.666 1 + 0.1667.666 1.3029
Calculate the Design Pressure for Room 1:

Pd1 = 5 – 3.84 = 1.16 lbs./ft2
Calculate the Free Vent Area for Room 1:
0.0855 (6322) 0.0855 (6322) 540.5
X1 (vent area) = ___________ = ___________ = ____ = 502 in2 = 3.49 ft2
1.16 1.077 1.077
Calculate the Free Vent Area for Room 2:
0.0855 (31608 + 6322) 0.0855 (37930) 3243
X2 (vent area) = ___________________ = ____________ = ____ = 1655 in2 = 11.49 ft2
3.84 1.960 1.960
If the pressures of 2.5 lb/ft 2 for each enclosure had been picked, which would be acceptable, the free vent areas would have
been 2.37 ft2 and 14.24 ft2 for a total vent area of 16.61 ft 2. This is larger than the 14.98 ft 2 using the optimum vent sizes
calculated above of 3.49 and 11.49 ft 2.
Venting Through Three or More Enclosures

It is possible to calculate a venting series through multiple spaces, both protected and unprotected. The pressures used for
design will remain additive with the highest pressure to be experienced in the first hazard in the venting series. The design
pressures of all hazards downstream must be added together and checked to be sure the pressure does not exceed the allow-
able for each specific hazard. Likewise, flow rates from each succeeding hazard will require the flow from the preceding
hazards to be added to it for the design flow rate for each specific vent.
The most cost effective venting area combinations can be determined through the use of complicated calculus equations
or multiple iterations. A series of vent area calculations using multiple iterations can be done much more easily and will yield
acceptable results.


2-14-97 Page 9
Venting Through Ducts

Venting through ducts can be treated somewhat the same as venting through unprotected enclosures. Pressure drops are
additive and optimum areas will be obtained when the drop in the room and the duct system are equal. The pressure loss
developed in the duct and all associated components will be additive and the sum of the total duct pressure drop and the free
vent area design pressure will be the total pressure developed in the room during discharge.
Determining the pressure drop through the duct can become very complex. Each duct system has a combined set of pressure
drops dependent upon the individual duct system components. The amount of total pressure drop due to flow for the individ-
ual duct system components can be obtained from the component manufacturer for dampers and louvers. The friction loss for
straight sections of duct can be obtained from the included duct friction loss charts based on equivalent diameters (See charts
on Pages 17-20). Equivalent duct diameters can be obtained from the tables for circular equivalents of rectangular ducts (See
charts on Pages 17-20) The equivalent length factors of a few common duct fittings, the L/D factor, is also included. The ratio
L/D is the equivalent length, in diameters of straight ducts, that will cause the same pressure drop as the obstruction under the
same flow conditions.
As mentioned, duct design can become very complicated. Details discussed here are intended to show a designer the com-
plexity of this type of design. This section can only be considered a basic guideline and cannot be relied upon as a method for
designing any and all possible combinations or configurations of ductwork design. This guideline only covers simple basic
design parameters. For additional information, refer to HVAC SYSTEMS DUCT DESIGN published by SHEET METAL AND
AIR CONDITIONING CONTRACTORS NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, INC (SMACNA), 4201 Lafayette Center Dr., Chantilly, VA
22021-1209, telephone 703-803-2980, fax 703-803-3732, and also various handbooks and publications available from
American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, Inc. (ASHRAE), 1791 Tullie Circle NE, Atlanta, GA
30329-2305, telephone 1-800-527-4723 or 404-636-8400, fax 404-321-5478.
Pressure drop in a straight duct section is caused by surface friction and varies with the velocity, the duct size and length, as
well as interior surface roughness. Friction loss can be easily determined from the duct friction loss charts which are based on
standard air with a density of 0.075 lb/cu. ft. flowing through average clean round galvanized metal ducts with beaded slip cou-
plings on 48 inch centers. These values may be used without correction for temperatures between 50 °F to 140 °F and up to
2000 foot altitude. Correction factors are available for other specific conditions, but are not included here. The density of air rather
than INERGEN is used because the medium flowing at the point of maximum pressure and flow is air. The INERGEN discharge
has just begun and with less than 10% out of the cylinder, has not yet had a chance to mix with the air in the enclosure.
HVAC duct systems are usually sized first as round ducts. Then, if rectangular ducts are desired, duct sizes are selected to
provide flow rates equivalent to those of the round ducts. Rectangular ducts should not be sized directly from actual duct cross-
sectional areas. Instead, the circular equivalent tables must be used, or the resulting duct sizes will be smaller, creating greater
duct velocities and higher pressure drops.
Changes of direction and changes in duct cross section cause increased friction loss or pressure drop during high flows. These
losses are termed dynamic losses and can be determined by various methods. The following chart gives equivalent length
(L/D) values for three common fittings likely to occur in simple ducted systems.
FITTING L/D
SHARP EXIT, NO LOUVERS 78
90°SHARP MITERED BEND 86
90°SMOOTH BEND 27
Gradual reductions ! 60°have no additional length beyond the actual dimension and are recommended.
The first step in designing a ducted venting system is to determine the allowable room pressure. One starting point is to assign
one half the allowable pressure to the room and one half to the duct, depending on the complexity of the duct. If the ductwork
has many components, a higher pressure drop may be required in the duct. The duct design pressure must not exceed the
pressure rating of the duct.
Utilizing a layout of the duct configuration, the total straight length of the duct must be known. Utilizing the INERGEN system
flow rate and the assigned design pressure, determine free vent area.
Then estimate the diameter (d), in inches, which gives the free vent area from the formula:
d = 4X
___
"
Where: d = diameter, in inches, of free vent area
X = Free Vent Area


