Each one that is used today at transport facilities, industrial facilities, and public buildings has a certain list of disadvantages.
When used, most devices create secondary damage. For some fire extinguishers, for example carbon dioxide, it is minimal.
However, there are devices that have the greatest list of advantages when used. It is quite difficult to list in which cases halon fire extinguishers should be used, since these products have great versatility and ease of use.
Purpose of freon fire extinguishers
Freon fire extinguishers to some extent combine the mechanics of carbon dioxide and powder devices.
They create a blocking layer for the flow of oxygen and greatly cool the treated object.
However, the protection retains its characteristics for a fairly short time and cannot effectively cope with the combustion of substances that are prone to maintaining smoldering and forming a secondary fire.
The list of things that can be extinguished with halon fire extinguishers is quite extensive. Fire classes:
- B, with ignition of liquids;
- C, combustion of gases;
- E, electrical installation fires.
Depending on the class of the charged active substance, freon fire extinguishers are designed to extinguish (at the stage of fire development, depending on the brand of fire extinguishing agent) both equipment with an operating voltage of up to 380V and up to 100kV.
It is imperative to pay attention to this characteristic when purchasing specific products for their commissioning.
An interesting item on the list for what purposes halon fire extinguishers are used is to fight the fire of solid substances that have changed their state of aggregation as a result of a fire. For example, we can talk about paraffin.
This substance cannot be extinguished with water or foam devices to avoid an explosion; carbon dioxide devices show little effectiveness. However, models of the type under consideration cope with this rather complex task.
Halon fire extinguishers are designed for effective extinguishing with zero secondary damage. Taking into account the rather high cost of the devices, they are used in storage facilities for material assets and in areas of expensive electronic or electromechanical equipment. The product can also demonstrate certain effectiveness in road transport.
The device of a freon fire extinguisher
The device of a cold fire extinguisher is built on a siphon circuit for supplying the fire extinguishing agent. It is pushed out of the housing under the influence of gas pressure.
The product structure looks like this:
- the body is a metal cylinder;
- shut-off valves are installed on the cylinder head;
- a siphon tube runs from it inside the body, reaching almost to the bottom of the cylinder;
- the active substance does not fill the container completely;
- in the upper part there is gas under pressure.
Since the freon does not go into a gaseous state and does not form saturated vapors, there is no need to use heavy solid cylinders to make a fire extinguisher, as is the case in carbon dioxide devices. This makes it possible to achieve smaller weight and dimensions of the product, which increases operator comfort.
Operating principle of a freon fire extinguisher
The operating principle of the product allows you to understand the purpose of a halon fire extinguisher and the resulting zero secondary damage, as well as the safety of using the device. The device is characterized by simple starting operations and ease of use.
Before extinguishing a fire, the operator moves the fire extinguisher to a point convenient for use, based on the length of the fire extinguishing agent jet specified in the technical data sheet.
To activate the device, it is enough to remove the seal and the safety pin, after which the trigger handle is pressed.
Entering the outlet pipe, the freon passes from a liquid state into solid snow, ejected as flakes.
At the same time, unlike carbon dioxide equipment, there is no sharp drop in temperature. The operator is free from the danger of frostbite and static shock.
When falling on objects or the treatment area, freon snow reduces the temperature, helping to stop combustion.
The active substance also forms a layer that prevents the flow of oxygen. Over time, the freon evaporates, leaving no traces.
The mechanics of the device’s operation allows us to better understand the purposes for which halon fire extinguishers are used. The object of processing does not experience any negative effects.
It does not cool down, there is no danger of short circuits. Also, freon does not enter into any chemical or physical (adhesion, boiling) reactions with surfaces in the area of influence.
Recharging the device
Recharging of halon fire extinguishers is carried out in licensed companies. All devices undergo the procedure after direct use.
If this does not happen, only licensed companies are involved in the disposal of freon; free release of the chemical into the environment is prohibited.
Also, all freon fire extinguishers undergo inspection and verification procedures similar to carbon dioxide equipment.
- For devices equipped with a pressure gauge, the operating pressure is checked.
- The leakage of the active substance is controlled by weighing the cylinder and comparing the obtained indicators for compliance with the standards specified in the technical passport.
The frequency of recharging halon fire extinguishers (mandatory) is once every 5 years. Also, units of equipment whose rate of leakage of the active substance or drop in operating pressure exceeds the standards established by the manufacturer’s passport are subject to such an operation.
Restrictions for use
When storing and operating halon fire extinguishers, a number of rules must be observed. The devices are technically hazardous to human health.
