NOVEC 1230 is Obsolete

Are NOVEC 1230 is Obsolete

The 3M Company (originally the Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company) is an American multinational conglomerate operating in the fields of industry, worker safety, and consumer goods.

The chemical dodecafluoro- 2-methyl-3-pentanone is chemical Name of a component. structural formula is CF₃CF₂C(=O)CF(CF₃)₂, which is a fully-fluorinated analog of ethyl isopropyl ketone. It removing heat from a fire, which is a safer method in occupied spaces compared to agents that remove oxygen. It is used as an electronics coolant liquid and fire protection fluid.  3M named this chemical as NOVEC 1230. ASHRAE designation: FK-5-1-12. So NOVEC 1230 is the brand name for a clean agent fire suppression fluid.

On Dec. 20, 2022 3M issued a notice to announcing its exit from all per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) manufacturing, which includes the discontinuation of all NOVEC fluids, including Novec 1230, by the end of 2025.

Effective January 13, 2023, 3M no longer offers the "3M Blue Sky Warranty" for new purchasers of Novec 1230 systems. Existing warranties registered before this date will still be honored for their remaining term.

✅ Chemically identical:
Both FK-5-1-12 and NOVEC 1230 share the same formula C₆F₁₂O (Dodecafluoro-2-methylpentan-3-one).
The difference lies only in branding:
 • FK-5-1-12 → Generic chemical name used in standards (NFPA 2001 & ISO 14520)
 • Novec 1230 → Trade name registered by 3M

✅ Key Features
• Safe for people (non-toxic, breathable).
• Zero ozone depletion potential (environment friendly 🌍).
• Leaves no residue, so no cleanup required.
• Fast acting → prevents fire spread.
• Compact storage → stored as liquid, discharged as gas.

⚙️ How FK-5-1-12 Works
1. Detection → Smoke/heat detectors sense fire.
2. Alarm → A pre-discharge alarm alerts occupants.
3. Discharge → FK-5-1-12 is released through nozzles.
4. Action → The gas quickly absorbs heat and interrupts the chemical reaction of fire, extinguishing it in seconds.

✅ It is also important to note here that FK-5-1-12 remains an acceptable fire suppression solution to be considered where clean agents are necessary. It is considered acceptable by the U.S. EPA via their SNAP program and is included in NFPA 2001 and ISO 14520 standards as well as other similar, global standards.

This should be a relief to anyone who is currently using a fire suppression system using Novec 1230 fluid. It’s also important to remember there are plenty of other in-kind and not-in-kind technologies available in the marketplace.

In a recent meeting, no comments were submitted to the NFPA Gaseous Fire Extinguishing (GFE) Committee governing NFPA 2001 that would affect FK-5-1-12 in terms of its supply or restrictions in any way. It is still considered acceptable in NFPA 2001 and in the U.S. EPA SNAP Program, the same as other commercial clean agents, just as it was in the Federal Register in 2002 when it was first commercialized as NOVEC 1230 fluid.

✅ ISO 14520 establishes minimum requirements for gaseous fire-extinguishing systems, covering the design, installation, and safety of clean agents. The standard is divided into multiple parts, with ISO 14520-1 providing the general framework for total flooding systems, and other parts specifying requirements for individual extinguishants like HFCs and FK-5-1-12. It is essential to use ISO 14520 in conjunction with its specific parts for the agent being used.

✅Key aspects of ISO 14520

Scope: 

It applies to total flooding systems using electrically non-conducting clean agents that leave no residue after discharge, which are suitable for use in buildings, plants, and other structures. It does not cover CO2 or explosion suppression.

✅ System Design: 

The standard provides guidance on designing systems, including specifying the correct quantity and distribution of the fire suppression agent for effective fire extinguishment.

·        Extinguishant Properties: 

ISO 14520 outlines the physical properties and characteristics of gaseous agents, which are critical for system design and understanding how they work.

·        Safety and Performance: 

The standard includes requirements for the performance and safety of the systems, ensuring they are reliable and safe for use by people and equipment.