2-14-97 Page 10
Venting Through Ducts (Continued)

Choose a duct size with diameter approximately 15% larger than calculated above, (d x 1.15).
Proceed to the duct friction loss chart and locate the INERGEN system flow rate on the bottom of the chart Find the inter-
section of that flow rate with the estimated duct diameter and read the pressure drop on the left hand side of the chart in LB/sq.
ft per foot of duct length.
Multiply pressure drop per foot by length of duct in feet to obtain total straight length of duct loss.
Compare this number with the allowable pressure drop. If it is equal to or less than the allowable, the duct may be sized large
enough. At this point the duct size may be increased or decreased and re-calculated to obtain closer results. Keep in mind that
other duct components and fittings, such as dampers and louvers will also be adding to this pressure drop.
With an actual duct diameter, the added length due to elbows and sharp exits can be determined from the equivalent length
values.
To calculate the equivalent length of a duct fitting, the formula is:
L/D x (12)
________
Fitting dia. in inches
L/D = Equivalent length of a resistance to flow in duct diameter (See values listed on Page 9).
From the table on Page 9, a sharp mitered bend has an L/D value of 86. A sharp mitered bend of 20 in. diameter duct would
be:
86 x 12
______ = 51.6 feet of equivalent straight 20 inch duct
20
The length of this and any other fittings must then be added to the straight duct length and the new value then multiplied by
the pressure drop per foot to obtain the total drop across duct and fittings.
If the pressure drop across the duct and fittings is still low enough to be acceptable, the circular equivalent chart can be used
to determine an appropriate rectangular duct dimension. Once this dimension is determined, the drops across the dampers,
louvers and any other duct components can then be determined.
These drops can be read directly from charts supplied by the manufacturer of these components. If a chart is based on pres-
sure drop versus velocity, the velocity can be calculated by using the flow rate in CFM and dividing it by the area of flow of the
component, in square feet. If the chart is based on flow or velocity versus pressure drop or friction loss as in. w.g. (inches of
water gage), the pressure drop in pounds per square foot can be determined by multiplying in. w.g. by 5.204. This pressure
drop must then be added to the duct loss pressure drop for a total duct system pressure drop. Be sure a pressure drop is
included for every component in the duct system that provides any resistance to flow.
The duct system pressure drop must then be added to the room pressure drop used to calculate the free area at the begin-
ning of the design. This total pressure drop must not exceed the allowable room pressure in pounds per square foot as deter-
mined from the building construction. The duct design pressure must not exceed the pressure rating of the duct.

