06-237379-001 - Novec 1230 - ECS - Flow - Calc - 4 - 0 - Rev - AA
06-237379-001 - Novec 1230 - ECS - Flow - Calc - 4 - 0 - Rev - AA
06-237379-001 - Novec 1230 - ECS - Flow - Calc - 4 - 0 - Rev - AA
July 2015
Table of Contents
Overview ....................................................................................................................................................... 1
Software Features.......................................................................................................................................... 2
Getting Started .............................................................................................................................................. 3
New Project Preferences ......................................................................................................................... 3
Options .................................................................................................................................................... 4
Distributor Information ........................................................................................................................... 5
Inputs ............................................................................................................................................................ 6
Setup........................................................................................................................................................ 6
Customer and Project Information .......................................................................................................... 7
Designer Notes ........................................................................................................................................ 8
Enclosure Selection ................................................................................................................................. 9
Enclosure Information ........................................................................................................................... 10
Nozzle Table ......................................................................................................................................... 12
Adjust Agent Required .......................................................................................................................... 13
Cylinder Selection ................................................................................................................................. 15
Cylinder Information ............................................................................................................................. 16
Isometric Drawing................................................................................................................................. 17
Pipe Network Table............................................................................................................................... 43
Calculate ..................................................................................................................................................... 52
Calculate................................................................................................................................................ 52
Results ................................................................................................................................................... 54
Error Messages ...................................................................................................................................... 55
Reports ........................................................................................................................................................ 57
Reports .................................................................................................................................................. 57
Multiple Reports ................................................................................................................................... 58
Tables .......................................................................................................................................................... 59
Tables .................................................................................................................................................... 59
Windows ..................................................................................................................................................... 60
About Windows .................................................................................................................................... 60
Resources .................................................................................................................................................... 61
Web Support ......................................................................................................................................... 61
Shortcuts................................................................................................................................................ 62
Index ........................................................................................................................................................... 63
Overview
The Flow Calculation Software contains a sophisticated calculation routine for predicting the flow of
agent through a pipe network system. The calculation routine can be initiated when all the data
necessary to describe the system has been input via the interface. The Windows-based interface
provides a convenient, fast and user-friendly method for entering the system. The software is also
interfaced with (and dependent upon) the hardware-specific data that must be included in the design of
a system.
The calculation routine is based on the conservation of mass, energy and momentum in the pipe
network. This routine calculates the flow in quasi-steady state steps from the initiation of the discharge
to final gas blow down. For a typical system, the program will calculate about 50 steps, although these
steps will not be individually apparent. This is a significantly more rigorous treatment than the
traditional "Halon 12A" method which bases the calculation on a single "average" step for the entire
discharge. This increase in rigor results in longer calculation times, which will vary depending on the
characteristics of the pipe network.
Designing a system begins by entering information to calculate the quantity of agent required to be
delivered into each enclosure. An agent source (i.e. cylinder) is selected, and the pipe network is then
entered using the Isometric Drawing and Pipe Network. The Isometric Drawing screen allows the user
to "draw" a sketch of the system. Information from the drawing is automatically transferred to the Pipe
Network table where it can be further refined. Pipe diameters and nozzle orifice areas may be either
manually entered or selected by the calculation routine.
After the calculation routine is run, the user can compare the system requirements to the predicted
results. If the predictions meet the system requirements and no error messages are present, then the
design is complete. If the predictions are not satisfactory, then changes must be made to the system
(for instance, adjustments to nozzle orifice areas or the pipe network), and the calculation routine must
be run again. This procedure is repeated until the system meets the requirements and all error
messages are resolved.
Software Features
Version 4.00 of this program represents a major upgrade to Version 3. Here is a list of the key features:
The user interface now uses Microsoft's .NET technology. This insures compatibility with
Microsoft operating systems in the years to come.
The manifold can be entered in branch by branch to provide more detail than ever before.
A new Segment Information window has been added to the Isometric Drawing that displays
information about the pipe type, pipe diameter, length, and elevation change of the highlighted
segment. This allows users easy access to information that could previously only be found in
the Pipe Network Table. The Segment Information windows can be used to make on-the-fly
changes from within the Isometric Drawing.
Getting Started
New Project Preferences
(located under the File option of the main toolbar)
This screen allows you to set the defaults for new projects only. If you need to change the settings for
the current project, see Setup.
With the exception of the Designer Name, the defaults are system specific. To find or change the
default values for a particular system, simply select the appropriate system from the 'Agent/System
Type' drop down menu.
Designer Name
Changes in this field will be reflected on all printed and screen reports for all future projects.
Unit of Measure
Choose what unit of measure you would like to use when designing your system. Regardless of the
unit of measure chosen, you can create reports in either set of units. For example, you can create a
project using English units and print reports in metric units.
Default System Pipe Type
The Default System Pipe Type will be used for the section of the pipe network located after the End of
Manifold node. The selection made here is used when the Default Pipe Type or Default Type &
Diameters options are selected in the Pipe Network Table screen.
The alpha-numeric code of the selected type will be displayed in the Pipe Network Table. These codes
are also shown as a prefix to the pipe type descriptions in the pull-down menu.
Default Manifold Pipe Type
The Default Manifold Pipe Type will be used for the section of the pipe network located before the
End of Manifold node. The same rules will be followed as with the Default System Pipe Type
described above.
