1.3.6 Design Manual Electric Units
1.3.6 Design Manual Electric Units
1.3.6 Design Manual Electric Units
Version 1.3.6
July 2018
P/N 19000
EX 15004
1.0 FORWARD................................................................................................................ 4
2.0 INTRODUCTION ....................................................................................................... 5
3.0 SYSTEM DESCRIPTION .......................................................................................... 6
3.1 General .................................................................................................................. 6
3.2 Extinguishing Agent ............................................................................................... 7
3.3 Component Descriptions ...................................................................................... 10
3.3.1 Stat-X Aerosol Generator Assemblies ............................................................ 10
3.3.2 Initiation ......................................................................................................... 11
3.3.3 Control Panels and Accessories ..................................................................... 11
3.3.4 Mounting Hardware and Ancillary Equipment ................................................. 11
3.3.4.1 Generator Mounting Bracket ....................................................................... 11
3.3.4.2 Electric Remote Pull Box ............................................................................. 12
4.0 SYSTEM DESIGN AND LIMITATIONS (Total Flooding).......................................... 12
4.1 General ................................................................................................................ 12
4.2 Application ........................................................................................................... 12
4.2.1 Calculate the total mass of aerosol required to protect the hazard ................. 13
4.2.2 Calculation of Facility Leakage Rate .............................................................. 14
4.2.3 Determination of Formula Value K1 ................................................................ 14
4.2.4 Calculation of Formula Value K2..................................................................... 14
4.2.5 Calculation of Formula Value K3..................................................................... 15
4.2.6 Calculate the number of aerosol generators required ..................................... 16
4.2.7 Other Facility/System Considerations ............................................................ 17
4.2.8 Placement of Stat-X aerosol generators in the hazard area .......................... 17
4.2.9 Operating/Temperature Range ...................................................................... 19
5.0 EQUIPMENT INSTALLATION ................................................................................. 23
5.1 General ................................................................................................................ 23
5.2 Aerosol Generator Installation .............................................................................. 23
5.2.1 Single Generator System ............................................................................... 23
5.2.3 Multiple Generator System ............................................................................. 24
5.3 Post Installation Checkout................................................................................. 25
6.0 OPERATION ........................................................................................................... 25
6.1 General ................................................................................................................ 25
6.2 Operating Procedures .......................................................................................... 25
6.3 Post Fire Operation .............................................................................................. 26
This manual is written for those who design, install, and maintain Stat-X® aerosol fire
extinguishing systems. It contains design, installation, operation, and maintenance
information for these fire extinguishing systems.
IMPORTANT
Fireaway assumes no responsibility for application of any systems other than those
addressed in this manual. The technical data in this manual is limited strictly for information
purposes only. Fireaway believes this data to be accurate, but it is published and
presented without any guarantee or warranty whatsoever, Fireaway disclaims any liability
for any use that may be made of the data and information contained herein by any and all
other parties.
The Stat-X aerosol fire extinguishing systems are to be designed, installed, inspected,
maintained, and tested by qualified and trained personnel in accordance with the following:
Questions concerning the information presented in this manual should be addressed to:
Fireaway Inc.
5852 Baker Road
Minnetonka, Minnesota USA 55345
Phone: 952-935-9745
Fax: 952-935-9757
www.statx.com
email: [email protected]
The Stat-X aerosol fire extinguishing systems are designed for total flooding applications
in accordance with established design criteria. Application methods, design criteria, and
limitations are contained within this manual. In any situation not specifically covered by
this manual, the application, and installation of the system must be in accordance with the
appropriate and/or applicable standards. All installations must meet the requirements of
the local authority having jurisdiction.
Stat-X fire extinguishing systems produce a highly effective, technologically advanced fire
extinguishing agent with unique operational and flow characteristics. Since these systems
are designed and installed in a manner different than other extinguishing systems with
which the system designer may be familiar, the system designer must become thoroughly
familiar with the design criteria contained in this manual to properly input design data and
parameters. There are several limitations, which must be observed in entering parameters
if accurate results are to be obtained.
The agent produced is a Potassium based aerosol with particle sizes primarily in the 2
micron size. The aerosol has the flow characteristics of a gas and has been determined
to be non-toxic to humans when exposed for short periods at recommended design
concentrations. (See Appendix A).
3.1 General
Stat-X systems are used to suppress fires in specific hazards or equipment located in
enclosed areas and confined spaces and where low weight/space to extinguishing
capacity is a factor. The fire-extinguishing agent is an ultra-fine aerosol which will hang in
suspension for an extended period (up to one hour) providing protection against re-flash
and may minimize clean-up. Stat-X systems are suitable for use as total flooding fire
extinguishing systems in normally-occupied and unoccupied areas. In areas where
personnel may be present the system must employ a pre-discharge alarm, with a 30
second time delay, and provision for a supervised disconnect switch to avoid unwanted
discharge during maintenance.
