09 Design Guide Telco Data Processing Facilities Lores PDF

Telecommunications
and Data Processing

Facilities
Design Guide
July, 2012
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VESDA by Xtralis Telecommunications and Data Processing Facilities Design Guide
Preface
Xtralis Pty Ltd has produced this Design Guide as a reference, to be consulted when designing and
specifying VESDA fire protection solutions for telecommunications, data processing and
information technology facilities. The environments envisaged include the following:
Fixed and wireless telecommunications facilities.
Small remote site equipment enclosures, such as those used to house wireless transmission
equipment.
Data processing and computer facilities including server rooms, internet data centres, data
warehousing facilities and co-location centres, containerized or mobile data centres.
Telecommunications/data communications and underground cable tunnels/vaults or controlled

environmental vaults (CEV).
Terrestrial and satellite broadcast facilities for radio, television and the Internet.
Power and other essential services support infrastructure for the above installations.
In the remainder of this Design Guide, the above environments will be referred to as Datacom
Facilities.
Important Note: The information contained in this Design Guide should be used in conjunction
with specific local fire codes and standards as well as the guidelines provided
in the VESDA System Design Manual[1]. Where applicable, other regional
industry practices and end user practices should also be adhered to.
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Telecommunications and Data Processing Facilities Design Guide VESDA by Xtralis
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Contents
1. Background Information ................................................................................................................1
1.1 Fire Safety Considerations in Datacom Facilities ....................................................................1
1.2 Performance-Based Design ..................................................................................................1
1.3 Key Design Considerations ...................................................................................................2
1.4 Why Use VESDA Smoke Detection? .....................................................................................2
2. Design for Effective Protection ......................................................................................................3
2.1 Protection Recommendations ...............................................................................................3
2.2 Ceiling Protection .................................................................................................................4
2.3 Inter-Beam Sampling............................................................................................................5
2.4 Sub-Floor and Ceiling Void Protection ...................................................................................5
2.5 Return Air Vent Protection ....................................................................................................6
2.6 Localized Protection Cabinet ..............................................................................................7
2.7 Combined Coverage Technique for Small Spaces ..................................................................9
2.8 Containment Aisles ..............................................................................................................9
2.9 High-Risk Equipment Protection .......................................................................................... 13
2.10 Cable Tunnel/Vault Protection............................................................................................. 14
2.11 Cable Trays ....................................................................................................................... 14
2.12 Outside-Air Monitoring ........................................................................................................ 15
3. Datacom Facility Monitoring ........................................................................................................ 16
3.1 Connection and Monitoring ................................................................................................. 16
3.2 Using Networked Monitoring Systems ................................................................................. 17
4. Integrating Smoke Detection and Fire Suppression .................................................................... 17
4.1 Alternating VESDA Sampling Pipe Option............................................................................ 19
4.2 Single VESDA Detector Options ......................................................................................... 19
4.3 VESDA Ceiling (Sub-Floor)/AHU Option .............................................................................. 20
4.4 VESDA Exhaust Sampling Option ....................................................................................... 20
4.5 Hybrid Detection Technologies Option ................................................................................. 22
4.6 VESDA Coincidence Detection Alarm Relationship - Examples ............................................. 23
4.7 About The ASAT Calculator ................................................................................................ 24
5. Commissioning, Service and Maintenance .................................................................................. 24
Appendix A Setting Up Referencing With VSC ................................................................................. 25
Appendix B Relevant Prescriptive And Performance-Based Design Codes..................................... 28
Appendix C VESDA Systems for Very Early Warning and Fire Suppression.................................... 30
References .......................................................................................................................................... 32
Disclaimer on the Provision of General System Design Recommendations ....................................... 33
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1. Background Information
1.1 Fire Safety Considerations in Datacom Facilities
Major fire risks within Datacom Facilities include the following:
Overheating of electrical cabling, electrical relays, signal processing equipment.

Equipment electrical faults such as arcing of transformers, power supplies, etc.
Fires originating from generators, fuel lines, exhaust lines.
Fires originating from air handling units (AHU).
Fire risks due to improper house-keeping such as failure to dispose of packaging materials,
cardboard boxes, etc.
The combustion of polymers will release toxic and corrosive gases that might damage
electronic devices and pose a serious threat to the health and safety of personnel.
The densely packed arrangement of equipment will encourage the spread of fire.
The ventilation duct work might circulate smoke and gases to other compartments.
Risk of explosion from flammable gas accumulation in battery rooms, CEV, cable
tunnels/vaults
Risk of oxygen depletion in CEV, cable tunnels/vaults.
Note: The term Air Handling Unit (AHU) includes Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning
Systems (HVAC), computer-room air conditioners (CRAC), computer-room air handlers
(CRAH).
1.2 Performance-Based Design

Datacom Facilities present a challenge to both early and reliable fire detection. Systems
performance can be affected by factors such as magnitude and direction of air flow,
equipment/cabinet layout, open or containment aisles, room geometry, etc. For the VESDA system
the selection of the appropriate sampling hole configuration (location, spacing, sensitivity) will
ensure system performance is unaffected by environmental and operational parameters.
Though the location and spacing of VESDA sampling holes is dictated by local codes and
standards, there might be, however, Datacom Facility configurations that are not addressed in the
codes. In such cases, engineering calculation (modelling) and/or engineering judgment are
required to design a VESDA system that will effectively detect smoke in the early stages. This
approach is known as Performance-Based Design (PBD) and each installation is assessed
according to its specific environmental and operational conditions to meet particular design
objectives.
The Performance-Based Design approach is widely used and is employed to justify designs not
covered by codes or where an improved level of fire protection is required. Examples of specific
guidelines for the use of Performance-Based Design and risk management concepts are listed
below:

[2]
NFPA 75 Standard for the Protection of Electronic, Computer/Data Processing Equipment .
NFPA 76 Recommended Practice for the Fire Protection of Telecommunications Facilities[3].
BS 6266 Code of practice for fire protection for electronic equipment installation[9].
AS/NZ 4360 Risk Management Standard[4].
SFPE Handbook of Fire Protection Engineering[5].
Performance-Based fire protection solutions can be made to comply with local and national codes
and standards for buildings and life safety. Assessments of the environmental risks and
performance requirements, specific to the particular Datacom Facility, are conducted as part of the
design process.
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1.3 Key Design Considerations

The following should be considered when specifying and designing a VESDA smoke detection
system in a Datacom Facility:
1. What level of protection is required and how will fire safety be managed?
2. What are the risks? Criticality of data, financial loss as result of down time?
3. How remote is the facility?
4. Which method(s) of protection are required (ceiling, sub-floor, ceiling void, return air vent,
in/on cabinet, cable tunnels/vaults, fresh air intake, etc)?
5. What are the airflow characteristics (direction, magnitude) of the area to be protected?
6. What effect will parameters such as ceiling height, room geometry and equipment
locations/dimensions have on airflow patterns, ventilation and smoke detection?
7. Is there a need to integrate suppression with a desirable coincidence detection scheme?
8. What do local prescriptive codes and standards recommend (AS1670[6], NFPA72[7], BS5839-
1[8], for example)?
9. What do Performance-Based Design codes recommend (NFPA75[2], NFPA76[3], BS6266[9])?
10. What do governing gaseous suppression codes recommend (AS4214.1[10], NFPA2001[11],
BS7273-1[12])?
11. What are the recommended industry practices (e.g. FIA CoP[13])?
12. What is the security level in the facility are there restricted access rooms?
13. Site accessibility (time to get to a remote unmanned site)
14. Accessibility for maintenance, test & inspection within sub-floor, ceiling void, above cable
trays, within fully or partially enclosed equipment cabinets, etc.
1.4 Why Use VESDA Smoke Detection?