Technical conditions for storage and placement during commissioning of halon fire extinguishers require the mandatory placement of pieces of equipment no closer than 1 m from heating devices or explosive substances. Significant overheating of the cylinders is not allowed.
At temperatures close to 400 degrees Celsius, freon begins to decompose, releasing dangerous fluorine and bromine compounds.
When using devices, you must use personal protective equipment.
Vapors of the active substance can cause breathing difficulties, they irritate the mucous membranes and have a negative effect on overall well-being. Also, freon causes chemical burns to the skin and can cause gastric intoxication.
Conclusion
Halon fire extinguishers are extremely effective and do not in any way affect the objects in the treatment area. The devices are extremely expensive.
However, their commissioning may be justified in areas where other types of equipment can cause irreparable damage.
When stored correctly and using personal protective equipment during use, freon fire extinguishers have no competitors in terms of ease of use and efficiency.
Video: Certification tests of the halon fire extinguisher OX-2(z)-AVSE-01 for category A
Fire has always been considered a destructive element. But many people mistakenly believe that there is only one principle of extinguishing fire. Actually this is not true. Each fire has its own individual character and requires a special approach when extinguishing the source of fire.
Why is the fire extinguisher called freon?
The freon fire extinguisher (OC for short) got its name due to the gaseous hydrocarbon mixture. It is similar to that used (as a coolant) for refrigeration units. Nowadays, halon fire extinguishing devices with the composition FE-36 and its analogues are used. They are non-corrosive and do not harm the ozone layer.
What is refrigerant?
Freon is a heavy, colorless liquid. It belongs to the safe category, which is used to extinguish fires or after explosions. Freon begins to decompose when it is heated to 400 degrees. In this case, the substance becomes toxic. And substances containing bromine and fluorine begin to be released from it.
Marking
A freon fire extinguisher is marked according to generally accepted rules. The cylinder must bear the date of issue and the name of the manufacturer. As well as GOST, indicating the volume of the extinguishing charge and the temperature range for using the fire extinguisher. The cylinder must contain designations of classes, fire models, and prohibitions stated under which conditions OX should not be used.
Construction of freon fire extinguishers
A halon fire extinguisher is similar in structure to a carbon dioxide one. The devices differ only in size and weight. For freon fire extinguishers they are somewhat smaller. Although the operating time is the same as that of carbon dioxide.
The refrigerant cylinder consists of:
- housings;
- shut-off and starting device;
- siphon;
- fire extinguishing agent;
- holder in the form of a pen;
- bell;
- fuse.
Inside the cylinder there is a siphon tube that does not reach the bottom and is connected to the starting device. When the fire extinguisher is in the open position, the freon flows out to the socket through the tube, acquiring a snow-like state in the air. In the cylinder the substance is in compressed form. The fire extinguishing mixture replaces oxygen, and combustion stops due to lack of power.
Operating principle
A refrigerant fire extinguisher (CH) has the same principle of operation as a carbon dioxide one. Liquefied gas is pushed out of the cylinder under excess pressure. It expands at the exit, turning into a solid state. As a result, snow appears, covering the fire, and the burning stops.
The principle of operation of self-acting OX is based on the destruction of a capsule made of glass. As a result, it is thrown onto the fire. Most often, automatic OX are connected to heat or smoke sensors.
Areas and purposes of application
For what purposes are halon fire extinguishers used? Extinguish fires in places where it is necessary to preserve material assets or fragile electrical equipment. And not only from fire, but also from the effects of the fire extinguisher composition. Freon cylinders are used in places:
- where electrical equipment up to 110 kW is located;
- presence of liquid substances (including fuel and petroleum products);
- where there are museum exhibits or archival values;
- finding gaseous materials with a high degree of explosion hazard;
- where the expensive interior is located.
All of the above can be damaged by exposure to carbon dioxide found in conventional fire extinguishers. Especially due to the sharp temperature change. Therefore, cylinders filled with refrigerant are most often used at the scene of a fire.
An automatic fire extinguisher is also produced. The price is set by manufacturers depending on the volume of cylinders. Automatic OCs can be attached to stationary equipment. When the temperature rises to a certain level or an alarm signal is given, in the room where the fire has occurred, the fire extinguisher opens independently, without human intervention.
Places of application
The freon fire extinguisher is designed to extinguish class B or C fires or electrical installations with a voltage of no more than 110 kV. Most often, OCs are used in control rooms and telecommunications. And also in production facilities where there is high-tech equipment. Recently, halon fire extinguishers are increasingly used in the transport industry. Recommended for private cars instead of outdated powder and carbon dioxide ones, which pollute the engine compartment and interior.
