1. Introduction

High-voltage switchgear is critical equipment within power systems, housing numerous electrical connections, circuit breakers, and other key components. These components generate heat during operation and present a fire risk due to insulation aging, overload, or short circuits. Therefore, fire prevention and suppression in high-voltage switchgear is particularly important. The perfluorohexane automatic fire suppression system, as a new fire suppression technology, has demonstrated significant potential in this application. This article evaluates the fire control capability of the perfluorohexane automatic fire suppression system.

2. Overview of the Perfluorohexane Automatic Fire Suppression System

The GMfire Perfluorohexane Automatic Fire Suppression System integrates automatic fire detection, alarm, and suppression functions, representing a modern approach to fire protection for electrical equipment. The linear heat detectors used in this system are highly flexible and can be strategically installed according to the internal layout of the high-voltage switchgear, enabling comprehensive, 24/7 fire monitoring. When a detector identifies a fire, the control unit analyzes the fire status data and automatically initiates suppression upon meeting predefined conditions. The perfluorohexane extinguishing agent rapidly suppresses fires through three primary mechanisms: cooling, oxygen displacement, and chemical inhibition of the combustion chain reaction.

3. Evaluation of Fire Control Capability

High-Efficiency Suppression Performance

The perfluorohexane extinguishing agent demonstrates excellent performance in suppressing electrical fires due to its high efficiency, cleanliness, and safety. It vaporizes almost instantaneously, absorbing significant heat and effectively lowering the fire zone temperature while displacing oxygen, leading to rapid fire knockdown without leaving any residue. This is crucial for protecting sensitive electrical equipment from secondary damage.

Electrical Insulation Properties

Perfluorohexane possesses excellent dielectric (electrical insulation) properties. During suppression of live electrical fires, it presents a minimal risk of current conduction, enhancing safety for both personnel and equipment. This characteristic makes the perfluorohexane system particularly suitable for use in energized electrical equipment like high-voltage switchgear.

Environmental Profile

Perfluorohexane is ozone-friendly, has a relatively low global warming potential, and is considered an environmentally acceptable fire suppression agent. Its residue-free characteristic prevents secondary damage to equipment and aligns with modern environmental standards.

Intelligent Control

The GMfire system integrates advanced fire detection technology with an intelligent control system. It monitors parameters such as temperature in real-time and immediately triggers the suppression sequence upon detecting anomalies. This automated, intelligent approach not only improves response efficiency but also reduces risks to personnel.

Strong Adaptability

The system features a compact design with minimal spatial requirements. Components are constructed with durable, flame-retardant materials for enhanced stability and adaptability. Furthermore, the system can be customized based on a detailed fire risk assessment of the specific application, determining the optimal agent quantity and distribution method.

4. Test Process and Results

During fire tests simulating various scenarios in a high-voltage cabinet (e.g., fires caused by insulation aging, overload, or short circuits), the perfluorohexane automatic fire suppression system detected the fire and initiated suppression within a very short time frame. The agent vaporized rapidly, flooding the protected volume and suppressing the fire effectively through cooling, oxygen displacement, and chemical inhibition. Throughout testing, the system operated reliably without malfunctions or false alarms, demonstrating high stability and dependability.

5. Conclusion

The perfluorohexane automatic fire suppression system has demonstrated excellent fire control capability for high-voltage switchgear protection. Its high-efficiency suppression, electrical insulation properties, favorable environmental profile, and intelligent control make it an ideal choice for protecting electrical equipment. These tests further validate the reliability and stability of the perfluorohexane automatic fire suppression system developed by GMfire, providing robust support for the safe and stable operation of power systems.