The following areas may benefit from an aerosol-based fire extinguishing system:
*These applications are not part of the UL Listing under UL Standard 2775 but are covered
under other applicable listings (American Bureau of Shipping, Marine and Coast Guard
Agency, ECB, and others)
Stat-X generators are currently listed for the following classes of fire:
For the above areas or additional hazard areas, the designer must invest significant time
in proper design, which may include consulting with Fireaway or other suitably
experienced professionals and consultation of applicable standards on the suitability of
the system for the protection of the hazard, the necessary design concentration,
equipment, facility, and personnel exposure effects from that concentration.
Stat-X systems are not suitable for the following hazards; or, where the following
materials may be present:
Class A materials that burn with deep-seated characteristics (wood fiber, cotton, etc.)
Electrical equipment operating at over 40,000 V
Metal Hydrides, Pyrophoric substances, and chemical substances that smolder and
burn without air
Metal powders (magnesium, titanium, etc.)
Environments rated hazardous (explosive atmospheres).
The aerosol produced upon activation of the Stat-X system is composed of ultra-fine
particles of Potassium salts with secondary inert gases. Potassium salts have long been
recognized as one of the most effective fire extinguishing agents available. It suppresses
fire by a combination of chemical and physical mechanisms similar to the Halons without
any negative effect on the environment. Because of the aerosol's ultra-fine particle size (
2 micron) there is a dramatic increase in the surface area interaction between the agent
and the fire. Potassium based aerosol has been shown in numerous tests to be a highly
effective alternative to other extinguishing agents.
Unlike gaseous agents the aerosol does not decompose in the presence of fire nor does
it extinguish by oxygen deprivation. Stat-X is listed under the United States Environmental
Agency (EPA) Significant New Alternatives Program (SNAP) for use as a total flooding
agent in normally-occupied and unoccupied areas. The aerosol is considered non-toxic to
humans when applied in normal design concentrations necessary to extinguish most fires;
however, there is a high obscuration factor and certain safety restrictions should be
observed when applying and handling the generators. Exposure to the aerosol should be
limited and unnecessary exposure to the particulate should be avoided. Exposure to the
aerosol is generally of less concern than is exposure to the decomposition products of a
fire.
Toxicity: Under the SNAP Program the US EPA conducted a risk screen process on the
human health and environmental risks of the agent based on laboratory test data
submitted by the manufacturer. The US EPA has ruled that the Stat-X agent is suitable for
use in normally-occupied spaces. See Table 3.2.1: Stat-X Aerosol Physical Properties.
While the components of the aerosol are not considered toxic at normal concentration
levels, ingestion of the ultra-fine particulate may cause short-term discomfort and
unnecessary exposure should be avoided. Tests have shown no long-term negative
effects from exposure to the aerosol. In addition, the aerosol has a high obscuration factor
as noted above. In normally-occupied and unoccupied spaces where personnel may
be present Stat-X systems shall only be applied in conjunction with a 30 second
time delay. In occupied areas, a system maintenance isolate switch and manual only
activation ensures egress of personnel during maintenance of the system detection and
control equipment.
Residue & Cleaning: The ultra-fine aerosol discharge remains in suspension for an
extended period and can be vented by a fan or air handling system. Residual amounts of
aerosol, which may have settled on the floor or other surfaces, can be vacuumed, blown
out or wiped clean with a water and vinegar solution.
Other Safety Considerations: The aerosol discharged into the hazard area upon
activation of the generator is relatively "cool." However, the aerosol stream as it leaves
the generator is above 100C for a short distance from the outlet of the generator.
Maximum temperatures are realized only in the last seconds of discharge.
Each model has a required installation clearance distance specified as its clearance “C-
Zone.” Steps must be taken to ensure generator placement so that it complies with this
Storage: The Stat-X aerosol generator is a disposable device and is sealed with a non-
permeable membrane and has been evaluated for temperature cycling (- 40°C to + 54°C)
and humidity (up to 95% relative humidity). Accelerated aging tests have shown the
generator's charge maintains its viability for ten (10) years.
K2CO3 55.2%
KHCO3 8.2%
KNO2 7.9%
K2O
Other Potassium Compounds 5.5%
NH4HCO3 23.2%
Average pH in solution =
8.6
Particle Size Distribution: Percent
< 1m 3%
< 2m 76%
< 5m 97%
> 5m 3%
EXIT PORTS
NON-PERMEABLE
MEMBRANE
COOLING ELEMENT
INSULATING
MEDIUM
OXIDATION ELEMENT
INITIATOR
ELEMENT
AEROSOL FORMING
COMPOUND
3.3.2 Initiation
Electrical. The initiator for the Stat-X aerosol generator consists of a two-wire
connector for electrical actuation. The two-wire connector and initiation
mechanism are secure and highly reliable initiating devices. Activation
parameters of the initiator are:
3.3.4.3 Time Delay. A minimum 30-second time delay shall be utilized in areas where
personnel may be present to allow occupants of the area to egress prior to system
activation. While the agent itself poses no significant health hazard to the
occupants, occupants should leave the area before activation of the system to
avoid any potential problems associated with obscuration or minor irritation from
inhalation of the ultra-fine particulate.
