Gas detection system for a fire protection system, corresponding method for monitoring, and use of a gas detection system for monitoring a fire protection system

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a gas detection arrangement for a fire protection system and to a corresponding fire protection system comprising such a gas detection arrangement.

[0002] A fire protection system, as used here, is any type of system that can be used for (preventive) fire protection in buildings, halls, rooms, or similar spaces. Such fire protection systems can include, but are not limited to, fire alarm systems, fire extinguishing systems, spark extinguishing systems, smoke extraction systems, and / or a combination thereof. In particular, such fire protection systems can comprise a central unit and one or more peripheral devices and / or components that communicate with the central unit.

[0003] Fire protection systems within the meaning of the invention are, in particular, water extinguishing systems. Water extinguishing systems of this type can be, in particular, sprinkler, water spray, and foam extinguishing systems. However, the invention is not limited to specific types of fire protection systems.

[0004] A fire protection system is typically designed to protect a specific area. This area is also referred to below as the fire protection zone. The fire protection zone corresponds to the area in which a fire protection action, such as a firefighting action like extinguishing a fire, can be carried out by the fire protection system.

[0005] Fire protection systems typically comprise a piping network, i.e., a network of numerous pipes through which a fire-fighting fluid, such as foam or water, can be conveyed to a variety of fire-fighting fluid outlets, such as sprinklers or nozzles. In the event of a fire, the fire-fighting fluid can then be released through the fire-fighting fluid outlets into the fire-protected area to initiate a fire protection action, such as fire suppression.

[0006] It is known that corrosion of the pipe network can occur in fire protection systems, particularly those where the entire piping system is filled with stationary extinguishing fluid. This problem is especially prevalent in water-based extinguishing systems, i.e., fire protection systems where the extinguishing fluid is water.

[0007] When corrosion occurs, the underlying chemical and biological activity of the water within the pipe network produces a gas or a gas mixture. This gas may contain flammable and / or explosive gases, or gas mixtures containing flammable and / or explosive gases. Examples of such gases that can be produced include hydrogen and methane. Hereinafter, gases or gas mixtures are generally referred to as "gas." Therefore, when a gas is mentioned, the statements apply equally to gas mixtures, unless a distinction is explicitly made between gas and gas mixtures.

[0008] In the case of explosive and / or flammable gases produced by corrosion, this means that the corrosion, or rather the gas produced by this corrosion, can lead to a deflagration or, in the worst case, an explosion if a triggering event occurs. Such an event could be, for example, the activation of the fire protection system or maintenance work on the fire protection system, such as opening the pipe network. This means that in the case of corrosion and the resulting gas production, the activation or maintenance of the fire protection system could be accompanied by a deflagration or even an explosion, posing a significant risk to people within the fire protection area, such as maintenance personnel.

[0009] Another problem with gas formation in fire protection system piping networks is that even the formation of non-flammable and / or non-explosive gases can negatively affect the fire protection system. Certain gases, such as oxygen or hydrogen, can act as catalysts for corrosion within the pipes of the piping network, thus promoting and / or accelerating corrosion, which can then lead to further gas formation.

[0010] To prevent such incidents, it is known from the prior art to provide corrosion detectors by means of which corrosion of the pipes can be detected. For example, WO 2015 / 134914 A1 discloses such a corrosion detector for a water-based fire suppression system. According to the teaching of WO 2015 / 134914 A1, the detector has a thin, membrane-like layer and is designed to be triggered when this thin, membrane-like layer is damaged or destroyed by corrosion.

[0011] While existing systems are capable of detecting corrosion, they do not allow for conclusions to be drawn about gas formation. Furthermore, these systems lack the capability to continuously monitor pipeline networks and thus, for example, to continuously monitor gas formation. Continuous monitoring, in this context, refers specifically to monitoring that can be carried out over an extended period at regular intervals, such as every minute, hourly, daily, weekly, monthly, or annually. Continuous monitoring also encompasses monitoring in which pipeline networks are permanently monitored, i.e., permanent monitoring is provided.It must of course be noted that even permanent monitoring is merely monitoring at predetermined, but very short time intervals, whereby the time intervals depend on the (temporal) measurement accuracy of the detection device used for monitoring.

[0012] Such continuous monitoring allows the resulting gas and / or gas mixture to be safely vented from the fire protection system's piping network as soon as necessary. This is not provided for in previously known systems.

[0013] Against this background, the object of the present invention is to overcome the aforementioned disadvantages. In particular, it is an object of the present invention to provide a means for the continuous monitoring of a fire protection system in order to continuously ensure the operational readiness of the fire protection system. A further object of the invention is to increase the operational reliability of fire protection systems. More specifically, it is an object of the invention to provide a means of safely venting gases and / or gas mixtures generated within the pipeline network.

[0014] This problem is solved according to the invention by a gas detection arrangement for a fire protection system, in particular a water extinguishing system, comprising a vent valve which is configured to be arranged at a venting position of a piping network of the fire protection system and a detection unit which is configured to detect a parameter value of a parameter which is indicative of an opening frequency of an opening of the vent valve in order to determine an operational readiness state of the fire protection system at least on the basis of the parameter value.

[0015] A vent valve is a valve through which gases can be released from a pipeline network. For this purpose, the vent valve has a fluid inlet that is connected to the pipeline network in a fluid-carrying, in particular gas and / or liquid-carrying, manner, thus connecting the pipeline network to the interior of the vent valve. Furthermore, the vent valve has a fluid outlet through which the gas can be released. In some embodiments, the fluid outlet can be connected to a reservoir in which the released gas can be collected. In some embodiments, the fluid outlet can also be connected to another gas pipeline network. Other variations for connecting the fluid outlet are also conceivable.

[0016] The vent valve is installed at a venting point for venting purposes. A venting point is defined as a location on or near the fire protection system that is particularly well-suited for venting gases and / or gas mixtures from the piping network. For this purpose, the venting point can preferably be located at a point to which a gas, due to its specific properties such as its lower density compared to a liquid, can be drawn with minimal additional effort. In other words, the venting point can be located where gases, especially in critical quantities, tend to accumulate.

