Does ANSUL® offer fixed nozzle systems to protect hazards involving combustible metals?
Yes, we can offer this type of system, however it is important to understand the principals involved in protecting these hazards because not all combustible metal hazards can be protected with fixed nozzle systems. MET-L-X®, LITH-X®, and NA-X® metal agents work by smothering a fire, not by chemically inhibiting it. Therefore, the agents work best on horizontal surfaces and must be applied in a manner to distribute the agent evenly over the surface of the hazard area. ANSUL recommends a layer of approximately 1″ of agent over the surface of the fuel, this translates to 10 lbs. of agent per square foot of area to be protected. Because of the clinging ability of MET-L-X and NA-X agents, they may be used to a limited extent on three-dimensional surfaces; but design of these systems requires special expertise. In most cases, hazards involving combustible metal fuels are better protected with hand portable, wheeled, and/or skid mounted units. These are available with all of the agents listed
