Commercial kitchens change over time. Equipment is added, replaced, or relocated as menus and operations evolve. That's why choosing a fire suppression system is about more than meeting code requirements. It's about finding a solution that fits your kitchen today and can adapt to future needs.
Amerex Kitchen Protection systems offer two coverage options: Zone Defense and Appliance Specific Coverage. Both use the same UL-tested, certified tank and nozzle network, backed by UL/ULC 300 and UL 1254 Listings, NFPA 17A and 96 compliance, and FDNY COA, LPCB, MED, and DNV approvals, but are tailored to different operational goals.
Zone Defense
Zone Defense provides protection across designated hazard areas under the hood rather than focusing on individual appliances. Because coverage is zone-based, equipment can often be moved or replaced without major piping modifications, making it ideal for kitchens that anticipate future changes.
Additional flow points can be added when hazards such as salamander broilers require dedicated protection. Unlike some systems, Amerex Zone Defense does not require connections to a building sprinkler system or domestic water supply.
Appliance Specific Coverage
Appliance Specific Coverage is designed for kitchens with a consistent equipment layout. Each appliance receives dedicated detection and nozzle protection tailored to its specific hazard.
This approach can be a cost-effective solution for restaurant chains and facilities with standardized kitchen designs. However, relocating equipment typically requires corresponding system modifications.
Detection and Control Options
Amerex offers three detection and release options to meet a variety of applications:
- Mechanical Release Module (MRM): The traditional and most widely used Amerex control option, utilizing a tensioned detection cable and fusible links that separate when exposed to high temperatures. The spring-loaded release module can provide mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic outputs, allowing it to interface with gas shutoffs, ventilation controls, fire alarm systems, and agent cylinder discharge valves. The MRM can actuate up to 10 agent cylinders from a single nitrogen cartridge and supports extensive detection networks with up to 200 feet of detection line, making it suitable for both small and large commercial kitchen installations. Its proven design, simple operation, and compatibility with auxiliary building systems make it a reliable choice for a wide range of applications.
- Pneumatic Release Module (PRM): Uses a continuous linear pneumatic detection system with heat- and pressure-sensitive tubing rather than traditional fusible links and detection cable. When exposed to fire conditions, the tubing ruptures and releases pressure, automatically actuating the system through a nitrogen cylinder. The PRM can activate up to 10 agent cylinders and up to two gas shutoff valves while also providing electrical contacts for equipment and utility shutdown functions. Because it eliminates detection cable, crimps, conduit, and corner pulleys, installation can be simpler in larger or more complex kitchen layouts. The grease-resistant detection tubing is also easy to clean, making the PRM a practical solution for demanding commercial kitchen environments where grease buildup is a concern.
- STRIKE Electronic Detection and Control: Amerex's most advanced control option, designed to provide continuous monitoring and enhanced system visibility. Unlike traditional mechanical detection methods, STRIKE utilizes fully supervised Linear Heat Detectors and Spot Heat Detectors with no moving parts, helping minimize the effects of grease buildup and improving reliability. The control unit can monitor and release up to two independent hood systems and actuate up to 20 agent cylinders while providing dedicated fire and trouble signals to building fire alarm systems. With onboard event logging, battery-backed operation, and 24/7 fire detection capability without requiring external AC power among other features, STRIKE offers a modern solution for facilities seeking advanced monitoring, simplified maintenance, and seamless integration with auxiliary building controls.
Agent Cylinder Options and Stored Pressure Advantages
Amerex Kitchen Protection systems are available with four stored pressure agent cylinder options to accommodate a wide range of kitchen sizes and hazard configurations: the KP250, KP375, KP475, and KP600. Each cylinder is filled with Amerex Kitchen Wet Chemical Agent and pressurized to 240 psi. However, these cylinders provide increasing agent capacities and flow point capabilities, with additional capacity available through manifolded cylinder arrangements for larger systems.
A key advantage of the Amerex design is that all agent cylinders are stored pressure cylinders, pre-pressurized and equipped with easy-to-read pressure gauges. This allows owners, service providers, and inspectors to quickly verify system integrity immediately without the need to weigh cylinders or cartridges during routine maintenance. The stored pressure design simplifies inspections, reduces service time, and helps ensure the system remains ready to respond when needed.
Finding the Right Solution
Every kitchen has unique risks, operational needs, and growth plans. Whether you need the flexibility of Zone Defense, the targeted protection of Appliance Specific Coverage, or the advanced monitoring capabilities of STRIKE controls, Amerex offers solutions designed to help protect people and businesses.
Learn more here.