Fire safety is a critical aspect of protecting lives and property in any environment. When it comes to combating fires, having the right tools and equipment is essential. Among the most crucial fire safety tools are fire extinguisher. These devices are designed to swiftly suppress and control fires, providing an invaluable means of defense until professional help arrives.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the world of fire extinguisher, focusing on the importance of portable fire extinguisher, mobile fire extinguisher, automatic fire extinguisher systems, and the essential parts and accessories like telescopic applicators that enhance their effectiveness.
Fire types according to the materials
The first step in fire protection is to assess the materials present in the area to be safeguarded.
The materials can be categorized into six fire classes, each involving different substances.
- Class A fire: This type of fire involves combustible carbon-based solids like paper, wood, or textiles.
- Class B fire: It is caused by flammable liquids such as paraffin, petrol, diesel, or oil (excluding cooking oil).
- Class C fire: This fire class is associated with flammable gases like butane, propane, or methane.
- Class D fire: Burning metals like aluminum, lithium, or magnesium are responsible for this type of fire.
- Electrical fires: These fires are indicated by an electric spark symbol and do not fall into specific classes.
- Class F fire: Fats and cooking oils are the main culprits behind this type of fire.
Understanding the specific fire classes helps in selecting the appropriate fire extinguishing methods and equipment for effective fire suppression and protection.
Types of fire extinguishers
- Portable fire extinguishers
- Mobile fire extinguishers
- Automatic fire extinguisher system
- Parts & Accessories
Portable fire extinguisher
When it comes to fire safety, portable fire extinguishers are essential tools that provide immediate protection against different types of fires. There are various types of portable fire extinguishers available, including:
- Dry chemical powder.
- Wet chemical.
- Carbon dioxide (CO2).
- Aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF).
- Water fire extinguishers.
Dry chemical powder
The dry chemical powder is a highly effective firefighting agent commonly used in fire extinguishers. It is specifically designed to suppress and extinguish Class A, B, and C fires.
A dry powder extinguisher, also known as an ABC dry powder extinguisher, contains a combination of fine powder particles that work by interrupting the chemical reaction of a fire.
This versatile extinguishing agent is suitable for a wide range of fire hazards, including combustible solids, flammable liquids, and electrical equipment.
Powder fire extinguishers are versatile tools used to combat fires involving burning solids, liquids, and gases ABC dry powder fire extinguishers (Class A, B, and C fires). They are particularly effective for type D fires that involve combustible metals like lithium, magnesium, or aluminum. These dry chemical powder extinguishers work by forming a crust of powder that suffocates the fire and prevents its spread.
However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The dry powder does not penetrate materials or provide effective cooling, which means there is a risk of the fire re-igniting. Additionally, the powder can be hazardous if inhaled, so it is crucial to use these extinguishers in well-ventilated areas. They may not be suitable for office and domestic premises due to the potential damage to soft furnishings and machinery. It is worth noting that after using a powder extinguisher, a thorough cleaning process is required to remove the residue.
Despite these limitations, powder fire extinguishers remain a valuable asset in industrial settings and environments where combustible metals are present. They provide a quick and effective means of fire suppression, allowing for immediate action in emergency situations. Proper training and understanding of the appropriate use of powder extinguishers are essential to maximize their effectiveness while minimizing risks.
Standard dry powder extinguishers (ABC dry powder fire extinguishers) are suitable for:
Class A fires: Combustible materials, including flammable solids like wood, paper, and textiles.
Class B fires: Flammable liquids such as petrol, paint, or spirits.
Class C fires: Flammable gases like propane and butane.
Electrical fires: Involving electrical equipment like computers and photocopiers.
Specialist dry powder extinguishers are designed for:
Flammable metal fires: Specifically, lithium fires (L2 powder extinguishers only).
All other flammable metal fires (M28 powder extinguishers only).
The dry chemical powder should not be used on the following fire types:
Class F fires: Cooking oils such as olive oil or butter, particularly in cases like chip-pan fires.
Electrical fires: If the voltage exceeds 1000v.
Flammable metal fires: Unless a specialist dry powder extinguisher is available.
Wet chemical Extinguishers
Wet Chemical Extinguishers, along with water mist, are the sole fire extinguishers suitable for Class F oil fires (fats and cooking oils). These extinguishers are primarily utilized in kitchens equipped with deep-fat fryers, offering effective fire suppression. They can also be employed for Class A and certain Class B fires.
And certainly, wet chemical extinguishers utilize a pressurized solution of alkali salts in water, creating a fine mist that cools the flames and prevents splashing.
Wet Chemical Extinguishers are a vital component of wet chemistry equipment, ensuring safety and protection in various fire scenarios.
Carbon dioxide fire extinguisher
Carbon Dioxide (CO2) extinguishers, known as Carbon Dioxide Mobile or Carbon Dioxide Portable fire extinguishers, are highly effective as co2 fire extinguisher class B fires involving burning liquids and electrical fires, making them suitable for office environments.
Carbon dioxide fire extinguishers contain pressurized CO2 gas, leaving no residue behind. The CO2 works by suffocating the fire without causing damage to electrical equipment or short-circuiting.