3.3.4.4 System Isolate Switch. A system isolate switch Listed by UL/ULC as compatible
with the Control Panel (located outside the protected area) is recommended
(unless prohibited by local authority having jurisdiction [AHJ]) in areas where
personnel may be present. The operation of the system shall be manual only
when personnel are present (unless prohibited by local AHJ). While the system
isolate switch is active, the automatic activation of the system is inhibited; but the
fire detection and alarm system shall continue to function. The system returns to
full automatic control when the switch is reactivated. The operation of the system
isolate switch shall electrically isolate and earth each conductor of the wiring to the
generators and initiate a visual indicator of status at the control station.
4.1 General
System design is based on the applicable requirements of the National Fire Protection
Association (NFPA) Standard 2010, the Russian Federation Fire Protection Authority
Standard NBC 88-2001 (formerly NPB 21-98), manufacturer’s design data, and the
authority having jurisdiction.
4.2 Application
The following steps must be taken to design and calculate a Stat-X system:
Determine how the area is used and if floor, ceiling, and walls are fire-proof.
4.2.1 Calculate the total mass of aerosol required to protect the hazard
The following describes the method for calculating required concentration by hand. It is
intended to educate the user on the methodology to determine and enter required
system parameters. Actual calculations can be more readily done using the system
design calculator supplied with this manual. For Manual Calculation See Appendix D.
The required mass of aerosol required for a specific volume is calculated according to
the following formula:
M = K1 K2 K3 V q
Where:
M – is the total mass of aerosol required to protect the hazard.
K1- is a ratio based on the non-uniformity of aerosol distribution according to the height
of the protected enclosure.
K2 – is the ratio based on the calculated leakage rate and leakage distribution for the
protected volume.
K3 – is the ratio based on specific parameters for cable tunnels.
V - is the total volume of the protected area in cubic meters.
q - is the design density of aerosol required to extinguish the hazard class.
Note: Calculated Final Application Density rates must be ≥ those shown in Table
4.2.1. For normally occupied spaces with K factors = 1, the US EPA lists the
maximum application density q as 100 g/m3.
Note*: Total quantity of M, adjusted by K factors, must equal or exceed the quantity
required to meet density levels listed in Table 4.2.1. Select number of devices to supply
or exceed the calculated quantity of M.
LR = : Aopen
Atotal
Where:
Limiting Factors:
Limiting Factors:
Formula Value K2 is determined by the relationship between the leaking parameter (LP)
and the distribution of leakage in the protected enclosure (LH) as outlined below. Entry
of location and dimensions of unclosed openings into the SYSTEM CALCULATOR
included with this manual will automatically generate the correct K2 value into the
formula. For Manual Calculation See Appendix E.
LP = : A open m-1
V
Where:
A upper
LH = ________ x 100%
A open
Where:
LH is a value expressed as a ratio of the area of constantly unclosed openings in the
upper half of the protected enclosure (A upper) to the sum of the area of constantly
unclosed openings.
LP = : A open , m-1
V
There may not be any automatic re-closing switches in the circuits of the cable
structure being protected.
The following formula is used to calculate the number of aerosol generators required for
the extinguishing system:
N = M/m
(When using generators of one size only)
Where:
Each Stat-X generator has been tested and listed with a unique “footprint” for area
coverage (See Table 4.2.4 Aerosol Discharge Stream Characteristics). Once the
number of generators required to provide the necessary mass of aerosol has been
determined, the area coverage of each unit selected must be evaluated to ensure the
system falls within listed parameters. If not, additional units shall be provided to ensure
the final system configuration conforms to the Stat-X listing.
In general, very few enclosures are completely tight and excess pressure is not an issue
at normal design concentrations. However, in extremely “tight” enclosures (LP=0) an
evaluation of the structure should be made, and it is recommended that louvered pressure
venting be installed if deemed necessary. Venting should be sized to provide an effective
open area during discharge that calculates to an LP=0.001. If venting is added, the design
calculation must be recalculated including the vent open area to ensure proper design
density is maintained for the protected volume.
The chart below gives excess pressure ΔP information for each size of aerosol generator
at LP =0.001 values. For reference a ΔP of 3kPa is the threshold for damage to glass
area.
4.2.7.2 Total flooding in normally occupied and unoccupied areas where personnel
may be present: Note: In total flooding installations in normally unoccupied spaces
where personnel may be present, a 30 second time delay shall be installed to ensure
egress time prior to system discharge. In normally occupied and unoccupied areas,
a system isolate switch shall be installed outside the hazard area to ensure that
activation of the system is “manual only” when personnel are present.