·        Specific Parts: 

The standard is a series of documents, with different parts dedicated to specific extinguishants. For example:

·        ISO 14520-5: Covers FK-5-1-12.

·        ISO 14520-10: Covers HFC 23.

·        ISO 14520-8: Provides information on environmental properties of extinguishants like HFC 125.

·        Compliance: 

It is essential to use the relevant part of ISO 14520 for the specific extinguishant being used in the system.

✅ Design Process

1. Define the Hazard

2. Determine Design Concentration

3. Determine the Net Hazard Volume

4. Determine Extinguishing agent Quantity

5. Check the maximum reach concentration

6. Determine number and size of agent containers

7. Establish maximum Discharge time

8. Determine nozzle size and quantity to deliver required concentration at required discharge time to ensure mixing

9. Determine pipe sizes and pipe run (Pipe Sizing & Flow Calculation)

10. Evaluate compartment over/underpressurization and provide venting if required.

11. Establish minimum agent hold requirements and evaluate compartments for leakage.

✅ Parts of an FK-5-1-12 System

The following components will usually form part of an FM-200™ System and should be included in the checks:

·        Signage

·        Bottle Cage/Bottle Rack and Bracketry

·        Pilot Gas Bottle/s [optional]

·        Main Gas Bottle/s

·        Clean Agent Gas

·        Pressure Gauge

·        Pressure Relief Valve

·        Pilot Line

·        Check Valves

·        Hangers and Supports

·        Discharge Header/Manifold

·        Distribution Pipework

·        Pipework Fittings and Connections

·        Discharge Nozzles

·        Control Panel

·        Battery

·        Battery Charger

·        Control Valve/Solenoid

·        Local Door Panel

·        Emergency Release Button

·        Key Switch

·        Sounder/Bells

·        Beacon/Strobe

·        Smoke/Heat Detectors

·        Ventilation Damper System Interlocks

·        Ventilation and Air Conditioning Equipment Tripping System

📌 Applications
✓ Data centers 💻
✓ Control rooms ⚡
✓ Telecom facilities 📡
✓ Archives & museums 📚🎨
✓ Industrial automation areas 🏭

✅ Safety Precautions and Maintenance

A FK-5-1-12 system maintenance checklist includes monthly, semi-annual, and annual tasks such as checking for physical damage, verifying nozzle caps are in place, inspecting agent container pressure and weight, and testing the control panel and alarm system. A full system evaluation, including a room integrity test, should be performed annually, while professional, comprehensive services are required periodically, often every five to ten years. 

✅ Ensure FK-5-1-12  cylinders are installed as per NFPA 2001 standards.

✅ Conduct periodic inspections for cylinder pressure, valves, and piping.

✅ Train employees on evacuation procedures in case the system activates.

✅ Keep access areas clear for quick maintenance and refills.

✅ Never tamper with detection or discharge systems.

 

✅ Who will complete the maintenance?

If the building construction process is still ongoing or it is still within the defect’s liability period, then the responsibility for the maintenance will be the general/main contractor/system integrator.

Where the building/systems are outside of the defects liability period, the maintenance of the unit will be completed by the building facilities manager/operator.

They will either have their in-house team complete the works or will sublet to a facilities maintenance/building services contractor. Contractor must be have necessary technical knowledge (validate based on professional certification or Engagement with fire safety industry related various association) and experience (validate based on appreciation letter from there customers) specific to clean agent fire suppression systems. All works will be completed by an experienced, knowledgeable, and trained engineer who has previous relevant experience completing this type of work.

CFPS or WBITM certified freelancer or individual will get 1^st preference.

✅ Daily Inspection Checklist

Ensure the inspection is completed in line with all specific health and safety requirements of the site/building and all permits are in place:

Ref	Type	Inspection/Task	Notes
D-1	Inspect	Taking onboard any temperature differences, check each cylinder pressure gauge to ensure proper operating pressures are shown.	If the gauges show a loss of more than 5% at the cylinder valve then the bottle will need to be refilled in line with manufacturers requirements.

