Novec 1230 (FK-5-1-12) is one of the most advanced clean agent gaseous fire suppression systems available today, trusted worldwide for protecting high-value assets and mission-critical environments. Engineered for rapid fire extinguishment with zero residue and minimal environmental impact (GWP=1, Zero ODP), Fluoroketone Novec 1230 is the preferred choice for data center fire suppression, server room fire suppression and is also used in control rooms, museums, hospitals, and industrial facilities. Fluoroketone FK-5-1-12 is the most preferred clean agent halon (halon 1301) alternative for fire suppression of high value assets. Novec 1230 fluid contains neither bromine nor chlorine and has zero ozone depleting potential.
These attributes ensure that Novec 1230 fluid represents a truly sustainable technology. The system rapidly discharges the FK-5-1-12 fluid as a gas, which is safe for people and equipment because it leaves no residue and is electrically non-conductive.
Novec 1230 provides a high safety margin with a 4.2% use concentration and a 10% NOAEL level, It is a fluid a atmospheric pressure and can be gravity fed for easy re-charge and extinguishes fire through heat absorption and not oxygen reduction.
This makes it an effective choice for protecting sensitive assets like data centers, server rooms, and electrical control rooms.
What Is Novec 1230?
Novec 1230 is a fluoroketone clean agent (FK-5-1-12) developed by 3M. Its chemical name is Perfluoro(2-methyl-3-pentanone). FK-5-1-12 extinguishes fires primarily by absorbing heat, unlike traditional agents that reduce oxygen. This makes it extremely safe for occupied spaces while ensuring fast and reliable fire control. Novec 1230 has a purity grade of above 99%.
It is stored as FK-5-1-12 liquid and discharged as a gas, allowing uniform distribution as part of a total flooding system and immediate fire suppression without damaging sensitive equipment.
How Novec 1230 System Works
When a fire is detected:
- The fire detection system activates the fire alarm control panel.
- FK-5-1-12 is discharged as a gas through engineered nozzles and the room is entirely filled with Novec 1230 clean agent gas.
- FK-5-1-12 gas absorbs the heat and interrupts combustion.
- Fire is extinguished within seconds.
Key Benefits of Novec 1230 Systems
✅ Environmentally Friendly
- FK-5-1-12 has Zero Ozone Depletion Potential (Zero ODP)
- FK-5-1-12 has Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 1
- FK-5-1-12 has atmospheric lifetime of only 5 days
✅ Safe for People
- FK-5-1-12 is approved for use in occupied areas
- Wide safety margin compared to CO₂ and inert gas systems
✅ Highly Effective Fire Protection
- Rapid suppression of Class A, B, and C fires
- Excellent performance in enclosed spaces
✅ Equipment-Friendly
- FK-5-1-12 is non-conductive and non-corrosive
- Ideal for electronics, IT infrastructure, and electrical rooms
Applications of Novec 1230 Systems
Novec 1230 is widely used across multiple industries, including:
- Data centers & server rooms
- Electrical control panels
- Telecommunication facilities
- Museums & archives
- Oil & gas control rooms
- Healthcare facilities
- Banking & financial institutions
Novec 1230 vs FM-200
Novec 1230 and FM 200 are both clean agent fire suppression gases, but Novec 1230 is significantly more environmentally friendly (GWP = 1 vs. FM 200’s ~3350) with a shorter atmospheric lifetime, aligning better with modern sustainability goals, though it may require more storage cylinders than FM 200. FM 200 is often more cost-effective and requires less agent for coverage, but faces future regulatory pressure due to its high GWP. Both Novec 1230 and FM 200 are electrically non-conductive and safe for occupied spaces.
Feature | Novec 1230 | FM-200 |
Environmental Impact | Extremely low | Higher GWP |
Atmospheric Lifetime | ~5 days | ~34 years |
Safety Margin | Very high | Moderate |
Future Compliance | Long-term | Facing phase-down |
Novec 1230 is widely considered the future-proof alternative to FM-200.
Novec 1230 Systems Compliance & Standards
Novec 1230 systems are designed and installed in accordance with:
- NFPA 2001 (Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems)
- ISO 14520
- EN 15004
- Local fire authority and civil defense approvals
This ensures global acceptance and regulatory compliance.
Looking for Novec 1230 System Installation & Maintenance?
Total Fire Protection provides Novec 1230 fire suppression system installation and maintenance to keep your critical assets safe and compliant. We handle everything—from system design and installation to testing, commissioning, and preventive maintenance—strictly in line with NFPA 2001, ISO 14520, and Qatar civil defence requirements.
With certified engineers, transparent documentation, and reliable AMC support, we ensure fast response, zero residue protection, and long-term system performance.
Contact Total Fire Protection today for a site survey, system upgrade, or ongoing maintenance of your Novec 1230 system.