4.2.8.1 Mounting
Stat-X aerosol generators are listed for both sidewall and center locations and may be
mounted on walls, beams, constructions, and columns as long as the unit is securely
fastened and is mounted in a position where it has an unobstructed discharge path and
where its “C-zone” (required clearance zone) will not impact on personnel, equipment, and
combustible materials located within the protected area. See Table 4.2.4 Aerosol Stream
Characteristics. The generators must also be located with adequate clearance between
structural materials and the generator housing. See Table 4.2.5 Generator Housing
Clearance.
The information below is a general guide for tightening fasteners used in the Stat-X
Stat-X® Design, Installation, Operation, and Maintenance Manual
Page 17 of 48 PN: 19000 (2018-07)
mounting brackets. Many variables can affect the torque tension relationship when
securing fasteners, including position of the generators along with the general condition
of the fastener threads.
All torque recommendations are given in inch-pounds and are minimum torque values
for UL/ULC Listing.
4.2.8.3 Flow
Placement of the aerosol generators to insure proper aerosol flow and distribution is
extremely important. Generators should be spaced as evenly as possible around the
hazard area and directionally positioned to promote a circular, three-dimensional flow
pattern. Aerosol generators must never be positioned to discharge directly at each
other! This will cause agglomeration of the aerosol particulate; reducing the
aerosol’s extinguishing effectiveness. For the same reason, aerosol generators in
total flood applications should also be positioned to ensure that the aerosol stream
does not impinge directly on walls or the sides of equipment being protected. See
Illustration 4.2.6 Typical Aerosol Generator Placement.
† 2500 gram generators should not generally be installed in volumes with a height
< 3m. When multiple generators are installed in the same enclosure, they shall be installed
on multiple levels (tiers) along the enclosure elevation with each level (tier) maintaining
compliance with the installation height limitations and the maximum area coverage
limitations.
Table 4.2.5 Generator Housing Clearance
equipment
equipment
equipment
equipment
equipment
C Zone equipment
equipment
equipment
equipment
equipment
Hl
Hl
Hl
equipment equipment
equipment equipment
C Zone
equipment
equipment
equipment
equipment
5.1 General
All Stat-X equipment must be installed to facilitate proper operation, inspection, testing,
and any other maintenance as may be necessary. Equipment must not be subject to
mechanical, chemical, or other damage, which could render the equipment inoperative.
Equipment must be installed in accordance with all applicable standards and the contents
of this section of the manual.
WARNING
WARNING
1. Position mounting bracket and securely fasten to wall, ceiling, or other support in a
location and manner, which ensures the generator will not be subjected to accidental
damage or movement.
2. Remove generator from shipping container and inspect integrity of the non-permeable
membrane. Do not install if the membrane is ruptured in any way or if circuit is broken.
Verify igniter integrity with Ohmmeter. Do not install if reading is outside range of 1.4 to
2.0 ohms.
3. Securely attach generator to the mounting bracket with generator clamp taking care to
ensure clamp is free of the initiator mechanism and that all bolts are securely tightened.
5. Taking care to ensure power is off, connect electrical lines to the initiator fitting at the
top of the generator.
1. Position mounting brackets and securely fasten to wall, ceiling, or other support in a
location and manner which ensures the generators will not be subjected to accidental
damage or movement.
2. Make sure mounting brackets are located in a manner to ensure a circular flow pattern
and maximum mixing of aerosol during discharge.
3. Remove generators from shipping container and inspect integrity of the non-
permeable membrane. Do not install if the membrane is ruptured in any way or if circuit
is broken. Verify igniter integrity with Ohmmeter. Do not install if reading is outside
range of 1.4 to 2.0 ohms.
4. Securely attach generators to the mounting brackets with generator clamps taking
care to ensure clamps are free of the initiator mechanism and that all bolts are securely
tightened.
7. After verifying power is off, connect electrical lines to the initiator fitting at the top of
Stat-X® Design, Installation, Operation, and Maintenance Manual
PN: 19000 (2018-07) Page 24 of 48
the generator.
1. Verify generators of the correct size are installed per the installation drawings.
2. Verify generator mounting brackets and clamps are properly installed and that all
fittings are tight.
3. Verify all electrical connections have been made and test for electrical continuity using
an Ohmmeter (electrical only).
4. Verify generators are positioned properly. Check for obstructions in the path of the
aerosol discharge stream. Generators must be installed such that they cannot
cause personnel injury upon activation. The aerosol discharge stream must not
impinge at close range on walls, ceiling, or vertical surfaces of equipment!
7. All acceptance testing shall be in accordance with this manual, any applicable
standards, and the authority having jurisdiction.
6.0 OPERATION
6.1 General
A solid charge of the aerosol composition is contained within the sealed generator. Upon
activation of the initiator, the charge begins a controlled burn producing an ultra-fine
aerosol. The aerosol passes through an oxidation filter, where CO is converted to minor
amounts of CO2, and then through a cooling bed where the temperature of the aerosol is
rapidly reduced before it escapes through the discharge ports of the generator at low
pressure. Generator placement within the hazard area provides proper flow and
distribution of the aerosol within the protected area.