Default Nozzle Type
The Default Nozzle Type is used as the default in the Isometric Drawing and Pipe Network Table. You
can change the default in the Isometric Drawing by double-clicking the nozzle and changing the
selection. You can also change the nozzle type in the Pipe Network Table by clicking in the cell and
change the value from the pull-down menu.
Default Adjusted Design Concentration
The Default Adjusted Design Concentration is used to set the initial Adjusted Design Concentration in
the Enclosure screen when a new enclosure is added.
Default Minimum Design Concentration
The Default Minimum Design Concentration is used to set the initial Minimum Design Concentration
in the Enclosure screen when a new enclosure is added.
Options
(located under the File option of the main toolbar)
These options will set the general preferences for the program.
General Tab
The General Tab provides miscellaneous options for the software program.
Ask for Project Name When Starting a New Project / Wait Until Saving to Ask for the
New File's Name
Most programs ask for the name of the new project prior to saving it for the first time (default).
If you want, you can change this behavior to require the project name at the start of every new
project. To select between the two options, click on the appropriate radio button.
Reports Tab
Distributor Information
(located under the Help option of the main toolbar)
Optional information about the distributor including name, address and phone number can be entered
in the Distributor Information screen. This information will be included in the header of all reports
generated.
Inputs
Setup
This screen allows you to select certain parameters for the current project only. To change the defaults
for future projects, see the New Project Preferences screen.
Designer Name
Changes in this field will be reflected on all printed and screen reports for all future projects.
Unit of Measure
Choose what unit of measure you would like to use when designing your system. Regardless of the
unit of measure chosen, you can create reports in either set of units. For example, you can create a
project using English units and print reports in metric units.
Once you begin designing the system, you will not be able to change the unit of measure.
Default System Pipe Type
The Default System Pipe Type will be used for the section of the pipe network located after the End of
Manifold node. The selection made here is used when the Default Pipe Type or Default Type &
Diameters options are selected in the Pipe Network Table screen.
The alpha-numeric code of the selected type will be displayed in the Pipe Network Table. These codes
are also shown as a prefix to the pipe type descriptions in the pull-down menu.
Default Manifold Pipe Type
The Default Manifold Pipe Type will be used for the section of the pipe network located before the
End of Manifold node. The same rules will be followed as with the Default System Pipe Type
described above.
Default Nozzle Type
The Default Nozzle Type is used as the default in the Isometric Drawing and Pipe Network Table. You
can change the default in the Isometric Drawing using the Segment Information Window. You can also
change the nozzle type in the Pipe Network Table by clicking in the cell and change the value from the
pull-down menu.
Designer Notes
The Designer Notes screen allows you to enter miscellaneous information about your
project. Comments, notes and a history of the project are examples of the types of information that can
be stored in this field. Since entries in this field are not printed on the Project Report, it can be used for
information that you may not wish your customer to see. Information entered here can be printed as a
separate report under the Reports menu.
The Description field on the Customer and Project Information screen can be used for information that
you do want the customer to see.
Enclosure Selection
The Enclosures Selection screen is used to add, edit, and delete enclosures for this project. It is also
used to enter the Elevation Above Sea Level which, in turn, sets the Atmospheric Correction Factor for
this project.
Once an enclosure screen has been completed, the Elevation Above Sea Level field will be disabled. If
you wish to edit the Elevation Above Sea Level, you can do so in the Adjust Agent Required screen.
Add
Adds an enclosure to the project.
Edit
Modifies the highlighted enclosure.
Delete
Deletes the highlighted enclosure.
Enclosure Information
Enclosure Information screens are used to calculate the amount of agent required to protect each
enclosure and to set the distribution amount between the nozzles in the enclosure (if more than one
nozzle is present).
Each enclosure will require at least one nozzle to provide agent. The quantity of agent required will be
determined by the information entered in the Enclosure Information screen, using the calculation
method outlined in NFPA 2001, "Standard on Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems".
Each time any of the inputs on the Enclosure Information screen are changed, the displayed amount of
agent required in the given enclosure and total amount of agent for all enclosures will be updated.
Enclosure Number/Name
Each enclosure will be numbered sequentially. The Name field allows you to enter a brief description
of the enclosure to make identification easier.
Enclosure Temperature
The temperatures entered for the enclosure should be the lowest and highest temperatures expected for
the enclosure. This information is used along with the enclosure dimensions and Adjusted Design
Concentration to calculate the amount of agent to be delivered to the enclosure (i.e. the Adjusted Agent
Required).
The Minimum Concentration displayed in the Enclosure Temperature section is based on the Adjusted
Agent Required and the Maximum Enclosure Temperature. Please note that the Minimum Enclosure
Temperature is used to calculated the Adjusted Agent Required so you will notice that changing the
Minimum Enclosure Temperature will also have an affect on the calculated Minimum Concentration.
Design Concentrations
The Minimum Design Concentration is the concentration used by the program as a check to insure that
the proper concentration has been delivered to an enclosure. If the Minimum Design Concentration is
not met, an error message will be displayed in the System Acceptance Report. The Minimum Agent
Required is calculated automatically based on the Minimum Design Concentration.
The Adjusted Design Concentration is used to calculate the target value for the amount of agent
delivered to the enclosure. This target value or Adjusted Agent Required is shown in the lower right
hand side of the screen. The software will use the Adjusted Agent Required to determine the amount
of agent required for the entire system (i.e. the amount of agent in the cylinders).
