Range Guard Nitrogen Test Cartridge 120044
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Wholesale PricingThe Range Guard Nitrogen Test Cartridge (P/N 120044) is a disposable nitrogen cartridge used during semiannual testing of Range Guard kitchen fire suppression systems. The test cartridge fits in the same cartridge receiver on the UCH (Universal Control Head) as the live nitrogen actuation cartridge, and when the technician actuates the system during testing, the test cartridge releases nitrogen pressure through the system's actuation circuit, verifying that the control head, gas valve linkage, microswitches, and all actuation components respond correctly to a discharge event, without actually discharging the Karbaloy wet chemical agent from the cylinder.
Using a test cartridge during semiannual service avoids the cost and time of a full system recharge that would follow a live chemical discharge, while still exercising all of the mechanical and actuation components that need to be verified. After a test using this cartridge, the cartridge is discarded and a new live actuation cartridge is installed before the system is returned to service. The test cartridge is single-use and disposable.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Badger Fire Protection (Kidde-Fenwal) |
| Part Number | 120044 (87-120044-001) |
| Component Type | Nitrogen Test Cartridge (Disposable) |
| Gas | Nitrogen |
| Use Type | Single-Use, Disposable (Not a Live Actuation Cartridge) |
| System Compatibility | Range Guard UCH (Universal Control Head) |
| Use Case | Semiannual System Testing Without Chemical Agent Discharge |
Use of this test cartridge is part of the semiannual maintenance procedure required under NFPA 17A and NFPA 96. It must be used and the full test performed by a certified Range Guard distributor.
- Single Use Only: Each test cartridge is used once and then discarded. Do not attempt to reuse a spent cartridge, as it will not provide the correct actuation pressure for a valid test.
- Replace with Live Cartridge Before Returning to Service: After completing the test with the nitrogen test cartridge, it must be removed and replaced with a live actuation cartridge before the system is returned to service. A system with a spent test cartridge installed is not ready to actuate in a real fire event.
- Semiannual Frequency: NFPA 17A requires semiannual professional service for Range Guard systems, and a functional test using the test cartridge is part of that service protocol.
Why use a test cartridge instead of just actuating the system with the live cartridge?
Actuating with the live cartridge results in a full Karbaloy discharge, requiring a complete system recharge before the kitchen can return to service. The test cartridge allows the technician to exercise and verify all the mechanical and actuation components without triggering a chemical discharge, saving the cost and downtime of a full recharge during routine testing.
Does the test cartridge verify all parts of the system?
The test cartridge exercises the control head actuation, the gas valve linkage, and the microswitch and alarm signaling functions. It does not verify the nozzle flow pattern or confirm that agent would reach all protected appliances, since no chemical is discharged. A certified technician also performs visual inspection of nozzles, piping, and detection components as separate parts of the full semiannual service procedure.
Can this test cartridge be used in any other suppression system?
No. This cartridge is designed for the Range Guard UCH. Different kitchen suppression systems use different cartridge designs, sizes, and pressures. Do not attempt to use a Range Guard test cartridge in an Ansul, Pyro-Chem, or other manufacturer's system.
