AGFConnect system offers real-time alerts for fire sprinkler drain servicing
AGF Manufacturing has announced the launch of AGFConnect, a wireless monitoring system for auxiliary drains used in dry and pre-action fire sprinkler systems.
The company said the product was designed to simplify maintenance, improve visibility and prevent costly freeze damage.
AGFConnect combines a sensor and gateway setup to alert users when drains need servicing, providing real-time status updates and notifications via an app or web-based dashboard.
The manufacturer added that by offering early alerts, the system helps contractors and facility managers prevent accidental system trips and avoid unnecessary site visits.
Independent cloud-based connectivity
According to AGF Manufacturing, AGFConnect operates independently of the fire alarm panel or building management system.
The gateway communicates directly with the AGFConnect cloud platform, where users can view drain status, receive alerts and access maintenance history from any connected device.
Two gateway models are available: an Indoor Gateway with Ethernet connection for conditioned spaces, and an Outdoor Gateway with cellular connectivity for exposed environments.
Both include a backup battery to maintain communication during power outages and connect to a standard 120-volt power supply.
Designed for contractors and facility managers
AGF Manufacturing explained that AGFConnect enables contractors to remotely monitor client drains and schedule proactive maintenance.
For facility managers, the system provides immediate alerts when drains require attention, reducing maintenance time and the likelihood of water or ice damage.
Jim McHugh, President at AGF Manufacturing, said: “AGFConnect brings smart technology to one of the most overlooked components of fire sprinkler systems, the auxiliary drain.”
“It’s a simple, cost-effective way to improve maintenance efficiency, reduce risk, and protect property.”
Availability through distributors
AGFConnect is now available through AGF Manufacturing’s authorised distributors.
The company said the system aims to make auxiliary drain management more reliable while helping reduce overall maintenance costs.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
AGFConnect introduces a practical monitoring option for contractors and facility managers responsible for maintaining dry and pre-action fire sprinkler systems.
The system’s ability to send real-time alerts helps reduce the risk of freeze damage and water discharge from neglected drains, improving equipment reliability and service efficiency.
By allowing remote visibility of auxiliary drains through cloud-based monitoring, it can reduce unnecessary travel for inspection teams and streamline scheduling for maintenance contractors.
Facility managers in cold-weather regions or sites with extensive dry pipe installations may benefit from reduced repair costs and faster response to drainage issues.
FireDos and Orglmeister form Acedes for autonomous fire prevention
FireDos and Orglmeister have formed Acedes, a new company focused on autonomous fire prevention technologies.
The companies said the joint entity builds on their existing collaboration and combines expertise in fire suppression and infrared detection.
Acedes was created to provide fully integrated, automated systems designed to prevent fires in high-risk industrial settings such as waste and recycling operations.
According to FireDos, the partnership aims to deliver streamlined support, unified engineering and a more cohesive service offering.
Frank Preiss, Managing Director at FireDos, said: “Acedes represents more than an integration of products; it’s a commitment to our customers.
“It also allows us to streamline support, strengthen resources and deliver a more cohesive solution to the market.
“The result is faster response, greater reliability and ultimately, safer operations.”
System showcased at WasteExpo 2025
The companies previewed the system’s combined capabilities at WasteExpo 2025 in Las Vegas.
According to FireDos, the strong response at the event reflected the growing demand for autonomous detection and suppression systems in waste management and recycling sectors.
Acedes systems use infrared cameras and video analytics to detect, target and cool hotspots before ignition.
The technology can operate without human intervention and functions continuously in dark or dusty environments.
Intelligent detection and real-time response
The manufacturer said its system analyses temperature anomalies in three dimensions to calculate the exact position and elevation of hotspots.
Once detected, automated monitors activate to cool the affected area and prevent ignition.
Follow-up scans then verify that the risk has been eliminated before resuming monitoring.
The system operates independently without internet connection, ensuring reliability even in harsh conditions.
According to the company, this approach allows faster response and reduced water consumption while minimising downtime.
John McGrath, Business Development Manager at Acedes, said: “At the heart of Acedes is a simple promise: to help our customers maintain safer facilities, reduce costly disruptions and gain confidence knowing their operations are protected around the clock.