Fire events in Datacom Facilities must be detected as early as possible to avoid asset damage
leading to business disruption and to ensure personnel safety.
Contrary to VESDA the use of conventional point (spot) type smoke and heat detectors has severe
limitations due to the following:
High airflow conditions will dilute and disperse the smoke affecting the performance of point
(spot) type smoke detectors that provide only localized detection. The action of AHU will scrub
smoke (fan blades, filters) with each air change further increasing dilution of smoke in the room.
The cooling effects of AHU will decrease the temperature of smoke, affecting the performance
of heat detectors.
Point type detectors have limitations on their placement due to obstructions, velocity, and
temperature.
Point (spot) type detectors are passive and their performance may be restricted by the velocity
and/or temperature rise of the smoke near the detection chamber.
Airborne debris can enter the detection chamber and cause chamber contamination. Such
contamination cannot be reliably monitored, severely reduces detector longevity, increases
maintenance and replacement costs, and compromises operational safety.
Maintenance might be difficult especially for inaccessible areas or in areas where human
activity has a high risk of interfering with normal equipment operation.
The VESDA system has Factory Mutual (FM) approval as a suppression release initiation device.
This approval and the very early warning smoke detection capability of the VESDA system ensures
fire risks are minimize in Datacom facilities as well as overcoming the above detection and
maintenance challenges in the following ways:
VESDA detectors have fixed calibration and provide absolute smoke detection.
A VESDA system can monitor all fire stages from incipient to fully developed, providing multiple
alarms for staged response.
The VESDA system can detect fires at their incipient stage, allowing early intervention for
investigation and action, before smoke and corrosive gases affect equipment and personnel.
Early intervention potentially eliminates the need to release suppressants or fire brigade call-
out.
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A VESDA system is better placed for detecting diluted smoke because it utilizes a very sensitive
sensing chamber and employs cumulative sampling (aggregation of smoke drawn through
multiple sampling holes).
A VESDA system actively draws air through the sampling holes which provides consistent and
predictable detection performance, regardless of direction and magnitude of airflow.
The VESDA system can be designed to be unaffected by temperature and humidity extremes.
There is a comparatively low incidence of false alarms with a VESDA system due to mechanical
filtration, dust discrimination, programmable fire alarm thresholds and alarm verifications.
Where a gaseous or sprinkler fire suppression system forms part of the overall fire protection
solution, the VESDA system can be designed to actuate the release mechanisms through
coincidence detection schemes.
VESDA detectors can be mounted in easily accessible areas. This allows for easy and safe
system maintenance when sampling in awkward locations such as sub-floors and underground
cable tunnels/vaults, will not disrupt operations and maintenance will not cause security breach
of secure spaces.
2. Design for Effective Protection

2.1 Protection Recommendations
There are two levels of protection for which a VESDA system can be configured, within the various
areas of a Datacom Facility. Definitions for each of these levels are given below:
Good Practice The system is designed to meet local prescriptive codes and standards plus
any relevant codes developed using Performance-Based Design and industry practices for loss
prevention and business continuity.
Best Practice The system is designed to meet the above, provide the maximum protection
possible and form an integral part of the overall risk management by taking into account the
needs of all stakeholders.
The level of protection for particular areas within a Datacom Facility is indicated in Table 1 and is
based on the following factors:
The design method and area of coverage of the fire detection system.
The location and density of detection points (sampling holes).
The nominal sensitivity of detection points (sampling holes).
Table 1 Recommended guidelines for Datacom Facility protection
Best Practice (Using

Area Good Practice
VESDA Detectors)
AHU Return Air Vent
In-Duct
Area (On Ceiling)
Sub-Floor
Ceiling Void
Fully or partially enclosed

Server Cabinets
High Risk Equipment and
Power distribution panels
Cable Vaults or Tunnels
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In this Design Guide, the recommended guidelines for protected areas are based either on local
fire codes and standards, Performance-Based Design guidelines or Xtralis application testing.
Alarm threshold values are set depending on the risks and environmental and operational
characteristics of the area being protected.
Important Note: All pipe network designs must be verified by the Xtralis Pipe Network
Modelling Tool, ASPIRE2 TM.
2.2 Ceiling Protection

The VESDA system can be designed to deliver either early or very early warning fire detection.
1. Early Warning Fire Detection:
The maximum coverage area for each VESDA sampling hole is 37.2 m2 (400 sqft).
2. Very Early Warning Fire Detection:
The maximum coverage area for each VESDA sampling hole is 18.6 m2 (200 sqft). Where two
levels (high and low) of VESDA sampling holes are provided:
The maximum hole coverage for each level is 37.2 m2 (400 sqft)
Hole coverage limitation between high and low levels shall be limited to 18.6 m2 (200 sqft) or
less and providing for staggered sampling hole arrangement between each level.
A typical sampling hole arrangement is usually specified by a grid as shown in Figure 1.
Vented
End Cap
Sampling
Holes
Figure 1 Example of grid arrangement of ceiling VESDA

sampling holes.
Important Note: Local codes and standards must be consulted for appropriate spacing
requirements
With false ceilings it is common practice to install the VESDA pipe network in the ceiling void with
capillary tubes suspended through the ceiling tiles into the room (Figure 2) at locations and spacing
determined by the line intersections on the grid (Figure 1). In certain cases, detection should also
be provided within ceiling voids (if required by code or where combustibles are present).
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Figure 2 Example of capillary air sampling through false ceiling.
2.3 Inter-Beam Sampling

Depending on the size of the voids and the depth of the beams, it may be necessary to sample
within each inter-beam space or pocket or underside the beam in order to comply with local codes
and standards. This type of sampling can be achieved using walking stick shaped pipe extensions
from the main pipe into the inter-beam spaces (Figure 3) using either rigid pipe or capillary tubing.
Figure 3 Example of walking stick pipe extensions for inter-beam and

underside ceiling beam sampling.
2.4 Sub-Floor and Ceiling Void Protection

Sub-floors and sometimes ceiling voids of Datacom Facilities contain large quantities of electrical
cabling. It is important these areas are protected since the presence of high airflows will lead to
rapid spread of fire and smoke.
VESDA detectors are well suited to this task with detectors able to be positioned outside the
protected area for convenient access for service and maintenance. Sampling hole spacing is
determined by the grid method shown in Figure 1.
Figure 4 Example of Sub-Floor protection.
The following should be adhered to when protecting sub-floor and ceiling voids:
The VESDA exhaust may need to be returned to the protected area to minimize the effects of
possible pressure differences between the protected area and the area where the detector is
located. Orienting the holes at a 30 downward orientation to the incoming flow will further assist
to counteract pressure effects plus will prevent buildup of dust and dirt.
Sampling pipes should be stand-off mounted to provide clearance from cabling at the top of the
sub-floor or ceiling void.
Where space is defined as a plenum use only plenum rated material.
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For sub-floor spaces with high air velocities (e.g. > 10 m/sec (2,000 fpm)), ideally, the sampling
pipes should be installed between to 2/3 height. In facilities larger than 1000 m2 (10,000 sqft),
the sampling holes can be placed in a staggered arrangement (Figure 5) to maximize chance of
smoke entry.
Important Note: Sampling holes have a 30 downward orientation to the incoming flow. Refer to
Figure 7 for sampling holes orientation details
Figure 5 Example of sampling holes zigzag arrangement in

high airflow sub-floor/ceiling void (top view).
2.5 Return Air Vent Protection

In Datacom Facilities, the majority of smoke will follow the airstream paths of the circulated air and
might not reach ceiling detection points. This can be overcome by complementing ceiling with
sampling across (and upstream) the return air vents of AHU (Figure 6).
Sealed
Sampling Hole Return Air Vent End Cap
Figure 6 Example of VESDA pipe arrangement for return air

vent protection.
[3]
The maximum sampling hole coverage area must adhere to local codes and standards (NFPA 76
recommends a maximum area of coverage per sampling hole of 0.4 m2 (4 sqft)).
To avoid adverse pressures the VESDA pipes should be positioned 100 to 200 mm (4 to 8") away
(using stand-offs) from the face of the vent with sampling holes oriented at an angle of 30 to the
incoming air (Figure 7). These recommendations also assist in eliminating flow faults from
changing airflow conditions caused by a change in the operation of the AHU.
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Figure 7 Sampling hole at 30 angle to incoming

air. Horizontal flow with hole facing downwards
One single VESDA detector can monitor more than one AHU provided they are in close proximity,
VESDA system transport time is less than 60 seconds and sampling holes sensitivities are
maintained.
In summary, it is important to consider the following points when designing for return air vent
protection:
The use of sampling pipe stand-offs from the return air vent is critical, especially when multiple
AHUs are being monitored by the same detector.
For very early warning smoke detection, air sampling should be conducted upstream from the
AHU to avoid smoke removal from fan and filters. Where protection against malfunction of the
AHU (fan, belts) is required or desired sampling should be conducted at the AHU supply air
vent.
In cases where the AHU being monitored requires front access for maintenance, removable
VESDA pipes (by couplings usually) must be used. Use of socket unions helps ensure the
correct pipe orientation with respect to the airflow direction (30) on reconnection.
Good pipe network design practices such as minimizing the total pipe length and number of
bends should also be considered. Sealed end caps outside the grill area are required.
Important Note: It is essential to test the system performance, with the AHUs in their normal
operating mode and turned off, to check that sampling pipe position and
orientation are correct.
2.6 Localized Protection Cabinet