[0017] In some embodiments, the vent is therefore located at a higher position relative to the floor surface, since gases, due to their lower density, often rise to higher positions. In some embodiments, the vent may be located, in particular, at the highest point of the entire piping network relative to the floor surface, or at least in higher sections of the piping network. In some embodiments, the vent may be located, for example, upstream of outlets, valves, and / or couplings of the piping network. According to the invention, at least one vent is provided for a fire protection system. In some embodiments, however, a fire protection system may also include several vents.

[0018] In some embodiments, the vent valve can preferably be designed as an automatic vent valve that can separate the gas phase from the other (solid and liquid) phases, in particular from the extinguishing fluid. This separation allows the fire protection system to be configured so that, when gas is released through the vent valve, the extinguishing fluid can remain within the fire protection system. For this purpose, an automatic vent valve known from the prior art can also be used according to the invention, such as a vent valve with closing elements, in particular floats or swelling elements. In these vent valves, the closing element closes the vent valve as long as only liquid and / or solid is present in the area sealed by the valve. If gas is also produced, it collects in the vent valve.This ensures that the valve body releases the valve to allow the gas to escape. In some embodiments, the vent valve can also be equipped with a non-return valve. This allows the gas to be released from the pipeline network while simultaneously preventing gas from entering the pipeline network from the outside via the vent valve. Further designs of the vent valve are conceivable, as long as they allow gases generated within the pipeline network to be safely released.

[0019] According to the invention, a detection unit is understood to be a unit capable of determining the opening behavior of the vent valve. This concept is based on the understanding that increased gas generation due to increased corrosion necessitates significantly more frequent venting of the pipeline network.

[0020] The detection unit can determine the opening behavior of the vent valve, in particular by detecting a parameter that is indicative of the frequency of opening of the vent valve. This parameter can take on different values, which are referred to as parameter values.

[0021] In some embodiments, this parameter can, for example, include the number of openings per predefined unit of time as a parameter value. For instance, the detection unit can be configured to detect the number of openings of the vent valve within 24 hours, within a week, or within a month. In one example, the detection unit registers two openings of the vent valve per month over the course of a year and thus outputs the value 2 as the parameter value each month. In the following year, the detection unit detects three openings of the vent valve per month and therefore outputs the value 3 as the parameter value each month. This change in the parameter from 2 to 3 can be interpreted as an indication that more gas was generated within the pipeline network in the second year than in the first, which could be a sign of increased corrosion.

[0022] In some embodiments, the parameter can comprise a quantity of gas that has been released via the vent valve, with the corresponding parameter value then corresponding to the gas quantity. The detection unit can thus be configured, for example, to determine the quantity of gas collected within a gas chamber at regular intervals. Since the gas quantity depends on the number of openings of the vent valve, this gas quantity also corresponds to a parameter that is indicative of the opening frequency of the vent valve. In particular, it is not necessary for the detection unit to determine the number of openings of the vent valve in every case, according to the invention. Rather, to achieve the desired result according to the invention, it is sufficient that the detection unit is able to draw conclusions about the gas development within the pipeline network by measuring the parameter value.

[0023] In some embodiments, the parameter can also include an opening time for the vent valve; the parameter value thus indicates how long the vent valve remains open per opening. This can allow conclusions to be drawn about the amount of gas released per opening. Such a parameter can be advantageous, for example, if the vent valve is configured to open only at specific times, meaning the opening frequency per unit of time is constant. In some embodiments, however, both the opening frequency and the opening time can be correlated and used as a parameter that is indicative of the opening frequency of a vent valve.

[0024] According to the invention, an operational readiness state is understood to be a state in which it is ensured that all components of the fire protection system are in a functionally ensuring state. In other words, it should be ensured that in the event of a fire, the fire protection system functions in such a way that it can carry out effective firefighting, i.e., fire protection-enhancing firefighting.

[0025] Determining the operational readiness of the fire protection system, at least based on the parameter value, means in particular that the detection unit is configured to recognize, based on the opening frequency of the vent valve, when increased amounts of gas are present within the pipe network. Based on this finding, it is then determined whether, firstly, gas is present within the pipe network, which could lead to a deflagration and / or explosion if the fire protection system is triggered, and secondly, whether corrosion exists in one or more of the pipes in the network. This could lead to leaks and thus to an insufficient amount of fluid that can be discharged through the extinguishing fluid outlets. These problems – the formation of gases and / or corrosion – can limit or disable the operational readiness of the fire protection system.Accordingly, the parameter value can be used to determine the operational readiness state. This determination can also include incorporating additional information or sensor values ​​and is not limited to the aforementioned determination of gas and corrosion. Further aspects that can be considered when determining the operational readiness state include, for example, the execution of test runs, such as pump tests or similar, power outages, or similar events, which can also be detected by the detection unit.

[0026] As mentioned above, the solution according to the invention is based on the understanding that determining how often a vent valve is opened to vent the pipe network allows conclusions to be drawn about the formation of gases within the pipe network. In particular, the invention is based on the understanding that an increased amount of gas within the pipe network of the fire protection system can, on the one hand, lead to a reduction in the operational readiness of the fire protection system and, on the other hand, also allow conclusions to be drawn about the condition of the pipes.

[0027] In some embodiments, the detection unit may be configured to communicate with an evaluation unit that is configured to evaluate the parameter value in order to determine the operational readiness status of the fire protection system.

[0028] In some embodiments, the detection unit itself can be configured to evaluate the parameter value indicative of the opening frequency of the vent valve and thus draw conclusions about the operational readiness of the fire protection system. In other embodiments, the detection unit can also be configured to communicate with a dedicated evaluation unit, which in turn is configured to evaluate the parameter value to determine whether the operational readiness of the fire protection system is ensured.