When comparing the two concentrations, the Minimum Design Concentration should be viewed as a
limit. If the limit is not met, then the system is not acceptable. The Adjusted Design Concentration is
a target. The Adjusted Design Concentration must be greater than or equal to the Minimum Design
Concentration.
Depending on the degree of system imbalance, it may be necessary to use a higher Adjusted Design
Concentration for some multi-enclosure systems. The increased amount of agent will allow some
enclosures to receive a bit more agent than the Adjusted Agent Required and some to receive a bit
less. However since the Adjusted Design Concentration is higher than the Minimum Design
Concentration, this strategy should ensure that all enclosures still meet the Minimum Design
Concentrations.
Number of Nozzles
The number of nozzles required in the room (the default is "1"). Each enclosure will require at least
one nozzle to provide agent. You must determine the number of nozzles required, based on the area
and layout of the enclosure.
By default, the agent required in the enclosure is split equally among all of the nozzles. The Nozzle
Table can be used to manually adjust the splits. The redistribution of agent can also be performed later
in the Adjust Agent Required screen.
Enclosure Dimensions
These fields allow you to input the width, height, and length of the enclosure. Using these values, the
software automatically calculates the volume. You can also directly input the volume, ignoring the
specification of individual dimensions. The non-permeable volume in the enclosure can also be
entered (the default is zero). This will be subtracted from the total enclosure volume for the
calculation of the amount of agent required.
Nozzle Table
The Nozzle Table allows you to adjust the amount of agent required to be distributed to two or more
nozzles. The Auto button will distribute the agent evenly between the nozzles. This can be overridden
by manually entering the quantity desired for each nozzle. The redistribution of agent can also be
performed later in the Adjust Agent Required screen.
Each nozzle is given a unique code. The code consists of the enclosure number and the nozzle number
within that enclosure. For example, the code 'E1-N2' refers to the second nozzle (N2) in the first
enclosure (E1).
The values in the Nozzle Information Table are used by the calculation to pick pipe diameters
and nozzle orifice areas.
New Agent Amount
The New Agent Amount field can be used to adjust the total amount of agent required in the system. If
the total agent quantity is adjusted, the software disperses the increase or decrease proportionally
across the enclosures and the nozzles.
Because cylinders are required to be filled to the nearest whole pound (or half kilogram for metric
units), the cylinder fill amount must be in increments of whole pounds (or half kilograms). Similarly,
when designing systems with more than one cylinder, the agent amount divided by the number of
cylinders must also be a whole number (or half for metric unit). If this rule is not followed, the system
will not calculate. The New Agent Amount field can be used to make the necessary adjustments to the
total agent required.
Set to New
Will reset the Original Agent Amount to reflect any change to the New Agent Amount field.
Show Nozzles
Changes how the Nozzle Information section is displayed. You may switch between viewing only the
nozzles defined for the highlighted enclosure, or all nozzles defined for the project.
Elevation
The elevation above (or below) sea level is used to look up the Atmospheric Correction Factor.
Cylinder Selection
Cylinder Name
The first time the Cylinder Selection screen is entered, the software will automatically select the
smallest cylinder for the required quantity of agent. If another size cylinder is desired, a list of
available cylinders is available from the drop down menu.
Cylinder Information
(available from Cylinder Selection screen)
The Cylinder Info screen contains detailed information for each available cylinder. The information
includes:
Cylinder Name
Cylinder Part Number
Low Fill Range
High Fill Range
Cylinder Volume
Valve Diameter
Valve Equivalent Length (based on the internal diameter of the valve)
Cylinder Weight (empty)
Cylinder Diameter
Cylinder Height
Cylinder Length
Cylinder Elevation
The cylinder height, length and elevation will be identical if the cylinder is stored vertically with the
outlet located on top. If the cylinder is allowed to be oriented horizontally or inverted, the height and
elevation may differ.
When originally opened, the Cylinder Info window will display information on the cylinder currently
selected in the Cylinder Selection screen. If you wish to view information on other available cylinders,
you can scroll through the cylinders using the Back or Next buttons. If you decide to change cylinders,
you can use the Select button to update your cylinder selection.
Isometric Drawing
About the Isometric Drawing
The Isometric Drawing screen is used to draw the cylinders, pipe, pipe fittings (i.e. elbows, tees, etc.)
and nozzles that comprise the agent distribution network. The information entered here is translated to
the Pipe Network table. It is recommended that the piping is entered in View #1 (Standard Isometric
View) when designing the system.
When the Isometric Drawing screen is opened initially, one cylinder will be located at the center of the
NESW (North, East, South and West) coordinate system. From there, the user must first build the
manifold pipe network and then the system pipe network. This Starting Cylinder represents the first
piece of the system and cannot be deleted.
The pipe system is broken down into branches. A branch represents one segment of the pipe network
and can include objects such as a cylinder, Other Objects (flex hose, check valve, etc.), a length of
pipe, an elbow or a tee. A branch is bounded on either side by a node. Each node represents a unique
position along the pipe system. By default, a node is shown on the Isometric screen as a circle. You
can navigate through the pipe system by clicking on a node either to edit the system or to add a new
branch to an open node (i.e. a node that has not yet been used to connect two branches). Once the
entire pipe system has been completed, each node will be assigned a number.
The items available in the Isometric Toolbar are used to draw the various pipe branches.