The operation of the system isolate switch shall electrically isolate and earth each
conductor of the wiring to the generators and initiate a visual indicator of status at the
Control Station.
NOTE
WARNING
WARNING
WARNING
NOTE
Due to the ultra-fine particle size and the method of generation, the particulate is quite
buoyant and suspends in the gas/air mixture within the protected enclosure. Because of
this “buoyant” effect the aerosol does not begin to “settle” for an extended period (up to
an hour) and therefore is extremely easy to vent from the protected area. Minor amounts
of particulate may be deposited on or in equipment and, generally, there is little need to
do anything beyond extraction of the air within the protected volume through a fan or air
handling system – followed by a blow down with compressed air. Any particulate deposited
on horizontal surfaces will be ≤ 5µm and will not form a continuous layer. Large gaps will
exist between particles.
7.0 MAINTENANCE
WARNING
Before performing maintenance procedures, refer to the material safety data sheets
and safety bulletins in the appendix at the back of this manual.
7.1 General
While Stat-X extinguishing systems require significantly less maintenance than other
fire extinguishing systems which operate at pressure, a regular program of systematic
maintenance must be established to insure continuous, proper operation of any fire
extinguishing system. A periodic maintenance schedule must be followed, and an
inspection log maintained for ready reference. At a minimum, the log must record: (1)
inspection interval, (2) inspection procedure performed, (3) maintenance performed, if
any, because of inspection, and (4) the name of the responsible person performing the
operation.
Stat-X fire suppression systems require significantly less maintenance than other fire
suppression systems; a regular program of systematic maintenance must be established
to ensure continuous, proper operation of any fire suppression system.
Stat-X systems maintenance schedule requires weekly, bi-annual and ten (10) year
maintenance, where weekly maintenance involves only visual inspection of the
components and electrical connections. All Stat-X generators must be replaced with a
new device after reaching ten (10) years from the manufacture date. The manufacture
date code is located on the label of each device. Stat-X devices must be installed as per
this manual or owner’s manual, and follow the bi-annual inspection steps described in
the table below.
7.3.1 Weekly
3. Make sure that the generators are not obstructed and that the required
clearances have been met.
7.3.2 Semi-Annual
2. Ensure access to hazard areas, lines of egress, and manual pull stations are
unobstructed and that there are no obstacles inhibiting the proper operation of
the aerosol generators or distribution of the aerosol in the event of a fire.
3. Inspect Stat-X aerosol generators for physical damage, such as cracks, dents,
distortion, or corrosion. If damage is found, replace generator as instructed in
Section 6 of this manual.
4. Inspect mounting brackets, straps, and associated hardware for loose, damaged,
or broken parts. Replace damaged parts and tighten all loose hardware.
5. Inspect all manual pull stations for cracks, broken or cracked glass plate, dirt or
distortion. Inspect station for signs of physical damage, replacing if necessary.
6. Inspect all electrical connections and run electrical continuity tests using an
Ohmmeter. Repair and replace as necessary.
7. Make sure that the generators are not obstructed and that the required
clearances have been met.
The aerosol generators have an installed service life of ten years. They are to be replaced
ten years from the date code in the lower right corner of the product label. The Date Code
appears as follows, where the 2-digit numeric character represents the year and the single
digit numeric the month of shipment from the factory:
18 19 20 21 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
18 = 2018, 19 = 2019, 20 = 2020, etc. A unit marked 18 12, for example, would
have shipped in December 2018
Mounting Brackets
Model P/N
30 gram, 60 gram SS 18001
100 gram SS 18005
250 gram, 500 gram SS 18010
1000 gram, 1500 gram, 2500 gram SS 18015
Fireaway represents that this product is free from defects in material and workmanship,
and it will repair or replace any product or part thereof which proves to be defective in
workmanship or material for a period of eighteen (18) months from the date of first
shipment from our factory. Defective units should be returned shipment prepaid to the
factory:
Fireaway Inc.
5852 Baker Road
Minnetonka, Minnesota USA 55345
www.statx.com
Fireaway will repair or replace and return shipping prepaid. Return or repair shall be the
purchaser’s sole remedy for defect.
Limitations of Liability
This warranty does not cover equipment damaged during shipment or by misuse,
accident, or negligence, or which has been repaired or altered by others. Fireaway shall
not under any circumstances be liable for special or consequential damages such as, but
not limited to, damage or loss of property or equipment, loss of profits or revenue, cost of
capital, cost of purchased or replacement goods, or claims by customers of the original
purchaser. Remedies set forth herein to the original purchaser and all others shall not
exceed the price of the equipment supplied.
This warranty is exclusively and expressly in lieu of all other warranties, whether
expressed or implied, including warranty of merchantability or fitness.
Stat-X fire extinguishing systems use flammable solid devices. Personnel responsible for
fire extinguishing systems must be aware of the potential dangers associated with the
improper handling, installation, or maintenance of this equipment.
