Fire suppression solutions in the new Information and Communication Centre for Scholars at Vilnius University Library

As part of the project to build and fit out the Information and Communication Centre for Scholars at Vilnius University Library, FIMA was responsible for the installation of a fire suppression system in a complex that covers almost 14,000 square metres.

Because the deposit rooms hold almost two million items, the customer was particularly concerned that the fire suppression system should ensure the security of a very large amount of documentation.

It was the first time in Lithuania when an indoor high-pressure mist fire suppression system was installed. The solution cuts the amount of water used by 80 per cent compared with a conventional sprinkler system. The system has reduced the risk of damage to the books stored in the library should fire break out.

The cutting-edge suppression system covers both the deposit rooms and other rooms within the centre. The deposit rooms containing publications are fitted with a double fire detection system, which prevents redundant fire suppression and protects all the stored items.

The fire suppression system had to be accommodated within the centre’s sophisticated architecture. The system separates fire zones with the use of compact sprinklers and special automation systems which ensure that, in the event of fire, a ‘curtain’ separates the atrium from other rooms, protecting all of them from smoke and fire damage.

The high-pressure water mist fire suppression system that FIMA installed is made up of:

• 1,100 water mist sprinklers
• 6,000 m of high-pressure stainless steel pipework
• 15 high-pressure alarm valves
• A high-pressure pumping station

For more information about the Information and Communication Centre for Scholars at VU Library visit http://www.mkic.mb.vu.lt/en/