However, it’s important to note that fire extinguisher co2 can become extremely cold during discharge, and those without double-lined, frost-free swivel horns may pose a risk of freezing fingers upon deployment.
While Carbon dioxide fire extinguishers are not recommended for deep fat fryers due to the potential for the jet to carry burning fat out of the fryer, they are known for their effectiveness in various other scenarios. It means that the co2 extinguisher class F is not useful for fat fryers.
Additionally, these extinguishers do not provide post-fire security, as fires can quickly re-ignite once the CO2 has dissipated into the atmosphere.
However, it’s important to consider that CO2 extinguishers are relatively expensive compared to other types of fire extinguishers.
Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF)
Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) is a highly effective fire suppressant specifically designed to combat flammable liquid fires, including fuel fires. It is widely employed in various applications, such as shipboard and shore facility fire suppression systems, fire fighting vehicles, and fire training facilities.
Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF)’s unique formulation enables it to quickly extinguish and smother liquid fires, making it an invaluable asset in fire emergency situations. Its effectiveness and versatility have made it a preferred choice for professionals in the firefighting industry, ensuring rapid and efficient fire suppression to protect lives and property.
Water fire extinguisher
Water extinguishers, classified as the water type fire extinguisher, are specifically designed for tackling Class A fires.
The water fire extinguisher is a red-coded extinguisher that is highly effective in combating fires caused by ignited materials such as paper, wood, straw, coal, rubber, solid plastics, and soft furnishings.
Operating a water fire extinguisher is straightforward – it dispenses water from the spray nozzle, allowing for wider coverage and increased effectiveness. Known for their simplicity, affordability, and widespread use, water extinguishers are the most common type of fire extinguisher available.
One significant advantage of water extinguishers is their ease of maintenance and their non-hazardous nature, as they solely contain water.
When deployed, these extinguishers cool the fire by soaking the burning objects and materials with water, effectively extinguishing the flames while absorbing heat. Consequently, water extinguishers are commonly found in various settings such as shops, offices, retail premises, schools, hotels, warehouses, and domestic properties.
Equipped with spray or jet nozzles, they can typically extinguish fires completely. However, it is essential to note that water extinguishers are unsuitable for fires involving burning fat or oil (Class F), burning metals (Class D), burning liquids (Class B), or electrical appliance fires.
For those seeking versatility, water and foam fire extinguishers are also available.
A refillable water fire extinguisher is a reliable and cost-effective solution for combating Class A fires. Unlike plastic extinguishers, which are typically not refillable, those with metal valves can be easily refilled after use. This feature allows for convenient maintenance and ensures that the extinguisher is always ready for emergencies. With its ability to dispense water and effectively extinguish flames, a refillable water fire extinguisher is an essential firefighting tool for homes, offices, and other environments where Class A fire risks are present.
Mobile fire extinguishers
Mobile fire extinguishers are essential for effective protection against a wide range of industrial fire risks, particularly in large-scale environments where longer application times are needed.
Mobile fire extinguishers include:
- Dry chemical powder.
- Carbon dioxide.
- Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF).
- Water fire extinguisher.
Mobile fire extinguishers are specifically designed for professional use in harsh settings like petrol stations and construction sites. With their robust construction and versatility, mobile fire extinguishers offer reliable firefighting capabilities to tackle various types of fires and ensure the safety of personnel and property in high-risk industrial settings.
Dry chemical powder in mobile fire extinguishers
ABC dry powder Mobile Extinguishers are the ideal choice for combating a wide range of fire hazards, including paper, textiles, wood, plastics, rubber, petrol, oil, paints, LPG, CNG, Acetylene, and electrically charged equipment.
Dry powder fire extinguishers feature a durable stainless steel cylinder with a protective red powder-coated finish. They are designed to be conveniently mounted on a sturdy trolley, ensuring both easy maneuverability and reliable protection.
CO2 Mobile Extinguishers, also known as Carbon Dioxide Mobile Extinguishers, are specifically designed to tackle fires involving electrically energized equipment and electrical environments (Class E).
These reliable extinguishers feature a durable steel cylinder with a protective red powder-coated finish. With their efficient discharge of carbon dioxide (CO2), these portable fire extinguishers are highly effective in suppressing fires caused by electrical hazards. When it comes to protecting your valuable electrical equipment and surroundings, CO2 Mobile Extinguishers are a top choice for safety and peace of mind.
Carbon dioxide in mobile extinguishers
CO2 Mobile Extinguishers, also known as Carbon Dioxide Mobile Extinguishers, are specifically designed to tackle fires involving electrically energized equipment and electrical environments (Class E). Mainly this type of mobile extinguisher is considered as co2 extinguisher class E.
co2 fire extinguisher class E features a durable steel cylinder with a protective red powder-coated finish. With their efficient discharge of carbon dioxide (CO2), these types of fire extinguisher co2 are highly effective in suppressing fires caused by electrical hazards. When it comes to protecting your valuable electrical equipment and surroundings, Carbon dioxide mobile extinguishers are a top choice for safety and peace of mind.