Cabinets containing electrical equipment are usually ventilated vertically (bottom to top) or
horizontally (front to back). There are also fully enclosed cabinets with active internal cooling.
There are two methods for protecting cabinets with VESDA detectors; microbore and large bore
systems:
1. Microbore system:
VESDA VFT detectors are ideally suited for localized cabinet detection where a fire event can be
readily identified and traced to a particular cabinet (Figure 8). Sampling locations should be directly
in the path of the main airflow at the exhaust vents for passively cooled or low-speed active bottom
to top cooling or within fully sealed cabinets with internal cooling.
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Figure 8 Example of VESDA VFT system with microbore tubes used for
identifying up to 15 individual cabinets
2. Large bore systems:
By assigning a dedicated detector per cabinet. This is commonly used by cabinet OEMs (Original
Equipment Manufacturers) for both ventilated and fully sealed cabinets with internal cooling. In
ventilated cabinets (both vertical and horizontal), sampling locations should be directly in the path
of the main airflow at the exhaust vents. This arrangement allows a fire event to be traced to a
particular cabinet.
A capillary tube (A) or down pipe (B) with vented end cap is inserted in the top of the cabinet as
shown in Figure 9. A VESDA detector can be used to protect a single row of cabinets (i.e. VLC,
VLF) or multiple rows (VLS). This arrangement is suitable only for sealed cabinets or cabinets with
minimal ventilation.
For vertically ventilated cabinets (bottom to top) the sampling pipe is placed close to exhaust
vent(s) of the cabinets as shown in Figure 10 with sampling holes directly in the path of the main
airflow to optimize the detection. This arrangement allows a fire event to be traced to a particular
row of cabinets.
For horizontally ventilated cabinets (front-to back) the sampling pipe is placed close to exhaust
vent(s) of the cabinets as shown in Figure 11 with sampling holes directly in the path of the main
airflow to optimize the detection. This arrangement allows a fire event to be traced to a particular
row of cabinets. For this configuration, the sampling holes coverage area should not exceed 0.2 m2
(2 sqft).
Vented
End Cap
Figure 9 Example of a capillary tube (A) and

down pipe (B) used for in cabinet sampling.
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Note: For in-cabinet protection, unless otherwise specified, it is recommended that capillary
tubes penetrate the cabinet to a depth of 25 to 50 mm (1 to 2).
Figure 10 Example of protection for Figure 11 Example of protection

vertically ventilated cabinets for horizontally ventilated cabinets
2.7 Combined Coverage Technique for Small Spaces

2
In small Datacom facilities or small areas within a larger facility (230 m (2,500 sqft)) it is possible to
use a single VESDA detector to cover up to three different sections of the room; ceiling above drop
ceiling, sub-floor plus AHU return. Figure 12 shows ceiling and AHU return air vent protection using
the same VESDA detector.
Figure 12 Example of combined detection (ceiling/AHU

return) using a single detector
Important Note: The number of sampling holes across the AHU return air vent should not
exceed 30% of the total number of sampling holes.
2.8 Containment Aisles

Hot Cold Aisle
In a hot-cold aisle configuration, the server cabinets are adjoined into a series of rows, normally
resting on a raised floor. Cold air is supplied to the cold aisle, which is pulled through the inlets of
the server cabinets and exhausted to a hot aisle to minimize recirculation of hot exhaust air with the
cold supply air.
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For reliable early fire detection in hot-cold aisle configurations the following guidelines are
recommended for the VESDA system:
Room monitoring (ceiling) with detection points above the hot aisles. Where the hot air is
exhausted via the ceiling void, detection points should be provided at the transfer grills to the
ceiling void (Figure 13).
Where the hot air is taken directly to the AHU, sampling should be provided at the AHU return
air vent (Figure 14).
For very early fire detection, sampling should occur across the rear (or top) of the cabinets
where the air exits. The sampling holes coverage area should not exceed 0.2 m2 (2 sqft).
Within sub-floor (if required by code or where combustibles are present).
Within ceiling void (if required by code or where combustibles are present).
Where protection against malfunction of the AHU (fan, belts) is required or desired sampling
should occur at the AHU supply air vent.
Figure 13 HotCold Aisle (with Ceiling Void)
Figure 14 HotCold Aisle (without Ceiling Void)
Note: The selection of detection locations, spacing and coverage will depend on the fire risk,
cost of business downtime, environmental and operational conditions of the premise.
Performance testing (i.e. smoke tests) and/or a performance based design (PBD)
approach is recommended to ensure specific objectives are met.
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Hot Containment Aisle
In a hot containment aisle configuration, the server cabinets are positioned in rows (back to back).
The hot aisle in between the cabinets is covered on the top and at the end of the rows resulting in
full separation between cold air supply and hot exhaust air. A typical hot containment aisle with
ceiling void arrangement is shown in Figure 15.
For reliable early fire detection in hot containment aisle configurations the following guidelines are
Room monitoring (ceiling).

At the ceiling of the hot containment aisle and at the transfer grills to the ceiling void or
overhead cooling units.
For very early fire detection, sampling should occur across the rear (or top) of the cabinets
Figure 15 Hot Containment Aisle
Cold Containment Aisle
In cold containment aisle configurations, server cabinets are positioned in rows (front to front). The
cold aisle in between the cabinets will be covered on the top and at the end of the rows. The result
of this is a full separation between cold air supply and hot exhaust air. Cold air is supplied into the
contained cold aisle and hot air is exhausted from the cabinets into the room.
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For reliable early fire detection in cold containment aisle configurations the following guidelines are
Room monitoring (ceiling) with detection points above the hot aisles
o Where the hot air is exhausted via the ceiling void, detection should be provided at the
transfer grills to the ceiling void (Figure 16).
o Where the hot air is taken directly to the AHU, detection should be provided at the AHU
return air vent (Figure 17).
For very early fire detection sampling should occur across the rear (or top) of the cabinets
Figure 16 Cold Containment Aisle (with Ceiling Void)
Figure 17 Cold Containment Aisle (without Ceiling Void)
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In-Row Cooling
With this configuration hot exhaust air from the server cabinets is cooled by in-row coolers
positioned between the cabinets.
For reliable early detection for in-row cooling configurations the following guidelines are
At the rear of the server cabinets where the air exits or at the inlet of the in-row coolers (Figure
18). The VESDA sampling holes coverage area should not exceed 0.2 m2 (2 sqft).
Room monitoring (ceiling):
o Where air is exhausted via the ceiling void, sampling should be provided at the transfer grills
to the ceiling void.
o Where air is taken directly to the AHU, sampling should be provided at the AHU return air
vent.
Within sub-floor (if combustibles are present).
Within ceiling void (if combustibles are present).
Figure 18 In-Row Cooling Configuration.
2.9 High-Risk Equipment Protection

Certain equipment in Datacom Facilities are designated high-risk. The consequences of a fire
event within such equipment could be disastrous. Examples of these types of equipment include
the following:
Those that are likely to promote a fast developing fire (e.g. high voltage power systems).
Those that will generate corrosive and toxic gas species (e.g. battery systems).
Those whose unnecessary shutdown would result in substantial network service losses (e.g.
network transmission hubs and their power supply systems).
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Sampling location considerations are often similar to those for cabinet protection and include the
following:
Sampling should be conducted within or around high-risk equipment for the earliest possible
detection of smoke.
Where appropriate and within the system design capacity, capillary tubes branched from the
main sampling pipe may be used to penetrate equipment or equipment cabinets. Normally
should be dedicated systems unless in very small rooms.
All sampling pipes should be airtight, firmly secured and held clear of equipment, especially
moving parts to avoid physical damage to the pipe network and/or the equipment.
The VESDA ECO gas detector is recommended for the protection of battery arrays within
Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS) rooms to detect and alert for excessive levels of explosive
gases (hydrogen). Ceiling and/or return air vent detection is required for these environments.
Important Note: VESDA detectors MUST NOT be installed in areas where high EMI/EMC
sources are present. A good practice is to install detectors outside the
protected area with sampling pipes entering the area where high EMI/EMC
sources are present.
2.10 Cable Tunnel/Vault Protection