“This is more than a new brand, it’s a dedicated partnership built around the needs of the waste and recycling industry.”
Company aims to expand fire prevention options
Founded in 2025, Acedes brings together infrared detection and suppression expertise from both parent companies.
The firm said it offers a transparent ownership model with no monthly fees or usage-based charges.
Acedes added that its systems are designed for real-time performance, providing early intervention and continuous operation for high-risk environments such as recycling plants, waste facilities and storage bunkers.
According to the company, the combined platform delivers a reliable, autonomous approach to industrial fire prevention.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
Acedes introduces autonomous detection and cooling technology aimed at reducing the likelihood of industrial fires before ignition.
The system could be relevant for facility managers, risk assessors and fire engineers working in waste management and recycling sectors, where spontaneous combustion and heat buildup are persistent hazards.
Procurement officers and system specifiers may also find interest in the integration model, which merges detection and suppression into a single platform without recurring service costs.
For fire safety consultants and inspectors, the technology demonstrates ongoing development in real-time, infrared-based prevention systems that operate continuously without human control.
Why clean energy sites are turning to smarter detection systems
Fireaway has announced the European launch of its UltraSense detection technology, designed to integrate with the company’s Stat-X condensed aerosol fire suppression systems.
The company said the combined system delivers early-stage hazard detection and targeted suppression for high-risk environments.
Fireaway stated that UltraSense can identify thermal and environmental changes before visible ignition, enabling faster and more precise response.
According to the company, this integration is suitable for applications in power distribution, clean energy, battery energy storage systems (BESS), lithium-ion battery storage cabinets, transport, manufacturing and critical infrastructure.
The launch coincides with Fireaway’s twentieth anniversary.
The company said the milestone reflects two decades of work in fire suppression for mission-critical operations.
Focus on certified and reliable performance
Fireaway explained that both Stat-X and UltraSense hold UL certification, while Stat-X also carries UL EU certification under EN15276-1.
The company stated that these certifications confirm compliance with international testing standards for durability, reliability and safety.
Fernando Calha, Technical Expert and Vice President of Sales Europe at Fireaway, said: “Quality and certification are the foundation of reliable fire protection.
“UL and UL EU certification demonstrate not only compliance, but a commitment to performance, safety, and long-term dependability that our customers can trust.”
Fireaway added that its products are developed to meet growing demand for reliable and sustainable fire protection systems across Europe’s clean energy and industrial sectors.
Benefits of the Stat-X system
According to Fireaway, Stat-X units differ from traditional pressurised systems because they are compact and maintenance-free.
The manufacturer said Stat-X does not require a complex piping network and delivers suppression without reducing oxygen levels.
It added that the system’s design allows installation in confined or remote spaces where conventional systems are impractical.
Fireaway stated that Stat-X is used in industries that depend on continuous protection of critical assets and where downtime presents operational risk.
The company said the durable construction of Stat-X ensures reliable performance in extreme conditions.
Intelligent detection supports early intervention
Fireaway described UltraSense as an intelligent detection system that combines thermal monitoring with environmental data to identify risk indicators.
The company said that when used with Stat-X, the system supports early intervention and minimises potential damage.
It added that UltraSense provides real-time diagnostics to support system health monitoring and consistent performance over time.
According to Fireaway, its continued product development aims to exceed performance standards and improve outcomes for operators managing complex or high-value infrastructure.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
This development is relevant for engineers, facility managers and system installers responsible for fire protection in clean energy and industrial environments.
The introduction of UltraSense adds early detection capability to the Stat-X suppression platform, creating a combined approach for fire prevention and response in battery storage systems and other high-risk installations.
Because both systems hold UL and UL EU certification, they offer verified compliance with international safety standards, supporting procurement and design choices across regulated industries.
The compact, maintenance-free design of Stat-X may also benefit operators seeking low-maintenance alternatives to conventional pressurised suppression systems.
CheckFire celebrates 50 years of growth and innovation
CheckFire has marked its 50th anniversary with major investment in its people, products and UK operations.
