3M Novec Gas Sea-Fire Extinguishers Debut at Seawork

U.K. independent marine safety equipment supplier Ocean Safety will debut the latest range of fire extinguishers from Sea-Fire at Seawork. The range, which was introduced earlier in the year, is the 3M Novec 1230 NDF and NFG Series. Novec introduces a safer gas which is less harmful than other types of gas if used in enclosed compartments such as small engine rooms.

Sea-Fire's pre-engineered NFD and NFG systems are automatically heat-activated, using 3M Novec 1230 Fire Protection Fluid. This non-toxic agent is the safest on the marine market, with zero ozone depletion and an extremely low Global Warming Potential (GWP) of just one.

Novec 1230 works by removing heat energy at the molecular level to the point where fire cannot be sustained. It has the highest heat capacity of any commercially available halon alternative, is electrically non-conductive and non-corrosive. Additionally the product vaporizes quickly during the system discharge. Unlike foams and powders, the extinguishing agent is clean, leaving behind no residue.

“At Seawork we are able to present the alternative option of using Novec gas in our fire extinguishers,” commented Ocean Safety’s Charlie Mill. “Novec gas is not only less harmful to people but kinder to the environment too. Sea-Fire continues to provide standard FM200 gas extinguishers but the additional Novec option enables us to provide a choice.”

The Sea-Fire Novec 1230 NDF and NFG extinguishers are designed to protect engine and machinery compartments in a range of sailing and motor yachts. Novec gas is available in over 70 Sea-Fire fire extinguisher sizes to protect spaces from 0.7m3 to 51m3. While all NFD and NFG models operate automatically with heat sensor valves, all can be equipped with a manual discharge capability.

The range is MCA Ship’s Wheel approved so is ready to be fitted onto commercially coded vessels such as workboats and pilot boats and small commercial motor or sailing vessels up to 24m as well as onto private leisure boats.

Sea-Fire is the market leader in fire suppression solutions for the marine industry. The systems, manufactured in the U.S. and U.K., are fitted by the world’s leading boatbuilders, including Sunseeker and Princess, as well as by boat owners themselves.