This article provides a general overview of BlastOff and SMART-Trak features used on supported South-Tek N2-BLAST fire protection systems.
BlastOff and SMART-Trak features are designed to help users monitor system behavior, identify abnormal runtime conditions, track leak-related events, and receive early warning of issues affecting nitrogen generation or system performance.
What is SMART-Trak?
SMART-Trak is South-Tek’s monitoring and tracking platform for supported N2-BLAST systems. Depending on the system configuration, SMART-Trak can provide local and remote visibility into system performance and operating history.
- Current system mode
- N2-BLAST runtime averages
- Average daily, monthly, and annual leak rate
- Filtration reminders and preventive maintenance tracking
- Integrated BlastOff alarm information
On supported systems, SMART-Trak monitoring can also be viewed remotely on a mobile device.
What is BlastOff?
BlastOff is South-Tek’s leak detection and warning framework for N2-BLAST systems. It helps identify abnormal runtime behavior that may indicate a leak, excessive nitrogen demand, bypass condition, or equipment issue.
Normal runtime expectations
Under normal conditions, N2-BLAST runtime should typically be about 3 to 5 hours per day. If the system runs significantly longer than expected, that may indicate a leak, excessive purge demand, or another condition preventing the generator from reaching standby mode.
BlastOff feature availability by model group
- BlastOff I: Standard on all N2-BLAST models
- BlastOff II and BlastOff III: Standard on FPS-1650 and larger models
- BlastOff IV: Optional on all equipment
BlastOff I - Leak Detection Alarm
BlastOff I is standard on all N2-BLAST models. It tracks the runtime of the N2-BLAST system and alarms if the generator runs for more than 9 hours continuously.
This is intended to provide early warning before the system reaches a low air condition and typically indicates one of the following:
- A leak somewhere in the fire protection system
- A demand condition that exceeds what the nitrogen generator can provide
- A leak inside the generator cabinet or connected nitrogen piping
A common first check is to close the N2 outlet valve and see whether the generator can build pressure internally and return to standby. If it cannot, the issue may be internal to the cabinet.
BlastOff II - Auto Air Bypass Alarm
BlastOff II is standard on FPS-1650 and larger models. It monitors whether the N2-BLAST system has been bypassed by compressed air.
- On supported systems, the generator can automatically switch between compressed air and nitrogen
- The system can track time spent in air bypass mode
- Bypass history can be logged for review
This helps identify periods where the fire protection system was not being supervised by nitrogen.
BlastOff III - Early Warning System
BlastOff III is standard on FPS-1650 and larger models. This feature is intended to protect equipment, verify that key components are working properly, and support faster diagnosis when a problem occurs.
On supported systems, this feature can alarm when there is an issue with the equipment and help narrow down the leak location or affected system area.
BlastOff IV - Onboard Purity Alarm
BlastOff IV is optional on all N2-BLAST equipment. When included, it monitors the nitrogen purity being generated and alarms if purity drops below 98%.
- Monitors nitrogen purity at the N2-BLAST system
- Graphically trends purity data
- Provides alarm notification if generated nitrogen purity falls below 98%
SMART-Trak and controller status information
Supported systems may display operating status such as:
- Run: Generator is operating normally and filling the storage tank
- Stdby: Storage tank is at pressure and the system is waiting for pressure to fall before resuming operation
- FAlm: Filter alarm after 1000 runtime hours or 12 months, whichever comes first
- BOff: BlastOff condition caused by extended continuous runtime
Why these features matter
- Help detect leaks before they become larger failures
- Help identify abnormal runtime and bypass conditions
- Support preventive maintenance tracking
- Provide better visibility into nitrogen purity and system status
- Support faster troubleshooting and service decisions
Related articles
- N2-BLAST Fire Protection Systems Overview
- Why Nitrogen Is Used in Fire Protection Systems
- FPS-500 and FPS-900 Operation, Alarms, and Maintenance
- FPS-1650, FPS-3250, and FPS-5000 Operation, Alarms, and Maintenance
- FPS-10000, FPS-16500, and FPS-22500 Operation, Alarms, and Maintenance
Need additional support?
- Phone: (910) 415-1880
- Email: support@southteksystems911.zendesk.com