Fire extinguishing system service personnel must be thoroughly trained in the proper
handling, installation, and service of the Stat-X hardware and follow the instructions in
this manual and in the Safety Bulletins contained in this Appendix. Fireaway has provided
appropriate warnings and cautions throughout the text of this manual. These warnings
and cautions are to be adhered to always. Failure to do so may result in potential injury to
personnel.
Environmental Issues
There are no known environmental issues associated with the use of Stat-X aerosol
generators. Both the Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) and Global Warming Potential
(GWP) are zero.
Aerosol generators do not present a known health hazard in their benign state - as the
constituent chemicals are pressed into a solid form that is stable - even at elevated
operating temperatures. There are no environmental or health hazards from the chemical
in storage.
Unlike gaseous agents, the aerosol does not decompose in the presence of fire nor does
it extinguish by oxygen deprivation. Stat-X suppresses fire (primarily) by chemical
interference with the “Fire Propagation” radicals (OH, H, and O) that are essential
elements in the expansion of the fire. Stat-X interacts rapidly with these free radicals within
the fire zone – thus interrupting the on-going fire reaction.
The aerosol, itself, consists of solid and gas combustion products. The solid phase is
composed of highly dispersed particles of salts and oxides of alkaline metals that present
insignificant health hazards for humans at normal design concentrations. The gas phase
may contain small amounts of carbon monoxide CO, carbon dioxide CO2, nitrogen oxides
NOx, and ammonia NH3. Production of these gases is minimal in the case of Stat-X due
to its patented construction, chemical formulation, and its manufacture in the United States
using only technical and reagent grade chemicals. In tests conducted by a certified,
accredited testing facility in the United States, Stat-X generators were shown to produce
gas levels several orders of magnitude less than the standard allowed for automobile
airbag systems for passenger vehicles (See Figure 1).
Tests have shown no long-term negative effects from exposure to the aerosol. While the
components of the aerosol are not considered toxic at normal concentration levels,
ingestion of the ultra-fine particulate may cause short-term discomfort and unnecessary
exposure should be avoided. Studies conducted to date, indicate that any potential
toxicological issues with the aerosols in general are related to possible elevated levels of
potentially harmful products that may be produced in the gas phase – such as, CO, NOx,
etc. - and not due to the influence of the solid particulate.1,2 In the case of Stat-X, in
particular, the effect is negligible due to the extremely low level of gas production (See
Figure 1).
1E.A. Smith, E.C. Kimmel, et al, “Toxological Evaluation of Exposure to Two Formulations of a
Pyrotechnically-Generated Aerosol: Range Finding and Multiple Dose”, HOTWC.96
2“Search of Halon Alternatives in Fire Extinguishing” Safety Problems During Emergency Situations, Issue
1-M, 1992, pages 73-79.
Total flood systems may be applied in normally occupied and unoccupied areas in
conjunction with a 30 second time delay and system isolate switch to ensure egress of
personnel prior to system discharge and manual only activation whenever personnel may
be present in the protected volume.
3 *Andreev V.A., et al, “Replacement of Halon in Fire Extinguishing Systems”, Proceedings of the Halon
Alternatives Technical Working Conference, 1993.
Before handling Stat-X aerosol generators, all personnel must be thoroughly trained in
the safe handling of the generators, as well as, in the proper procedures for installation,
removal, shipping, and disposal.
Moving Generators
Generators should be shipped compactly in an upright position in the packaging provided.
They must be properly secured in place and not allowed to roll around or be dropped from
the tailgates of vehicles. Dropped generators are not to be installed.
Rough Handling
Generators must not be dropped or permitted to strike violently against each other or other
surfaces. Dropped generators are not to be installed.
Storage
Containers must be stored standing upright where they are not exposed to extreme
environmental conditions or are subject to being knocked over.
In most cases the discharged generator can be disposed of in any landfill that handles
industrial waste. However, local regulations must be researched and observed. Each
discharged aerosol generator will contain the following material:
EXTINGUISHING MECHANISM
“Fire propagation” radicals (OH, H, and O) are essential elements in the propagation of
the fire. Stat-X suppresses the fire (primarily) by chemical interference with these free
radicals within the fire zone – thus interrupting the on-going fire reaction.
Potassium radicals (K) are the main active component of Stat-X aerosol. They are very
active and react with these “propagation radicals” – much like the bromine radicals in
Halons. The chemical reaction may be represented as follows, for example:
K + OH = KOH
KOH + H = K + H2O
K + OH, etc…
In addition, the flame propagation radicals recombine on the surface area of the ultra-fine
aerosol particulate to further interfere with flame propagation:
O + H = OH
H + OH = H2O
AEROSOL CHARACTERISTICS
Due to the ultra-fine particle size and the method of generation, the particulate is quite
buoyant and suspends in the gas/air mixture within the protected enclosure. Because of
this “buoyant” effect the aerosol does not begin to “settle” for an extended period and,
therefore, is extremely easy to vent from the protected area. Minor amounts of particulate
may be deposited on equipment and, can be cleaned with a water and vinegar solution
after venting extraction of the air within the protected volume through a fan or air handling
system – followed by a blow down with compressed air. Any particulate deposited on
horizontal surfaces will be ≤ 2µm.