The company said it achieved 28% workforce growth and an 18% rise in annual turnover in 2025.
The milestone follows a period of product innovation focused on sustainability and modern fire risks.
PFAS-free extinguishers and lithium-ion battery safety
CheckFire explained that it transformed its entire fire extinguisher portfolio to be free of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in 2024.
The company said the transition positioned it among the first in the UK and EU to offer a fully PFAS-free range under The Green Range brand.
According to the firm, the change aligns with evolving regulatory requirements and reflects its environmental commitments.
CheckFire also introduced the LFX range to address lithium-ion battery fires.
The company said the LFX range uses a fluorine-free, water-based agent with endothermic technology to interrupt thermal runaway and limit secondary ignition.
Its 6-litre CommanderEDGE LFX extinguisher became the first in the UK to achieve NTA 8133 approval for use on batteries up to 600 Wh.
Expansion through acquisition and local investment
CheckFire confirmed that it acquired PJ Fire in early 2025, strengthening manufacturing capability and broadening component supply.
The company said the acquisition built on a long-standing partnership between the two family-run businesses.
It added that both organisations share a focus on product quality, customer service and sustainable operations.
Managing Director Cameron Robins said: “Our 50th anniversary is a momentous celebration of longevity. But more importantly, it reflects the deep-rooted responsibility we carry in the fire trade sector today.
“We’re deeply proud of how far we’ve come, always standing alongside our customers with dependable support, expert knowledge, and a global supply chain we can rely on.
“Yet, even after 50 years, we feel we’re only getting started. Every day, we strive to do more – and the best is truly yet to come.”
Strengthening people and brand presence
CheckFire said its headcount now stands at 118 following the 2025 recruitment drive.
The company explained that expanding its workforce supports its ability to meet growing demand and reinforces its long-term investment in UK operations.
Marketing Director Toria Jones said: “Today, our three market-leading brands – Commander, CommanderEDGE and Contempo – are recognised across the UK for their reliability, performance and design.
“But high-quality products are only one part of our success. As a family-run business committed to its roots, our investments are equally focused on people, facilities and operational reach.
“From our northern depot and the strategic acquisition of PJ Fire to the ongoing growth of our team, we’re proud to be strengthening our capabilities across every part of our business – and delivering a brighter future for fire safety.”
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
CheckFire’s developments have practical implications for equipment specifiers, procurement officers and fire-protection contractors.
The company’s PFAS-free extinguisher range provides compliance options for customers adapting to changing UK and EU chemical regulations.
The LFX products introduce new lithium-ion suppression solutions, relevant for risk assessors and facility managers overseeing battery-heavy environments such as transport hubs or warehouses.
The acquisition of PJ Fire expands component availability, potentially improving supply reliability for installers and service providers.
For those managing fire-safety procurement, the company’s 50-year milestone reflects continued investment in sustainable product design and national distribution capacity.
Electrical fires are typically started by faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, malfunctioning appliances, or improper use of extension cords and space heaters.
These problems create heat, sparks, or arcing that can ignite nearby combustible materials and lead to a fast-spreading fire.
Our article explains what an electrical fire is, the nine most common electrical fire causes, how to recognize the early warning signs, and clear, practical steps you can take to prevent electrical fires in homes and workplaces.
What is an Electrical Fire?
An electrical fire begins when an electrical fault, such as overheating, arcing, or a short circuit, creates enough heat to ignite nearby materials like insulation, paper, fabrics, or wood.
Electrical fires can be particularly hazardous because they may start inside walls or behind appliances where smoke and heat go unnoticed until the fire has grown.
Electrical systems are a common ignition source and are linked to tens of thousands of fires each year.
What Causes an Electrical Fire?
Below are the nine most common electrical fire causes, explained in plain language so you can recognize risks and address them.
1. Faulty Outlets
Outlets that are loose, cracked, or discolored can produce poor connections and arcing i.e. tiny sparks that generate intense heat.
A plug that feels loose in the socket or an outlet that looks charred are strong warning signs.
If you notice any of those signs, stop using the outlet and get a qualified electrician to inspect it.
