Fire suppression innovation?

iFLOW combines the proven fire extinguishing properties and environmental benefits of the inert gases with technology to help design engineers overcome challenges in pipe size, venting design and overall installation. The system incorporates three innovative components working together: the iFLOW valve, the iFLOW horizontal check valve and the matrix container racking system. The iFLOW valve regulates flow at nominal pressures of 60 bar (in a 300 bar system) and 40 bar (in a 200 bar system). It eliminates the peak pressure spike associated with conventional orifice systems and achieves 95% of the design concentration within 60 or 120 seconds as required by the standards. VdS approved, the iFLOW valve also limits the output pressure, even in the event of a discharge occurring against a closed selector valve, making it one of the safest valves on the market.

The iFLOW check valve connects multiple containers and can eliminate the need for a discharge manifold on certain systems, to help minimise installation time. It also serves as a safety device to maintain the integrity of the system by preventing leakage of the agent in the event that containers are removed from the system during maintenance.


Complex spaces can impact on the layout of the container bank, leading to more complicated installations. iFLOW overcomes this challenge with the matrix container racking system that offers greater flexibility and options for the container layout. This provides architects and design engineers with more choice when systems have to be installed in tight spaces. When compared with traditional bracketing systems, the matrix design enables containers to be positioned in conventional rows or even arranged around columns to fully utilise available space, and also facilitates quicker removal of containers during recharge and maintenance. As well as standard 80 litre containers, 140 litre capacity containers are available where space constraints demand a smaller footprint.

“iFLOW offers compelling benefits to design engineers, installation contractors and end users in relation to reduced costs, more effective discharge performance and maximised use of available space,” comments Alan Elder, Director of Engineered systems. “The innovative technology used in the system is a big step forward in the application of inert gas, and we believe it provides an effective solution to the challenges of total flooding fire suppression across a wide range of commercial and industrial applications. At Tyco Fire Protection Products, we continually strive to seek out new innovations that overcome the challenges faced by our customers, supported by extensive testing and third party certification to ensure compliance with all applicable standards.”