Fire was one of the most important inventions ever made by human civilisation. Still, no matter how important it was to the advent of civilisation, there’s no question about the fact that fire is as dangerous as it is useful. In such a scenario, homes, offices, and other places must be fully equipped to put out a fire in case one breaks out.
Here, a fire extinguisher can make the difference between life and death; A fire extinguisher is one of the most important safety devices in a commercial facility. Operations depend on these fire extinguishers, in the event or rather the possibility, of a fire breaking out in a business place.
Let us understand the different types of fire extinguishers, their usage and benefits in detail.
Classes of Fires & Fire Extinguishers
There aren’t one, but a total of five types of fires, each categorised based on the type of fuel and circumstances, they are:
- Class A: Common solid burnables, which include paper, wood, fabric, and various plastics.
- Class B: Flammable substances including alcohol, ether, oil, gasoline and grease.
- Class C: Fire caused by electric appliances.
- Class D: Combustible metals like Sodium, Titanium, Zirconium, Aluminium, and Potassium.
- Class K: Fires caused by cooking grease or oil.
Fire extinguishers are divided into four classes based on the types of fires. The various classes of fire extinguishers are:
1. Type A
It is a type of pressurised water extinguisher ideal for Class A fires. Using it on Class B or C fires could lead to electrical shock or fire spread.
2. Type ABC
A dry powder-like chemical which is effective on all types of fires.
3. Type BC
Carbon dioxide is only to be used on chemical or electrical fires.
4. Type K
It should be used in case of a kitchen or a grease fire.
Types of Fire Extinguishers
Based on the above classifications, there are different types of fire extinguishers on the market. The different fire extinguisher types are:.
Water Fire Extinguisher
A water fire extinguisher is one of the most common and simple extinguisher types used for fires. It helps delay the fire until it goes out entirely by chilling the flames and soaking the burning items. Class A fires, which include burning paper, wood, cloth, and plastic, are ideal for these extinguishers. They are safe and require little maintenance since they just contain water. They are rather common in areas like offices, hospitals, hotels, warehouses, and colleges. You can usually find them close to exits on flooring prone to Class A fires. The fire caused by oil, fat, metals, or electrical appliances should not be utilized, though.
This water fire extinguisher comes in several sub-categories. For instance, the water spray extinguishers have spray nozzles that help cover a greater area. Little water particles released by water mist extinguishers form a mist that helps put out the fire and simultaneously shields the user from heat. Certain water extinguishers even feature unique chemicals that increase their potency while maintaining their weightlessness.
CO2 Extinguisher
Usually, the common type of fire extinguisher supplied in computer server rooms, a CO2 fire extinguisher for electrical fire hazards. It also extinguishes Class B flames. It substitutes the oxygen from the flame, reducing the intensity of the fire. The black label on this kind of extinguisher represents that it is designed for Class B and Class C fires.
However, CO2 extinguishers get quite cold during discharge, and those without double-lined, frost-free swivel horns could cause fingers to freeze during usage. Although they are not suitable for deep-fat fryers because the strong jet can spread burning fat, they can smother fires in small areas. Once the CO2 has disappeared into the sky, fires can rapidly re-ignite and hence do not provide post-fire protection.
Dry Powder Fire Extinguisher
Since this can be used for Class A, Class B, and Class C fires, the conventional dry chemical powder fire extinguisher is also known as an ABC extinguisher.
These types of fire extinguishers should not be used in enclosed areas, though, since the extinguisher’s dry powder is readily breathed in. Once the fire is out, it also becomes difficult to clear the residual mess. These are also applicable to fires involving electrical machinery. Usually used for Class D fires resulting from combustible metals, there are also specific dry powder extinguishers. This sort of extinguisher has a blue label.
They act by the powder, creating a crust that smothers the fire and prevents its spread. The powder does not soak into materials and does not have a strong cooling impact on the flames, which can cause the fire to flare back on. If inhaled, the powder is dangerous; hence, it should be utilized in well-ventilated spaces and not appropriate for homes or offices. The powder ruins machinery, soft furniture, etc., and requires a lot of cleaning following use.
Foam Fire Extinguisher
Class B fires typically call for these most often used types of fire extinguishers. These are water-based, though, hence they can also be used for Class A fires. The label is cream in hue. These fire extinguishers will work on fires caused by a variety of organic materials like wood, coal, textiles, fabrics, cardboard and paper, and also flammable liquids like gasoline and paints.
A foam fire extinguisher is more expensive than other types of extinguishers. It leaves a residue that can be cleaned up afterwards.
Wet Chemical Fire Extinguisher
Wet chemical extinguishers are intended for use on fats and cooking oils. Using a damp chemical extinguisher for a Class K fire involving cooking oils and fats is the best choice. They are made up of pressurised water solutions of alkali salts that, when in operation, create a mist that not only cools the flame but also prevents the absorption of water by the fire.
Additionally, Class A fires can also be extinguished using a wet chemical fire extinguisher. However, foam or water extinguishers are more widely utilized.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the different types of fire extinguishers is essential. This knowledge helps determine the kinds and levels of fire each extinguisher can handle. Despite the varied classifications of the extinguishers, each is designed for specific fire types. So safeguard yourself and your space from any unforeseen fire accident by ordering an appropriate fire extinguisher from L&T Suffin today. Stay Safe.
FAQs
What is in a CO2 fire extinguisher?
In a CO2 fire extinguisher, there is compressed CO2 gas, which is released when you press the nozzle.
What is the full form of CO2?
Carbon Dioxide is also called CO2, which is a colourless, odourless gas used in fire extinguishers to smother flames.
What is a D-class fire?
Fires which are caused by flammable metals like sodium and potassium are often called D-class fires.
What are the types of fire extinguishers?
There are five types of fire extinguishers:
- Water Fire extinguisher
- CO2 extinguisher
- Dry Powder Fire Extinguisher
- Foam Fire Extinguisher
- Wet Chemical fire extinguisher
Each of which is used for a different kind of fire.
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