How to use a fire extinguisher?
A halon fire extinguisher, the purpose of which is to extinguish fires without causing damage to material assets or fragile electrical equipment, can be used without firefighters.
If a fire is detected, the safety pin is pulled out of the fire extinguisher and the seal is removed. The hose is directed towards the flame, which is no closer than one meter. When extinguishing a fire, the fire extinguisher must be positioned horizontally to the floor or ground. Then press the trigger.
If the extinguishing took place in a small room, a window is opened to ventilate the freon vapors. This is done to avoid suffocation. The full period of use of the OH is 10 years. If it has not been used for 5 years, it is recharged. Or the cylinder is refilled immediately after
Freon fire extinguisher OX-2: advantages and disadvantages
Like all fire extinguishers, freon extinguishers have their advantages and disadvantages. Among the advantages is ease of use. The person is not exposed to electrical shock or frostbite. The fire extinguisher is very easy to start. Main advantages:
- the composition has no corrosive properties;
- OX-2 are used at temperatures from minus 20 to plus 50 degrees;
- are used regardless of precipitation and air humidity;
- OX-2 have a cooling effect, which helps prevent re-ignition at the source;
- does not cause harm to the treated surface, the freon quickly evaporates.
Halon fire extinguishers have several disadvantages. Cylinders are quite expensive. Refilled fire extinguishers are used only once; dosed release of refrigerant is not possible. Freon vapors negatively affect human health, worsening general well-being, irritating mucous membranes and making breathing difficult. If the OX composition comes into contact with unprotected skin, it can cause burns. And if the freon ends up in the stomach, it means toxic poisoning.
Precautionary measures
A freon fire extinguisher has some limitations in use. Contact of the OX filler with alkali is unacceptable both during storage and during extinguishing. Fire extinguishers must not be placed near heating devices or explosive substances. You need to work with refrigerant only with protective equipment. It is impossible to use OX near ventilation and hot pipelines. The unused refrigerant residue in the cylinder is disposed of by special enterprises.
Cost of OH
In our time, an OX (fire extinguisher) was created to replace powder and carbon dioxide fire cylinders. Its price varies depending on the manufacturer. Foreign cylinders are much more expensive than Russian ones. For example, fire extinguishers made in Slovakia cost: OX-2 - 15,900 rubles, OX-4 - from 20,900 rubles, and OX-6 - from 28,900 rubles. Cylinders from Russian manufacturers can be purchased for amounts ranging from 9,500 to 22,500 rubles.
One of the most destructive elements is fire. On its way, everything turns to ashes, but today there are many means to help people fight fires.
One of them is refrigerant fire extinguishers. Their use makes it possible to extinguish the flame at the very initial stage and thereby makes it possible to preserve property intact.
But for this it is necessary to choose primary fire extinguishing agents that will fully correspond to the specifics of the room. Specialists from retail chains, as well as various information resources on relevant topics, will be able to help with this.
Scope of fire fighting equipment
Even children know where and why water fire extinguishers are used - this is one of the very first means of fighting fire.
But since various materials can burn, they should be extinguished using all kinds of equipment. If we consider the purpose of the devices in general terms, then it is universal.
Today, this type of fire-fighting equipment is used everywhere, from private homes and personal cars to industrial premises and public transport. Thanks to freon fire extinguishers, it is possible to extinguish the flame at the initial stage of its appearance, while saving most of the property, and sometimes human lives.
Classification of primary fire fighting equipment
Currently, manufacturers produce a wide range of products in this class. It is all divided into two large groups of fire extinguishers:
- Portable (weight up to 20 kg);
- Mobile (with a mass of no more than 400 kg).
Moreover, the latest devices very often have two containers for charging OTV.
In addition, the devices differ in the type of composition used to fight fire. There are many more species here:
- Aquatic (AW);
- Foam;
- Powder (OP);
- Gas;
- Combined.
Foam includes two modifications: air (ORP) and chemical (OCP). Similarly, there are different types of gas samples: freon gas (CH) and carbon dioxide (CO).
We watch a video, types of fire extinguishing devices;
But these are not all the differences. There is a division of aerosol fire extinguishers into groups depending on the type of jet. It can be compact, sprayed and finely dispersed. Moreover, the last two types differ in the diameter of the droplets.