Variables
d = Equivalent Round Duct diameter (inches)
da = Assumed Equivalent Round Duct diameter (inches)
PSF = POUNDS PER SQUARE FOOT
M P L E
E XA
#P = Pressure Drop (PSF)
#P/L = Pressure Drop per Foot of Length (PSF)
V = Velocity (ft./minute)
HW = Inches of Water Column (in. W.G.)
L = Length (feet)
LEQ = Equivalent Length (feet)
L/D = Equivalent Length of a Resistance to Flow, in duct diameters
CFM = CUBIC FEET PER MINUTE
A = Area (ft.2) (Continued)


Rev. 1 1-5-98 Page 11
FIGURE 6
000844
FREE VENT AREA

IG = 1756 ft.3
T = 45 seconds = .75 minutes
P = 5 PSF
1/2 P = 2.5 PSF
M P L E
Estimate Agent Flow Rate:
Qp =
2.7 IG
______
=
2.7 (1756)
________
=
4741.2
______
= 6322 CFM
E XA
T .75 .75
Calculate Free Vent Area Required:

0.0855 Qp 0.0855 (6322) 541
X = _________ =
___________
=
___ 342.4 in.2
P 2.5 1.58
Estimate Duct Diameter:

4X =
____ 4 (342.4)
_______ = 1370 =
____ 436 = 20.9 in.
d = " " "
Increase Duct Diameter:

da = 20.9 (1.15) = 24 in.
Calculate Actual Duct Area:

" da2 " 242 _____
_____ " 576 1810
X = _____ = = = ____ = 453 in.2
4 4 4 4
Calculate Actual Pressure Drop:

0.0855 Qp 2
________ 0.0855 (6322)
___________ 2 541 2
#P =
( X ) ( =
453 ) =
(___
453 )
= 1.192 = 1.42 PSF
(Continued)


2-14-97 Page 12
DUCT
CFM = 6322
24 in. x 24 in. duct (selected from the Circular
Equivalents of Rectangular Ducts Chart, Page 17)
Note: After calculating a 24 in. diameter duct in the previous step, a 24 in. x 24 in. square duct was selected from the chart
because the round equivalent diameter is larger than 24 in. and most devices are available in a 24 in. x 24 in. size.
d = 26.2 in.
L = 70 ft. Circular Equivalents of Rectangular Ducts for Equal Friction and
#P/L = 0.007 PSF/ft. Capacity (U.S. Units) (2) Dimensions in Inches
(from Duct Friction Loss Chart, Page 21)
Calculate Friction Loss through Straight Duct:

#P = L (#P/L) = 70 (0.007) = 0.49 PSF
Calculate 90°Sharp Bend Equivalent Length:

LEQ = ______
L/D (12) = 86 (12) = 1032
______ ____ = 39.4 ft.
d 26.2 26.2
Calculate 90°Smooth Bend Equivalent Length:

LEQ = ______
L/D (12) = 27 (12) = 324
______ ____ = 12.4 ft.
d 26.2 26.2
Calculate Total Equivalent Length:

LEQ = L + 2 (LEQ Sharp Bend) +
LEQ Smooth Bend = 70 + 2 (39.4)
+ 12.4 = 161
Calculate Total Pressure Loss: 000836
#P = LEQ (#P/L) = 161.2 (0.007) = 1.13 PSF
M P L E
E XA
Duct Friction Loss Chart (U.S. Units) (2)
Air Quantity, cfm at 0.075 lb/ft3
.007
6322 CFM
000840
(Continued)


2-14-97 Page 13
INLET GRILLE Steel S590 & Aluminum S590 – Gymnasium Grilles
36 in. x 24 in. size, NC 30-40 application

Qp = 6322 CFM
Hw = .21 in. W.G. (from chart)
Convert in. W.G. to PSF:

#P = Hw (5.204) = 0.21 (5.204) = 1.09 PSF
M P L E
E XA
*
*Because the cfm of 6322 was slightly higher than 6180, the in. of W.G. was interpolated at
.21 in. of W.G. 000890
Damper Size 24” x 24”
DAMPER
24 in. x 24 in., Figure 5.3
Calculate Area of Damper:

24 x 24
______ 576
___
A = = = 4 ft.2
144 144
Calculate Velocity of Air Flow:

)
Qp 6322 .
V = ___ =
___
= 1581 ft./min.
G
.
W
A 4 N
I
(
S
S
Hw = 0.10 in. W.G. (Damper (Figure 5.3 Style) Pressure Drop Chart) O
L
E
R
U
S
S
Convert in. W.G. to PSF: E
R
P
#P = Hw (5.204) = 0.10 (5.204) = 0.52 PSF
A M P L E
E X
1581
000841
(Continued)