[0029] The evaluation unit can be configured as a separate component, designed to communicate with the detection unit via a suitable wired or wireless, optionally secure (e.g., encrypted) communication link. In some embodiments, however, the evaluation unit can also be integrated with the detection unit—and optionally other units—in a single component, with communication between the detection unit and the evaluation unit taking place internally within the component. In some embodiments, the evaluation unit and / or the detection unit can also be configured as part of a central device, such as a fire alarm and extinguishing control panel, within the fire protection system.In some embodiments, the evaluation unit and / or the detection unit can also be set up separately from the central device and communicate with it via a wireless or wired, preferably secure, such as encrypted, communication link. Further embodiments are also conceivable, as long as they allow the evaluation unit to evaluate the parameter value in order to determine the operational readiness status of the fire protection system.

[0030] In some embodiments, the venting position can be located at the highest point of the piping network.

[0031] The highest point of the piping network is understood to be the position that is highest relative to the floor area of ​​a fire protection area covered by the piping network—that is, the area onto which extinguishing fluid can be discharged through the extinguishing fluid outlets in the piping network. In some embodiments, the venting position can be arranged such that it is higher than all other components of the piping network. In some embodiments, for example, the venting position can be formed by a pipe extending away from the floor surface, starting from the horizontal line formed by the pipes of the piping network on which the extinguishing fluid outlets are located, and thus, viewed from the floor surface, can be situated higher relative to the horizontally extending pipes.

[0032] The rationale behind this placement at the highest point of the pipe network is the understanding that the vent valve should preferably be positioned at a venting point towards which gases generated within the pipe network preferentially flow. It should be noted that gases, due to their density, tend to rise and thus accumulate at higher points. Therefore, by placing the vent valve at a venting point at the highest point of the pipe network, it can be ensured that the largest possible quantity of the generated gas is collected at this location.

[0033] In some embodiments, the gas detection arrangement may further comprise an expansion tank which is in fluid communication with an outlet of the vent valve and is configured to receive gas escaping from the piping network through the vent valve, and a pressure relief valve which is arranged on the expansion tank and is configured to discharge gas from the expansion tank when a pressure threshold is reached within the expansion tank.

[0034] The term "expansion tank" is understood here to mean, in particular, a container in which the gas released from the vent valve can be collected. For this purpose, the expansion tank is in fluid communication with the fluid outlet of the vent valve, i.e., it has a corresponding inlet. Here, "fluid communication" is understood to mean, in particular, a connection that allows the gas released through the vent valve to be directed into the expansion tank and collected there. The fluid communication is thus a gas-conducting connection.

[0035] The expansion tank is designed to absorb defined quantities of gas via the vent valve. The volume of the expansion tank is chosen so that, even at maximum gas filling, only small, harmless quantities of explosive mixtures can form. This so-called "critical volume" depends on the type of gas and must be specifically selected for the corresponding fire protection system and the expected gases produced.

[0036] Furthermore, the expansion tank includes a drain, which may be equipped with a safety valve that allows the drain to be opened to release gas from the expansion tank. In some embodiments, this safety valve can be designed as a pressure relief valve, which is located on the expansion tank and configured to open above a defined pressure threshold, for example, a pressure threshold in the range of 1.2 bar to 1.5 bar, and release gas from the expansion tank to reduce the pressure inside. Thus, the pressure relief valve prevents excessive gas accumulation within the expansion tank. The release mechanism is therefore based on the principle that the more gas accumulates in the expansion tank, the higher the pressure inside it becomes.At a specific pressure—that is, a specific amount of gas within the expansion tank—the pressure threshold is reached at which the pressure relief valve opens and the gas is released. This pressure threshold depends on the volume of the expansion tank, the temperature, and the type of gas collected within it. The combination of volume, temperature, and gas type results in a specific pressure. Therefore, the pressure threshold, and consequently the pressure relief valve with its corresponding pressure threshold, should be selected based on these factors.

[0037] In some embodiments, the gas detection arrangement may further comprise a first gas sensor arranged on the expansion tank, in particular on a wall of the expansion tank. In some embodiments, the first gas sensor may be configured to determine the gas concentration of a first gas. In some embodiments, the first gas sensor may be configured to communicate with the evaluation unit, the evaluation unit being further configured to evaluate a gas sensor reading from the first gas sensor in order to determine the operational readiness status of the fire protection system. In some embodiments, the first gas may comprise at least one of the following: hydrogen, methane, carbon dioxide, oxygen, hydrogen sulfide, sulfur dioxide, hydrogen chloride, nitrogen oxide, hydrogen cyanide, hydrogen bromide, selenium dioxide, ammonia.

[0038] The described gas detection arrangement can include a first gas sensor that is arranged on the expansion tank. In In some embodiments, the first gas sensor can also be arranged in the expansion tank. For this purpose, the first gas sensor can, in particular, be arranged on or integrated into the wall of the expansion tank. In In some embodiments, the first gas sensor can also be mounted suspended inside the expansion tank.

[0039] The first gas sensor is specifically designed to determine the gas concentration of a particular gas within the expansion tank, i.e., to determine how much gas of a specific type is present within the expansion tank. This first gas can preferably be a gas that can serve as an indicator of corrosion within the pipeline network. In this context, a corrosion indicator is understood to be, in particular, a chemical product formed during corrosion processes.

[0040] Anaerobic hydrogen corrosion serves as an example of such corrosion processes. Under certain conditions, fire protection systems, particularly water-based extinguishing systems, can experience oxygen deficiency, or so-called anaerobic conditions, in the extinguishing fluid. In the presence of water, this promotes the formation of elemental hydrogen through the oxidation of the metallic pipes, especially iron in water-based extinguishing systems.

[0041] Alternatively or additionally, microbial corrosion can be mentioned as an example. In In this case, anaerobic bacterial corrosion can occur due to bacterial organisms contained in the extinguishing fluid, especially extinguishing water. This leads, among other things, to the formation of gases such as methane and hydrogen sulfide, as well as to the formation of so-called pitting corrosion, small-area corrosion that often penetrates the metal. Examples of gases that can serve as indicators of corrosion are therefore, in particular, hydrogen, methane, hydrogen sulfide, and / or carbon dioxide.