Datacom Facilities can house considerable lengths of underground cabling in narrow
tunnels/vaults. Cable tunnels/vaults can be protected by arranging VESDA branched sampling pipe
networks at the center of the ceiling tunnel or close to the cable trays (Figure 19).
Figure 19 Example of a VESDA detector

protecting a cable tunnel.
The VESDA ECO gas detector is recommended for cable tunnels/vaults (or CEV) for methane
detection and/or oxygen depletion.
2.11 Cable Trays

The VESDA system can be designed to protect cable trays by placing the ceiling pipe above the
trays. Where cable trays might block the movement of air, the VESDA pipe network should be is
branched using either rigid pipe or capillaries in high level (above the cable tray) and low-level
(below the cable tray) configuration. Under such configuration, the high level and low-level
sampling holes maximum coverage area should be 37.2 m2 (400 sqft).
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2.12 Outside-Air Monitoring

Certain Datacom Facilities utilize outside (fresh) air for economy cooling or to replenish air lost
through building leakage. The introduction of outside air has the potential of introducing airborne
particulates in the protected area which can increase the ambient background levels in the
protected area or lead to equipment contamination.
VESDA detectors can be used for monitoring the outside air intakes of packaged HVAC units or
buildings ventilation system for either referencing purpose and/or providing the signal to terminate
the supply of outside air when excessive pollutants are detected.
Referencing of outside air is a common practice in Telecommunication Facilities. A VESDA

(reference) detector samples the outside air to determine the level of intake pollutants and
subtracts this reading from all other detectors inside the protected area so that only a net increase
in smoke level within this area will set off an alarm. Refer to Appendix A for details on how to set up
referencing.
The pipe network design considerations when employing packaged HVAC units or buildings
ventilation system are:
Packaged HVAC Units
Packaged HVAC units can be either roof or ground mounted. They comprise different
compartments each one serving a specific function in the conditioning (treatment) of the outside air
such as filtration, cooling, humidification, etc.
VESDA sampling pipes are installed horizontally across the make up air intake grille with sampling
holes drilled at a 30 downward orientation facing opposite the incoming air. The pipe network
comprises a water trap close to the detector to capture condensate in the pipe.
The VESDA detector is mounted in the inverted position within a temperature stable compartment
of the packaged HVAC unit (i.e. solid state controls compartment) so it is not affected by the
external environment (Figure 20) The exhaust pipe should be routed back to the compartment
where sampling occurs to minimize the effects of pressure difference.
Figure 20 Typical VESDA arrangement for outside air monitoring - Packaged

HVAC units
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Building HVAC Systems
For buildings ventilation systems the VESDA sampling occurs in the ductwork, downstream from
the outside air intake damper (Figure 21). A water trap is placed close to the detector to capture
condensate in the pipe. Refer to 10760 Application Note Ducts for further details on pipe network
setup.
Figure 21 Typical VESDA arrangement for outside air monitoring Building Ventilation.
3. Datacom Facility Monitoring

3.1 Connection and Monitoring
The following connection options are available:
Local or Remote Relays to a Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP).

VESDAnet via a High Level Interface (HLI) to a compatible Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP).
VESDAlink from a VLC (i.e. VLC-500)
VESDAtalk from a VLF
Modbus from a VFT-15
Monitoring a Datacom Facility, which is protected by a fully networked VESDA system, allows staff
to respond faster and more efficiently to potential fire events. This avoids business disruptions,
asset damage and risks to personnel. VESDA detectors can be monitored locally or remotely using
any of the following:
VESDA displays (e.g. VRT-200).

Xtralis VSM4 software via a HLI (i.e. VHX-0200/VHX-1200)
A third-party monitoring system via relays, Open Protocol HLI (i.e.VHX-0300/0310) or Modbus
HLI (VHX-0400/0410).
The above monitoring tools will ensure an inexpensive, simple to use, secure means of remotely
checking the entire network from a centralized location.
16 Doc. 11782_09
3.2 Using Networked Monitoring Systems

Xtralis VSM4 provides centralised monitoring, configuration and control for Xtralis fire systems. A
wide range of monitoring and configuration is possible from individual Xtralis VESDA detectors on
site to multiple networks featuring multiple detectors monitored remotely from the other side of the
world.
The software provides customers with:
Remote and central monitoring of multiple device networks.

Real-time prioritized indication of all alarms and faults in the full graphical context of
infrastructure via floor plans.
The ability to commission, test, investigate and manage all devices on large and complex
networks including maintenance reports. Those networks can be managed locally or remotely
via a number of network technologies including TCP/IP networks.
The software supports connectivity and sophisticated management of all current VESDAnet
detectors (e.g. VLP, VLS, VLC-VN, VLF with VN Card), VESDAtalk detectors (VLF), VESDAlink
(VLC-RO) and Modbus RS-485, RS-232 and TCP/IP detectors (e.g. VFT-15).
A number of optional features are also available such as Remote Notification via Email and SMS,
and support for Text-2-Speech in a large number of spoken languages.
4. Integrating Smoke Detection and Fire Suppression

In many Datacom Facilities, a fire suppression system is included to protect electronic equipment
from smoke and/or fire damage. VESDA detectors wide sensitivity range and multiple alarm levels
allow for very early smoke detection and, at the appropriate stage in the fire event, actuate the fire
suppression system. With very early detection, however, the potential need for an actual
suppression release is greatly reduced.
When using a fire suppression system, as part of the overall fire protection solution, it is essential
that unnecessary suppression release be prevented for the following reasons:
1. Thermal decomposition products of certain suppressant gases are toxic in large quantities.
This is a safety issue where personnel will be present at the time of suppression.
2. Thermal decomposition products of certain suppressant gases might contaminate or cause
direct corrosion damage to electronic equipment.
3. The discharge of some suppression agents produces a very abrupt cooling effect, in the
protected area, due to agent vaporisation. This can result in condensation on the exposed
surfaces of electronic equipment, promoting corrosion[14].
4. Not only are the suppressants extremely expensive to replace, the clean up process required
will seriously interfere with the normal operation of the Datacom Facility leading to further
financial losses. A common practice is to employ manual control which allows staff to interrupt
the suppression actuation process, if necessary. Proper utilization of the VESDA very early
warning capabilities will prevent financial losses.
5. The use of water suppression has the potential to damage electronic equipment and the clean
up process required will seriously interfere with the normal operation of the Datacom Facility.
Doc. 11782_09 17
Important Note: Although VESDA detectors have proven themselves reliable in a variety of
environments, certain activities within the vicinity of the detector (i.e.
maintenance activities near the sampling pipes) could result in a false alarm.
VESDA detectors should be set to Stand-by mode during any unusual
activity within the protected area. It is also recommended that the detectors be
run independently of the suppression system for a period of time, following
such activities, to clear any debris from the sampling pipes. It may be
necessary, in extreme cases, to manually clean out the sampling pipes. Note
that these are precautionary measures only, as false alarms are rarely issued
by correctly installed and maintained VESDA detectors. An alternative
approach would be to guard against unnecessary suppression releases by
applying appropriate delays on the alarm threshold assigned to the
suppression actuation.
Every care should be taken to avoid inadvertent discharges resulting from false alarms. All fire
management stakeholders should be consulted regarding the design of the system, its proper
operation and its maintenance.
One method for minimizing the possibility of false discharges involves using a coincidence (double
knock) detection scheme. According to the CEA[15], the coincidence connection configuration
requires that at least two independent detector alarm outputs be signalled to the detection control
and indicating equipment before suppression discharge is initiated.
Important Note: The decision to employ any of the suppression actuation options suggested in
this document must be made by an experienced fire system designer, be
founded on a sound risk management-based engineering assessment and be
complaint to local codes.
When VESDA detectors are employed for suppression system actuation, the following five options
are possible:
1. Alternating VESDA Sampling Pipe Option Coincidence detection provided by two separate
VESDA detectors, with their respective sampling pipes interlaced both either on the ceiling or
within the sub-floor.
2. Single VESDA Detector Options
(a) coincidence detection provided by two alarm levels from a single VESDA detector,
(b) Pairs of adjacent VESDA LaserSCANNER (VLS) sampling pipes providing the two
alarms.
3. VESDA Ceiling (Sub-Floor)/AHU Sampling Option Two separate VESDA detectors, one
protecting the ceiling or sub-floor and the other protecting the AHUs return air vent.
4. VESDA Exhaust Sampling Option Coincidence detection provided by one VESDA detector
sampling the exhausts of up to four other VESDA detectors protecting the ceiling, sub-floor or
both.
5. Hybrid Detection Technologies Option Point (spot) type smoke detectors and VESDA
detectors, both either on the ceiling or sub-floor.
These five options are discussed in more detail in the following sections. The ASD Suppression
Actuation Threshold (ASAT) Calculator can be used to determine the appropriate VESDA detector
Fire alarm threshold for coincidence detection equivalent to point (spot) type smoke detectors
installed in the same area. The ASAT Calculator Product Guide (Document Number 12748)
contains instructions on the use of the ASAT Calculator.
18 Doc. 11782_09
4.1 Alternating VESDA Sampling Pipe Option

