Total flooding fixed fire suppression systems are only effective when what condition is met?

Total flooding fixed fire suppression systems are specifically designed to release a suffocating agent throughout a designated area to extinguish fires and protect a space from combustion. For these systems to work effectively, the fire compartment must be sealed properly. This sealing ensures that the suppression agent remains concentrated in the area where it is needed most, preventing it from escaping and maximizing its effectiveness at lowering the oxygen levels or displacing the flames.

When the fire compartment is sealed, the suppression agent can build up to the necessary concentration to extinguish the fire. If the compartment is not adequately sealed, the agent may dissipate into adjacent areas, significantly reducing its effectiveness and causing a higher likelihood of fire reignition or the fire spreading to other areas.

While factors such as regular maintenance and airflow can influence the overall function of a fire suppression system, the sealing of the compartment is the critical condition that directly impacts how well total flooding systems can suppress fire. Without proper sealing, even the best-maintained system may fail to provide effective fire control.