[0042] Any corrosion process leads to a reduction in the safety of the fire protection system. Furthermore, corrosion processes can lead to leakage and / or even failure of the fire protection system. Using the aforementioned gases, which can serve as indicators of corrosion, a corrosion process can be detected early. Furthermore, an analysis of the type of gases also allows for the determination of the type of corrosion, such as anaerobic hydrogen corrosion or microbial corrosion, since these corrosions produce different gases.

[0043] This allows for the implementation of appropriate maintenance and / or countermeasures tailored to the specific type of corrosion. For example, if a gas is detected that can be considered an indicator of microbial corrosion, a countermeasure to be taken may consist of flushing the piping network and / or introducing an antibiotic into the fire protection system's piping network.

[0044] Determining the gases generally allows for more specific selection of maintenance and / or countermeasures and can even make it possible to predict which measures and / or maintenance will be required in the future.

[0045] The first gas whose concentration is detected by the first gas sensor can be a gas that arises directly from corrosion within a fire protection system and thus serves as an indicator of corrosion. Alternatively, it can be a gas that promotes corrosion within the pipes of the piping network, thereby reducing the service life and operational readiness of the fire suppression system. This type of gas is also referred to below as a corrosion initiator gas. Examples of such corrosion initiator gases include gases that are part of the air composition and that have been introduced into the fire protection system's piping network through maintenance work or incomplete venting. Oxygen and acidic gases are prime examples. Oxygen, in particular, can lead to the oxidation of elemental metals.This can be problematic for fire protection systems, as these often contain iron components. Acidic gases such as carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, hydrogen chloride, nitrogen dioxide, hydrogen cyanide, hydrogen bromide, selenium dioxide, and / or ammonia lower the pH value within the extinguishing fluid, for example, the extinguishing water, within the fire protection system and increase the corrosive effect of the extinguishing fluid.

[0046] The gas detection arrangement according to the invention, with its venting valve, now allows both corrosion indicator gases and corrosion initiator gases to be extracted from the pipeline network and simultaneously detected. This increases the safety of the fire protection system and thus personal safety, as potentially harmful or even explosive gases can be extracted in a controlled manner. Furthermore, the gas detection arrangement allows for the identification of the specific gases involved. This enables targeted maintenance and / or countermeasures to address both the gas generation itself—and the associated hazards—and to reduce corrosion, as maintenance work can be adapted to minimize corrosion catalysts, such as the aforementioned corrosion initiator gases and / or corrosive water quality, within the pipeline network.

[0047] The evaluation unit can also be configured to evaluate, in addition to the parameter value indicative of the opening frequency of the vent valve, at least one gas sensor reading from the first gas sensor, in order to draw conclusions about the operational readiness of the fire protection system. A gas sensor reading can be understood here, in particular, as a value indicating the type and / or concentration of the first gas.

[0048] For example, the evaluation unit can take into account that the first gas sensor measured a gas of a specific concentration, which can serve as an indicator of corrosion. Depending on the measured concentration, the evaluation unit can conclude that significant corrosion has already occurred within the pipeline network. Since such severe corrosion can impair operational readiness, the evaluation unit can output a result indicating that the operational readiness of the fire protection system is no longer sufficient to guarantee operational readiness, meaning that maintenance measures are required before operational readiness can be restored. Alternatively or additionally, the evaluation unit can also output a result indicating that maintenance will be necessary in the near future, but that operational readiness is currently still guaranteed.Alternatively, the evaluation unit may also conclude that the determined concentration of the first gas is so low that no significant corrosion has yet occurred, meaning that operational readiness is fully ensured even without maintenance.

[0049] In In some embodiments, the gas detection arrangement may further comprise at least a second sensor, which is arranged on the expansion tank, in particular on the wall of the expansion tank. In In some embodiments, the at least one second sensor may comprise a humidity sensor and / or a pressure sensor and / or a temperature sensor. In In some embodiments, the at least one second sensor can comprise a combination sensor for several measured variables, in particular pressure, humidity and temperature.

[0050] In In some embodiments, the gas detection arrangement may include further sensors, in particular gas sensors, temperature sensors, humidity sensors, pressure sensors, or the like. In particular, the gas detection arrangement may include a second sensor, which may be arranged on or in the expansion tank. In In some embodiments, the second sensor can be arranged on or integrated into the wall of the expansion tank. This second sensor can be designed, in particular, as a sensor that is not a gas sensor, but measures other parameters such as pressure, temperature, humidity, or similar. Specifically, this second sensor can be configured as a combination sensor for measuring several of these parameters. By determining these parameters, the second sensor can be used, in particular, to determine the general physical state of the gas within the expansion tank; that is, it can be used to determine the pressure, temperature, and / or humidity of the gas in the expansion tank. These parameters can then also be incorporated by the evaluation unit to draw conclusions about the operational readiness of the fire protection system.However, the measured values ​​can also be used to determine how the pressure, temperature and humidity of the gas inside the expansion tank correlate and interact with each other, and thus potentially provide information about the gas composition and / or the origin of the gases.

[0051] In In some embodiments, the detection unit can be arranged on the vent valve and / or the expansion tank and / or the first gas sensor and / or the at least one second sensor and / or the pressure relief valve.

[0052] The detection unit according to the invention can be designed to be completely separate and have a dedicated mounting. In In some embodiments, however, the detection unit can also be arranged on the vent valve and / or the expansion tank. In In some embodiments, the detection unit can be arranged on the first and / or the second sensor. Alternatively or additionally, the detection unit can also be arranged on the pressure relief valve. In some embodiments, all these elements can be implemented as a single component. However, they can also be combined with each other or implemented separately. The only requirement is that the relevant measured values ​​can be transmitted to the detection unit and / or the evaluation unit.

[0053] In some embodiments, the gas detection arrangement may further include a communication unit configured to transmit at least one parameter value, the gas sensor value, a sensor value from the second sensor, and / or data indicative of the operational readiness state of the fire protection system to an external device, in particular a central device of the fire protection system. In some embodiments, the communication unit may preferably include a radio module.

