architects

Aircraft hangars pose a unique challenge from a fire protection standpoint. Hangars often have large quantities of highly flammable fuel that is at risk of igniting, and the airplanes with large bodies and wings create obstructions that make typical fire protection systems inadequate at putting out fires. The challenge with aircraft hangar fire protection systems is to design a system that will work around the obstructions and quickly put out a fire to protect the expensive airplanes and the lives of people.

The 70,000 sq. ft. hangar is classified as a Group 1 hangar, and must have a foam fire suppression system, with all sprinklers operating simultaneously. Foam fire suppression systems are designed to deal with a fuel spill or leak under an aircraft and ideally prevent or put out a fire before it extends to the aircraft. Foam can better extinguish high-challenge fires, uses less water, and reduces flammable liquid runoff. This test was successful, and the hangar is ready for aircraft. Video footage courtesy of Lydig Construction.