Air-foam equipment models can generate low and medium expansion flows. For the former, this figure ranges from 5 to 20, and for the latter it reaches 200.
Another parameter by which mobile fire extinguishers are divided into types is the method of displacing the composition. Depending on it, the following models are distinguished:
- Downloads;
- With a cylinder;
- With ejector;
- With gas generating or thermal element.
There are also differences in the amount of pressure; it can be low or high. In addition, they can be rechargeable and non-repairable, which can be used once.
What units are used and what are they used for?
Water models are excellent at extinguishing building fires involving paper, wood, fabrics and debris. They are among the simplest and cheapest.
However, it is strictly forbidden to use water fire extinguishers to extinguish flammable liquids, as this can lead to the rapid spread of fire.
In addition, the use of such equipment is prohibited near electrical wiring.
Aerosol fire extinguishers fight fire using vapor-forming halogenated hydrocarbons. They are designed for extinguishing flammable liquids, as well as various materials, but are completely unsuitable for alkali metals and electrical installations.
Aerosol fire extinguishers can only be used if safety precautions are strictly observed. This is due to the fact that the components included in the extinguishing agent have a toxic effect on the human body and are undesirable to inhale. This fact is one of the biggest disadvantages of a mobile aerosol fire extinguisher. Therefore, their use is very limited.
Gas fire extinguishers are of two types: carbon dioxide and freon. The former are suitable for extinguishing any fires with the exception of the ignition of gaseous substances. These devices contain a gas that leaves no trace, making them suitable for extinguishing expensive equipment and electronics. If a gas fire extinguisher is used indoors, there is a risk of poisoning. Therefore, immediately after eliminating the outbreak, you should quickly go outside, closing the door behind you.
Freon fire extinguishers are designed for use in computer centers, museums, and archives. They are among the highly effective and do not cause damage to surrounding objects within their sphere of influence.
That is why freon fire extinguishers are used in rooms where particularly valuable items and equipment are stored.
Air emulsion models are an ideal choice for enclosed spaces where people are present. They can be used immediately when a fire occurs and do not require personal protective equipment. Their main advantage is the ability to extinguish organic solids and liquids, as well as live devices.
They effectively cool the combustion area and can operate even at very low temperatures. Air emulsion fire extinguishers are considered the most environmentally friendly and safe devices for humans and are recommended for purchase by all owners of private houses.
When choosing fire extinguishing agents for your own home, you need to consider what materials predominate in it.
Since country buildings are most often made of wood, water or air-foam models will be most effective here. However, these brands of devices are not suitable for extinguishing live objects. In addition, they cannot be used at subzero temperatures and have a short service life.
Therefore, carbon dioxide is increasingly being chosen as fire extinguishers for a wooden house. They do not have the disadvantages of the first two models. But they also have their drawbacks. Such devices are not suitable for extinguishing wood and materials made from it, therefore they are used in private homes as auxiliary devices for extinguishing fires in electrical appliances.
Watch a video about the powder type model:
And experts recommend a powder extinguisher as the main manual fire extinguisher for a wooden house. Its advantages:
- Versatility;
- Long service life without recharging;
- Low cost.
But in addition to manual ones, there are mobile fire extinguishers. They are available with special carts that make it easy to move the device from place to place. It is advisable to purchase them for large premises, as well as gas stations.
What to consider when choosing
The issue of choosing fire extinguishing agents is very relevant in modern society. A large number of different equipment, the presence of flammable finishing materials in the premises, all this can lead to a fire if the fire is handled carelessly. Therefore, every office, industrial and residential building must be equipped with special corners in which hand-held fire extinguishers and other equipment are located.
Watch the video, selection criteria:
If you need to choose a device for an apartment or private house, then experts recommend purchasing a carbon dioxide model. Such a device is safe for humans and prevents contamination of surfaces during use. In addition, it will effectively cope with fire on electrical appliances.
However, it is not suitable for extinguishing smoldering materials such as wood or fabric, as it can only knock out the flame. Therefore, the use of powder models is recommended for such substances. This means that the ideal option for the home is to have two devices: powder and carbon dioxide. Moreover, they should be located taking into account the possibilities of application.
But since the resource of such funds is not unlimited, it is worth thinking about purchasing several fire extinguishers for your home and equipping a fire hydrant. One device should be installed at the front door, and the second in the farthest room of the room. But do not forget that it is necessary to periodically carry out preventive inspections of the equipment, as well as refueling. After all, the safety of your property depends on the efficient operation of the equipment.