[0054] A communication unit is understood to be a unit configured to provide a communication link, preferably a secure, and more preferably an encrypted, communication link with an external device. The communication link can be wired or wireless, or it can provide both options. In some embodiments, the communication unit can, in particular, include a radio module for providing a wireless communication link or be configured as a radio module. The radio module can, in particular, be configured to operate via the ISM band 433 MHz Region 1 and / or the SRD band 868 MHz Europe.

[0055] The external device can be any type of external device, such as a PC, a user terminal, a mobile phone, or similar, to which the parameter value and / or the gas sensor value and / or the sensor value of the second sensor and / or data indicative of the operational readiness of the fire protection system can be transmitted. In some embodiments, the external device can be, in particular, a central device, such as a fire alarm and / or extinguishing control panel or a service device for a fire alarm and / or extinguishing control panel, which is in communicative contact with the fire alarm and / or extinguishing control panel.

[0056] The external device can receive one or more parameters, gas sensor values, sensor values ​​from the second sensor, and / or data indicative of the operational readiness of the fire protection system. Data indicative of the operational readiness of the fire protection system refers specifically to data determined by the evaluation unit and / or the detection unit based on the evaluation of the parameter value and, where applicable, the values ​​of the first gas sensor and / or second sensor.

[0057] In some embodiments, the vent valve may include a non-return valve. In particular, in some embodiments, the vent valve may include a non-return valve to ensure that gas can be vented from the pipeline network, but that no gas can enter the pipeline network from the outside via the vent valve.

[0058] In some embodiments, the pressure threshold of the pressure relief valve can be in the range of 1.2 bar to 1.5 bar. In some embodiments, an overflow for draining fluids can be arranged on the pressure relief valve.

[0059] In some embodiments, the pressure relief valve can also be equipped with an overflow that allows fluids to be discharged when the valve is triggered. Such fluids can be, in particular, gaseous or liquid substances that can be discharged in a controlled manner from the expansion tank to a predetermined collection point via the overflow. This further increases the safety of the fire protection system, as it ensures that when the pressure relief valve is triggered, the discharged fluids are directed to where they can be collected most safely.

[0060] In a further aspect, the present invention relates to a fire protection system comprising a pipe network and a gas detection arrangement according to one of the embodiments described above. In some embodiments, the fire protection system may have one or more venting points in the pipe network, with a gas detection arrangement being arranged at each of the venting points. In some embodiments, the fire protection system may further comprise a wet alarm valve, with at least one of the gas detection arrangements being arranged in the pipe network downstream of the wet alarm valve.

[0061] In another aspect, the invention relates to a fire protection system, in particular a water extinguishing system, and more specifically a sprinkler, water spray, and foam extinguishing system, comprising a piping network with a plurality of pipes on which a plurality of extinguishing fluid outlets are arranged, and at least one gas detection arrangement as described above. The gas detection arrangement is arranged via the vent valve at a venting point of the piping network and thus connected to it. In some embodiments, the fire protection system can also comprise several of these gas detection arrangements, each arranged at a venting point of the piping network. The venting point or points are preferably located at higher points of the piping network, and even more preferably at the highest points of the piping network.In some embodiments, a corresponding wet alarm valve can be installed upstream of one or more gas detection arrangements starting from the pipeline network.

[0062] In a further aspect, the present invention relates to a method for monitoring a fire protection system, the method comprising: providing a gas detection arrangement with a vent valve which is configured to be arranged at a venting position of a piping network of the fire protection system, and a detection unit which is configured to detect a parameter value of a parameter which is indicative of an opening frequency of an opening of the vent valve (2), detecting, by the detection unit, the parameter value of the parameter, and determining an operational readiness state of the fire protection system at least based on the parameter value.

[0063] In a further aspect, the present invention relates to the use of such a gas detection arrangement for monitoring a fire protection system to determine the operational readiness state of the fire protection system.

[0064] Although the preferred embodiments of the invention have been explained above in connection with the aspect of the fire protection system, these preferred embodiments are equally also preferred embodiments of the other aspects mentioned above.

[0065] The invention is described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying figures and preferred embodiments. These figures show: Fig. 1 shows a schematic diagram of a fire protection system in the form of a water extinguishing system with a gas detection arrangement according to a preferred embodiment; Fig. 2 shows a schematic diagram of a fire protection system in the form of a water extinguishing system with a gas detection arrangement according to a further preferred embodiment; Fig. 3 shows a schematic diagram of a fire protection system in the form of a water extinguishing system with several gas detection arrangements at several venting positions.

[0066] Figur 1 shows a fire protection system 10, which in the specific embodiment of the Fig. 1 The fire protection system 10 is designed as a water extinguishing system. It comprises a pipe network 1 and a gas detection arrangement 100. The pipe network 1 comprises a plurality of pipes 11. A plurality of extinguishing fluid outlets 12 are arranged on each of the pipes 11 of the plurality of pipes 11, through which extinguishing fluid can be discharged onto a fire protection area. In the specific embodiment of the Fig. 1 The extinguishing fluid that can be released from the extinguishing fluid outlets 12 is in particular a water-based extinguishing fluid, such as extinguishing water.

[0067] The fire protection system 10 according to the specific embodiment of the Fig. 1 The device also features a wet alarm valve 20, which is located upstream of a gas detection arrangement 100, specifically a vent valve 2, in the fluid direction, i.e., between the piping network 1 and the vent valve 2. Such wet alarm valves are used in fire protection systems that are permanently filled with extinguishing fluid, such as water extinguishing systems.

[0068] A gas detection arrangement 100 is arranged downstream of the wet alarm valve 20. The gas detection arrangement 100 includes a vent valve 2, which is arranged at a venting point 21 of the piping network 1. In the specific embodiment of the Fig. 1 The venting position 21 is located at the highest point of the pipe network 1, i.e., it is higher than the pipes 11 and the other components of the pipe network. The venting valve 2 is in fluid-carrying communication with the pipe network 1. For this purpose, the venting valve 2 includes a fluid inlet that connects the interior of the pipe network 1 with the interior of the venting valve 2.