2. Overloaded Circuits
When too many appliances draw power on the same circuit, wires and devices can overheat.
This is especially common in older homes that were not wired to code to handle today’s devices (air conditioners, large TVs, chargers, etc.).
Repeated tripping of a breaker or frequent blown fuses are signs a circuit is overloaded and needs attention.
3. Faulty Appliances
Appliances with frayed cords, damaged plugs, or internal faults may overheat or short-circuit.
The risk increases when an appliance is used beyond its intended purpose or left running unattended for long periods.
When an appliance shows signs of smoke, sparks, or a burning smell, unplug it and have it inspected or replaced.
4. Faulty Wiring
Old, degraded, or improperly installed wiring is a principal cause of electrical fires.
Insulation that is worn or chewed by rodents, loose connections at junctions, and wiring that cannot carry modern electrical loads can all lead to overheating and arcing.
If your home is several decades old and has never had an electrical inspection, consider having a licensed electrician evaluate the system.
5. Overloaded Light Fixtures
Using bulbs with higher wattage than a fixture supports or placing flammable materials too close to lamps can cause fixtures and shades to overheat and ignite.
Always use the maximum wattage specified on the fixture and prefer LED bulbs, which operate at a cooler temperature and reduce heat risk.
6. Extension Cords
Extension cords are meant to be temporary.
Running large appliances on extension cords, routing cords under carpets, or using damaged cords increases the risk of overheating and electrical fires.
If you rely on extension cords regularly, the safer long-term solution is to install additional wall outlets.
7. Portable Space Heaters
Space heaters are a leading source of electrical fires when placed too close to curtains, bedding, furniture, or papers.
Heaters with exposed coils are particularly risky.
Keep a three-foot clearance around any space heater, use models with tip-over and overheat protection, and always switch them off when leaving the room or going to sleep.
8. Ungrounded Plugs
Three-prong plugs include a grounding prong that directs fault current safely to ground.
Removing the prong to fit a two-slot outlet eliminates that protection and increases fire and shock risk.
Never alter plugs, and instead have properly grounded receptacles installed by a licensed electrician.
9. Flammable Materials Near Fixtures
Even a small electrical fault can ignite nearby flammable items like paper, curtains, clothing, or cardboard.
Lamps, chargers, and appliances should be positioned so combustible materials cannot drift or be placed close to heat sources.
Regular housekeeping to remove clutter reduces combustible materials and gives electrical faults less to burn.
Signs of an Electrical Fire
Early fire detection can prevent a small electrical problem from becoming a major blaze. Watch for these telltale signs:
A strong burning or plastic-like odor, especially near walls, outlets, or appliances.
Sparks, flickering lights, or outlets that feel warm to the touch.
Breakers that trip frequently or fuses that blow repeatedly.
Discolored, scorched, or sizzling outlets or switch covers.
If you notice any of these signs, cut power to the affected area and call a licensed electrician.
If a fire is already present or smoke is spreading, evacuate immediately and call emergency services.
How to Prevent Electrical Fires
Prevention centers around inspection, sensible use of appliances, and following electrical safety best practices.
Below are practical measures you can take:
Regular Wiring Inspection
Have a licensed electrician inspect your home’s wiring every few years, and more often for older properties.
Inspections identify worn insulation, overloaded circuits, and unsafe modifications before they become hazards.
Upgrade Your Electrical Panel
If your panel is outdated or cannot cope with modern loads, upgrade it to a newer model.
Modern panels, combined with devices like Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs), reduce fire risk by detecting dangerous arcing and shutting off power before ignition.
Avoid DIY Electrical Work
Electrical work should be done by licensed professionals.
Improper wiring, incorrect connections, and noncompliant installations are common causes of later fires.
Even seemingly simple tasks, like replacing an outlet, can be risky without the right knowledge and tools.
Avoid Overloading Electrical Outlets
Distribute high-draw appliances across different circuits and do not use power strips for large appliances.
If you are frequently tripping breakers, have an electrician evaluate and balance your loads or install additional circuits.
Use the Correct Lightbulbs
Match bulb wattage to the fixture rating and choose LED bulbs for lower heat output.