For information: advertising assurances from manufacturers/suppliers of chemical substances regarding the effective extinguishing of solid substances/materials (fire class A) contradict the standards established by the state; and calls to equip every car with them are common sense based on their cost. Unless, of course, it is a museum exhibit, a rare retro car or a car for executive class servants of the people. Although their use in airplanes, river and sea vessels, railway transport, including the subway, is completely justified, expedient, and economically justified.
According to the standards for equipping premises of industrial and public buildings, OH should again be guided by adj. No. 1 to “PPR in the Russian Federation”, published in 2012:
- In workshops, production premises of categories A, B, C, with fire class B, C - 4 OX with a capacity of 2 (3) liters for every 200 sq. m.
- Category B, class E – 2 ОХ-2(3) per 400 sq. m.
- G, D, class E – 2 ОХ-2(3) per 1800 sq. m.
- In public buildings, class E - 4 OX-2(3) per 800 sq. m.
Note: if you evaluate the effectiveness of the types of fire extinguishers used to extinguish electrical installations; then, according to the above standards, the minimum required configuration of premises, different in purpose, fire class, OX is no less than 2 times more effective than OU.
The use of mobile chemical weapons weighing from 20 to 400 kg is not regulated by norms and rules established by the state, just as they are not encountered in practice, apparently due to the deliberate lack of possible demand due to the high cost of even hand-held devices.
Another significant use of freons for ensuring fire safety at protected industrial/civil facilities is as a fire extinguishing agent. in stationary automatic installations/gas fire extinguishing systems, as an effective alternative to traditionally used carbon dioxide.
You should know and remember: premises in one protected object must, based on the physico-chemical properties of the fire load, i.e. furniture, combustible/combustible goods, raw materials, finished products; substances/materials involved in the technological process that are in replaceable or long-term storage; complete only one type of fire extinguisher of the 5 specified in PPR-2012: OVP, OP, OU, OVE (air emulsion) or OX.
It is unacceptable to use devices with different fire extinguishing compositions/substances at the same time; this is not only impractical, even pointless; but, depending on the specific situation, it can be simply dangerous - lead to repeated fires, destruction, damage to valuable equipment; expensive commercial products, therefore, to additional indirect damage from the fire.
In practice, based on the real, retail cost of the listed primary funds, the choice usually remains with the ORP, OP or OU, and even then, the latter type is exclusively for electrical installations, switchboards, and valuable equipment.
Freon and air-emulsion devices, the price of which is very significant and, in the author’s opinion, unreasonably inflated by manufacturers/sellers compared to other types of fire extinguishers, are rarely used; mainly for the protection of really important premises/objects or when their wholesale supply or packaging occurs at the expense of the state/large manufacturing, financial companies/corporations.
Classes of halon fire extinguishers are not clearly defined by the rules and regulations, but in fact they exist, depending on the type used to fill the OX liquefied gas mixture based on halogenated hydrocarbons. The list of such chemical substances, generally/briefly called in this case freons, is established by SP 5.13130.2009, which applies to both the fire extinguishing composition of gas fire extinguishing devices and portable chemical agents.
Operating principle of a freon fire extinguisher
- Chemical substances, compounds of the gas mixture from OX, entering the source, begin to decompose under the influence of high temperature with the appearance of free radicals.
- The latter actively react with primary combustion products, binding them into inert compounds.
- It is very important that this physical and chemical process is accompanied by the absorption of a large amount of heat.
- As a result of these factors, the combustion process rapidly slows down and the fire extinguishes; and with a sufficient concentration of the gas mixture in the area of the fire, its localization and complete elimination.
Scientific research shows that this method is more effective than supplying inert gases that do not support the combustion process - nitrogen, argon or carbon dioxide - to the fire.
Design and characteristics of a halon fire extinguisher
The OX includes the following elements (parts):
- A steel cylinder with a connecting thread, designed for high pressure, many times greater than the working pressure. Volume from 2 to 8 liters in accordance with the OX brands most common among manufacturers.
- A charge of refrigerant of one type or a recommended mixture, pumped in a liquid aggregate state under pressure into a cylinder.
- Locking device with a tap/lever with a stopper/safety device against accidental activation.
- Pressure indicator.
- Siphon tube for supplying refrigerant from the bottom of the cylinder.
- Hose with spray device.
A full check of a halon fire extinguisher must be carried out at a specialized enterprise that has a license from the Ministry of Emergency Situations for this type of work. About its implementation, information about the date of the event and the company responsible for this event is provided using a label/sticker or tag. Similar information is entered in the technical passport of each OH, as well as in the journal of their accounting at the enterprise where they are on the balance sheet.