While working in the Isometric screen, there are several ways to reposition the drawing on the screen
including:
Right-clicking anywhere on the screen and dragging.
Using the scroll bars located on the right-hand and bottom edges of the isometric screen
Isometric Toolbar
Bull Tee
Attaches a bull tee to the pipe network. The Rotation Direction buttons are
then activated to allow for rotation of the tee.
Side Tee
Attaches a side tee to the pipe network. The Rotation Direction buttons are
then activated to allow for rotation of the tee.
Nozzle
Attaches a nozzle to the pipe network. After the nozzle has been attached, a
Nozzle Picking screen will open allowing you to pick from the list of
nozzles previously setup when defining the enclosure(s).
45 Degree Elbow
This button attaches a 45 degree elbow to the pipe network. The rotation
buttons are then setup to allow for selection of a legal rotation.
90 degree elbows are the default and are added to the system
automatically if one of the Rotation Direction buttons is
selected. The 90 degree elbow button does not need to be selected.
Cylinder
Attaches a cylinder to the manifold pipe network.
End Cap
Attaches an end cap. The end cap is used to terminate a pipe section (i.e.
close off one side of the first tee in the manifold). These fittings can only be
used in the manifold pipe section.
Rotation Direction
These buttons allow you to rotate the pipe object (elbows, tees, etc.). The
center image indicates the type of object being rotated. The default is a 90
degree elbow. If an open node at the end of a pipe branch is selected,
clicking on any of the directional options will attach a 90 degree elbow.
If an object other than a 90 degree elbow is required, first click the
appropriate button (located to the left of the Rotation Direction buttons) and
then use the Rotation Direction buttons to select the correct direction.
The notation is similar to North, West, etc. In addition to N, S, E, and W,
the letters U, and D are available. U stands for up, and D stands for down.
Other Objects
Attaches objects that do not have a specific button associated with them. If
no objects fall into this category, then the button is not active.
Trash Can
Deletes a branch of the system. You can continue deleting branches by
repeatedly clicking this button. You must have an open node (i.e. a node
that has not yet been used to connect two branches) selected to use this
option.
For more methods to edit a node that is not open, please use the various
Editing Commands.
Zoom
Controls how large or small you want the drawing to appear on the screen.
Center
Repositions the isometric drawing so that the highlighted node is in the
middle of the screen.
NESW Rotate
Rotates the NESW lines. Once selected a window will open displaying the
possible degrees of rotation.
Pipe
In order to attach a section of pipe, enter the desired length in the Pipe
Length input box and click this button. The same function can be
performed using the Enter key.
Pipe Length
Enter the length of pipe you wish to attach and then click the Pipe button
(just to the left) or press the Enter key.
End of Manifold
Indicates the end of the manifold pipe and the beginning of the system pipe.
An end of manifold must be designated for all multiple cylinder systems.
Reserve
Indicates the connection point of the Reserve manifold when a
Main/Reserve setup is being used.
The Reserve button will only be active if the Main/Reserve option was
selected in the Cylinder Selection screen.
Views
This button allows you to select 1 of 12 possible viewing angles, based on
three points of view:
Isometric
Elevation (side)
Plan (top)
The standard views are identified as buttons 1, 5 and 9. The angle and
rotation of these views cannot be modified.
When you change views, the current view is saved so that you can set up
custom views for a particular project. This becomes critical when printing,
as you may wish to designate 3 or 4 views specifically for printing while
using the others to view and edit.
Rotate
This button will rotate your drawing in 45 degree increments. Click on the
button until you find your preference. The rotation you select will be saved
with the current view.
Rotate is not available for views 1, 5 and 9.
Angle
This button lets you select from three perspectives:
Isometric
Plan
Elevation
Click the button until you find your preference. The angle you select will
be saved with the current view.
Angle is not available for views 1, 5 and 9.
View
Opens a window displaying the various options for the display. Each view
(1-12) can be individually customized. Initially the options for the current
view are displayed. Other views can be selected by using the Back and
Next buttons.
Manifolds
Building a Manifold
Standard Manifold
The manifold design begins with the Starting Cylinder located in the center of the NESW coordinate
system.
The first step is to add the components that connect the cylinder to the manifold. These components
can include a flex hose, a check valve, pipe fittings (45 degree or 90 degree elbows), and pipe. The
number and type of fittings depends on the design. The various components can be added using the
Isometric Toolbar.
To add pipe,
1. Enter the length of pipe you wish to add
2. Click the Pipe button (to the left of the numeric field), or press the Enter key
To add a fitting:
1. Select an object to add (for example: a flex hose, check valve or 45 degree elbow)
2. Select its rotation (if applicable) with one of the eight Rotation Direction buttons
Please note: 90 degree elbows are the default and are added to the system automatically if one of the
Rotation Direction buttons is selected. To add a 90 degree elbow, step 1 is not necessary.
A tee should be used to tie into the manifold as shown below. All components connecting the Starting
Cylinder to the first manifold tee (not including the tee) and the cylinder itself will be copied and
applied if the Cylinder and Attachments button is selected later in the design.
If the Starting Cylinder represents the last cylinder (i.e. furthest removed from the system pipe), an end
cap can be used to close off the side of the tee not connected to another cylinder.
From the tee outlet, pipe and other fittings can be added to construct the manifold. At the end of the
manifold pipe, click the End of Manifold button. A circle will be displayed around the final manifold
node along with the text "End of Manifold".
