Cabinet-Type HFC-227ea (Heptafluoropropane) Fire Suppression System

1. System Overview

HFC‑227ea (heptafluoropropane) is a highly efficient and clean gaseous suppression agent that suppresses fire through a combined physical and chemical inhibition mechanism. Its chemical formula is CF₃CHFCF₃. It is chemically stable, has very low toxicity, leaves no residue after discharge, is non‑conductive, and will not damage sensitive electronic equipment.

HFC‑227ea suppression systems are widely used internationally and are one of the mainstream replacements for Halon 1301. These systems are particularly suited for protecting high‑value, mission‑critical, and downtime‑sensitive environments.

A cabinet-type HFC-227ea extinguishing unit is a pre-engineered, self-contained clean agent fire extinguishing system in which the extinguishing agent and the nitrogen propellant are stored together within the same cylinder. When a fire occurs, the extinguishing agent is discharged directly into the protected enclosure under the pressure of the nitrogen propellant, achieving rapid fire suppression.

This unit is suitable for protecting individual rooms. It features a compact configuration, simplified installation, and does not require a distribution pipe network. Multiple units can be simultaneously actuated through the fire alarm control panel (FACP) to protect a larger hazard area, offering reduced installation complexity and lower overall system cost.

2. Key Advantages

Personnel Safety:

HFC‑227ea is safe for short‑term human exposure at design concentrations.

It discharges rapidly, produces no corrosive by‑products, and does not hinder personnel evacuation.

Environmentally Friendly:

Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) = 0

Global Warming Potential (GWP) is significantly lower than many other Halon substitutes.

Complies with the Montreal Protocol and national environmental regulations.

Clean and Residue‑Free:

No powder or liquid residue after discharge; no contamination of equipment.

Ideal for environments requiring high cleanliness such as data centers, archives, and laboratories.

High Suppression Efficiency

• Discharge time ≤ 10 seconds,  achieving suppression concentration within a very short period.

• Utilizes the total flooding method, capable of rapidly suppression Class A, Class B, and electrical fires.

Mature and Reliable System

• Well-established technical standards.

• Compact equipment configuration, strong system interlocks, and simplified maintenance and management.

3. How It Works

The suppression mechanism of HFC-227ea is a combined action of chemical inhibition and heat absorption.

When a fire occurs, the fire extinguishing control system receives the actuation signal and energizes the electric actuator connected to the container valve. The high-pressure nitrogen propellant drives the HFC-227ea clean agent out of the storage cylinder, releasing it through the cabinet-mounted nozzle. The agent rapidly disperses throughout the protected enclosure to suppress the fire.

HFC-227ea extinguishes fire through the following mechanisms:

1. Removal of active free radicals in the flame (chemical inhibition)

2. Reduction of combustion temperature through heat absorption

3. Dilution of oxygen concentration

At the design concentration, the combustion chain reactions of most fuels are interrupted, enabling rapid extinguishment, while still maintaining a safe, breathable environment for occupants within the protected enclosure.

4. System Components

5. Main Technical Parameters

6.Typical Applications

The HFC‑227ea suppression system is the ideal choice for protecting:

• Data Centers & Server Rooms

• Telecommunication Switch Rooms

• Power Control Rooms & Substations

• Cultural Heritage Sites & Museums (Archives, Art Repositories)

• Control Rooms on Offshore Platforms & Marine Vessels

• Industrial Process Control Rooms

• Bank Vaults & Record Storage Facilities

In summary, any water-sensitive, high-value, or irreplaceable asset within an enclosed space is a prime candidate for HFC‑227ea suppression system protection.

Call to Action:

Are you looking for a fire protection solution that offers:

• Maximum equipment safety

• Minimal impact on personnel

• Environmental compatibility

• High suppression efficiency

• Mature technology and easy maintenance

A HFC‑227ea suppression system provides fast, clean, safe, and reliable professional fire protection.

Contact us to receive a customized system design and quotation tailored to your needs.