Coincidence detection is provided by two separate VESDA detectors either ceiling or sub-floor
protection with interlaced pipe networks while maintaining the required sampling hole spacing
(Figure 22).
Figure 22 Example of coincidence detection provided by two VESDA

detectors with interlaced sampling pipes.
Suppression Actuation Condition: In this case, suppression actuation will only occur when both
VESDA detectors reach the specified suppression actuation Fire alarm threshold.
The ASD Suppression Actuation Threshold (ASAT) Calculator can be used to determine the
appropriate VESDA detector Fire alarm thresholds. If the design is symmetrical, the Fire alarm
threshold value for both detectors could be identical.
4.2 Single VESDA Detector Options

Two possible options here:
1. Dual Alarm Thresholds Option.
Coincidence detection provided by two alarm levels from a single VESDA detector.
Suppression Actuation Condition: A single VESDA detector must reach both specified alarm
levels for suppression release. The second alarm level can be determined using the ASAT
Calculator.
Having the two thresholds set further apart provides more time between the first and second alarm,
for investigation and action.
Important Note: A delay (< 30 seconds) may need to apply for the second alarm level to
safeguard against accidental suppression releases. Note the time delay for
suppression actuation using coincidence detection should not exceed 30
seconds[16] for any of the coincidence detection schemes listed in this
document.
Doc. 11782_09 19
2. LaserSCANNER Sampling Pipe Pair Option.
Since VESDA LaserSCANNER (VLS) detectors have the ability to indicate the amount of smoke
being sampled by each of their four sectors, two adjacent sectors could be used in a sampling pipe
pair coincidence scheme for suppression actuation.
Suppression Actuation Condition: In this case, suppression actuation will occur when two
different Fire alarm conditions are issued by a minimum of two different sectors.
Note: This coincidence detection scheme requires the use of the VLS 12-relay version.
4.3 VESDA Ceiling (Sub-Floor)/AHU Option

If the fire detection system includes ceiling (or sub-floor) and AHU return air vent protection with
two separate VESDA detectors, coincidence detection can be provided by these detectors.
The VESDA detector covering the AHU return air vent can be used for very early detection and as
the first alarm of the coincidence detection. The Fire alarm threshold of the ceiling (or sub-floor)
VESDA detector can be calculated using the ASD Suppression Actuation Threshold (ASAT)
Calculator.
Suppression Actuation Condition: A good practice for this option is to utilize two different alarm
levels from the ceiling (or sub-floor) VESDA detector. These will form the second and third alarms
for the purpose of suppression system actuation, while the Action alarm of the detector covering
the AHU return air vent can be used as the first alarm. In this configuration, suppression will only
be released when the third alarm of the coincidence detection is issued.
WARNING: Though monitoring of return air vent(s) can be very effective in detecting fire events
the different AHU system modes of operation must be considered. Detection
schemes which involve return air vent monitoring will be less effective when the
AHU is turned off. It is a good practice to protect both ceiling and sub-floor areas
as well.
4.4 VESDA Exhaust Sampling Option

In this coincidence detection scheme, one VESDA detector is used to sample the exhausts of up to
four other VESDA detectors (Figure 23). For the purposes of clarity, the exhaust sampling VESDA
detector is referred to as the Coincidence Detection Detector (CDD) and all other VESDA detectors
as detectors.
VESDA VESDA
Detector 1 Detector 2
Coincidence Coincidence
Detection Detection Detector
Cylinder (CDD)
Figure 23 Detector arrangement for the VESDA exhaust sampling coincidence detection option.
20 Doc. 11782_09
Note: A VESDA LaserFOCUS 250 (VLF-250) is recommended as a suitable CDD.
The exhaust air from the detectors is fed into the inlet pipe of the CDD, via a cylindrical container
as shown (Figure 24).
Exhaust Pipes 300 mm

(1 ft)
Figure 24 Illustration of the Coincidence Detection Cylinder

(Xtralis design).
The cylinder cannot be ordered from Xtralis, however it is simple to construct. The one used here
was made with readily available plumbing materials. Other important features of this apparatus to
note are as follows:
The inlet pipe of the CDD is placed along the inside centre line of the cylinder and terminates
with a sealed end cap.
The number of CDD sampling holes is equal to the number of incoming detector exhausts.
Sampling holes are all the same size. Refer to the Table 2 below.
Sampling holes are at the same level as the detector exhaust pipes and orientated at an angle
of 30 to the direction of the incoming exhausts.
The cylindrical container has one exhaust port per detector on its underside to allow pressure
equalization.
Detector exhaust pipes should be as short as possible (i.e. < 5 m (16 ft)).
Table 2 CDD inlet pipe sampling hole sizes per number of detectors.
Number of Sampled CDD Sampling CDD Sampling
Detector Exhausts Hole Size (mm) Hole Size (inches)
1 7 9/32
2 5 13/64
3 4 5/32
4 3.5 9/64
Once all detectors and the CDD have been installed, smoke tests must be conducted to determine
the appropriate VESDA Fire alarm setting for the CDD.
The following summarises the steps required to perform the smoke tests:
1. Inject smoke into the last sampling hole of the first VESDA detector; all other detectors must
sample clean air.
2. Record the peak smoke levels reported by the tested detector and CDD.
3. Repeat the above steps for all detectors present, ensuring that the CDDs smoke level has
returned to ambient conditions before proceeding from one test to the next.
Doc. 11782_09 21
Note: Smoke tests can form part of the transport time test for the purpose of system
commissioning.
Suppression Actuation Condition: In this case, suppression actuation will occur when the CDD
and any of the VESDA detectors issue a Fire alarm.
The specified suppression actuation Fire alarm threshold of the CDD is generally less than that of
the other detectors, to account for the smoke dilution which occurs as a result of clean air entering
them when they are not sampling smoke.
The VESDA detectors peak smoke values determined earlier can be input to the ASD Suppression
Actuation Threshold (ASAT) Calculator to appropriately adjust the CDD Fire alarm threshold for
coincidence detection, according to the number of detectors that the CDD is sampling. This option
can provide coincidence detection with sampling pipes on the ceiling, within the floor or ceiling
voids or a combination of these locations.
4.5 Hybrid Detection Technologies Option

In cases where a Datacom Facility already has point (spot) type smoke detectors installed on the
ceiling, it may be cost effective, in terms of capital expenditure, to use these detectors plus a
VESDA system to provide the coincidence detection for suppression release actuation. An example
of this option is shown below (Figure 25).
VESDA Detector
Figure 25 Example of coincidence detection with two different technologies.
Suppression Actuation Condition: Suppression actuation will occur when any of the point
(spot) type smoke detectors and the VESDA detector both reach the Fire alarm threshold.
The ASD Suppression Actuation Threshold (ASAT) Calculator can be used to determine the
appropriate VESDA detector Fire alarm threshold.
22 Doc. 11782_09
4.6 VESDA Coincidence Detection Alarm Relationship -

Examples
Figure 26 illustrates an example of the relationship between the alarm levels of two separate
VESDA detectors with interlacing pipe networks.
VESDA Detector 1 VESDA Detector 2
Figure 26 Example of one possible alarm threshold

relationship between two VESDA detectors with
interlaced pipe networks.
In the above example, it is clear that both VESDA Detector 1 and VESDA Detector 2 must issue a
Fire 2 alarm before suppression will be released. Fire 2 need not necessarily be the suppression
triggering alarm level as Fire 1 would do equally as well.
For coincidence detection provided by a single VESDA detector with multiple alarm levels an
example of the suppression actuation alarm relationship could be as follows (Figure 27).
VESDA Detector
Figure 27 Example of a single VESDA detector

