Löschgase

Löschgase, also known as clean agents, are gaseous fire suppressants used in specialized fire protection systems. They are designed to extinguish fires without leaving behind residue, which is crucial for protecting sensitive equipment and environments. These gases work by interrupting the chemical chain reaction of combustion or by reducing the oxygen concentration to a level insufficient for fire to sustain itself.

The primary advantage of Löschgase is their cleanliness. Unlike water or dry chemical agents, they do not damage electronics, documents, or other valuable assets. This makes them ideal for applications such as data centers, telecommunication facilities, museums, archives, and control rooms. They are also electrically non-conductive, further enhancing their safety in environments with electrical equipment.

Common types of Löschgase include Halocarbons such as HFCs (hydrofluorocarbons) and FKs (fluoroketones), and Inert Gases like IG-541 (a mixture of nitrogen, argon, and carbon dioxide) and Inergen. Each type has specific properties regarding extinguishing efficiency, environmental impact, and safety considerations.

The design and implementation of Löschgase systems require careful consideration of the protected space's volume, potential fire hazards, and the presence of occupants. Discharge of these agents typically leads to a rapid reduction in oxygen levels, which can be hazardous to humans if they are present in the area during activation. Therefore, these systems are often used in unoccupied or supervised areas, or they are integrated with pre-discharge alarms and ventilation systems to ensure occupant safety. Environmental regulations are also a significant factor in the selection and use of certain Löschgase, particularly regarding their global warming potential.