Inspect lampshades and fixtures for discoloration or damage and replace components as needed.
Use Space Heaters Safely
Choose heaters with built-in safety features and never place them on soft surfaces.
Keep them away from flammables and never leave them unattended.
Install Smoke Detectors
Working smoke alarms give the earliest warning.
Install alarms on every level and in or near sleeping areas, and test them monthly.
Interconnected alarms are best because all units sound if any one detects smoke.
Never use water on electrical fires; water conducts electricity and can cause shock and spread the hazard.
For small cooking or clothing fires, a fire blanket or baking soda can help smother flames.
Devise a Fire Emergency Plan
Have an evacuation plan, clear exits, and a meeting point outside the home.
Teach all household members how to shut off main power and call emergency services.
Practice escape routes regularly.
Key Takeaways
Electrical fires are caused by predictable and preventable issues: faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, damaged appliances, misuse of extension cords, and unsafe heating or lighting practices.
Recognize the warning signs like burning smells, warm outlets, flickering lights, and act promptly by cutting power and contacting a professional.
Regular inspections, sensible appliance use, modern safety devices such as AFCIs, and working smoke alarms dramatically reduce risk.
Staying informed and taking straightforward safety steps is the single most effective way to protect people and property from electrical fires.
Survitec introduces high-expansion foam system for marine fire safety
Survitec has launched its next-generation high-expansion foam fire suppression system, designed to deliver greater foam output at lower operating pressures.
According to the company, the new system reduces both installation and through-life costs for shipyards and shipowners.
The development centres on a redesigned generator that produces higher volumes of foam at significantly lower feed pressures.
Survitec said this advancement addresses one of the main constraints in foam system performance, where high pump and water pressure demands have traditionally increased both equipment and operational costs.
Lower pressure improves cost efficiency
Maciej Nieścioruk, Product Manager for Foam and Clean Agent Systems at Survitec, said: “Lowering pressure was our number one objective.”
“It also allows us to reduce the load on pumps and other supporting components, lowering the total cost of ownership.”
He explained that the team achieved the reduction by optimising nozzle alignment, adding new moving parts to create rotary momentum, and improving airflow through the system.
Nieścioruk said: “The performance of the new generator means fewer units are required to produce the same volume of foam.”
“That reduction translates into tangible benefits in terms of reducing capital and installation costs.
“When combined with the lower pressure demands, this gives shipowners a system that is lighter, more efficient, and easier to service, without compromising fire safety.”
Validation and system design features
Survitec confirmed that validation testing was completed in partnership with DNV.
Results showed stable expansion ratios and reliable discharge performance across system configurations.
The new generator includes several design improvements to increase efficiency and minimise overall size.
The optimised nozzle alignment eliminates blind spots within the generator net to maximise foam output.
A rotary element enhances discharge efficiency, while a re-engineered impeller draws in more air and distributes the foam solution more evenly.
According to Survitec, this combination enables higher and more consistent expansion at reduced pressure.
Flexible deployment across vessel types
The company said the system can be used as a total flooding solution for machinery spaces on gas carriers and tankers, as well as for RORO spaces on Pure Car Carriers (PCCs).
It supports both remote and manual deployment at the skid.
Survitec added that the system is fluorine-free by design, aligning with upcoming environmental regulations.
Replacement foam concentrates are available globally through the company’s service network.
Nieścioruk said: “We work alongside shipyards and owners to verify pump and pipework compatibility, and manage approvals with class to safeguard both compliance and operational integrity.”
Availability at Kormarine 2025
Survitec will present the high-expansion foam system at Kormarine, taking place in Busan, Korea, from 21–24 October 2025.
The company will exhibit at stand 1G45 in Center 1.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
The introduction of Survitec’s high-expansion foam system holds relevance for shipyard engineers, marine fire officers and vessel operators responsible for onboard fire suppression infrastructure.
By operating at lower pressures, the system can reduce pump requirements and simplify installation, which may help engineers meet performance specifications with smaller and more efficient layouts.
For shipowners and operators, the DNV validation provides assurance of compliance and reliability for machinery and RORO spaces on tankers and carriers.
