CO2 Systems

High-concentration gaseous suppression for high-value industrial hazards and unoccupied special environments.

Request a Quote
High-pressure gaseous fire suppression cylinders with brass control valves

What is a CO2 system?

Carbon dioxide fire extinguishing systems work by flooding a volume or locally applying CO2 to a hazard to displace oxygen and smother fire. As a non-conductive, colorless, and odorless gas, CO2 leaves no residue, making it ideal for protecting sensitive industrial equipment.

Because carbon dioxide is an asphyxiant at the concentrations required for fire suppression, these systems are specifically designed for unoccupied spaces or hazards with stringent personnel safety safeguards and lockout protocols.

Types of CO2 Systems

High-Pressure Storage

CO2 stored in individual cylinders at ambient temperature; suitable for smaller or localized hazards.

Low-Pressure Storage

Large refrigerated tanks for bulk storage; efficient for high-volume flooding requirements.

Total Flooding

Discharges gas into a sealed enclosure to reach a design concentration throughout the volume.

Local Application

Nozzles directed specifically at a high-risk piece of equipment in an open space.

Why it matters

Safety is the primary driver in CO2 system engineering. Because the agent is lethal at extinguishing concentrations, we integrate critical life-safety layers:

  • Pneumatic time delays and pre-discharge alarms to ensure evacuation.
  • Wintergreen odorizers to provide a distinct warning of gas presence.
  • Physical lockout valves for safe maintenance and personnel entry.
  • Strict OSHA compliance for signage, training, and respiratory protocols.
  • Rapid response for electrical and high-heat process hazards.

How Lacuna approaches it

01

Review

Rigorous hazard assessment and occupancy/egress path analysis.

02

Design

Precise concentration calculations and nozzle placement for uniform coverage.

03

Safety

Integration of mechanical and electrical safety interlocks and warning systems.

04

Coordinate

Direct AHJ liaison to ensure understanding of safety sequencing.

05

Support

Field verification of pipe integrity and discharge testing coordination.

Applicable codes & standards

NFPA 12Standard on Carbon Dioxide Extinguishing Systems.
OSHA 1910.162Fixed extinguishing systems, gaseous agent safety requirements.
IBC / IFCRequirements for hazardous material storage and high-hazard (H) occupancies.
AHJ LocalSpecific local amendments regarding discharge permitting and testing.
FM Global Data SheetsProperty-insurer criteria for CO₂ and special-hazard protection, where FM Global–insured.

Lacuna prioritizes life-safety protocols above all design criteria.

Where it's used

Industrial ProcessGeneratorsPrinting PressesDip TanksMarine Engine RoomsUnoccupied Special Hazards

Secure your high-hazard process assets.

Expert gaseous suppression design for specialized industrial environments.

Request a Quote