South African National Antarctic Expedition

The South African National Antarctic Expedition (SANAE) sits permanently on Vesleskarvet, a rocky outcrop in Queen Maude Land, deep in Antarctica. The main activities of the South African National Antarctic Programme are to increase understanding of the natural environment and life in the Antarctic Ocean. The primary ongoing project involves researching the interaction between the Earth’s magnetosphere and charged particles from the sun. The expedition base consists of three interlinked double storey units, joined by lower level passageways, which also serve as exit and entry points.

Pre-existing situation & UTCFS’s role

Conditions at the Antarctic base are harsh, and with the extreme cold and dry environment, high winds cause static build-up on the station’s structure. Static electrical discharge sparks measuring up to one foot are common inside the base. SANAE receives only one maintenance check up per year. Because of its remote location, the fire protection system must be extremely reliable, self-diagnostic, and simple to maintain on a day-to-day basis.

UTCFS’s solution

UTCFS proposed the installation of a ZP3 addressable fire detection system which enables all areas of the base to be protected by the latest technology. This system is based on a robust protocol and configured to provide a central control panel supported by two remote display units. The ZP3 panel is installed in the hangars and also controls the fixed fire extinguishers in the weather balloon and helium storage area. The system is self-diagnostic and is remotely controlled at SANAE’s headquarters in South Africa via a direct satellite link, enabling remote adjustment and software modification to be completed immediately, should it be necessary. In addition, the system sends pre-service information enabling the annual maintenance check to be coordinated before the annual visit of the supply ship.