NAF S-III (HCFC Blend A)
Gas Suppression Agent
NAF S-III (HCFC Blend A) is a synthetic agent, typically used as a Total Flooding Gas Suppression Agent. NAF S-III exists in liquid form and undergoes vaporization at -38.3 °C. Crucially, it was purposefully formulated as a substitute for Halon 1301, which vaporizes at a significantly lower temperature of -58 °C. However, the low boiling point of NAF S-III allows it to be a gas suppressant agent of choice for low-temperature environments. Therefore, NAF S-III (HCFC Blend A) is a Scheduled Gas Suppression Agent and requires an Extinguishing Agent Handling Licence (EAHL).
Moreover, NAF S-III, identified as “HCFC Blend A” by international standards on clean agent extinguishing systems, shows physical characteristics similar to those of Halon 1301. In addition, it is possible to replace existing Halon 1301 systems with NAF S-III without modifying the existing pipe-work.
Characteristics
For most common special hazards, NAF S-III requires 10% more agent by weight than Halon 1301. In terms of environmental impact, NAF S-III stands out with a low Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 1546, an Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) of 0.048, and an atmospheric lifetime of approximately 1.4 years. This is notably lower when compared to halocarbons. Notably, by weight, NAF S-III emerges as the most efficient synthetic extinguishing agent, second only to the highly regulated Halon 1301.
Moreover, with a discharge time of ten seconds or less, lives and valuable assets benefit from the virtually instant response to the danger posed by fire. In addition, NAF S-III is a clean agent that will not harm sensitive equipment, which is best used where conventional water-based sprinklers are not suitable as the first line of defence.
Furthermore, with a boiling point of – 38.3 °C, NAF S-III is easily distributed inside the protected environment, even in low-temperature conditions. However, the low toxicity of NAF S-III allows for safe use in normally occupied areas in most common applications. Moreover, the addition of a patented additive, which reduces the decomposition of by-products, makes it safer for humans.
Halon
Halon 1301 and Halon 1211 were primarily used in the marine industry. However, since the prohibition of importation and manufacturing of Halon in Australia, FM-200, NAF S III, and water mist systems have all replaced halon on new vessels. However, older marine vessels can continue using halon where retrofitting of new fire suppression agents is cost-prohibitive and provided they comply with several regulatory measures.
In addition, NAF-S III is a clean non-conductive agent that protects various potential fire hazards, including electrical and electronic equipment. In summary, it is a clean gaseous agent at atmospheric pressure and does not leave a residue. It is colourless and non-corrosive.
NAF S-III Chemical Composition
The following table lists the chemicals that comprise NAF S-III:
| Chemical Identity of the Ingredients | Mixtures | CAS# |
|---|---|---|
| chlorodifluoromethane | 82 % | 75-45-6 |
| 2,2-dichloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane | 4.75 % | 306-83-2 |
| chlorotetrafluoroethane | 9.5 % | 2837-89-0 |
| d-limonene | 3.75 % | 5989-27-5 |
Chemical Composition of NAF S-III
Scheduled Extinguishing Agents in Australia
The table below highlights the most commonly used scheduled extinguishing agents in Australia and their uses.
| Product Name | Uses | Other names |
|---|---|---|
| NAF-S-111 | Typically used as a total flooding agent and as a replacement for Halon 1301. Above all, used in marine, commercial fishing, charter boats, ferries, cruise ships, merchant ships, naval vessels, military vehicles, aircraft engines, flammable liquid storage, cold storage facilities, electric switch rooms, data centres and more. | HCFC Blend A – HCFC-123 – HCFC-22 – HCFC-124 |
| NAF-P-111 | Typically used as a streaming agent. However, has been used as a replacement for Halon-1211 portable fire extinguishers and land-based applications. | HCFC Blend C |
| FM-200® | Functions as a total flooding agent. Therefore, typical applications could include data centres, communications facilities, museums, chemical storage areas, clean rooms, laboratories, robotics and emergency power facilities. | Heptafluoropropane HFC-227ea FE 227 |
| Halon-1301 | Typically used as a flooding agent. Requires a halon special permit in Australia. Therefore, used in the aviation, shipping and defence sectors. Halon 1301 can typically be replaced with NAF S-111, requiring only 10% more agent per weight. | Bromotrifluoromethane |
| Halon-1211 | Typically used as a streaming agent. Requires a halon special permit in Australia. Therefore, used in the aviation, shipping and defence sectors. Halon 1211 can typically be replaced with NAF P-111. | Bromochlorodifluoromethane BCF Freon 12B1 |
NAF S-III FAQs
What is a Scheduled Extinguishing Agent?
A Scheduled extinguishing agent is a substance referred to in Schedule 1 of the Ozone Protection and
Synthetic Greenhouse Gas Management Act 1989, whether existing alone or in a mixture.
If you work with or handle ‘scheduled’ extinguishing agents, you are required by law to hold an appropriate Extinguishing Agent Handling Licence (EAHL). – scheduled_agents_fact_sheet.pdf (fpaa.com.au)
Our Company
Fire Systems Products holds an Extinguishing Agent Trading Authorisation (EATA) permit. In addition, our staff hold Extinguishing Agent Handling Licences (EAHL). We are available to transport and relocate any scheduled extinguishing agents such as FM-200, NAF S-III & NAF P-III that may have Ozone Depleting Substances & Synthetic Greenhouse Gases (ODS & SGG) for our fire industry partners when required.
Trademarks
- NAF S-III® is a Registered Trademark
- NAF P-III® is a Registered Trademark