As a precautionary measure, however, it is always good practice to inspect and clean the
site thoroughly following a discharge. While the aerosol itself is quite “clean”,
environmental factors are also a consideration. The unknown, and potentially harmful, by-
4Findings, Study of Gas Aerosol Fire Extinguishing Compounds on Structural Materials, Maximov, Babkin,
Samokhvalova, Report of Metall Company 1991.
5Findings, Corrosive Effect of Gas Aerosol Fire Extinguishing Compounds on Structural Materials in
Aviation Technology, Leonova G.P., Usankova L.A., Report of All Union Scientific Research Institute for
Aviation Materials 1991
N2 21.93
H2O 6.550
CO2 1.361
CO 0.097
NH3 0.041
NO 0.001
NO2 0.002
HCN 0.006
Other Trace
Total 100.00
Aerosol generators must never be positioned to discharge directly at each other and must be
mounted in such a way as to have an unobstructed discharge path, nor discharge at close range
onto walls, ceiling, or equipment. Always check for obstructions in the path of the aerosol
discharge stream. Generators must be installed such that they cannot cause personnel injury
upon activation.
Stat-X generators have received the following shipping classification from the United
States Department of Transportation:
1. For shipment by motor vehicle, rail, or cargo vessel: UN3268, Class 9, Proper
Shipping Name: Safety Devices (check latest factory SDS if US DOT Special
Permit is applicable)
2. For shipment by air (Cargo or Passenger): UN0432, Class 1.4S, Proper Shipping
Name: Article, Pyrotechnic for Technical Purposes
Generators packaged and shipped as Class 1.4S by aircraft shall have the following
storage limitations:
Stat-X generators have been ruled by the United States BATF to be exempt from the
reporting requirements of 18 U,S.C. Chapter 40 sections 842 and 843 and the
implementing regulations.
Leakage K2 value at parameter of leakage distribution according to the height of the protected enclosure LH%
Parameter
LPm-1 0 5 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
0.000 1.025 1.025 1.025 1.025 1.025 1.025 1.025 1.025 1.025 1.025 1.025 1.025
0.001 1.028 1.031 1.037 1.049 1.062 1.075 1.087 1.089 1.089 1.074 1.057 1.046
0.002 1.032 1.037 1.048 1.073 1.098 1.122 1.146 1.150 1.150 1.122 1.088 1.066
0.003 1.035 1.042 1.060 1.097 1.133 1.169 1.203 1.208 1.208 1.168 1.119 1.086
0.004 1.038 1.048 1.071 1.120 1.167 1.214 1.258 1.265 1.265 1.213 1.149 1.106
0.005 1.033 1.053 1.082 1.143 1.201 1.258 1.312 1.320 1.320 1.257 1.178 1.125
0.006 1.045 1.059 1.094 1.166 1.234 1.301 1.363 1.373 1.373 1.299 1.207 1.144
0.007 1.048 1.064 1.105 1.188 1.266 1.343 1.413 1.424 1.424 1.340 1.235 1.163
0.008 1.051 1.070 1.116 1.210 1.298 1.384 1.462 1.473 1.473 1.380 1.262 1.181
0.009 1.054 1.075 1.127 1.232 1.329 1.423 1.508 1.521 1.521 1.419 1.289 1.200
0.010 1.057 1.080 1.136 1.253 1.359 1.462 1.554 1.568 1.568 1.457 1.315 1.217
0.011 1.060 1.086 1.149 1.275 1.390 1.500 1.598 1.612 1.612 1.493 1.341 1.235
0.012 1.064 1.092 1.160 1.296 1.419 1.536 1.641 1.656 1.656 1.529 1.366 1.252
0.013 1.067 1.097 1.170 1.316 1.448 1.572 1.682 1.698 1.698 1.563 1.391 1.269
0.014 1.070 1.103 1.181 1.337 1.476 1.607 1.722 1.739 1.739 1.597 1.415 1.280
0.015 1.075 1.108 1.192 1.357 1.504 1.641 1.761 1.778 1.778 1.630 1.439 1.303
0.016 1.076 1.134 1.202 1.377 1.531 1.675 1.799 1.817 1.817 1.662 1.462 1.319
0.017 1.079 1.119 1.213 1.396 1.558 1.707 1.836 1.855 1.855 1.693 1.485 1.335
