Alien Systems & Technologies (AST) takes great care to ensure that its fire protection systems are designed and manufactured to the highest quality standards. In addition, its personnel are highly trained and equipped with the latest maintenance technology for the peace of mind of customers. AST goes a step further by certifying its system integrators, which must undergo installation, commissioning and maintenance training. This is to ensure that all customer equipment is installed and maintained to the highest standards using only approved suppliers and genuine parts.
In South Africa, for example, all Pyroshield systems requiring hydrostatic pressure testing and/or refilling must be returned to AST for this service. No other facility has been approved to provide this service. This is to ensure that customers know that their cylinders are filled with the proper mixture of fire extinguishing gas, that the parts used are genuine, and that the personnel performing this work are competent and using the right tools. This is vital to ensure that Pyroshield fire extinguishing systems will perform reliably when called upon to do so.
Beware of uncertified imitators
AST has evidence of companies that, while attempting to refill Pyroshield cylinders, have damaged valves. In addition, it is uncertain whether the gas mixture used was correct. Furthermore, the persons doing the work had not undergone training from AST and were therefore not certified as competent. All of this poses a serious risk to customers who may think that their Pyroshield system is in perfect working order, when in fact it probably is not.
“So what can you do?” Anyone who has doubts about the integrity of their Pyroshield cylinders can contact AST and ask to speak to the sales department who will be able to verify whether the cylinders were returned for servicing. Should the cylinders not have been filled by AST, this poses a risk to customers and insurance companies alike, as the system is no longer a Pyroshield and falls outside of the control of AST, the manufacturer.
A major benefit when using AST to refill is a free hydrostatic pressure test is included. AST also offers a free refill on all Pyroshield cylinders that have discharged after a fire. Furthermore, the company offers a collection and delivery service.
Second-hand cylinders
“What if you have second-hand Pyroshield cylinders and want to use them?” Sure, but first contact AST so that these cylinders can be checked and verified for reuse. This will ensure that they carry the product manufacturer’s guarantee when using them on another system.
AST encourages anyone to notify them should they think that your Pyroshield cylinders are being refilled by someone not certified. In addition, customers can also verify whether their fire system installer/maintainer carries authentic training certification.
For some, taking shortcuts is a way of life. However, it has been shown time and again that this exploitative practice can put lives at risk. To avoid this, AST is standing by to assist anyone who wishes to verify that their Pyroshield systems are only being maintained by people who are competent to do so.
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