Johnson Controls Targets Data Centres With New Fire System
Johnson Controls recently launched its Hygood Inert Gas System 300 (IGS-300), targeting data centres and other facilities that house sensitive electronic equipment.
The system uses clean agents INERGEN or IG-55 combined with enhanced regulated flow technology to extinguish fires whilst minimising turbulence during discharge. Operating at nominal 60 bar pressure and incorporating acoustic nozzles to reduce sound levels during activation, the fire suppression system protects hard disk drives and other noise-sensitive equipment from damage during fire suppression events.
This launch aims to strengthen the company’s position in the fire suppression category for buildings with sensitive assets.
“With the launch of the new Hygood Inert Gas System 300, we expect our specifying customers will leverage the simplified design and installation features to be more competitive in winning projects,” says Beth Bjorlo, Product Management Director at Johnson Controls.
Reducing installation complexity for data centres
Data centre operators are currently facing increasing pressure to protect equipment whilst managing installation costs and space constraints.
The IGS-300 aims to confront these challenges through design modifications that reduce system complexity and installation requirements compared to traditional inert gas systems. Notably, it reduces pressure spikes and optimises pipe scheduling compared to traditional fire suppression systems.
Johnson Controls has designed the IGS-300 to require smaller overpressure vent sizes, creating a reduced footprint in equipment rooms and data halls. The enhanced regulated flow technology operates at 60 bar pressure, reducing material requirements and labour costs during installation.
Engineers can configure the system with up to four rows of containers and extended pipe runs, providing layout flexibility for complex data centre environments. Likewise, the design eliminates the need for pilot containers through master container actuation features.
High-pressure containers include pressure differential valves, removable pressure gauges and standardised transportation caps to simplify maintenance procedures.
Further, container assembly has been streamlined to reduce installation time and commissioning requirements. The system's user-friendly actuation options provide control flexibility whilst maintaining operational safety standards.
Johnson Controls says these design changes reduce both equipment materials and labour costs without compromising system effectiveness.
Beth explains: “This system represents a significant step forward in both fire protection safety and efficiency, providing our end users with peace of mind and dependable protection for their assets.”
Johnson Controls aims to be a data centre infrastructure leader
The Hygood IGS-300 carries UL Listed, FM Approved and EN 12094 Compliant certifications including CE and UKCA markings – with the goal of enabling compliance with NFPA 2001, EN 15004 and ISO 14520 standards across international markets.
Johnson Controls says the certification suite helps specifiers ensure regulatory compliance for international data centre projects.
Distributing the system through authorised partners worldwide, Johnson Controls offers recharging services at authorised regional locations for system maintenance.
Applications extend beyond data centres to include control rooms, electrical switch rooms, financial institutions, museums, laboratories, medical facilities, petrochemical facilities, oil and gas installations, air traffic control towers, archives, mining centres, telecommunications sites and cultural facilities.
Beth adds: “This system represents a significant step forward in both fire protection safety and efficiency, providing our end users with peace of mind and dependable protection for their assets.”
Johnson Controls is primarily known for building solutions, including HVAC brands YORK and Silent-Aire, but when it comes to data centres it offers comprehensive solutions designed to enhance efficiency, security and sustainability.
The company’s integrated solutions are designed to make data centres smarter and more sustainable, whilst also prioritising safety.
It also uses emerging technologies like AI and data-driven solutions to give its customers a deeper insight into the health and performance of their buildings.
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