In an era of innovation and technology, where products and services are evolving rapidly, fire extinguishing techniques also need to turn a corner. Environmental and safety-related challenges associated with conventional fire extinguishing are a matter of concern now. The birth of Fireaway Inc. is in response to these challenges. Uniquely embracing technology, Fireaway has strengthened the fire protection system. Being awarded as one of the ‘Innovators of the Year 2024,’ Fireaway’s approach to innovation is an exemplified inspiration.
Snuffing out Fire like Never Before
Fireaway’s inception in 2005 was a step to address the environmental and safety-related challenges of the existing fire protection system. At the outset, the firm upheld the mission of finding an alternative to the special hazard fire protection system. This has been done by commercializing the condensed aerosol technology. The firm has explored this technology as a means of innovative fire extinguishing systems and firefighting strategies. This mission of Fireaway is coming to fruition today as the firm evolved into a world-class supplier of aerosol generators. The firm will be celebrating its 20th anniversary as a leader in the manufacturing of special hazard fire protection systems.
A Tale of Brilliance
As the only US-based manufacturer of aerosol generators for fire suppression applications, Fireaway’s approach is a burning example of brilliance. After its birth, the company voyaged to enhance the premier aerosol formulation with an assertive program to establish the brand Stat-X. Later, In 2006, the firm introduced the thermally activated stand-alone units, to expand its boundaries.
Since then, the brand has grown exponentially and is now recognized as a popular alternative to traditional special hazard technologies. US EPA approved the environment-friendly technology to use in occupied spaces. The focus of the firm spans various industries and industrial applications such as traditional power generation, renewable energy, transportation, heavy machinery, marine, utilities, and many more. Presently, the company has announced its release of a new 15-gram electrical fire suppression generator with a similar 15-year service life to all the electrically and thermally operated units.
Hurdles Demolished in the Way
Fire protection is a highly regulated industry where innovation takes time to accept and adopt. Extensive testing, project experiences, and hundreds of installations are required before establishing the real momentum of new technologies like Stat-X. This does not end there. Continued momentum is established by considering the contractors, consultants, engineers, and authorities having jurisdictions. Fireaway recognized this, invested its time, and went through all the experiences required to turn that corner.
The result of this year-long dedication of the firm is echoed in this statement- “Today, we provide aerosol systems to every part of the globe, protecting hundreds of different types of applications and enclosures.” Fireaway takes pride in its futuristic approach as it plans to manufacture and deliver the 1 millionth Stat-X generators to its customers.
Putting Innovation into Action
The company embraced innovation both in manufacturing and product offerings. The present production environment is completely different than what it looked 5-7 years ago. Fireaway has installed several machines in its operations for automation and seamless integration of workflows with its employees.
On the product front, the company will offer a test device operationally compatible with diverse control panels and different numbers of units. In a suppression release circuit, this device is designed to produce a bright LED light when energized. This reusable device will drastically reduce the required time to commission a Stat-X system.
Stat-X®: The Next Generation of Fire Protection
Stat-X’s innovative formulation makes it the next generation of fire protection. Let’s see how. Stat-X® is a unique fire-suppression aerosol generator that is neither pressurized nor requires piping. It takes no floor space and is extremely simple to install. Due to the hermetically sealed stainless-steel containers, the units have a 15-year service life. Other than the NFPA 2010 required visual inspections, these tech-driven generators require little maintenance.
Technology at Service
Being a customer-centric company, Fireaway has committed itself to solving customers’ challenges concerning fire protection and others. Its engineering project pipeline consists of projects directly acquired through customer interactions. Keeping technology at its service delivery, the engineering team of Fireaway uses complex Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modeling to prepare for testing activities.
While talking about CFD, Lance stated, “If we can model the system, iterate the design based on the simulation results, and reduce the number of tests required to achieve success, it’s a win for everyone!” In addition, the company is investing significantly in manufacturing technology for process improvement, product-quality improvement, and to prevent cost-spiraling.
A Culture of Innovation
Fireaway’s core values drive its culture. The company notably fosters innovation through collaboration and transparency. With a willingness to collaborate, a mindset to try new ideas without fear of failure, and integration strategies that benefit everyone, the firm thrives on innovation.
Envisioning Future
Lance envisions future trends with FM-200™ and (HFC-227ea) and Novec 1230™ (FK-5-1-12) to be driven by environmental regulations and potential PFAS restrictions. He believes Stat-X will continue to be the best alternative to these technologies. Fireaway will continue to innovate and evolve to meet customers’ expectations in the weeks and months ahead.
Piece of Advice
Lance advises future entrepreneurs and innovators to dedicate their time, resources, and investments to bringing innovative project ideas forward. He emphasizes employee collaboration and willingness to implement innovative ideas derived from this collaboration and without fear of failure!
Lance Harry, P.E. CEO and President
Lance has an educational background in mechanical engineering, both Bachelor’s and Master’s from Union College, Schenectady, New York, and Boston University. His interest in the fire protection industry grew right out of his graduation as he worked to support the development of engineered software modeling the flow of 2-phase, 2-component fluids through complex piping networks. Over time, he learned about chemical clean agents like FM-200 and special hazard fire protection. His extensive career in sales, management, and technical roles has developed his business perspective and understanding of customers and industry needs. He envisions the high potential of Stat-X in the future and is excited to make it happen with his team.
Fireaway will continue to innovate and evolve to meet our customers’ requirements for years to come.