Aqueous film forming foam in mobile extinguishers
Mobile extinguishers equipped with Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) are highly effective for combating a range of fire risks. These extinguishers are specially designed to handle Class A fires involving wood, paper, and plastics, as well as Class B fires that include flammable and combustible liquids like oil-based fuels, paints, and solvents.
AFFF extinguishers boast impressive features such as high-performance ratings, ultra-high UV-resistant powder coating, a stainless steel cylinder, handles, and brass valves and ferrules. Additionally, they come supplied with a convenient wall bracket for easy accessibility and storage.
What is the difference between portable and mobile extinguishers?
Fire extinguishers are classified based on their mass, with portable extinguishers weighing up to 20 Kg and designed for single-user convenience. Heavier extinguishers, known as wheeled or mobile fire extinguishers, require wheels for transportation. While portable extinguishers are suitable for initial fire suppression by a single person, fully developed fires are best tackled with mobile extinguishers operated by two individuals.
The first user activates the extinguisher, while the second directs the flow using the horn. In the absence of mobile extinguishers, it is crucial to act swiftly during the early stages of a fire and call the fire department for developed fires.
Mobile extinguishers offer longer operation times and higher extinguishing agent flow rates, ranging from 0.900 Kg/s for 18 Kg carbon dioxide extinguishers to 2.200 Kg/s for 100 Kg dry chemical extinguishers. Their increased power makes them effective in combating larger fires beyond the capabilities of portable extinguishers.
Automatic fire extinguisher system
Automatic Fire Extinguishers are fixed installations placed near potential fire hazards. They automatically discharge when a fire is detected, thanks to a heat-activated glass bulb sprinkler head.
The bulb contains a heat-sensitive liquid that expands with rising temperatures. Once the liquid reaches a specific threshold, the bulb bursts, triggering the release of the extinguisher’s contents.
Dry chemical powder extinguisher in automatic fire extinguisher system
The dry chemical powder extinguisher in the automatic fire extinguisher system comes in various models, including DP4.5A, DP6A, DP9A, DP12A, and DP25A.
These extinguishers are designed to handle fire classes ABC and electrical fires. The extinguishing agent used is 40% MAP – ABC Dry Chemical Powder, while the propellant is stored pressure – nitrogen.
With capacities ranging from 4.5kg to 25kg, these extinguishers operate at a working pressure of 15 bar and a test pressure of 27 bar.
They are equipped with a standard response sprinkler bulb that activates at 155°F/68°C.
The recommended coverage area for these extinguishers is 10-20 sqm, and they are mounted on the ceiling using a steel bracket.
The cylinder is made of steel, and the body color is RAL 3000 (Flame Red).
HFC 227ea fire extinguisher
The HFC-227 Fire Suppression System is a highly effective replacement for Halon 1301 in various applications.
hfc 227ea gas is an odorless, colorless, and electrically non-conductive extinguishing agent suitable for type A and type B fires.
hfc 227ea agent provides superior fire protection for sensitive electronic equipment found in computer rooms, telecommunications facilities, and control rooms. With a minimum concentration of 5.8% for class A fires and a volume concentration of 7.5%, the HFC-227 system offers a low concentration compared to other Halon 1301 substitutes.
Additionally, HFC 227ea fire extinguisher requires minimal storage space, up to 7 times less than alternatives like CO2 and IG.
The HFC 227ea agent is pressurized with Nitrogen at 24 bar and stored in certified Steel Cylinders. Its low storage pressure of 34 bar at 50ºC allows for the use of conventional valves, pipes, and accessories, resulting in reduced installation costs.
One of the most important advantages of hfc 227ea clean agent is that it fires quickly and effectively, without leaving any residue or damaging the protected equipment or surroundings.
Parts & Accessories in fire extinguishers
Fire extinguishers are composed of various parts and accessories that contribute to their functionality and reliability. These components include valves, pressure gauges, nozzles, hoses, mounting brackets, and cabinets. Each part plays a crucial role in ensuring the proper operation and maintenance of the fire extinguisher. Regular inspection, testing, and replacement of these parts are essential to keep the fire extinguisher in optimal condition.
Co2 telescopic applicator
Co2 telescopic applicator, designed for convenient and effective co2 fire extinguisher application.
This telescopic applicator tube extends up to 12 feet (3.6m), providing extended reach and flexibility. To adjust the length, simply rotate the knurled collar in the desired direction.
The telescopic applicator features a protective sleeve for comfortable handling and a spring-loaded trigger valve for precise control.
Its discharge head includes a slotted nozzle with a circular back plate and a three-way adaptor for versatile discharge directions. Additionally, a conical discharge horn is included for addressing various fire scenarios.
In conclusion,
fire extinguishers are essential safety devices that play a crucial role in protecting lives and property. They come in various types, such as dry chemical powder, CO2, water, and foam, each designed to tackle specific types of fires. Understanding the different classes of fires and selecting the appropriate extinguisher is vital for effective fire suppression. Regular maintenance, proper training, and adherence to safety protocols are key to ensuring the reliability and effectiveness of fire extinguishers.