Fire Suppression

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is the most common and extremely effective (non-water) fire extinguishing agent. In addition to being economical and leaving no residue, CO2 is effective on a wide range of flammable materials.

Carbon dioxide is a colorless, odorless, electrically non-conductive gas with a density approximately 50% greater than air. When used to suppress a fire, it provides a blanket of heavy gas which reduces the oxygen content of the atmosphere to a point

when combustion cannot be sustained.

Row of large red fire extinguishers

Unlike sprinkler and foam suppression systems, CO2 fire suppression systems require little to no clean-up, making carbon dioxide a cleaner fire protection solution.

Typical applications using carbon dioxide fire suppression systems include:

  • control rooms
  • flammable liquids storage areas
  • generator rooms
  • ovens and dryers

There are a variety of CO2 storage options from low pressure total flood, or low pressure local application systems to high pressure CO2 fire suppression systems.

Large Fire Suppression Applications

High pressure systems using non-refrigeration, high pressure cylinders can be connected together to provide a greater supply of CO2 for large applications. These systems are designed to protect hazards that require varying amounts of CO2.

Large fire suppression applications can use bulk tanks with a transfer pump and motor system allowing you to recharge your fire suppression tanks as needed regardless of the time or day and refill during normal business hours.

Medium Fire Suppression Applications

Microbulk tanks used in medium fire suppression applications bridge the gap between smaller bulk tanks and cylinder applications. These CO2 tanks can be upgraded as your fire suppression needs grow.

Small Fire Suppression Applications

For smaller fire suppression requirements, CO2 cylinders can be used for low pressure total flood or local application systems.

CryoCarb™ will help evaluate your CO2 usage and help to find the best solution to keep your business protected. Call (888) 254-5931.

Gases for Fire Suppression:

CO2 periodic table

Dry Ice

Safety

Make safety a priority and take time to learn about the risks and hazards associated with using compressed gases.

The pressure inside of cylinders is hazardous. A full compressed gas cylinder that falls and breaks its valve can travel with explosive force resulting in severe personal injury and property damage. Even at relatively low pressures, gas can flow rapidly from an open or leaking cylinder valve and cause harm.

Regulators, valves and hoses are gas specific and not necessarily interchangeable. Never tamper with safety release devices in valves. Consult with the manufacturer for complete information on how to safely use these devices.

The gases inside of cylinders have unique properties, hazards and other considerations. For example, oxygen supports combustion and increases the risk of fire. Argon, carbon dioxide, helium, nitrogen and nitrous oxide may displace oxygen and cause asphyxiation to humans and animals.

Please refer to the Safety Data Sheets (SDS) on each of our gases for hazards identification and detailed information on the physical and chemical properties of each gas. In addition, safety data sheets contain information on personal protection; safe handling, storage, transport and disposal; environmental data; firefighting and first aid measures.

We provide SDSs for all our products in solid, liquid and gaseous state for your reference. Refer to gases. If you do not see your SDS online, you may request one by emailing or calling us.

Gas Handling Equipment

Carbon dioxide bulk and microbulk tanks (300 lbs to 50 tons) and gas cylinders (10 to 100 lbs), valves, manifolds, regulators, gas lines, low oxygen alarms and other related equipment.