With the manifold pipe constructed, there are two options for connecting remaining cylinders. The
quickest is to use the Cylinder and Attachments button. If additional detail is preferred or if you will be
using different configurations to connect the cylinders, you will need to build each connection
separately.
Cylinder and Attachment Button Method:
1. Select the tee node where the new cylinder will be connected through.
2. Click the Cylinder and Attachment button. The new connection will be symbolized with a red
circle around the node.
In the examples shown above, the Individual Build method used the same exact pipe and fittings to
connect the extra cylinders to the manifold tee. In this case, both methods would produce the same
predictions. The predictions would only differ if an alternate pipe and fitting configuration is used to
connect the extra cylinders.
With the cylinders accounted for, you are now ready to add the System Pipe
Main/Reserve Manifold
The reserve manifold does not need to be built in the Isometric Drawing. The software assumes the
reserve manifold is identical to the main manifold. This assumption means that the main and reserve
discharges will yield the same mass splits, pressures and discharge time.
If the main and reserve manifolds are not identical, a separate project should be setup for each
system.
The Reserve button will only be active if the Main/Reserve option was selected in the Cylinder
Selection screen.
Complete the manifold by adding a length of pipe to the only remaining open tee outlet and
clicking the End of Manifold button.
With the manifold designed, you are now ready to add the System Pipe.
Load a Manifold
The Load a Manifold feature is found under the Manifold option on the Isometric Drawing screen
menu. This feature will retrieve the pipe information from a previously created manifold and import it
into the new design.
When the Load a Manifold feature is selected, the Manifold List screen will open and display all
available manifolds stored in the current Manifold Search Directory. To add a manifold, select the
desired manifold and click the Load Selected Manifold button.
Browse
The default Manifold Search Directory is set using the Locations tab of the Options screen. If you
would like to load a manifold from a different location, you can use the Browse button to change the
Manifold Search Directory.
If you make significant changes to the loaded manifold and plan to use the modified manifold in the
future, you may want to save the manifold into the list of available manifolds using the Save This
Manifold feature.
Isometric Views
There are twelve (12) views available. You may customize and save the settings for each view using
the View button on the Isometric Toolbar. When View window opens, the options for the current view
are displayed. Other views can be selected by using the Back and Next buttons. If you decide to change
Views, you can use the Select button to update the which view will be displayed.
Edit Commands
You may find this function helpful if you must modify a drawing in the midst of a configuration. You
can cut a section of pipe away, make the modifications necessary (such as adding piping to circumvent
a beam), and re-attach the cut pipe section as a unit, rather than re-drawing the entire section.
This feature is useful when branch lines are identical, saving you repetitious drawing commands.
This feature is useful when branch lines are identical, saving you repetitious drawing commands.
There are some restrictions on where the pipe section can be re-attached. The primary restriction
concerns the take-off direction. Specifically, you can not save a horizontal section of pipe and then
attach it in a vertical manner or vice versa.
In some cases where a section would not connect properly (e.g., pasting a section that starts with a
fitting on a segment that ends with a fitting), a pipe segment will be inserted automatically so the
section can be pasted. The new pipe segment will have a length of 1 foot (or 1 meter, if working in
metric units).
There are some restrictions on where the pipe section can be re-attached. The primary restriction
concerns the take-off direction. Specifically, you can not save a horizontal section of pipe and then
attach it in a vertical manner or vice versa.
In some cases where a section would not connect properly (e.g., pasting a section that starts with a
fitting on a segment that ends with a fitting), a pipe segment will be inserted automatically so the
section can be pasted. The new pipe segment will have a length of 1 foot (or 1 meter, if working in
metric units).
This feature is particularly useful for repeated pipe configurations in multiple projects.
This feature is particularly useful for repeated pipe configurations in multiple projects.
This feature will allow you to import an entire pipe network from a previously created project.
Warning: This will erase any pipe currently drawn in the Isometric.
Table Layout
The table is organized in the following manner:
Segment 0 always represents the Starting Cylinder. The data for a cylinder is contained in a
table and is automatically entered.
The next set of segments represent the pipe, fittings or Other Objects (flex hoses, check valve,
etc.) that are used to connect the Starting Cylinder to the End Of Manifold. These segments
are listed in the order based on the flow path of the agent from the Starting Cylinder to the exit
of the manifold.
System pipe segments are listed next.
Finally, the additional pieces of the manifold are listed. These segments include the
connection of any additional cylinders or pipe branches that tie into the initial manifold
segments connecting the Starting Cylinder to the End of Manifold.
To simplify the Pipe Network Table, you can edit what information is displayed. The type of objects
displayed can be modified using the Show/Hide Rows feature located in the toolbar of the table. The
information listed for each pipe branch can be modified using the Show/Hide Columns feature.
Another option to simplify the Pipe Network Table is to use the Combine Rows feature.
Please note the start and end node number columns are automatically hidden if the system has
not been completed.
Nozzle Area
To change data for other cells, type directly into the cell.
There are several things to remember when working in the Pipe Network Table:
The pipe diameter for an elbow or tee is automatically set. You are not allowed to manually
adjust the diameter of these objects in either the Isometric Drawing or Pipe Network Table.