Fire 1 and Fire 2 alarm threshold relationship in a
multiple alarm levels coincidence detection scheme
In the above example, it is clear that the VESDA detector must first issue a Fire 1 alarm then a Fire
2 alarm before suppression will be released. For a VESDA LaserCOMPACT (VLC) detector,
Action and Fire could be used for this purpose.
Doc. 11782_09 23
4.7 About The ASAT Calculator

Xtralis has developed a software tool for calculating the VESDA Fire alarm thresholds, equivalent
to different sensitivity point (spot) type smoke detectors, required for triggering the release of
suppression. Instructions on the use of the ASD Suppression Actuation Threshold (ASAT)
Calculator can be found in the Product Guide for the tool (Document Number 12748).
5. Commissioning, Service and Maintenance

Once the VESDA system has been installed, its performance and pipe network integrity must be
verified using the ASPIRE2 TM Pipe Network Modelling Program. Calculated smoke transport times
for each zone should be applied conservatively. Smoke tests, as per local codes and standards are
strongly recommended to check system performance for both smoke detection and suppression
actuation.
Important Note: To verify the VESDA system Fire alarm setting for the purpose of suppression
actuation, refer to the ASAT Verification and Commissioning Procedure
(Document Number 12746).
Smoke transport time measurements (during commissioning and maintenance) to test the integrity
of the pipe network should be done from the furthest sampling hole of the network or dedicated
maintenance test point. The maintenance test point is provided beyond the last sampling hole of
the pipe network and is particularly useful where the VESDA pipe network protects inaccessible or
restricted areas.
The maintenance test point must remain blocked during normal operation and should be provided
with an end-vent (sampling hole) for smoke transport time testing. The smoke transport time from
the test point might exceed the maximum transport time as long as the transport time from the
furthest sampling hole is confirmed to be less than the maximum specified.
Note: The maintenance test point should bear a label identifying the detector zone, pipe
number and transport time (as originally commissioned).
Where blowback systems are used to clean the interior pipes interior it is recommended that
vacuum pressure is applied to prevent debris from entering the protected area.
The VESDA system shall be serviced and maintained according to the local codes and standards
as well as the instructions provided in the Maintenance section of the VESDA System Design
Manual[1].
24 Doc. 11782_09
Appendix A Setting Up Referencing With VSC

All VESDAnet compatible detectors, including VESDAnet capable LaserCOMPACT (i.e. VLC-505)
and LaserFOCUS models, can be used for referencing; VESDA LaserSCANNERs cannot. A
reference detector cannot use another detector as its reference. Like any detector, the reference
will issue alarms but the system must be set up to acknowledge these alarms if required.
When using the VESDA System Configurator (VSC) software to set up referencing, three
parameters must be defined:
A detector must be nominated as the reference.

A time delay must be set as a starting point (2 minutes is recommended).
A dilution percentage offset must be set (as a starting point 80% is recommended).
These parameters can be changed to suit the particular environment; values are dependent on air
change rate, clean air makeup etc.
Follow the instructions below to set up referencing.
1. On any of the VSC views, select the detector that is to be used as a reference and right click
on it to reveal its context menu.
2. Select Properties to display a dialog like that shown below (Figure 28)
3. Select the Referencing tab as shown.
Figure 28 VSC screen capture showing the dialog for setting up

referencing.
4. Check the Referencing Enable check box.

5. If you wish to select a different detector as the reference, drop down the Detector drop down
menu to select an alternative detector.
For example, let us assume three zones each with their own detector. Zone 1 contains a
LaserSCANNER, zone 2 contains a LaserPLUS and zone 3 contains a LaserCOMPACT VN. The
LaserSCANNER in zone 1 cannot be a reference as mentioned earlier so either of the detectors in
zone 2 or 3 must be the reference detector. Making the zone 2 detector the reference for zone 1,
and zone 3 the reference for zone 2 will cause a fault, since reference detectors cannot use other
detectors as a reference. Assigning a zone without a detector in it as the reference will cause a
fault 5 Reference Detector Lost to be reported within 60 seconds.
Doc. 11782_09 25
6. In the Dilution text box (Figure 28), type in a value between 1 and 100%. This value indicates
by how much the reference detector reading must be multiplied, to account for the effects of
dilution, before it is subtracted from the readings of the other detectors. If 100% is entered, the
entire value of the reference reading is subtracted from the other detector readings to obtain
the actual value. If 50% is entered, half the reference value is subtracted etc.
Note: For both VESDA LaserPLUS and VESDA LaserFOCUS the maximum value that can be
subtracted for dilution is half the Fire 1 setting; the Fire alarm setting is the maximum
permissible subtraction for a LaserCOMPACT.
For example, let us assume two zones, with zone 2 the reference and zone 1 the main detector
(VESDA LaserPLUS). The main detector has a Fire 1 alarm threshold of 0.200%Obs/m
(0.06%Obs/ft) and has on different occasions recorded smoke levels of 0.100%Obs/m,
0.150%Obs/m and 0.200%Obs/m (0.03%Obs/ft, 0.045%Obs/ft and 0.06%Obs/ft). Table 3 to Table
5 below show the actual main detector readings (%Obs/m) after subtraction of a variety of dilution
values related to a number of reference detector readings.
Table 3 Reference adjusted main detector reading of 0.100%Obs/m (0.03%Obs/ft) for a variety of
dilution levels and reference smoke levels.
Reference Smoke Level (%Obs/m) Percentage Dilution

1% 10% 50% 100%
0.010 0.100 0.099 0.095 0.090
0.100 0.099 0.090 0.050 0.000
1.000 0.090 0.000 0.000 0.000
10.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000
Table 4 Reference adjusted main detector reading of 0.150%Obs/m (0.045%Obs/ft) for a variety
of dilution levels and reference smoke levels.

1% 10% 50% 100%
0.010 0.150 0.149 0.145 0.140
0.100 0.149 0.140 0.100 0.050
1.000 0.140 0.050 0.050 0.050
10.000 0.050 0.050 0.050 0.050
Table 5 Reference adjusted main detector reading of 0.200%Obs/m (0.06%Obs/ft) for a variety of
dilution levels and reference smoke levels.

1% 10% 50% 100%
0.010 0.200 0.199 0.195 0.190
0.100 0.199 0.190 0.150 0.100
1.000 0.190 0.100 0.100 0.100
10.000 0.100 0.100 0.100 0.100
Note: Remember, when looking at the values in the above tables, that since the Fire 1
threshold was 0.200%Obs/m (0.06%Obs/ft) no more than half this value (0.100%Obs/m
(0.03%Obs/ft)) may be subtracted from the main detector (VESDA LaserPLUS) readings.
26 Doc. 11782_09
7. In the Delay text box (Figure 28), enter a time between 0 and 15 minutes. After this time has
elapsed, the reference detector will issue the initial average smoke level, over this delay
period, as the reference value. From this point on, the moving average of the smoke levels
taken each minute is issued as the reference. If a delay of 0 is entered, the last smoke level
recorded, by the reference detector, will be used as the reference. Subtracting an average
smoke level from the other detectors readings avoids fire events being masked by temporarily
high pollution peaks at the reference detector. Any detector which does not receive a signal
from its nominated reference detector, each 60 seconds, will report a fault 5 Reference
Detector Lost.
For example, let us assume that there is a main detector in zone 1 with a Fire 1 threshold of
0.200%Obs/m (0.06%Obs/ft) and a smoke level recording of 0.150%Obs/m (0.045%Obs/ft). The
zone 2 reference detector has been configured with a percentage dilution of 100% and a time delay
of 5 minutes. The smoke levels (%Obs/m) recorded by the reference detector and those after
subtraction of these values from the main detector are shown in Table 6 below.
Table 6 Illustration of the moving average reference smoke level subtracted from the main
detector readings.
Minutes Smoke Levels Recorded (%Obs/m)

