Rank: Super forum user 
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I am trying to establish the most efficient suppression systems for use in large server rooms for a customer who is willing to spend some cash, but wants to consider an alternative to the current proposal of hypoxic air system before writing out their cheque.
They (and I) am worried about the potential damage caused by an accidental actuation which is why a hypoxic system is favoured. However, I understand that some well known suppression gases will cause corrosion damage to sensitive IT parts and it may be easier to clear up the minimal amount of water discharged from a water mist system. Others say that water mist can be problematical.
I am struggling to get true definitive information as most sources of such information are linked with a company who are trying to sell a product.
So does anyone have any experience with suppression systems in large server rooms or can point me in the direction of somewhere or a document where I can get impartial advice?
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Rank: Super forum user 
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Messy,
FM 200 will decompose at fire temperatures to form HF and so can cause corrosion damage.
Inert gases are as stated on the tin inert and would not present cause for concern wrt equipment damage but obviously have a down side re asphyxiation.
Inergen has the advantage of being inert and safe in terms of respiration, the other advantage is that of storage at higher pressures with a result that the agent can be stored remote and at a distance (circa 90 metres) from the area under protection (also a number of areas can be protected from a single supply).
Main problem is that of providing integrity of server room enclosure where as of course with the hypoxic system you do not have to be so concerned about leakage from the server room.
Comes down to cost of installation and maintenance at the end of the day. Of course if we fully believe the information re hypoxic systems, then combustion will not occur in the first place. May be useful to consider the reliability of each system type as well.
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Rank: Super forum user 
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Does anyone have fire stats for server rooms?
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Rank: Super forum user
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Thanks to all for the info so far.
Has anyone else has experience in these matters??
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Rank: Super forum user
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Your insurers should be able to give you assistance on this matter.
Computers are normally insured by specialist engineering divisions of the major insurers at this level, with cover for breakdown as well as fire loss and theft. The cover is generally better than a standard office type "package" policy.
Speak to your firms insurance broker and ask to be put in touch with your computer insurer's Risk Surveyor who specialises in fire protection systems. They will discuss the options available and draw up a specification that can then be used when obtaining quotes.
They may also be prepared to give some stats / case histories showing the sort of costs / upheaval involved in a major computer fire.
Your insurance broker should be able to short cut all the "press 1 for xxxx, press 2 for yyyy malarky that you get with most insurers call centres and obtain the name of someone with expertise in this area.
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Rank: Super forum user
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I concur with Stevie,
In addition is there no one in the company to discuss risk management and business continuity with as this may also play a part.
Also consider use of water mist in a room equipped with equipment that has large demand for electrical systems & services? Never mind just the possible salvage if only gas suppressant is used.
Gas has a downside but with a safe system, secure restrictions in place for personnel and pre warning adequate for the safe evacuation of the room how much higher is the risk of asphyxiation?
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