VdS Defines Regulations And Publishes New Guidelines For Components And Systems

Water mist systems use finely dispersed water to fight fires, thus displacing oxygen and absorbing heat – combining the effects of gas extinguishing and traditional sprinkler systems. The small droplet sizes (≤1 mm diameter) significantly enhance the effect of the water used, also minimizing water damage.

VdS now backs up manufacturers, as well as users with a basic product standard, systematically testing effectiveness and reliability.

New regulations for Water mist systems

Until now, product regulations existed only for selected components (e.g. EN 17450-1, filters and strainers, or ISO 6182-9, nozzles from 12 bar) and VdS testing was based on time-consuming case-by-case analysis for every component. The newly published guidelines provide immediate relief.

We have been testing water-based firefighting systems, since they were first used in Europe"

“We have been testing water-based firefighting systems, since they were first used in Europe – the new regulations incorporate several decades of experience,” emphasizes Frank Bzdega, the Head of the VdS laboratories for water extinguishing systems.

Frank Bzdega adds, “Hundreds of possible failures in this complex technology – one way to ensure that the systems always work when they are needed: the VdS Approval.”

Guidelines VdS 3100

The Guidelines VdS 3100, ‘High-pressure water mist systems, requirements and test methods’, are available for free download in the vds-shop.de; for water mist sprinklers and nozzles of all pressure levels, VdS 3100-46 has also been newly published.

Water mist systems significantly increase the effect of the water used by generating very small droplets – VdS now offers manufacturers and users the usual level of safety with new product guidelines.

VdS offers a wide range of services

VdS is one of the world’s most renowned institutions for corporate safety and security. 500 experts offer a unique range of services for fire protection, security, cyber-security and natural hazard prevention.

Services offered include risk assessments, testing and certification, inspections, information systems for natural hazards and an extensive training program. In addition, the independent institute sets international safety and security standards with the publication of a comprehensive set of guidelines.

VdS-approved reliability and safety

The optimal protection of their partners is based on a worldwide unique protection concept whose reliability builds on more than 110 years of VdS-experience, combining all core aspects of loss prevention. Decision-makers around the world rely on VdS-approved reliability and safety.