After
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Start
Zone 2 0.01 0.01 0.02 0.02 0.03 0.03 0.04 0.05 0.06 0.07 0.08
Reference
Zone 1 0.15 0.15 0.15 0.15 0.15 0.13 0.13 0.12 0.12 0.11 0.10
In the above table, the zone 1 detector reading remains static for the five minutes of the delay since
no reference smoke level has been issued as yet. At the 5 minute mark, the reference detector
issues the average over the delay period which is then subtracted from the main detector reading
of 0.15%Obs/m to give 0.13%Obs/m. A moving average of reference detector readings for each
five minute period continues to be subtracted from the main detector background zone 1 reading of
0.15%Obs/m.
8. Click on the Apply button then OK to begin the referencing process after the entered time
delay.
Doc. 11782_09 27
Appendix B Relevant Prescriptive And Performance-

Based Design Codes
The Australian, British and United States prescriptive codes for automatic detection and activation
of gaseous suppression release are presented in Table 7 below.
Table 7 Examples of prescriptive fire codes for automatic detection and activation of suppression
release.
NFPA 2001 (2012) BS 7273-1 (2006) AS 4214.1 (2002)

Detection Systems Detection, actuation, alarm, The detection system shall Automatic fire detection,
and control systems shall be follow the recommendations alarm and control systems
installed, tested, and of BS 5839-1, unless a for gaseous systems shall
maintained in accordance with higher level of protection is comply with the relevant
appropriate NFPA protective provided through the requirements of AS 1670.1
signalling systems standards recommendations of BS and this standard.
such as NFPA 72. 6266 - fire protection for Where the operation of the
Automatic detection and electronic data processing detection circuits is required
automatic actuation shall be installation. to actuate the extinguishing
used. Where coincidence (double discharge, the detectors
knock) scheme is used, the shall be evenly located at
minimum detector density for half the area of coverage
normal commercial or specified in AS 1670.1.
industrial purposes shall be
twice the minimum required
by BS 5839-1 or BS 6266.
Detection Method Automatic detection shall be The type of detectors used is Any approved device, or
by any listed method or device of paramount importance combination of devices,
capable of detecting and and reference shall be made appropriate to the fire risk
indicating heat, flame, smoke, to BS 5839-1. and airflows in the protected
combustible vapours, or an area, that are selected and
abnormal condition in the sited in accordance with AS
hazard, such as process 1670.1 may be used for
trouble, that is likely to automatic detection.
produce fire.
Response Procedure Abort switches generally are Abort switches generally are A Local Control Station
not recommended, however, not recommended, however, (LCS) shall be installed
where provided, the abort where provided, the abort immediately adjacent to the
switches shall be located switches shall be located main entrance and at each
within the protected area and within the protected area and emergency exit from the
shall be located near the shall be located near the protected area to provide
means of egress. means of egress. Operation local control of the
of the system shall follow a extinguishing discharge.
sequence leading to the
release of fire extinguishing
medium, encompass
coincidence (double knock)
scheme in order to avoid
unwanted discharges.
Extinguishing Discharge For gaseous fire suppression A time delay facility may be For most fire risks, the
systems, a pre-discharge incorporated in the system to extinguishing discharge
alarm and time delay sufficient allow personnel to evacuate shall be preceded by a time
to allow personnel evacuation the protected space prior to delay.
prior to discharge shall be discharge of the fire The automatic discharge of
provided. extinguishing medium. This a system, when personnel
Time delays shall not be used time delay shall not exceed are present in the protected
as a means of confirming the 30 seconds unless a longer area or adjacent areas,
operation of a detection device period is specified by the shall be capable of being
before automatic actuation appropriate authority. prevented by means of a
occurs. discharge control.
Coincidence (double For unwanted System Every care shall be taken to All systems shall be
knock) Scheme Operation, care shall be taken avoid the consequences of provided with a manual
to thoroughly evaluate and inadvertent discharges. A mechanical release, where
correct any factors that could method of minimizing the practical. Systems shall be
result in unwanted discharges. possibility of false capable of automatic and
discharges is by using a manual operation.
coincidence (double knock) Additional detectors may be
scheme. required.
28 Doc. 11782_09
The following Table 8 contains a summary of some of the Performance-Based Design codes
specific to the types of facilities covered by this Design Guide.
Table 8 Example of Performance-Based Design codes for Datacom Facilities.
NFPA 76 (2012) NFPA 75 (2009) BS 6266 (2011)

Detection Systems The confirmation of the presence The equipment used Recommendations for
of smoke can be accomplished shall be a listed smoke electronic equipment areas
by: detection-type system protection are complementary
1. Cross-zoning. and shall be installed to the BS 5839-1.
2. Time/smoke density factors. and maintained in
accordance with NFPA Smoke detection is often the
3. Activation of multiple 72. Automatic detection
detectors. most appropriate form of
systems shall be detection for electronic
4. Manual pull station in installed:
combination with detection equipment areas. Aspirating
1. At the ceiling level Smoke Detection (ASD)
strategy. throughout the area. systems are particularly
5. Heat detection. 2. Below the raised suitable. Point (spot) type
6. Automatic suppression system floor. smoke and heat detectors are
actuation. 3. Above the suspended considered unsuitable as
ceiling. primary detectors.
Gaseous Fire Where provided, gaseous fire Where gaseous total The vulnerability of electronic
Suppression suppression systems shall be flooding systems are equipment rooms to fire
designed, installed, and used, they shall be damage necessitates very
maintained in accordance with designed, installed, and early and effective action to
the requirements of NFPA 2001. maintained in suppress the fire.
accordance with the
requirements of codes
such as NFPA 2001.
Detection Sensitivity Application of Very Early See Detection system The sensitivity of fire detection
Warning Fire Detection above. systems covers a wide range.
(VEWFD), Early Warning Fire A highly sensitive system can
Detection (EWFD). detect an incipient fire
For VEWFD, minimum sensitivity condition. Normal sensitivity
at each sampling hole shall be as systems are only likely to
follows: detect a fire when it has
reached a sustained
Alert Condition: 0.2%/ft
smouldering or flaming stage,
Alarm Condition: 1.0%/ft when fire and smoke might
For EWFD, minimum sensitivity already have caused some
at each sampling hole shall be as damage to the sensitive
follows: equipment.
Alarm Condition: 1.5%/ft
Extinguishing discharge Detection systems used to Gaseous fire Detection systems can be
actuate gaseous fire suppression suppression systems used additionally for the
systems shall be designed so shall be automatically following purposes:
that the selected EWFD and actuated by an 1. Isolate the power supply or
VEWFD smoke detection approved method of initiate programmed shutdown
systems with spacing that is less detection meeting the of the electronic equipment.
than that normally required by requirements of NFPA 2. Shut down air-conditioning.
NFPA 72. 72, and a listed
releasing device 3. Initiate the release of fire
compatible with the suppression media.
system.
Coincidence Detection Detection shall be either cross- Not specified but a Where any actions could
zoned or an equivalent method reference is made to result in disruption of
shall be used to limit the NFPA 2001. operations or other serious
possibilities of false discharges. inconvenience, careful
consideration shall be given to
reduce the possibility of false
discharges. This might include
the use of coincidence
(double knock) scheme in
accordance with BS 7273-1
and the initiation of different
actions at different stages of
alarm.
Doc. 11782_09 29
Appendix C VESDA Systems for Very Early Warning

and Fire Suppression
When using a VESDA system for both very early warning fire detection and suppression release
control, via a coincidence detection technique, the following represent a suggested sequence of
events following alarm conditions.
When a VESDA Alert alarm condition is registered, the following may occur:
The Alert LED lights up on the VESDA Display Module and/or a message is sent to the VSM
software, if both or either are installed.
The source of the alarm condition is investigated and the appropriate action taken.
When a VESDA Action alarm condition is registered, the following may occur:
The Action LED lights up on the VESDA Display Module and/or a message is sent to the
VSM software, if both or either are installed.
An alarm condition message is sent to the Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP).
The VESDA Action Relay Output causes an alarm horn and/or strobe light to sound and/or
pulse within the protected area.
The source of the alarm condition is immediately investigated and the appropriate action
taken.
A VESDA Fire 1 alarm or point (spot) type detector Fire alarm condition could result in the
suggested sequence of events presented below:
The Fire 1 LED lights up on the VESDA Display Module and/or a message is sent to the VSM
software, if both or either are installed. This message indicates the location and status of the
event, graphically on a floor plan, with a spoken description of the event for the benefit of on-
site staff (local notification). The VSM software then sends an email and/or SMS message to a
designated email address or mobile phone number to inform staff off-site of the situation
(remote notification).
The alarm condition is reported to the Pre-Action Control Panel.
The VESDA Fire 1 Relay Output causes an alarm horn and/or strobe to sound and/or pulse
within the protected area.
An alarm signal is sent to the building Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP).
The operational mode of the AHU is modified to avoid contamination of other areas.
The second VESDA Fire 1 alarm or point (spot) type detector Fire alarm condition (coincidence
detection) could result in the suggested sequence of events presented below:
The Fire 1 LED on the second detector lights up at the VESDA Display Module and/or a
message is sent to the VSM software, if both or either are installed. This message indicates
the location and status of the event, graphically on a floor plan, with a spoken description of
the event for the benefit of on-site staff (local notification). The VSM software then sends an
email and/or SMS message to a designated email address or mobile phone number to inform
staff off-site of the situation (remote notification).
A Pre-Discharge Condition occurs at the Pre-Action Control Panel.
The VESDA Fire Relay Output causes a Pre-Discharge horn and/or strobe to sound and/or
pulse continuously within the protected area.
A 30 second discharge time delay is initiated.
The Pre-Action Solenoid is activated.
A discharge condition occurring after the 30 second time delay or following a manual release, could
result in the suggested sequence of events presented below:
A discharge condition occurs at the Pre-Action Control Panel.