[0069] The vent valve 2 is in the specific embodiment of the Fig. 1 Designed as an automatic vent valve, which is configured to separate the gas phase from the other phases, such as the extinguishing fluid, in order to ensure that when the gas is released through the vent valve 2, the extinguishing fluid is retained within the piping network 1 of the fire protection system 10. For this purpose, the vent valve 2 of the Fig. 1 a sealing element that keeps the vent valve 2 closed as long as only liquid and / or solids are present in the area sealed by the vent valve 2. If gas is present in the sealed area, it collects in the vent valve 2 and moves the sealing element from a closed position to an open position. In the open position, the gas can be released from the vent valve 2 and thus enters an expansion tank 3 via a fluid outlet of the vent valve 2, which is described in more detail below. Furthermore, in the specific embodiment of the vent valve 2, Fig. 1 a backstop (in the Fig. 1 (not shown) which ensures that the gas can leave the vent valve 2, but prevents gas from entering the pipe network 1 from the outside via the vent valve 2 in the other direction.

[0070] As already mentioned, the gas can be released from the vent valve 2, which, in the specific embodiment of the Fig. 1 The gas enters the expansion tank 3. Expansion tank 3 is therefore designed to collect the gas released from the vent valve 2. For this purpose, expansion tank 3 includes an inlet that is connected to the fluid outlet of the vent valve 2, allowing the gas released through the vent valve 2 to be directed into expansion tank 3. Expansion tank 3 is designed to hold a predefined quantity of gas, and its volume should be selected so that the critical volume for explosive gases is not reached. The volume is therefore chosen so that even at maximum filling with an explosive gas, only enough gas is retained within expansion tank 3 to prevent any risk of explosion.

[0071] The expansion tank 3 further comprises, in the direction of flow, an outlet which includes a safety valve, which in the specific embodiment of the Fig. 1 The pressure relief valve 5 is designed as a pressure relief valve 5. The pressure relief valve 5 causes the drain to open in order to release the gas from the expansion tank 3 when the predetermined quantity of gas has accumulated within the expansion tank 3. For this purpose, the pressure relief valve 5 operates as follows: Fig. 1 with a pressure threshold which in the specific embodiment of the Fig. 1 The pressure is 1.2 bar. Therefore, if the gas inside the expansion tank 3 reaches a pressure of 1.2 bar, the pressure relief valve 5 opens and the gas is released to reduce the pressure – and thus the amount of gas – inside the expansion tank 3.

[0072] In the specific embodiment of the Fig. 1 The pressure relief valve 5 further comprises an overflow 8, which is designed to discharge fluids overflowing from the pressure relief valve 5 in a controlled manner towards a fluid collection point, thus ensuring that the fluids do not escape uncontrollably. Such fluids may be, in particular, liquids and / or gases.

[0073] The gas detection arrangement 100 according to the Fig. 1 further comprises a detection unit 9, which is configured to monitor the opening behavior of the vent valve 2. For this purpose, the detection unit 9 is specifically configured to determine a parameter value that is indicative of the opening frequency of the vent valve 2. In the specific embodiment of the Fig. 1 This parameter refers to the number of openings per given time unit and the opening duration of a single opening, the respective measured values ​​of which are detected as parameter values ​​by the detection unit 9.

[0074] In the specific embodiment of the Fig. 1 The detection unit 9 detects these parameter values ​​and transmits them to an evaluation unit 50, with which it is in communicative contact for this purpose. In the specific embodiment of the Fig. 1 The evaluation unit 50 is designed as a separate component and the communication link between detection unit 9 and evaluation unit 50 is designed as an encrypted, wireless communication link, in particular a radio link.

[0075] The evaluation unit 50 is configured to receive and evaluate the transmitted parameter values ​​of the parameter that indicates the opening frequency of the vent valve 2, in order to determine the operational readiness status of the fire protection system 10. The detection unit 9 and the evaluation unit 50 can, for example, be configured to continuously detect and evaluate the parameter values. If this evaluation shows over a longer period that the number and / or duration of the openings of the vent valve 2 is steadily increasing, this can be seen as an indication that the amount of gas generated within the pipeline network 1 is increasing over time, which may be a sign of corrosion promoting gas generation. This corrosion can lead to leakage from the corroded pipes 11 of the pipeline network 1. Furthermore, the gas generation can result in deflagrations and / or explosions.In both cases, it can be assumed that the operational readiness of fire protection system 1 will be negatively affected.

[0076] Therefore, the detection and evaluation of the parameter value by the detection unit 9 and the evaluation unit 50 can make it possible to monitor the operational readiness state, or changes in the operational readiness state over time, and thus to decide whether maintenance and / or another measure is necessary, may become necessary in the future, or is not yet needed in order to continue operating the fire protection system 1 in a state in which its protective readiness, i.e., its ability to carry out fire protection actions, is maintained.

[0077] In the specific embodiment of the Fig. 1 Furthermore, the evaluation unit 50 is communicatively connected to a communication unit 40. The communication unit 40 is configured to transmit the parameter value and / or the data output by the evaluation unit, which are indicative of the operational readiness status of the fire protection system. This transmission can, in particular, take place to an external device. In the specific embodiment of the Fig. 1 The external device is a central device 60 of the fire protection system 1.

[0078] In the specific embodiment of the Fig. 1 The communication unit 40 has a radio module that transmits the parameter value and / or data wirelessly. The radio connection is encrypted to prevent external interception of the transmitted information. However, transmission can also occur unencrypted. This transmission allows a user, such as a member of the maintenance staff, to view the evaluation of the parameter value and the parameter values ​​themselves, as well as the assessment of the operational readiness status of the fire protection system 1 in the central device 60, enabling them to review the information and, if necessary, initiate appropriate measures.

[0079] Although the communication unit 40 in the specific embodiment of the Fig. 1 Regarding communication with the central device 60, it should be clarified once again that the communication unit 40 can also be configured to communicate with other external devices, such as a user terminal, and transmit the relevant information. In such a case, the user could also view and evaluate the information via the user terminal.