If the Pipe Diameter or Pipe Type are changed for a given pipe segment, you will have the
option to "Cascade" this change to the surrounding pipe sections. The change will be applied
both upstream and downstream until a tee, nozzle or other object (cylinder, flex hose, check
valve, etc.) is reached. This option allows you to make changes to multiple pipe sections in
one step.
Changes to the pipe network table do not take effect until you click or tab out of the changed
cell.
The Default Options and Duplicate Options features allow you to quickly assign values to the
Pipe Type and Pipe Diameter fields.
Pipe Locking
The calculation routine includes a pipe picking routine that attempts to optimize the pipe diameters for
the system pipe only. The pipe picking occurs at the time of the Main Calculations and is independent
of the pipe diameters selected if the Default Pipe Diameters option was selected.
The pipe locking options allow the user to set what, if any, pipe branches should be included in the
pipe diameter selection process. If you do not want the calculation to select a new pipe diameter for a
particular branch, place a check in the Lock Pipe Diameter box for that branch. The calculation will
perform pipe picking for all branches with a blank Lock Pipe Diameter box. The pipe locking feature
is convenient if you have a section of pipe that cannot be altered (i.e. existing pipe) or if you are trying
to force the use of a certain pipe diameter.
Regardless of whether the calculation picks the pipes or not, each segment is required to have a
diameter before the calculation can start. This is done by using the Default Pipe Diameters option or
by manually entering diameters in the table.
The pipe locking values for each branch can be set individually by clicking on the box in the Lock Pipe
Diameter column. Or, the values for all of the system pipe can be changed at once using the Pipe
Locking options under the toolbar.
Manifold pipe is automatically locked and will not be selected by the calculation. You must
select the pipe diameters manually or use the Default Pipe Diameters option. If the calculation
indicates branches in manifold are too small, the pipe diameters should be adjusted. In addition, if the
correct pressures or discharge times cannot be achieved by adjusting the system pipe, you should try to
modify the manifold pipe. Please note, pipe diameters for Other Objects like cylinders and flex hoses
are fixed and cannot not be adjusted.
Default Options
The default features provide a method to quickly set the pipe types and pipe diameters after creating
the system in the Isometric Drawing.
Pipe types and pipe diameters will not change for special objects like cylinders, flex hoses, and check
valves.
The diameters selected are only to provide an initial point for the system design and are not
optimized. You may need to adjust the diameters manually or allow the calculation routine to select
pipe diameters for you. More information on using the calculation to select pipe diameters can be
found in the Pipe Locking discussion.
Duplicate Options
The duplicate feature can be used to automatically copy the pipe type or pipe diameter from the
highlighted row to the rows below it in the Pipe Network Table. Before selecting one of the duplicate
options, select the row (or any one of the cells in the row) that contains the information to be copied.
Pipe types and pipe diameters will not change for special objects like cylinders, flex hoses, and check
valves.
The pipe type should be selected before using the pipe diameter duplication.
Show/Hide Rows
Rows of the Pipe Network Table can be shown to increase the level of detail or hidden simply the
view. The show/hide feature is broken down into several categories including:
Show Manifold Pipe,
Show System Pipe,
Show Cylinders,
Show Cylinder + (see Cylinders Plus Attachments description in Isometric Toolbar section),
Show Pipes,
Show Elbows,
Show Tees, and
Show Nozzles.
Categories shown with a check will be displayed in the pipe network table. Categories shown without
a check will be hidden. To toggle between the two options, simply click the appropriate category with
the mouse. By default, all but the Cylinder + category are shown.
Show/Hide Columns
Columns of the Pipe Network Table can be shown to increase the level of detail or hidden simply the
view. The show/hide feature is broken down into several categories including:
Segment Number,
Manifold/System (indicates whether a segment is part of the manifold or system pipe),
Segment Type (cylinder, flex hose, check valve, pipe, tee, elbow, etc.),
Start Node (only displayed if system is complete),
End Node (only displayed if system is complete),
Pipe Type,
Pipe Diameter (nominal),
Lock Pipe Diameter (see Pipe Locking)
Pipe Length,
Pipe Elevation,
Union,
Other Objects (indicates which flex hose, check valve, etc. is used),
Equivalent Length Added (can be used to add equivalent length to account for a known
pressure loss),
Equivalent Length Total (combined equivalent including Added Equivalent Length),
Flow (total flow through the pipe segment),
Nozzle Name,
Nozzle Type (360 degree, 180 degree, etc.), and
Nozzle Orifice Area (total area of all orifices that control the flow).
Categories shown with a check will be displayed in the pipe network table. Categories shown without
a check will be hidden. To toggle between the two options, simply click the check box next to the
appropriate category with the mouse.
Combine Rows
An option is provided to compress or expand the number of branches shown in the table in order to
simply the view or show added detail. The level of detail is controlled by the button between the
'Default Type & Diameters' and 'Test the Data' buttons.
The Combine Rows features differs from the Show/Hide Rows option in that it is actually combining
multiple branches into one and not just hiding certain types from view.
The button text and color will vary as follows:
If the Combine Pipe/Elbows button is shown, the Pipe Network Table is showing maximum detail with
all branches displayed. This is the default setting for new projects.
If the Combine Pipe/Elbows is clicked, all elbows that are followed by a pipe branch will be combined
into one branch. When combined, the Segment Key column will indicate the branch numbers
combined, and the Segment Type will read Pipe/Elbow.
