Summary

AMI Technologies Ltd. is proud to undertake the comprehensive design, supply, and installation of a state-of-the-art Fire Hydrant and Automatic Sprinkler System at Eskayef Pharmaceuticals Limited, located at Taneem Square, 158 Kemal Ataturk Avenue, Dhaka 1213. This critical fire protection project encompasses the complete lifecycle of fire safety infrastructure, from initial engineering design through final commissioning, ensuring the highest standards of life safety and property protection for one of Bangladesh's leading pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities.

Project Background

Eskayef Pharmaceuticals Limited, a prominent name in Bangladesh's pharmaceutical industry, requires robust fire protection systems to safeguard its valuable assets, protect personnel, and ensure business continuity. The pharmaceutical manufacturing environment presents unique fire safety challenges due to the presence of sensitive equipment, chemical storage areas, clean rooms, manufacturing zones, warehousing facilities, and administrative spaces. This project addresses these multifaceted requirements through an integrated approach combining both active fire suppression systems.

Project Scope and Objectives

Primary Objectives:

• Design and install a fully automated fire hydrant system compliant with Bangladesh National Building Code (BNBC) and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards
• Implement a comprehensive automatic sprinkler system providing complete coverage across all facility areas
• Ensure rapid fire detection and suppression capabilities to minimize potential damage and downtime
• Protect critical pharmaceutical manufacturing equipment and inventory
• Safeguard employee lives and maintain safe evacuation routes
• Achieve regulatory compliance with local fire safety regulations and international pharmaceutical industry standards
• Integrate systems for optimal performance and reliable emergency response

Fire Hydrant System Components

System Design Features: The fire hydrant system will be engineered to provide adequate water supply and pressure for manual firefighting operations throughout the facility. The system includes strategically positioned hydrant points ensuring complete building coverage with overlapping protection zones.

Major Components:

• Fire Pump Set: High-capacity electric and diesel fire pumps with automatic jockey pump for pressure maintenance, sourced from internationally recognized manufacturers (Bristol/Naffco/Sffeco) with FM approval
• Water Storage: Dedicated fire water storage tanks sized according to NFPA requirements, ensuring minimum 30-60 minutes of firefighting capacity
• Hydrant Valves: Wet type fire hydrants with landing valves positioned at each floor level for firefighter access
• Piping Network: Hot-dipped galvanized or grooved piping system with appropriate diameter sizing based on hydraulic calculations
• Valves and Accessories: OS&Y gate valves, non-return valves, zone control valves, alarm check valves, pressure relief valves, and fire brigade connections
• Hose Equipment: Fire hose cabinets with complete hose reel assemblies, nozzles, and accessories at designated locations
• Control and Monitoring: Fire pump controllers with automatic start functionality, pressure switches, and flow meters

Automatic Sprinkler System Components

System Design Philosophy: The automatic sprinkler system will provide comprehensive first-response fire suppression through heat-activated sprinkler heads distributed throughout all protected areas. The system design follows NFPA 13 standards with appropriate occupancy classifications for pharmaceutical facilities.

Major Components:

• Sprinkler Heads: Quick-response and standard-response sprinkler heads selected based on area classification, ceiling height, and occupancy type
• Piping Distribution: Wet pipe sprinkler system with properly sized branch lines, cross mains, and feed mains
• Alarm Valve Assembly: Wet pipe alarm check valve with associated trim including alarm test valve, main drain, pressure switches, and retarding chamber
• Water Flow Detection: Water flow switches and pressure switches for early alarm indication
• Control Valves: Zone isolation valves, inspector's test connections, and drain valves for system testing and maintenance
• Pressure Regulation: Pressure relief valves and pressure-reducing valves where required
• System Integration: Connection to building fire alarm system for immediate notification

Technical Specifications

Design Standards Compliance:

• Bangladesh National Building Code (BNBC) - Latest Edition
• NFPA 13: Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems
• NFPA 14: Standard for the Installation of Standpipe and Hose Systems
• NFPA 20: Standard for the Installation of Stationary Pumps for Fire Protection
• NFPA 24: Standard for the Installation of Private Fire Service Mains

Hydraulic Design Parameters:

• Minimum residual pressure at most remote sprinkler: 7 psi (0.48 bar) for standard hazard
• Design density: Based on occupancy classification (light, ordinary, or extra hazard)
• Design area: Calculated per NFPA 13 requirements
• Hydrant flow capacity: Minimum 500 GPM per hydrant outlet at 65 psi residual pressure
• System pressure testing: Hydrostatic test at 200 psi or 50 psi above maximum working pressure

Material Specifications:

• Piping: Schedule 40 black steel, galvanized steel, or grooved-end piping systems
• Fittings: Threaded, welded, or grooved mechanical fittings as appropriate
• Sprinkler heads: UL/FM listed automatic sprinklers with appropriate temperature ratings
• Valves: UL/FM listed fire protection valves with indicating and non-indicating types
• Fire pumps: UL/FM listed centrifugal fire pumps with diesel and electric drive options

Installation Methodology

Phase 1: Site Assessment and Engineering Detailed site survey, hydraulic calculations, equipment selection, and preparation of as-built installation drawings incorporating all architectural and structural considerations.

Phase 2: Procurement and Mobilization Procurement of UL/FM approved equipment from authorized suppliers, material inspection, and mobilization of experienced installation teams with specialized fire protection expertise.

Phase 3: Underground and Structural Work Installation of underground fire water mains, fire pump room preparation, water storage tank installation, and necessary civil works for system foundations and supports.

Phase 4: Piping Installation Systematic installation of main risers, distribution piping, branch lines, hangers, supports, and seismic bracing per code requirements, ensuring proper pipe slopes and drainage provisions.

Phase 5: Equipment Installation Installation of fire pumps, controllers, alarm valves, sprinkler heads, hydrant valves, cabinets, and all associated equipment with proper alignment, anchoring, and connections.

Phase 6: Testing and Commissioning Comprehensive system testing including hydrostatic pressure tests, flow tests, pump performance tests, alarm functionality verification, and complete system commissioning with documentation.

Phase 7: Training and Handover Training of facility personnel on system operation, maintenance procedures, emergency response protocols, and formal handover with complete as-built documentation and O&M manuals.

Quality Assurance and Safety

AMI Technologies Ltd. implements rigorous quality control measures throughout the project lifecycle. All materials supplied carry manufacturer certifications and UL/FM approvals. Installation work is supervised by experienced engineers and follows strict safety protocols. Regular inspections ensure compliance with design specifications and applicable codes. The project includes comprehensive documentation of all tests, inspections, and certifications required for regulatory approval.

Project Benefits

Life Safety: Immediate fire detection and suppression capabilities protecting employees and visitors Asset Protection: Comprehensive coverage safeguarding pharmaceutical inventory, equipment, and facility infrastructure Business Continuity: Minimized downtime and rapid fire control reducing potential business interruption Regulatory Compliance: Full adherence to BNBC, NFPA, and pharmaceutical industry safety standards Insurance Benefits: Potential reduction in insurance premiums due to enhanced fire protection Peace of Mind: Reliable, professionally engineered systems providing 24/7 fire protection

Post-Installation Support

AMI Technologies Ltd. offers comprehensive maintenance services including monthly and yearly maintenance contracts, ensuring long-term system reliability and performance. Our fully equipped technicians provide expert inspection, testing, and maintenance services, guaranteeing that the fire protection systems remain operational and code-compliant throughout their service life.