The fluorine-free formulation also supports future compliance with environmental regulations governing foam concentrates.
The system’s flexibility for both remote and manual activation makes it applicable to a range of vessel types where total flooding protection is required.
The company said the methodology was recognised at the first DIREKTION Awards for Innovation in Disaster Resilience, held during the CERIS Disaster Resilience Days in Athens, Greece.
According to the organisers, the DIREKTION Awards aim to highlight innovative solutions that address capability gaps in disaster resilience and meet the operational needs of first responders.
Cold Cut Systems said the recognition reflects its ongoing work to develop safer, cleaner and more efficient firefighting tactics, particularly for emerging risks such as EV battery fires.
The company thanked the award jury and extended congratulations to other finalists recognised for contributions to European emergency response.
Method designed to interrupt fire propagation
Cold Cut Systems explained that the Cobra Response Methodology provides a tactical way to interrupt fire propagation in EV battery incidents.
It said the approach is based on the Cold Cut Cobra high-pressure cutting extinguisher, combining over two decades of operational firefighting experience.
The company stated that the method tackles key capability gaps in EV battery incidents, including firefighter safety, cooling efficiency, and environmental impact.
It enables external firefighting intervention, allowing responders to pierce a vehicle’s battery casing and cool internally to prevent further propagation.
According to the company, the Cobra system operates at around 60 litres per minute, reducing both water use and toxic runoff compared with conventional suppression tactics.
Cold Cut Systems confirmed that the system is validated through live fire testing, real deployments and collaboration with fire professionals, researchers and civil contingency agencies.
Operational advantages for complex fire incidents
The company said the methodology addresses the growing challenge of managing thermal runaway and fire propagation in lithium-ion battery packs.
Traditional methods, it explained, often require vehicle submersion or large volumes of water over extended periods.
Cold Cut Systems stated that Cobra provides a tactical option where high-voltage components, limited access or structural constraints make conventional suppression difficult.
It added that the method is applicable not only to EV fires but also to residential and confined-space incidents where internal cooling is required.
According to the company, the system’s Technology Readiness Level (TRL) is rated at nine and is already in use by fire services in more than 40 countries.
Innovation rooted in training and tactical evolution
Cold Cut Systems said that while Cobra’s core technology has been used for over 20 years, its adaptation for EV battery fires represents a tactical evolution rather than a new invention.
The company explained that the innovation lies in how the method is applied, combining field data and structured training to support safe and consistent use.
Cold Cut Systems is currently the only organisation offering structured training in cold cutting technology for firefighting.
It said this training ensures crews can correctly apply the methodology under operational conditions, bridging the gap between equipment capability and tactical implementation.
The company stated that ongoing updates to the method integrate real-world experience and research findings from collaborating fire services worldwide.
Supporting firefighter safety and sustainability goals
Cold Cut Systems said the method supports firefighter safety by enabling crews to act from a safer distance.
By applying Cobra through a structure or battery casing, crews can suppress fires earlier and limit exposure, flashover risk and physical strain.
The company added that the method helps reduce environmental impact through lower water consumption, limiting runoff and property damage.
Cold Cut Systems said its ambition is to promote wider adoption of the methodology and foster collaboration among international fire services.
According to the company, the aim is not to promote a single tool but to advance safer, resource-efficient firefighting practices for EV-related and complex incidents.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
The Cobra Response Methodology for EV battery fires is relevant for fire and rescue services, training organisations and emergency response managers.
It introduces a structured, field-tested approach to suppressing lithium-ion battery fires, an area where many services still lack defined tactics.
The method enables responders to cool battery modules internally and act at a safer distance, reducing the need for full vehicle submersion and limiting environmental impact.
With a Technology Readiness Level of nine and deployment in over 40 countries, the methodology offers a validated option for operational integration and training programmes.
Its structured training component may also inform curriculum design for fire academies and agencies addressing emerging vehicle technology risks.
TLX Technologies achieves UL recognition for solenoid valve
TLX Technologies has announced that its Supervised Direct-Acting Solenoid Valve has completed testing and is now a UL 429 and UL 429A Recognized Component.
The company confirmed the certification on Tuesday 7 October 2025.