✅ Monthly Inspection Checklist

Ensure the inspection is completed in line with all specific health and safety requirements of the site/building and all permits are in place:

Ref	Type	Inspection/Task	Notes
M-1	Review	Review the protected space to ensure the hazard or usage has not been changed or modified.	If any changes, raise this with the building owner immediately.
M-2	Review	All previous observations have been rectified and closed.
M-3	Inspect	Inspect the complete system to note any damage or missing parts.	Where any damage is noted, remedial action must be completed immediately.
M-4	Inspect	Inspect the pipework for any rust or corrosion.	Where rust and/or corrosion is noted treatment, cleaning and repainting should be completed immediately.
M-5	Inspect	Inspect system discharge nozzles to ensure are not obstructed, clogged, dirty, painted, etc.	Where obstructed/clogged, remedial action must be completed immediately. If noted are dirty, ensure they are clean.
M-6	Inspect	Inspect system beacons, strobes, sounders detectors to ensure are not obstructed, dirty, painted, etc.	Where obstructed, remedial action should be completed. If noted are dirty, ensure they are clean.
M-7	Inspect	Inspect mechanical fans and dampers to ensure are not obstructed.	Where obstructed, remedial action should be completed.
M-8	Inspect	Access to the area is unobstructed.	Where obstructed remedial action must be completed immediately.
M-9	Inspect	Access to cylinders is unobstructed.	Where obstructed remedial action must be completed immediately.
M-10	Inspect	Ensure system discharge nozzles are not restricted or obstructed.	Where obstructed remedial action must be completed immediately.
M-11	Inspect	Access to control/releasing panel is unobstructed.	Where obstructed remedial action must be completed immediately.
M-12	Inspect	Inspect the control/releasing panel has power and no alarms on the system.	Any issues should be investigated and corrected immediately. Any alarms should be cleared or investigated and assessed to understand if there are any fundamental problems.
M-13	Inspect	Where any batteries are installed to provide a resilient electrical supply, inspect that the charge is in line with the design.
M-14	Inspect	Access to manual emergency switches is unobstructed.	Where obstructed remedial action must be completed immediately.
M-15	Inspect	Inspect emergency switches/pull stations for damage.	Where any damage is noted, remedial action must be completed immediately in line with manufacturers requirements.
M-16	Inspect	Inspect pressure switches for damage	Where any damage is noted, remedial action must be completed immediately in line with manufacturers requirements.
M-17	Inspect	Inspect all discharge hoses for any fraying, damage, loose connections, cracks, and cuts.	Tighten any connections and replace hoses that are damaged, with an equally rated hose.
M-18	Inspect	Inspect any actuation lines for damage, loose fittings, cracks, or cuts and cleanliness	Tighten any connections and replace lines that are damaged, with equally rated equipment.
M-19	Inspect	Inspect all fittings and adaptors to bottles to ensure are not damaged or loose.	Tighten any connections and replace anything that is damaged.
M-20	Inspect	Inspect all pilot tube connections to ensure are not damaged or loose.	Tighten any connections and replace anything that is damaged.
M-21	Inspect	Inspect all FM-200 bottle pressure operated control heads for damage, corrosion, cracks, cleanliness, and if loose.	Tighten any heads that are loose, clean in line with manufacturers’ advice, and replace anything that is damaged.
M-22	Inspect	Inspect all FM-200 bottle electronic control operated heads for damage, corrosion, cracks, cleanliness, and if loose. Also, ensure to check all electrical connections to ensure are tight.	Tighten any heads that are loose, clean in line with manufacturers’ advice, and replace anything that is damaged.
M-23	Inspect	Inspect Cylinder and its valve assembly for damage, corrosion, cracks, cleanliness, and general wear and tear.	Replace any damaged parts in line with manufacturers requirements.
M-24	Inspect	Inspect Cylinder burst disc and pressure gauges and its valve assembly for damage, corrosion, cracks, cleanliness, and general wear and tear.	Replace any damaged parts in line with manufacturers requirements.
M-25	Inspect	Inspect all brackets and straps/ mounting equipment that are securing the bottles in place.	Replace/tighten any that are loose or damaged in line with the manufacturers requirements.
M-26	Weigh	Using a calibrated scale, weigh all FM200 Cylinders and compare results with expectations, to ensure the quantity of gas is correct, and attach the result to the FM200 cylinder for proof.	Where measured weight is 95% of the original charge weight, replace the cylinder in line with the manufacturers requirements.

