3M introduces Novec 1230 Fire Protection Fluid in the UAE

Novec 1230 fluid, a fire suppression fluid based on sustainable technology, is designed to balance the need for human safety with low environmental impact. Its introduction in the UAE follows from the successful adoption of Novec 1230 around the region, where its benefits are numerous.

Novec 1230 fluid is a next-generation halon replacement and has a zero ozone-depletion potential - making the fluid a safe, advantageous and efficient fire-suppressing liquid. The liquid has an atmospheric lifetime of just five days and a global warming potential of one, making it uniquely positioned to meet current halon replacement regulations in the country.

"The UAE has recognized the need to commit to safe industry practices, while considering the ramifications that these practices have on the environment. The reduction of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions have resulted in strict regulations, meaning industries need fire suppression agents that safely fit within these criteria,"

said Shome Bag, 3M, Energy and Environment division.

Lt. Colonel Rashid K. Bin Massam Al Buflaseh of Dubai Civil Defence commented: "In line with Montreal Protocol, Dubai Civil Defence have implemented programmes aimed at creating public awareness with regards to the detrimental effects of halons, and thereby the importance of developing and sourcing halon replacements.

"Novec Fluid was identified and investigated thoroughly in terms of extinguishing-ability and environmental friendliness, and thereby approved by us as a replacement for halon. We will be rolling Novec out across all of our five new fire stations being established during 2009."

The non-conductive, non-corrosive and fast-evaporating fluid is commercially available globally and is suitable for use in occupied spaces. The fluid can be applied in streaming, flooding, inerting and explosion suppression applications in the following areas: data processing and control rooms, telecommunications, marine applications, oil and gas applications, and archives and museums. Novec 1230 fluid leaves no residue to clean up so systems can remain operational. Additionally, the fluid can be used with existing materials of construction.


The fluid, which is stored as a liquid, becomes a gas upon discharge and is therefore easier to handle and store. In addition, there is a distinct advantage in handling low-vapor pressure liquids like Novec 1230 fluid - it can be shipped by air in bulk quantities. Because of its properties as a non-pressurized liquid, refilling after discharge is much simpler than filling from a bulk cylinder of a gas. This minimizes the need to move system containers offsite. Systems charged with Novec 1230 fluid can be used in specialized streaming and conventional total flooding applications, localized flooding systems and directional spray type applications.

Specific sites of application include engine rooms, SCR rooms, communications centres, inventory and spare parts rooms, pilot houses, pump rooms, electrical propulsion systems and process control rooms. Novec 1230 Fire Protection Fluid helps industries in the region to attain their environmental sustainability goals, while safely providing the most modern and effective tools for fire protection.

3M has developed a Blue SkySM Warranty for 3M Novec 1230 Fire Protection Fluid. If 3M Novec 1230 Fire Protection Fluid is restricted in use or targeted for emission reduction as a fire protection agent due to ODP, or GWP, 3M will refund the purchase price of the Novec 1230 fluid.