2-14-97 Page 14
VENT SUBTOTAL
L E
#P = #P (Free Vent) + #P (Duct) + #P (Inlet Grille) + #P (Damper)
A M P
E X
#P = 1.42 + 1.13 + 1.09 + 0.52 = 4.16 PSF
5 PSF – 4.16 PSF = 0.84 PSF for Louver
LOUVER
PSF
Hw = ____ 0.84
_____
= = .16 in. W.G.
5.204 5.204
V = 975 ft./min. (from Airflow Resistance Chart)
Qp 6322
X = ___ =
____
= 6.49 ft.2
V 975
Louver Size = 48 in. W x 42 in. H
A = 7.19 ft.2 (Free Area Chart) .13
Qp 6322
V = ___ =
____
= 879.3 ft./min.
A 7.19
#P = Hw (5.204) = 0.13 (5.204) = 0.68 PSF
A M P L E
E X 880
000842
000843
VENT TOTAL
#P = #P (Free Vent Area) + #P (Duct) + #P (Grille) + #P (Damper) + #P (Louver)
M P L E
E XA
#P = 1.42 + 1.13 + 1.09 + 0.52 + 0.68 = 4.84 PSF
(Continued)


Rev. 1 1-5-98 Page 15

Performing the calculations from the example using a wall strength of 10 PSF results in a reduction in size for most of the
components as indicated in the following table.
DEVICE 5 PSF 10 PSF

Free Vent Area 453 in2 340 in2
A M P L E
Inlet Grill
Duct
36 in. x 24 in.
24 in. x 24 in.
36 in. x 24 in.
19 in. x 19 in.
E X
Exhaust Louver 42 in. x 36 in. 36 in. x 36 in.
Allowance for Room Pressurization Test Results

The ELA (Equivalent Leakage Area) determined from a Room Pressurization Test may be deducted from the amount of Free
Vent Area calculated for an enclosure. If the venting and leakage is into another room, calculations must be performed as out-
lined in this guide. However, the size of the vent from the protected enclosure can be reduced by the ELA.
NFPA 2001 requires that at least every 12 months the enclosure be thoroughly inspected to determine if the integrity has been
modified. The most accurate way to determine if the integrity has been changed is to perform a Room Pressurization Test. This
must be done if the ELA is deducted from the calculated Free Vent Area. If an annual test indicates that the ELA has changed,
calculations to verify that proper venting is supplied must be performed.


2-14-97 Page 16
Types and Sources of Vents

GRAVITY/STATIC
Damper installed in the wall of the enclosure which will open when minimal pressure is created in the protected space.
• Does not maintain fire rating of wall.
• Least expensive option.
ELECTRICALLY OPERATED
Damper installed in the wall of the enclosure which is opened when power is applied to the damper or power is removed if
powered closed.
• Design must insure damper is open prior to discharge or damper will not be effective.
• Adds to complexity of design.
• Additional installation cost.
• Do not use manual mechanical actuators on cylinder.
PNEUMATICALLY OPERATED
Damper installed in the wall of the enclosure which is opened when air pressure is applied to a pneumatic device on the
damper.
• Same concerns as electrically operated dampers.
PRESSURE OPERATED
Pressure operated vent which is calibrated to open under a specific pressure.
• Available in styles to provide for various applications concerning security.
• Must be tested for calibration prior to discharge.
NATURAL VENTING
Venting which is accomplished by existing openings in the protected enclosure i.e., ceiling openings, door openings, exhaust
duct openings, or wall openings.
Time Delays and Actuation Methods Relating to Vent Types

Dampers must be fully opened prior to agent release. An agent release time delay is typically required to assure that those
dampers are fully open before the pressure in the room starts to increase. If the pressure in the room starts to increase before
the dampers are fully open, the dampers may be forced closed. It is very important to make sure the system is designed and
installed to prevent agent discharge prior to the dampers being fully opened. The manufacturer of the damper can provide the
time delay required to fully open the damper. If concentration must be held after discharge, dampers must be closed to eliminate
airflow through the enclosure.
System operation by electric manual pull stations must also incorporate a time delay prior to operating the release circuit to
allow time for the dampers to open. Consult the appropriate control system manual for details on how to program a time delay
with an electric manual release.
! CAUTION
Manual mechanical actuators located directly on the cylinder valve shall not be used
since operation would result in immediate valve opening and dampers would not have
sufficient time to open. If the system requires mechanical actuation or electric manual pull
stations with immediate release, dampers requiring a time delay to open (such as motor-
ized or pneumatic operated dampers) shall not be used.