[0080] The Figur 2 shows a fire protection system 10, which is designed as a water extinguishing system and is present in large parts of the fire protection system 10. Fig. 1 This corresponds to a fire protection system 10 with a pipe network 1 comprising a multitude of pipes 11 and a multitude of extinguishing fluid outlets 12, as well as a wet alarm valve 20. Also in the Fig. 2 A gas detection arrangement 100' is arranged at a venting point of the pipeline network 1, comprising a venting valve 2, an expansion tank 3, a pressure relief valve 5 and an overflow 8. Also in the Fig. 2 The gas detection arrangement 100' further comprises a detection unit 9, an evaluation unit 50, and a communication unit 40, which, as described above, can communicate with each other and with a central device 60. The general operating principle of the fire protection system 10, the pipe network 1, and the gas detection arrangement 100' of the Fig. 2 corresponds to the functionality as described in connection with Fig. 1 described, so that in the following only the differences will be discussed.

[0081] In the specific embodiment of the Fig. 2 The gas detection arrangement 100' further comprises a first gas sensor 4, which in the specific embodiment of the Fig. 2 is equipped, among other things, to detect methane, an oxygen sensor 6 and a second sensor 7, which in the specific embodiment of the Fig. 2 is designed as a combination sensor for pressure, temperature, and humidity. The first gas sensor 4, the oxygen sensor 6, and the combination sensor 7 are, in the specific embodiment of the Fig. 2 The sensors are arranged on the wall of the expansion tank 3. In other embodiments, however, they can also be arranged elsewhere or integrated into the wall. The first gas sensor 4, the oxygen sensor 6, and the combination sensor 7 are in communicative contact with the evaluation unit 50 and can therefore transmit sensor readings to the evaluation unit 50. This means that in the specific embodiment of the Fig. 2 The evaluation unit 50 receives not only the parameter value of the detection unit 9, but also the gas sensor value of the first gas sensor 4, the oxygen value of the oxygen sensor 6 and the sensor value of the second sensor 7 and uses them for evaluation.

[0082] This allows the evaluation unit 50 in the specific embodiment of the Fig. 2 Thus, the system not only assesses whether gas has formed in the pipeline network 1, but also identifies the type of gas and its temperature, pressure, and / or humidity within the expansion tank 3. This allows, for example, the determination of the type of corrosion that has occurred within the pipeline network 1, as the type of gas produced, detected by the first gas sensor 4, provides information about the chemical process that led to the gas formation. Furthermore, the sensor readings from the second sensor, a combination sensor 7, allow the determination of the gas's temperature and pressure, its moisture content, and similar parameters, providing further insights into the chemical reactions. The oxygen sensor 6 can also detect the presence of oxygen within the pipeline network 1, which could further promote corrosion.This information can be used together when assessing the operational readiness status.

[0083] In the specific embodiment of the Fig. 2 The evaluation unit 50 transmits the generated evaluation to the communication unit 40, which is configured to transmit the parameter value of the detection unit 9, the gas sensor value of the first gas sensor 4, the sensor value of the combination sensor 7, the sensor value of the oxygen sensor 6, and the corresponding evaluated data generated by the evaluation unit 50 to the central device 60 to allow for a statement and / or assessment of the operational readiness status of the fire protection system 1. The user can then view this information at the central device 60 and, on the one hand, determine the operational readiness status, and on the other hand, understand which specific countermeasures and / or maintenance procedures should be initiated to maintain this operational readiness. For example, the user can determine that the corrosion is microbially caused and initiate the addition of antibiotics as a countermeasure.

[0084] The Figur 3 Figure 1 shows a fire protection system 10, designed as a water extinguishing system, comprising a piping network 1 with a plurality of pipes 11 with a plurality of extinguishing fluid outlets 12 and a central device 60. The operation of the fire protection system 10 corresponds to the operation of the fire protection system according to the Fig. 1 or 2 , which is why a more detailed description is omitted here.

[0085] Unlike in the specific embodiments of the Fig. 1 and 2 The pipeline network 1 in the specific embodiment of the Fig. 3 not one, but a plurality of venting positions 21a, 21b and 21c, each equipped with a gas detection arrangement 100a, 100b and 100c. The gas detection arrangements 100a, 100b, 100c function identically to the gas detection arrangement 100' according to the Fig. 2 The statements relating to the Fig. 2 The provisions of the above also apply to the gas detection arrangements 100a, 100b, and 100c. Each of the gas detection units 100a, 100b, and 100c comprises, in particular, a vent valve, a compensation reservoir, a pressure relief valve and a corresponding overflow, a first gas sensor, an oxygen sensor, and a second sensor, as well as a detection unit. In some embodiments, each of the gas detection arrangements 100a, 100b, and 100c may further comprise an evaluation unit 50 and a communication unit 40, each of which is in communicative contact with a central device 60.

[0086] In the specific embodiment of the Fig. 3 The gas detection arrangements 100a, 100b, and 100c are configured such that they are each in communicative communication with a common evaluation unit 50, wherein the common evaluation unit 50 is in communicative communication with a common communication unit 40, which is configured, as described above, to communicate with the central device 60 in order to transmit the parameter value and / or the sensor readings of the first gas sensor, the second sensor, and / or further sensors, and / or the data indicative of the operational readiness state of the fire protection system 1, to the central device 60. In this configuration, it is preferred that the evaluation unit 50 is configured to determine from which of the gas detection arrangements 100a, 100b, and 100c the respective parameter values ​​and / or the respective sensor values ​​were transmitted.This can be achieved, for example, by each of the gas detection arrangements 100a, 100b, and 100c transmitting an identification along with the transmitted parameter and sensor values. The evaluation unit 50 is then preferably configured to transmit this identification as part of the data. Since, when multiple gas detection arrangements 100a, 100b, and 100c are used, the gases produced tend to collect in the vent valve closest to their point of origin, using multiple gas detection arrangements 100a, 100b, and 100c allows for better localization of the gas source—and thus the pipe 11 where corrosion occurs. Transmitting the corresponding identification of the gas detection arrangement 100a, 100b, and 100c to the central device thus allows the user to further narrow down the area where corrosion has occurred. Liste der Bezugszeichen:

