Description of Project
In late 2024, Elite Fire Protection was requested to participate in a tender for the installation of a Deluge Fire Sprinkler System in Battery Energy Storage System Units (BESS). Elite Fire was awarded the contract, with installation commencing in May 2025 and currently underway.
A Battery Energy Storage System is a technology developed to store energy for later use. These systems, BESS units, store energy from various sources, including renewables like solar and wind, and discharge it when needed, such as during peak demand or grid outages to enhance grid stability.
Elite Fire Protection is responsible for the supply, fabrication, and installation of a deluge fire protection system for each BESS unit.
| Project | Fire Protection Systems |
| Size | 152 BESS units |
| Year of completion | 2025 |
| Scope | Supply, fabrication & installation |
| Discipline | Fire Protection |
Project Scope
Fire Protection System:
- BESS unit – deluge fire sprinkler system
- Water Storage Tanks
- Diesel and Electric Pumps
Process Outline
BESS unit – Deluge Fire Sprinkler System
A 200mm underground hydrant ring main supplies water to both the external hydrants and the internal sprinkler systems within the BESS units.
Each BESS unit is fitted with a sprinkler system and booster connection. The booster assembly is positioned externally on each unit and supplies the deluge sprinkler system inside the BESS enclosure.
Water Storage Tanks
While municipal water supply can be used, an independent water tank offers greater reliability by ensuring immediate availability of water to automated sprinkler systems. This allows the system to contain or suppress a fire effectively while awaiting the arrival of emergency services.
The facility has two water storage tanks installed, each measuring 5.37m (D) x 5.109m (H) with an effective capacity of 115.7m3 and a total effective capacity of 130.22m3.
Fire Pumps
Diesel and electric fire pumps are essential components in fire protection sprinkler systems, ensuring adequate water flow and pressure throughout a facility. While systems in buildings/facilities classified as “life safety”, typically require both an electric and a diesel pump, in this case, despite the facility not falling under that classification, the client chose to install both types as an added precaution.
Both pump sets will operate at a specified duty of 2400 L/min at 404 kPa, as per the system requirements.
The diesel pump, powered by a combustion engine, ensures reliability during power outages, offering a resilient backup. On the other hand, electric pumps utilize electrical power for consistent operation. Both serve the critical function of maintaining adequate water pressure to extinguish fires, safeguarding lives and property. Their synergy provides a solution to address diverse scenarios, enhancing the overall efficiency and resilience of fire protection systems.
Challenges:
All 65mm galvanised piping, phalanges and monitored valves are not readily available in South Africa with long lead times causing delays.
