Ansul Interlock FAQ

An interlock is a safety mechanism designed to automatically shut down specific systems or equipment in response to a particular event. In this case an activation of a Ansul suppression or extinguishing system interlocking with protected cooking appliances and canopy air supply that could mitigate the spread of fire throughout a building.

• Safety: Prevents re-ignition of fires by stopping fuel or power supply and removing air supply.

• Compliance: Required by fire safety codes, insurance, and system manufacturers.
• System Integrity: Ensures the Ansul system performs as designed in an emergency.
• Fire Triangle: Interlocking removes components of the fire triangle

 The Fire Triangle Components:

• Heat: A source of ignition (e.g., open flame, hot surface, electrical spark)
• Fuel: Any combustible material (e.g., oil, grease, wood, paper, gas)
• Oxygen: Typically, from the air (about 21% oxygen is enough to support combustion)

A fire can only occur when all three elements are present at the same time. If you remove any one of the components, the fire will either not start or will be extinguished.

If a fire starts in a commercial kitchen, the Ansul interlocking system works to break the fire triangle

Yes. Whether you have an existing or newly installed Ansul R-102 or Piranha system, interlock shutdown is a mandatory requirement.

No, a connection between the Ansul system and the fire alarm system is recommended, it is not mandatory.

Yes. Interlocking via the fire alarm system is possible using appropriate interfaces. In this setup, the fire alarm system must be properly connected to the interlock components and maintained in accordance with regulatory standards.
However, we recommend a dedicated interlock setup using an Ansul isolator and controller for greater reliability and system integrity.

The required interlock connections depend on the type of kitchen appliances protected by the Ansul system:

• Gas and electric appliances: Shutdown of both appliance types covered by the Ansul system.
• Canopy supply air: Shutdown to prevent additional oxygen feeding the fire.
• Extraction system: This is to be left running and operational, although this would still be UL listed if shut down.

Yes, Ansul systems can be customised to fit most commercial kitchens. Factors like kitchen layout, cooking equipment, and ventilation determine the best configuration, which we can assess during a free survey.

Ansul systems are compact and adaptable. The exact space depends on the number of nozzles and tank size needed, which we can determine during a free site survey.

Ansul systems are configured to protect fryers, grills, ovens, ranges, and hoods. We can arrange a free site survey to ensure that the installation of the Ansul system is tailored to your kitchen setup.

Installation time depends on the system size and kitchen layout. Most commercial kitchens can be fitted within a day or two, with minimal disruption to operations.

Ansul systems should be professionally maintained and tested by an accredited engineer every 6 months, to ensure the system is in full working order. Technicians check tank pressure, nozzle alignment, and system functionality. Contact our friendly team to discuss arranging an Ansul service visit.

Yes, Ansul systems can be reconfigured for new layouts. A professional survey is required to ensure full coverage and compliance with fire safety codes.

Ansul systems are designed to suppress fires within seconds of detection, minimising damage and preventing fire spread in commercial kitchens.

Simply contact our team who will be able to provide a quotation for the maintenance of your Ansul system, and schedule a visit.