🟩 6-Month Inspection Checklist

Ensure the inspection is completed in line with all specific health and safety requirements of the site/building and that all permits are in place:

Ref	Type	Inspection/Task	Notes
6-1	Weigh	Weigh: Using a calibrated scale, weigh all FM200 Cylinders and compare results with expectations, to ensure the quantity of gas is correct, and attach the result to the FM200 cylinder for proof. The following information should be documented on a tag and attached to the bottle: Date of inspection Person performing inspection Type of gas The gross weight of the bottle and net weight of agent [halocarbon clean agents only] Container pressure and temperature.	Where measured weight shows a loss of 5% of the original charge weight, replace the cylinder in line with the manufacturers requirements. [see later sections for an overview of how to weigh the bottles]
6-2	Verify	Inspect: Use a calibrated device to prove the FM200 bottle pressure gauges are displaying the correct information.	Where any issues are noted, gauges should be replaced in line with the manufacturer’s requirements.
6-3	Test	Test: all pressure switches for operation.	Any issues remedial actions should be completed immediately. [see later sections for an overview of how to test]
6-4	Inspect	Test: Electric control head.	Any issues remedial actions should be completed immediately. [see later sections for an overview of how to test]
6-5	Inspect	Inspect: the enclosure of the space (walls, floors, ceilings) to understand if there are any changes to its integrity such as new holes or failed fire stopping, etc.	Any issues should be rectified, and a room integrity test conducted.

🟩 12-Month Inspection Checklist

Ensure the inspection is completed in line with all specific health and safety requirements of the site/building and that all permits are in place:

Ref	Type	Inspection/Task	Notes
Y-1	Test	Test complete full testing of the system, discharge test not required, including all ventilation integrations to prove operating in line with the design.
Y-2	Inspect	Inspect the enclosure of the space (walls, floors, ceilings) to understand if there are any changes to its integrity such as new holes or failed fire stopping, etc.	Any issues should be rectified sealing all holes in line with the fire rating of the wall/floor, and room integrity test conducted.
Y-3	Document	Documentation – Ensure all documentation is up to date and stored/filed correctly.

🟩 24-Months Inspection Checklist

Ensure the inspection is completed in line with all specific health and safety requirements of the site/building and that all permits are in place:

Ref	Type	Inspection/Task	Notes
2-1	Test	Blow through Pipework to clear it of any dust and debris that has accumulated over time.	In line with the manufacturer's instructions. [see later sections for an overview of how to weigh the bottles]

🟩 60-Month Inspection Checklist

Ensure the inspection is completed in line with all specific health and safety requirements of the site/building and that all permits are in place:

Ref	Type	Inspection/Task	Notes
5-1	Test	Bottle Test Bottles that have not been discharged and in continuous service should have a complete visual inspection in line with the Compressed Gas Association Pamphlet C-6.	In line with the noted pamphlet. Where damage or corrosion is noted, the cylinder should be emptied, tested, and restamped. If the bottles have been discharged a full test and restamping should be conducted in line with the Department of Transport Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Title 49, Section 173.34.

🟨 Single Cylinder System [Removal]