After Combine Pipe/Elbow has been clicked, the button will take on the following form:
If the Combine Branches button is shown, the Pipe Network Table is displaying combined pipe/elbow
segments..
The Combine Branches button provides another method to simplify the Pipe Network Table. When
selected, this feature will combine multiple sets of elbows and pipe branches into one branch. Tees,
nozzles and Other objects will not be combined. As an example, consider a system that has six pieces
of pipe and five elbows between the cylinder and the first tee. The Combine Branches feature will
reduce the number of branches down to three. This will include one for the cylinder, one for the tee,
and one for the combined pipe pieces and elbows.
When combined, the Segment Key column will indicate the branch numbers combined, and the
Segment Type will read Combined. If the pipe type or diameter of the segments vary (i.e. if a 1/2 inch
length of pipe is combined with a 3/4 inch elbow), the pipe type or pipe diameter box will be left
blank.
After Combine Branches has been clicked, the button will take on the following form:
If the Show Expanded button is shown, the Pipe Network Table is displaying combined branches. To
expand the Pipe Network Table to show the maximum detail, click the Show Expanded button.
Calculate
Calculate
With the information entered properly in each of the input sections, the flow calculations can be
performed. To begin a calculation, select the Perform Main Calculation option under Calculate on the
main toolbar.
The DOS calculation routine will run in the background by default. To view the routine, deselect
the Minimize Main Calc DOS window in the Options screen.
Pipe and Nozzle Picking
The calculation routine has the ability to pick pipe diameters and nozzle orifice sizes in an attempt to
meet the required agent distribution within the discharge time and minimum nozzle pressure
limits. The system returned by the calculation may still have to be fine tuned manually. Prior to the
start of the calculation, you will be prompted to select your calculation option. Three options are
offered:
Select Nozzles and Unlocked Pipe
The calculation will pick pipe diameters for all unlocked system pipe branches (see
Pipe Locking for more information on locking/unlocking pipe branches). The pipe
diameters for locked branches will not be affected.
Select Nozzle Only
The calculation will pick nozzle orifice sizes only. The pipe diameters of the pipe will
not be affected regardless of whether or not they have been identified as locked or
unlocked.
Use the Current Nozzles and Pipe
The calculation will not attempt to pick pipe diameters or nozzles. The current values
will be used.
This option is not available if any of the nozzle fields are blank.
Some Things to Consider:
All Error Messages must be corrected before running the Main Calculations. You may be
returned to the software window if the calculation program detects input parameters which are
outside of the design limitations of the software. For example, selecting a nozzle orifice area
too large for one of the nozzles would automatically stop the calculation and return you to
software.
The calculation can be used to pick nozzles only or nozzles and pipe diameters. The
calculation cannot pick just pipes.
Regardless of whether the calculation will be used to pick the pipe diameters, each segment is
required to have a starting diameter. This can be done by selecting either the Default Pipe
Diameter or Default Pipe Type and Diameter option or by manually entering diameters in the
Pipe Network Table. Segments that you do not want changed must be locked prior to running
the calculation.
If pipe picking is used, the diameters of Other Objects (flex hoses, check valves, etc.) will not
be changed.
The calculation will take a varying amount of time, depending on the type and size of
system. In general, more complicated systems with a larger number of nozzles and branches
will take longer than smaller, simpler ones. Using the pipe or nozzle picking features will
increase the calculation time.
Results
The report produced by the calculation includes a report of system limits so you can see if a system is
approaching a limit. The report also provides some design suggestions to help make failing systems
pass. The report is automatically displayed at the end of the calculation. It can also be accessed by
selecting the View Most Recent Results option under Calculate on the main toolbar.
Error messages may be displayed when the calculation results are returned that will require you to
redesigned your system. A list of messages are displayed and explained in the Error Messages section.
Two Results Reports can be generated. The standard Report only displays information on the
calculation results. The Reports with Help option includes information on the calculation results,
system limits and design help. The Results Reports can be printed or saved as a PDF or RTF
file. Clicking on the Report or Report with Help buttons will bring up a Print Preview window. From
within this window, the report can be printed or saved.
Recalculate
If the option to have the calculation pick pipe or nozzle sizes is selected at the time the calculation is
run, the Recalculate option will be activated when the Calculation Results are displayed. The
Recalculation option will rerun the calculation a second time to attempt to improve the system design.
If the Recalculate option is activated the following button will be displayed in the upper right hand side
of the Calculation Results window:
The Recalculate option is only available immediately after the first calculation is run and can
only be performed one time.
Error Messages
Error Messages will appear when system input is found to be outside the bounds of the acceptable
limits of the program.
The difference between liquid arrival times at two of the nozzles exceeds the allowed maximum.
Maximum runout time imbalance exceeded between nozzles X and Y
The difference between nozzle liquid runout times at two of the nozzles exceeds the allowed
maximum.
Choked flow feeding nozzle X
If the piping leading to a nozzle is too small, relative to the nozzle orifice area, choked flow may occur
in that branch. The nozzle is not controlling the flow in this branch and the calculated system data may
be unreliable. The pipe network should be adjusted. The piping in the branch preceding the nozzle
can be made larger, or the nozzle orifice area can be made smaller. Excessive pipe lengths may also be
prone to choked flow.
Reports
Reports
Several different report options are available under the Reports option on the main toolbar. The reports
can be printed or saved as a PDF or RTF file. Clicking on the desired report will bring up a Print
Preview window. From within this window, the report can be printed or saved.
