What is Enclosure Integrity Testing?

Enclosure integrity testing is a process used to determine the adequacy of an enclosure to contain the extinguishing agent post discharge. The test is typically performed on a new enclosure prior to it being put into service and once per annum on existing enclosures protected by clean agent extinguishing systems. 

Enclosure integrity testing generally consists of two parts: a pressure test and a leakage test. The pressure test is used to determine the enclosure's ability to withstand the internal pressure that may be exerted on it. The leakage test is used to determine how long the chosen extinguishing agent will hold for above the suggested minimum concentration. Typically the design standard will insist the concentration is maintained for a minimum of 10 minutes. 

Importance of Testing

The room integrity test is a vital part of any gaseous extinguishing system. Without verifying the enclosure integrity, the system may not function as desired.

Achieving the extinguishing concentration is important but maintaining that concentration is also critical to protect sensitive assets and prevent re ignition.

Test Method

The most common method is to use a calibrated manometer to measure the pressure inside the enclosure and the pressure exerted by the testing fan. Under the guidance of EN 15004-1, the fan will be set to pressurise the enclosure up to 50 pascals. 5 measurements will then be recorded betwen 0 and 50 pascals, usually in intervals of 10. Once recorded, the fan will then be spun around and repeated for 5 measurements between 0 and -50 pascals.

Once the details of the extinguishing system have been input, the results can then be used on the room integrity testing software to calculate the leakage area inside the enclosure and how long the agent would hold for if the system were to discharge.

Expert Advise

Enclosure integrity testing is a critical part of the enclosure design and commissioning process. It is important to ensure that the enclosure will be able to protect its contents as per the specified design standard.

As we're experienced in design and room integrity testing we're well positioned to support with any questions that may arise including why rooms fail and what solutions are available.