Step	Inspection/Task
Step 1	Disconnect the electrical connection at the supervisory pressure switch (if installed), then remove the wire lead protection or conduit. Install the protective cap on the switch connection port after unscrewing the switch from the cylinder valve.
Step 2	Remove the control head from the FM-200 cylinder by disconnecting the swivel nut on the control head from the cylinder valve actuation port.
Step 3	Cover the actuation port of the FM200 cylinder valve with a protective cover.
Step 4	Loosen the swivel nut and remove the flexible discharge hose from the outlet port adapter.
Step 5	Install the safety cap on the cylinder valve outlet port.
Step 6	Undo the FM200 bottle cylinder strap/bracket.
Step 7	Remove the cylinder.
Step 8	Place the cylinder on a scale and measure weight.
Step 9	From the plate information [metal stamp] on the cylinder subtract the gross weight of the cylinder from the tare weight [empty] to understand the net weight of the original gas charge.
Step 10	Weigh the cylinder then subtract the tare weight from the scale weight to understand the net weight of the agent in the cylinder. If the net weight is less than 95% of the original gas charge the cylinder should be replaced.
Step 11	Record the following: Bottle reference Date Cylinder tare [empty] weight [from bottle information] Gross cylinder weight [from bottle information] Scale weight Net gas charge weight
Step 12	Attach the information to the cylinder.

🟨 Single Cylinder System [Reinstatement]

Once weighing has been completed, the bottle should be reinstalled in the system.

Step	Inspection/Task
Step 1	Remove the cylinder/bottle from the scale.
Step 2	Place the cylinder back into the fixing/bracket system with the valve outlet towards the cylinder discharge piping.
Step 3	Tighten the strap/bracket to hold the bottle in place.
Step 4	Remove the safety cap from the head and outlet port.
Step 5	Reconnect the flexible discharge hose to the outlet port.
Step 6	Remove the protective cover from the actuation port of the cylinder valve
Step 7	Install the control head. Ensure the actuating pin is fully retracted before attaching to the cylinder so that there is no risk of accidental discharge.
Step 8	Reinstall the electrical supervisory pressure switch.

🟨 Multiple Cylinder System [Removal]

Step	Inspection/Task
Step 1	Disconnect the electrical connection at the supervisory pressure switches (if installed), then remove the wire lead protection or conduit from all bottles Install the protective cap on the switch connection port after unscrewing the switch from the cylinder valve.
Step 2	Remove the control head from each FM-200 cylinder by disconnecting the swivel nut on the control head from the cylinder valve actuation port. Leave the flexible actuation hoses to the pressure operated control heads.
Step 3	Cover all actuation ports of the FM200 cylinder valves with a protective cover.
Step 4	Remove the tubing from the master cylinder adapter on the master cylinder.
Step 5	Install the safety cap on the master cylinder adapter port.
Step 6	Remove the flexible discharge hose from the outlet port by loosening the swivel nut. Ensure that there is a safety cap installed at the cylinder valve outlet.
Step 7	Undo the FM200 bottle cylinder strap/bracket.
Step 8	Remove the cylinder.
Step 9	Place the cylinder on a scale and measure weight.
Step 10	From the plate information [metal stamp] on the cylinder subtract the gross weight of the cylinder from the tare weight [empty] to understand the net weight of the original gas charge.
Step 11	Weigh the cylinder then subtract the tare weight from the scale weight to understand the net weight of the agent in the cylinder. If the net weight is less than 95% of the original gas charge the cylinder should be replaced.
Step 12	Record the following: Bottle reference Date Cylinder tare [empty] weight [from bottle information] Gross cylinder weight [from bottle information] Scale weight Net gas charge weight
Step 13	Attach the information to the cylinder.

🟨 Multiple Cylinder System [Reinstatement]

Once weighing has been completed, the bottles should be reinstalled in the system.

Step	Inspection/Task
Step 1	Remove the cylinder/bottle from the scale.
Step 2	Place the cylinder back into the fixing/bracket system with the valve outlet towards the cylinder discharge piping.
Step 3	Tighten the strap/bracket to hold the bottle in place.
Step 4	Remove the safety cap from the head and outlet ports.
Step 5	Reconnect the flexible discharge hose to the outlet ports.
Step 6	Remove the protective cover from the master cylinder adaptor port then reconnect to the slave bottle ports on the master cylinder.
Step 7	Remove the protective caps from all other FM-200 cylinder valve ports.
Step 8	Install the control heads. Ensure the actuating pin is fully retracted before attaching to the cylinder so that there is no risk of accidental discharge.
Step 9	Reinstall the electrical supervisory pressure switches.

🟧 Pressure Switch Test Example

The following is a simple overview of how a pressure switch test could be tested, depending upon the system design and components.