0.018 1.083 1.124 1.223 1.416 1.585 1.739 1.872 1.891 1.891 1.724 1.508 1.351
0.019 1.086 1.130 1.234 1.435 1.610 1.770 1.907 1.926 1.926 1.754 1.530 1.366
0.020 1.089 1.135 1.244 1.454 1.636 1.800 1.941 1.961 1.961 1.783 1.552 1.382
0.021 1.092 1.140 1.254 1.473 1.661 1.830 1.974 1.994 1.994 1.811 1.573 1.399
0.022 1.095 1.146 1.264 1.491 1.685 1.859 2.006 2.027 2.027 1.839 1.594 1.412
0.023 1.098 1.151 1.275 1.510 1.709 1.888 2.038 2.058 2.058 1.866 1.614 1.427
0.024 1.101 1.156 1.285 1.528 1.733 1.915 2.068 2.089 2.089 1.892 1.634 1.442
0.025 1.104 1.161 1.295 1.546 1.756 1.993 2.098 2.119 2.119 1.918 1.654 1.456
0.026 1.107 1.167 1.305 1.563 1.779 1.969 2.127 2.149 2.149 1.943 1.674 1.470
0.027 1.111 1.172 1.315 1.581 1.802 1.995 2.156 2.177 2.177 1.968 1.693 1.484
0.028 1.114 1.177 1.324 1.598 1.824 2.021 2.183 2.205 2.205 1.992 1.712 1.498
0.029 1.117 1.182 1.334 1.615 1.846 2.046 2.210 2.232 2.232 2.016 1.730 1.511
0.030 1.120 1.188 1.344 1.632 1.867 2.071 2.237 2.258 2.258 2.039 1.748 1.524
0.031 1.123 1.193 1.354 1.648 1.888 2.095 2.263 2.285 2.285 2.061 1.766 1.538
0.032 1.126 1.198 1.363 1.665 1.909 2.118 2.288 2.310 2.310 2.083 1.784 1.551
0.033 1.129 1.203 1.373 1.681 1.929 2.141 2.313 2.335 2.335 2.105 1.801 1.564
0.034 1.132 1.208 1.382 1.679 1.990 2.164 2.337 2.359 2.359 2.126 1.818 1.577
0.035 1.135 1.213 1.392 1.713 1.969 2.186 2.360 2.382 2.382 2.147 1.834 1.589
0.036 1.138 1.218 1.401 1.729 1.989 2.208 2.383 2.405 2.405 2.167 1.851 1.602
0.037 1.141 1.223 1.410 1.745 2.008 2.229 2.406 2.428 2.428 2.187 1.867 1.614
0.038 1.144 1.229 1.420 1.760 2.027 2.250 2.428 2.450 2.450 2.207 1.883 1.625
0.039 1.147 1.234 1.429 1.775 2.045 2.271 2.449 2.472 2.472 2.226 1.899 1.638
0.040 1.150 1.239 1.438 1.790 2.064 2.291 2.470 2.493 2.493 2.245 1.914 1.649
0.050 1.185 1.261 1.497 1.883 2.217 2.459 2.638 2.672 2.672 2.417 2.050 1.742
0.060 1.208 1.294 1.550 1.983 2.327 2.600 2.792 2.833 2.833 2.544 2.167 1.817
0.070 1.226 1.318 1.617 2.075 2.458 2.733 2.942 2.992 2.992 2.698 2.268 1.878
0.080 1.263 1.356 1.667 2.175 2.577 2.892 3.100 3.159 3.159 2.843 2.391 1.975
0.090 1.294 1.393 1.733 2.292 2.708 3.058 3.294 3.358 3.358 3.000 2.525 2.066
0.100 1.319 1.438 1.781 2.358 2.808 3.168 3.418 3.462 3.462 3.107 2.614 2.138
0.110 1.351 1.468 1.854 2.454 2.932 3.300 3.556 3.597 3.597 3.225 2.713 2.228
0.120 1.382 1.504 1.923 2.556 3.049 3.423 3.683 3.721 3.721 3.334 2.804 2.298
0.130 1.413 1.540 1.988 2.653 3.160 3.535 3.798 3.834 3.834 3.435 2.888 2.363
0.140 1.444 1.577 2.048 2.745 3.265 3.638 3.901 3.937 3.937 3.526 2.963 2.423
Stat-X® Design, Installation, Operation, and Maintenance Manual
PN: 19000 (2018-07) Page 46 of 48
Table to Calculate K2
(continued)
Leakage K2 value at parameter of leakage distribution according to the height of the protected enclosure LH%
Parameter
LPm-1
0 5 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
0.150 1.476 1.612 2.103 2.833 3.363 3.732 3.992 4.028 4.028 3.608 3.031 2.475
0.160 1.507 1.648 2.153 2.915 3.453 3.817 4.071 4.109 4.109 3.681 3.091 2.521
0.170 1.538 1.683 2.199 2.993 3.538 3.892 4.138 4.180 4.180 3.745 3.143 2.561
0.180 1.569 1.718 2.240 3.067 3.617 3.957 4.194 4.239 4.239 3.801 3.225 2.595
0.190 1.600 1.752 2.276 3.135 3.688 4.013 4.238 4,288 4.288 3.847 3.267 2.622
0.200 1.632 1.786 2.308 3.199 3.753 4.059 4.269 4.326 4.326 3.884 3.333 2.643
Manufacturer Model