Project Report
Contains the information as entered in the Customer and Project Information screen.
Designer Notes Report
Contains the information as entered in the Designer Notes screen.
Enclosure Report
Contains the information as entered in the Enclosure screens.
Agent Source Report
Contains the information as entered in the Agent Source screen.
Print Isometric Drawing
Brings up a submenu of the twelve (12) isometric views. Highlight any selection to bring up the Print
Preview window.
Pipe Network Report
Contains the information as it appears in the Pipe Network Table with all branches displayed.
Pipe Network Report, Combined Pipe and Elbows
Contains the information as it appears in the Pipe Network Table with pipe and elbow branches
combined. The branches will appear in the same manner as if the Combine Pipe/Elbows button was
used in the Pipe Network Table screen.
Parts List Report
Lists all the pipe, fittings, cylinders, nozzles, agent, and other hardware components that were called
out in the Pipe Network table. It will not include any valves or fittings that were entered in the Pipe
Network as added equivalent length.
System Acceptance Report
Contains information including the discharge times, quantity of agent delivered to each enclosure,
nozzle pressures, and any error messages that occurred during the calculation. This data must be
compared to the system requirements to insure the system has been designed properly.
If you make changes to your project, you must re-open each report to view the reflected changes.
Multiple Reports
The Multiple Reports option makes it easier to print specific sections with one command. Simply
select Multiple Reports under Reports on the main toolbar. Then select the reports that you would like
to have combined into one consolidated report. With your selection complete, click the Show button to
launch the Print Preview window. From within this window, the report can be printed or saved as a
PDF or RTF.
Tables
Tables
Contains information on the hardware available for use in the system design. There is no need to add
or change the data in these tables; they are provided for information only.
Cylinders
Information about the cylinders available for use in your system is displayed in the Cylinders Table.
Pipe Types
A list of the available pipe types for use in your pipe network can be viewed from the Tables pull-
down menu. Specific information about a particular pipe type can be viewed by selecting the pipe type
from this menu.
Nozzles
A list of the available nozzle types for use in your pipe network can be viewed from the Tables pull-
down menu. Specific information about the nozzles included in a particular nozzle type can be viewed
by selecting the nozzle type from this menu.
Other Pipe Objects
Information about Other Objects (flex hoses, check valves, etc.) that can be used in the pipe network is
included in the Other Pipe Objects Table.
Atmospheric Correction Factors
Adjustments used when calculating agent flow for enclosures at elevations above sea level.
Windows
About Windows
Multiple windows can be displayed on screen at the same time. The Windows options provide a
method to organize the open windows including Cascade, Tile Vertical and Tile Horizontal.
Resources
Web Support
For further assistance, including tips and updated drivers, visit us on the web at
http://www.haifire.com/FlowCalc/techsupport.htm.
Shortcuts
Action Shortcut
Index
A M
About Windows.............................................................................. 60 Manifold ............................................................................. 24, 29, 30
Adjust Agent Required ................................................................... 13 Building ...................................................................................... 24
B Load............................................................................................ 30
Building ....................................................................................24, 31 Save ............................................................................................ 29
Manifold ..................................................................................... 24 Multiple Reports ............................................................................ 58
System Pipe ................................................................................ 31 N
C New Project Preferences .................................................................. 3
Calculations .................................................................................... 52 Nozzle Table .................................................................................. 12
Combine Rows ............................................................................... 51 O
Copy Pipe Heading AWAY from First Cylinder .......................... 34 Open Pipe Section .......................................................................... 39
Copy Pipe Heading TOWARDS First Cylinder ............................ 35 Options ............................................................................................. 4
Customer and Project Information ................................................... 7 Overview .......................................................................................... 1
Cut Pipe Heading AWAY from First Cylinder ............................. 33 P
Cylinder Information ...................................................................... 16 Paste Pipe Section .......................................................................... 36
Cylinder Selection .......................................................................... 15 Pipe Elevation Adjustment ............................................................ 46
D Pipe Locking .................................................................................. 45
Default Options .............................................................................. 47 Pipe Network.................................................................................. 43
Delete All The Piping..................................................................... 38 R
Delete Pipe Heading AWAY from First Cylinder ......................... 37 Reports ........................................................................................... 57
Designer Notes ................................................................................. 8 Results ............................................................................................ 54
Distributor Information .................................................................... 5 S
Duplicate Options ........................................................................... 48 Save Pipe Heading AWAY from First Cylinder ........................... 40
E Save Pipe Heading TOWARDS First Cylinder............................. 41
Enclosure Information .................................................................... 10 Save This Manifold ........................................................................ 29
Enclosure Selection .......................................................................... 9 Segment Information Window....................................................... 23
Error Messages ............................................................................... 55 Setup Project .................................................................................... 6
I Show/Hide Columns ...................................................................... 50
Isometric Drawing .......................................................................... 17 Show/Hide Rows ........................................................................... 49
Isometric Toolbar ........................................................................... 18 System Pipe .................................................................................... 31
Isometric Views.............................................................................. 32 Building ...................................................................................... 31
K T
Keyboard Shortcuts ........................................................................ 62 Tables ............................................................................................. 59
L Test Data ........................................................................................ 43
Load a Manifold ............................................................................. 30 W
Load Pipe Network ........................................................................ 42 What's New ...................................................................................... 2