Halon 1301

As we travel around the world, Matrix Risk Consultants still field many questions about Halon 1301.

Can we keep our existing Halon system in service, or do we HAVE TO replace it?
Do we have to change out everything just to go to one of the newer gaseous systems which offer little ozone depletion exposure?
Does it cost a lot to replace my system?
Why can’t someone invent a drop-in replacement gas so I don’t have to tear out my entire system to update it?

If you live in many parts of the world, especially Europe, you must take out your Halon systems prior to year-end 2003. In the United States you may continue with your Halon system, at least for now.

Whether it is mandated by the government, or you just want to make the change, there is an alternative to total system replacement from Fike Corporation is now available. It is the first "approved" drop-in replacement for Halon 1301. With most properly designed Halon systems, a check of flow calculations, a change in nozzles and installing new tanks filled with is all that will be required. This approach is especially useful where you want to limit downtime of your protection system, as well as the mess created when the entire system has to be ripped out and replaced. It does not require additional space for added tanks since it is a replacement gas.

We have not seen any installations yet, but we are sure they will begin to pop up soon. Maintaining the best protection for critical Computer, Telecommunications and Instrumentation Systems is a high priority for all of us. The re-use of existing piping systems is a goal our industry has had since the environmental issues with Halon came to everyone’s attention. It appears that goal has been met.

For more information, check out the Fike Corporation website at www.fike.com.

Be sure to keep your Matrix Risk Consultants account engineer aware of any changes you may be anticipating. If you have questions, please call us at 937-886-0000 or email matrix@MatrixRC.com .