[0087] 1 Piping network 2 Vent valve 3 Expansion tank 4 First gas sensor 5 Pressure relief valve 6 Oxygen sensor 7 Combination sensor 8 Safety valve overflow 9 Detection unit 10 Fire protection system 11 Piping network pipe 12 Fire extinguishing fluid outlet 20 Wet alarm valve 21, 21a, 21b, 21c Vent position 40 Communication unit 50 Evaluation unit 60 Central device 100, 100', 100a, 100b, 100c Gas detection arrangement

Claims

1. A gas detection arrangement (100, 100', 100a, 100b, 100c) for a fire protection system (10), in particular a water extinguishing system, comprising - a vent valve (2) configured to be disposed at a venting position (21, 21a, 21b, 21c) of a pipework network (1) of the fire protection system (10), - a detection unit (9) configured to detect a parameter value of a parameter indicative of an opening frequency of an opening of the vent valve (2) in order to determine an operational readiness state of the fire protection system (10) at least on the basis of the parameter value.

2. The gas detection arrangement (100, 100', 100a, 100b, 100c) according to claim 1, wherein the detection unit (9) is configured to communicate with an evaluation unit (50) configured to evaluate the parameter value in order to determine the operational readiness state of the fire protection system (10).

3. The gas detection arrangement (100, 100', 100a, 100b, 100c) according to at least one of claims 1 and 2, wherein the venting position (21, 21a, 21b, 21c) is disposed at a highest point of the pipework network (1).

4. The gas detection arrangement (100, 100', 100a, 100b, 100c) according to at least one of the preceding claims, further comprising: - a compensation tank (3) in fluid communication with an outlet of the vent valve (2) and configured to receive gas escaping from the pipework network (1) through the vent valve (2), and - a pressure relief valve (5) disposed on the compensation tank (3) and configured to discharge gas from the compensation tank (3) when a pressure threshold value is reached within the compensation tank (3).

5. The gas detection arrangement (100, 100', 100a, 100b, 100c) according to claim 4, further comprising: - a first gas sensor (4) disposed on the compensation tank (3), in particular on a wall of the compensation tank (3).

6. The gas detection arrangement (100, 100', 100a, 100b, 100c) according to claim 5, wherein the first gas sensor (4) is configured to determine a gas concentration of a first gas; in particular wherein the first gas sensor (4) is configured to communicate with the evaluation unit, wherein the evaluation unit is further configured to evaluate a gas sensor reading of the first gas sensor (4) in order to determine the operational readiness state of the fire protection system (10); and / or wherein the first gas comprises at least one of the following: hydrogen, methane, carbon dioxide, oxygen, hydrogen sulphide, sulphur dioxide, hydrogen chloride, nitrogen oxide, hydrogen cyanide, hydrogen bromide, selenium dioxide, ammonia.

7. The gas detection arrangement (100, 100', 100a, 100b, 100c) according to at least one of claims 5 or 6, comprising: - at least one second sensor (6, 7) disposed on the compensation tank (3), in particular on the wall of the compensation tank (3); in particular wherein the at least one second sensor (6, 7) comprises a humidity sensor and / or a pressure sensor and / or a temperature sensor; in particular wherein the at least one second sensor (6, 7) comprises a combination sensor (7) for several measured variables, in particular pressure, humidity and temperature.

8. The gas detection arrangement (100, 100', 100a, 100b, 100c) according to claim 7, wherein the detection unit (9) is disposed at: the vent valve (2) and / or the compensation tank (3) and / or the first gas sensor (4) and / or the at least one second sensor (6, 7) and / or the pressure relief valve (5).

9. The gas detection arrangement (100, 100', 100a, 100b, 100c) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the gas detection arrangement (100, 100', 100a, 100b, 100c) further comprises a communication unit (40) configured to transmit at least one of the parameter value, the gas sensor value, a sensor value of the second sensor (6, 7) and / or data indicative of the operational readiness state of the fire protection system (10) to an external device, in particular a central device (60) of the fire protection system (10); in particular wherein the communication unit (40) comprises a radio module.

10. The gas detection arrangement (100, 100', 100a, 100b, 100c) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the vent valve (2) has a non-return device.

11. The gas detection arrangement (100, 100', 100a, 100b, 100c) according to at least one of claims 4 to 10, wherein the pressure threshold value of the pressure relief valve (5) is in the range from 1.2 bar to 1.5 bar; or wherein an overflow (8) for discharging fluids is disposed on the pressure relief valve (5).

12. A fire protection system (10) comprising: a pipework network (1), and a gas detection arrangement (100, 100', 100a, 100b, 100c) according to any one of the preceding claims.

13. The fire protection system (10) according to claim 12, wherein the fire protection system (10) comprises one or more venting positions (21, 21a, 21b, 21c) of the pipework network (1), wherein one gas detection arrangement (100, 100', 100a, 100b, 100c) is disposed at each of the one or more venting positions (21, 21a, 21b, 21c); in particular wherein the fire protection system (10) further comprises a wet alarm valve (20), wherein at least one gas detection arrangement (100, 100', 100a, 100b, 100c) is disposed in the pipework network (1) downstream of the wet alarm valve (20).

14. A method for monitoring a fire protection system (10), comprising the following steps: providing a gas detection arrangement (100, 100', 100a, 100b, 100c) having a vent valve (2) configured to be disposed at a venting position (21, 21a, 21b, 21c) of a pipework network (1) of the fire protection system (10), and a detection unit configured to detect a parameter value of a parameter indicative of an opening frequency of an opening of the vent valve (2); detecting, by the detection unit (9), the parameter value of the parameter, and determining an operational readiness state of the fire protection system (10) at least on the basis of the parameter value.

15. A use of a gas detection arrangement (100, 100', 100a, 100b, 100c) according to at least one of claims 1 to 11 for monitoring a fire protection system (10) for determining an operational readiness state of the fire protection system (10).