According to TLX Technologies, the solenoid valve is designed for clean agent, inert gas, carbon dioxide (CO₂) and hybrid fire suppression systems that use valve-integrated actuation.
The valve body can also be configured for use as a selector valve.
Compliance with NFPA 2001 and EN 15004-1 supervision standards
TLX Technologies said the valve features the same patented integrated supervision as its range of linear electric actuators for fire suppression.
It meets supervision requirements under Section 4.3.4.1 of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 2001 standard and the EN 15004-1 European standard.
The company added that this design removes the need for an additional supervisory component or electrical connection.
This integration allows the valve to meet required supervision criteria while simplifying installation and maintenance.
Technical configuration and design options
The valve consists of a removable coil assembly and a threaded valve body.
TLX Technologies explained that the coil housing is made from electroless nickel-plated carbon steel.
Depending on system requirements, the valve body can be produced in brass or stainless steel.
In its standard form, the valve body includes a release valve and is available with 1/8-inch or 1/4-inch NPT thread options.
When specified for selector valve use, the valve body is modified to function as a coupler and can be customised for the specific selector valve design.
Ease of installation and maintenance features
The coil assembly is designed to rotate freely, providing flexibility during installation.
It includes a captured fastener to prevent loss when the coil is removed for testing or maintenance.
TLX Technologies said this fastener also ensures full seating of the coil on the valve body.
The feature provides technicians with confirmation that the coil has been correctly installed.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
The UL 429 and UL 429A recognition for TLX Technologies’ Supervised Direct-Acting Solenoid Valve provides assurance for system manufacturers and designers developing clean agent, inert gas, CO₂ and hybrid suppression systems.
For fire engineers and mechanical contractors, the integrated supervision design could reduce wiring complexity and lower the number of components required for system compliance with NFPA 2001 and EN 15004-1.
Procurement officers and specification consultants involved in selecting UL-recognised components for global installations may find the new certification relevant when sourcing valves that combine supervision capability and simplified installation.
Fogmaker introduces section valve for multi-zone fire suppression
Fogmaker International AB has announced the launch of its section valve, a new component designed to deliver targeted fire suppression across multiple zones in vehicles with several critical compartments.
The company said that traditional vehicle fire suppression systems could previously handle only one deployment zone using a single piston accumulator.
The new section valve, however, enables control of up to four deployment zones from the same accumulator.
Fogmaker stated that this development could transform fire suppression for commercial electric vehicles.
Designed for the needs of electric vehicles
According to Fogmaker, vehicles with diesel engines typically present most fire hazards within one compartment.
By contrast, the design of battery-electric vehicles means that risk areas are distributed across several locations.
The company explained that the section valve was created to address this challenge by directing fire suppressant to up to four individual zones.
It added that the system improves fire control efficiency by focusing suppression where it is most needed during an emergency.
Application for battery-electric buses
Fogmaker said the section valve will be particularly valuable in electric buses, which require additional evacuation time in the event of a thermal incident.
Carl Zandler, responsible for the bus segment at Fogmaker International, said: “With the section valve, the system offers cooling for two minutes. This is vital time when evacuating a bus.”
“It also means the time can easily be increased to four minutes. This is a valuable window in any evacuation scenario.”
Supporting safer electrified transport
Fogmaker noted that electric buses are increasingly forming the backbone of public transport networks worldwide.
The company said the section valve represents an intelligent and responsive fire suppression solution, addressing the key safety concern of the battery-electric vehicle era by bridging the gap between fire onset and passenger evacuation.
It added that the firm has partners in more than 60 countries, three subsidiaries and almost 400,000 systems installed globally.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
The launch of Fogmaker International’s section valve is relevant for professionals involved in transport fire safety, vehicle design and system specification.
For manufacturers and operators of battery-electric buses, the technology provides a practical means of enhancing evacuation safety and maintaining suppression performance across multiple risk zones.
For fire safety engineers and fleet safety managers, the valve’s capacity to manage four deployment zones with one piston accumulator could simplify system design and reduce maintenance requirements while supporting compliance with future electric vehicle safety standards.