The extinguishing medium is released.
The discharge strobe outside the protected area pulses.
30 Doc. 11782_09
The following may be considered for the discharge condition:
1. The activation of the manual release causes an immediate discharge of the extinguishing
medium in addition to all of the events described above.
2. Depressing the Abort button, during the second Fire alarm condition, prevents the discharge
of the extinguishing medium.
3. Releasing the Abort button results in an immediate discharge.
Doc. 11782_09 31
References
[1] Xtralis (2008) VESDA System Design Manual
[2] NFPA 75 (2009) Standard for the Protection of Electronic, Computer/Data Processing
Equipment.
[3] NFPA 76 (2012) Recommended Practice for the Fire Protection of Telecommunications
Facilities.
[4] Australian Standard AS/NZ 4360 (2004) Risk Management Standard.
[5] SFPE (2008) Handbook of Fire Protection Engineering, 4th Edition.
[6] AS 1670.1 (2004) Fire detection, warning, control and intercom systems System design,
installation and commissioning.
[7] NFPA (2010) National Fire Alarm Code (72).
[8] British Government (2002) BS 5839-1 Fire detection and fire alarm systems for buildings Part
1: Code of practice for system design, installation, commissioning and maintenance.
[9] British Government (2011) BS 6266 Code of practice for fire protection for electronic equipment
installation.
[10] AS 4214.1 (2002): Amendment No. 1, Gaseous fire extinguishing systems Part 1: General
requirements.
[11] NFPA (2012) Standard on Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems (2001).
[12] British Government (2006) BS 7273-1 The operation of fire protection measures, Part 1:
Electrical actuation of gaseous total flooding extinguishing systems.
[13] Fire Industry Association, Code of Practice for Design, Installation, Commissioning &
Maintenance of Aspirating Smoke Detector (ASD) Systems (2006).
[14] Zhigang, L. and Kim, A. K. (1999) A literature review of the impact of thermal decomposition
products generated by halon replacements on electronic equipment, research report IR-780,
Institute for research in Construction, NRCC.
[15] CEA, Property Insurance Committee CEA 4008 (2005) (en) Fire Extinguishing Systems Using
Non-Liquefied Inert Gases, Planning and Installation, Clause 4.3 Electrical Fire Detection
Systems.
[16] FM Global (2006) Telecommunications Detection, FM datasheet 5-14.
32 Doc. 11782_09
Disclaimer on the Provision of General System Design

Recommendations
Any recommendation on system design provided by Xtralis is an indication only of what is
considered to be the most suitable solution to meet the needs of the common application
environments described.
In some cases the recommendations on system design provided may not suit the unique set of
conditions experienced in a particular application environment. Xtralis has made no inquiry nor
undertaken any due diligence that any of the recommendations supplied will meet any particular
application. Xtralis makes no warranty as to the suitability or performance of any recommendation
on system design. Xtralis has not assessed the recommendation on system design for compliance
with any codes or standards that may apply nor have any tests been conducted to assess the
appropriateness of any recommendations on system design. Any person or organization accessing
or using a recommendation on system design should, at its own cost and expense, procure that the
recommendation on system design complies in all respects with the provision of all legislation, acts
of government, regulations, rules and by-laws for the time being in force and all orders or directions
which may be made or given by any statutory or any other competent authority in respect of or
affecting the recommendation on system design in any jurisdiction in which it may be implemented.
Xtralis products must only be installed, configured and used strictly in accordance with the General
Terms and Conditions, User Manual and product documents available from Xtralis. Xtralis accepts
no liability for the performance of the recommendation on system design or for any products
utilized in the implementation of the recommendation on system design, aside from the General
Terms and Conditions, User Manual and product documents.
No statement of fact, drawing or representation made by Xtralis either in this document or orally in
relation to this recommendation on system design is to be construed as a representation,
undertaking or warranty.
To the extent permitted by law, Xtralis excludes liability for all indirect and consequential damages
however arising. For the purposes of this clause, consequential damage shall include, but not be
limited to, loss of profit or goodwill or similar financial loss or any payment made or due to any third
party.
Recommendations on system design are provided exclusively to assist in design of systems using
Xtralis products. No portion of this recommendation on system design can be reproduced without
the prior approval in writing of Xtralis. Copyright and any associated intellectual property in any
such recommendations on system design or documentation remains the property of Xtralis.
Doc. 11782_09 33
www.xtralis.com
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The contents of this document are provided on an as is basis. No representation or warranty (either express or implied) is made as to the
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Telecommunications

and Data Processing

Fixed and wireless telecommunications facilities.

Telecommunications/data communications and underground cable tunnels/vaults or controlled

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Doc. 11782_09 iii

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Overheating of electrical cabling, electrical relays, signal processing equipment.

1.2 Performance-Based Design

1.3 Key Design Considerations

1.4 Why Use VESDA Smoke Detection?

2. Design for Effective Protection

Table 1 Recommended guidelines for Datacom Facility protection

Best Practice (Using

Area (On Ceiling)

Fully or partially enclosed

2.2 Ceiling Protection

1. Early Warning Fire Detection:

2. Very Early Warning Fire Detection:

A typical sampling hole arrangement is usually specified by a grid as shown in Figure 1.

Figure 1 Example of grid arrangement of ceiling VESDA

Figure 2 Example of capillary air sampling through false ceiling.

2.3 Inter-Beam Sampling

Figure 3 Example of walking stick pipe extensions for inter-beam and

2.4 Sub-Floor and Ceiling Void Protection

Figure 4 Example of Sub-Floor protection.

Where space is defined as a plenum use only plenum rated material.

Figure 5 Example of sampling holes zigzag arrangement in

2.5 Return Air Vent Protection

Figure 6 Example of VESDA pipe arrangement for return air

Figure 7 Sampling hole at 30 angle to incoming

2.6 Localized Protection Cabinet

2. Large bore systems:

Figure 9 Example of a capillary tube (A) and

Figure 10 Example of protection for Figure 11 Example of protection

2.7 Combined Coverage Technique for Small Spaces

Figure 12 Example of combined detection (ceiling/AHU

2.8 Containment Aisles

Figure 13 HotCold Aisle (with Ceiling Void)

Figure 14 HotCold Aisle (without Ceiling Void)

Hot Containment Aisle

Room monitoring (ceiling).

Figure 15 Hot Containment Aisle

Cold Containment Aisle

Figure 16 Cold Containment Aisle (with Ceiling Void)

Figure 17 Cold Containment Aisle (without Ceiling Void)

Figure 18 In-Row Cooling Configuration.

2.9 High-Risk Equipment Protection

2.10 Cable Tunnel/Vault Protection

Figure 19 Example of a VESDA detector

2.11 Cable Trays

2.12 Outside-Air Monitoring

Referencing of outside air is a common practice in Telecommunication Facilities. A VESDA

Packaged HVAC Units

Figure 20 Typical VESDA arrangement for outside air monitoring - Packaged

Building HVAC Systems

3. Datacom Facility Monitoring

Local or Remote Relays to a Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP).

VESDA displays (e.g. VRT-200).

3.2 Using Networked Monitoring Systems

The software provides customers with:

Remote and central monitoring of multiple device networks.

4. Integrating Smoke Detection and Fire Suppression