2-14-97 Page 17
000836
* The chart above was used with permission of the copyright holder, the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractor’s National Association,
Inc. (SMACNA)


2-14-97 Page 18
000837
Inc. (SMACNA)


2-14-97 Page 19
000838
Inc. (SMACNA)


2-14-97 Page 20
000839
Inc. (SMACNA)


2-14-97 Page 21
0
4
8
0
0
0
)
A
N
C
A
M
S
(
.
c
n
I
,
n
o
i
t
a
i
c
o
s
s
A
l
a
n
o
i
t
a
N
s
’
r
o
t
c
a
r
t
n
o
C
g
n
i
n
o
i
t
i
d
n
o
C
r
i
A
d
n
a
l
a
t
e
M
t
e
e
h
S
e
h
t
,
r
e
d
l
o
h
t
h
g
i
r
y
p
o
c
e
h
t
f
o
n
o
i
s
s
i
m
r
e
p
h
t
i
w
d
e
s
u
s
a
w
e
v
o
b
a
t
r
a
h
c
e
h
T
*

ANSUL INCORPORATED
ONE STANTON STREET
MARINETTE, WI 54143
.
A
.
S
.
U
n
i
o
h
t
i
L
d
e
t
a
r
o
p
r
o
c
n
I
l
u
s
n
A
8
9
9
1
©
2
0
-
3
9
7
2
2
4
.
o
N
t
r
a
P

Fdocuments - in - Inergen Pressure Relief Venting Guide

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Fdocuments - in - Inergen Pressure Relief Venting Guide

Uploaded by

Copyright:

INERGEN PRESSURE RELIEF

INERGEN VENTING GUIDE

Venting Guide Flow Chart

CALCULATE ALLOWABLE YES

DEDUCT ELA FROM

RESIZE FREE NO TOTAL PRESSURE RESIZE RESIZE

COMPONENT FINAL FREE VENT

NOTES: 1 Use tables and charts attached to this guide.

INERGEN VENTING GUIDE

Free Vent Calculation

Where: X = The Free Vent Area in square inches.

Free Vent Calculation

INERGEN VENTING GUIDE

Free Vent Calculation (Continued)

Location of Vents and Effects on Concentration

INERGEN VENTING GUIDE

Venting System Components

Venting Through an Unprotected Space

INERGEN VENTING GUIDE

Venting Through an Unprotected Space (Continued)

Venting Through an Unprotected Space

Qp (INERGEN Agent Flow Rate) = 6322 CFM

Calculate Design Pressures:

INERGEN VENTING GUIDE

Venting Through a Protected Space

Qp1 = INERGEN Flow rate in first hazard (CFM)

INERGEN VENTING GUIDE

Venting Through a Protected Space (Continued)

Venting Through a Protected Space

Qp1 (INERGEN Agent Flow Rate for Room 1) = 6322 CFM

Qpd2 = 31608 + 6322 = 37930

Calculate the Design Pressure for Room 1:

Venting Through Three or More Enclosures

INERGEN VENTING GUIDE

Venting Through Ducts

INERGEN VENTING GUIDE

Venting Through Ducts (Continued)

Venting Through Ducts

INERGEN VENTING GUIDE

Venting Through Ducts (Continued)

Venting Through Ducts

FREE VENT AREA

Calculate Free Vent Area Required:

Estimate Duct Diameter:

Increase Duct Diameter:

Calculate Actual Duct Area:

Calculate Actual Pressure Drop:

INERGEN VENTING GUIDE

Venting Through Ducts (Continued)

Venting Through Ducts

Calculate Friction Loss through Straight Duct:

Calculate 90°Sharp Bend Equivalent Length:

Calculate 90°Smooth Bend Equivalent Length:

Calculate Total Equivalent Length:

Calculate Total Pressure Loss: 000836

#P = LEQ (#P/L) = 161.2 (0.007) = 1.13 PSF

INERGEN VENTING GUIDE

Venting Through Ducts (Continued)

Venting Through Ducts

INLET GRILLE Steel S590 & Aluminum S590 – Gymnasium Grilles

36 in. x 24 in. size, NC 30-40 application

Convert in. W.G. to PSF:

Damper Size 24” x 24”

Calculate Area of Damper:

Calculate Velocity of Air Flow:

#P = Hw (5.204) = 0.10 (5.204) = 0.52 PSF