Step	Inspection/Task
Step 1	Ensure the relevant permit to work and health and safety paperwork is in place and works are authorized.
Step 2	The full system is fully operational
Step 3	Operate the pressure switch manually by pulling up on the plunger
Step 4	Verify that all systems are integrated with the FM200 system shut-down, ventilation, access control etc.
Step 5	Reset pressure switch and systems.

🟧 Electric Control Head Test

The following is a simple overview of how an electric control head could be tested, dependent upon the system design and components.

Step	Inspection/Task
Step 1	Ensure the relevant permit to work and health and safety paperwork is in place and works are authorized.
Step 2	Ensure all electric control heads are disconnected from the FM200 cylinders & nitrogen pilot cylinders serving the area, to remove risk of any accidental discharge.
Step 3	The full system is fully operational
Step 4	Activate the system via pushing the manual emergency activation button.
Step 5	Verify that the system has operated, the electrical control head will switch to its released position via the movement of pin. Any heads that have not activated, check their electrical continuity. Replace any damaged, non-operating heads and repeat the test to ensure total system is working.
Step 6	Manually reset the control heads to ensure will not create an accidental discharge when being re-connected to the bottles, then connect back onto their applicable cylinder.
Step 7	Check system is automatic and ready to operate if needed.

✅ Additional Tips to Make Your FK-5-1-12 System Last Longer

These proven practices help extend system life and improve reliability. Following these guidelines reduces maintenance costs while maximizing protection.

·        Temperature Control: Maintain consistent room temperature between 65-75°F (18-24°C). Temperature fluctuations can affect system pressure and sensor operation.

·        Humidity Management: Keep relative humidity below 65% to prevent corrosion and electrical problems. Install dehumidifiers if needed to maintain proper conditions.

·        Access Control: Restrict access to protected areas to authorized personnel only. Unauthorized modifications or activities can compromise system effectiveness.

·        Documentation: Maintain detailed records of all maintenance activities and system changes. Good documentation helps identify trends and simplifies troubleshooting.

·        Staff Training: Train facility staff on basic system operation and emergency procedures. Knowledgeable staff can respond appropriately to system warnings and emergencies.

✅ Common FK-5-1-12   System Maintenance Mistakes to Avoid

Learning from others’ mistakes helps prevent costly problems with your system. Watch out for these common maintenance oversights.

·        Skipping Documentation: Failing to record maintenance activities and test results makes it difficult to track system health over time. Keep detailed logs of all inspections and tests.

·        Ignoring Minor Issues: Small problems often develop into major failures if left unaddressed. Investigate and correct all system warnings promptly.

·        Delaying Professional Service: Attempting complex maintenance without proper certification risks system damage and warranty violations. Always use certified technicians for technical work.

·        Neglecting Room Integrity: Changes to room construction or ventilation can compromise suppression effectiveness. Evaluate all facility modifications for impact on system performance.

·        Insufficient Staff Training: Untrained personnel may inadvertently damage system components or respond incorrectly to alarms. Maintain a regular training program for all relevant staff.

✅ References

·        NFPA (2022). Standard on Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems, NFPA 2001. National Fire Protection Association, USA.

·        3M (2021). NOVEC 1230 Fire Protection Fluid Technical Data Sheet.

·        OSHA (2020). Fire Safety in Industrial and Data Center Environments. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, USA.

About Author:

Dr. Arindam Bhadra is a Fire safety consultant  & ISO Auditor based in Kolkata, India, with over 20 years of experience in Fire safety systems. He’s currently founding director of the Sprinkler Fire Safety Awareness and Welfare Foundation & SSA Integrate. He working on Fire Safety awareness, training, consultancy & Audit in same field. Dr. Arindam Bhadra is popularly known as "Fire ka Doctor" because of his expertise in fire safety, prevention, and awareness, helping people and organizations stay safe from fire hazards. He is Member of NFPA, Conformity Assessment Society (CAS), FSAI, Institution of Safety Engineers (India) etc. He is certified fire Inspector and certified Fire Protection professional.