According to SP 9.13130.2009, which establishes requirements for portable/mobile fire extinguishers, including their regular maintenance, the following shelf life and recharging times for the fire extinguisher are established:
- Checking the serviceability of components and parts, the main parameters of the OX - once a year, including by weighing to determine the possible loss of charge mass due to insufficient connection density or improper use, which is also not uncommon. The established maximum limit according to GOST R 51057-2001 for portable fire extinguishers is no more than 5% of the weight of the freon charge.
- Recharge – after 5 years from the production date.
You will also find it useful to read the following information:
Extinguishing with a halon fire extinguisher
The choice of chemical agents as the main operational fire extinguishing agent to protect the premises of an enterprise or organization is due to the following:
- High efficiency in its range of application - fires of classes B, C, E. The minimum concentration in the flame source is no more than 15%.
- Since freons do not conduct electric current, it is allowed to extinguish operating installations and equipment with voltage up to 10 kV with them, which greatly distinguishes them from carbon dioxide, for which the limit for such use is 1 kV.
- Of particular value is the absence of consequences for inventory items caught in the stream from the chemical agent.
- The design of such a fire extinguisher, despite the fact that this device is constantly under high operating pressure, is safe.
- Modern freon compositions, unlike their predecessors, are slightly toxic or completely safe for human health, to the delight of versatile environmentalists - and for the ozone layer of the planet.
- OX can be operated in a wide temperature range: from – 50 to + 50℃.
The rules for extinguishing with a halon fire extinguisher are simple:
- Its device does not require preliminary preparation.
- OX is always ready for immediate use in critical situations.
- Unlike an op-amp, upon startup, despite the name associated with a freezer, there is no sharp decrease in the temperature of the op-amp parts or the surrounding space, which eliminates the possibility of frostbite.
Since according to the required length of the jet of freons from OX-2 is at least 2 m, for OX-3 and larger volumes - 3 m, it is quite convenient for them to work, being at a fairly safe distance from the source of fire.
To summarize, we can say that this, of course, is not a universal, but extremely effective means of extinguishing possible fires of classes B, C, E, which has a high cost. However, the end, as a rule, justifies the means, therefore, to protect important objects, equipment, apparatus, and various combustible valuables, its acquisition is completely justified and advisable.
The packaging (if there is one) and the label of the fire extinguisher contain a lot of information that is incomprehensible to the consumer - abbreviations, pictograms, diagrams. Manufacturers of fire extinguishers mark their products with letters characterizing the type of fire extinguisher (OP, OU, OV, ORP, etc.), indicating the class of fires (A, B, C, B, D and E) and numbers indicating the mass of the fire extinguishing agent (FME).
Depending on the weight of fire extinguishers, fire extinguishers are divided into portable (hand-held) or mobile, weighing more than 20 kg. Mobile fire extinguishers are designed to protect large objects: gas stations, warehouses, shops. They can only be purchased in specialized stores or from manufacturers.
When choosing a fire extinguisher, you need to pay attention to what types of fires the fire extinguisher is designed to extinguish. The class and rank of the model fire is indicated on the fire extinguisher label.
Fire classes:
- Class A- Combustion of solids
- Class B- Combustion of liquid substances
- Class C- Combustion of gaseous substances
- Class D- Combustion of metals and metal-containing substances
- Class E- fires caused by electrical equipment malfunctions (short circuits, arcs, overloads), as well as violations of the rules of technical operation of electrical installations
To ensure that the fire extinguisher you choose does not let you down and does not fail in severe frost, in an unheated room or car, when choosing a fire extinguisher, you must take into account the climatic operating conditions and make sure that the temperature range of use of the fire extinguisher corresponds.
Depending on the type of fire extinguishing agent used, fire extinguishers are divided into:
- aquatic(OB);
- air-foam(ORP);
- powder(OP);
- carbon dioxide(OU)
- freon(OH);
- air emulsion(OVE).
Depending on the principle of creating the gas pressure necessary to release the fire extinguishing agent, fire extinguishers are divided into:
- injection fire extinguishing agents (Type Z);
- a high-pressure cylinder (Type B) is used to store liquefied or compressed gas;
- product with a gas-generating device (Type G).
Example of symbols for fire extinguishers:
OVE-6(z)-AVE- air emulsion fire extinguisher. Then the volume of OTV is indicated, in this case it is 6 liters (h)- The principle of creating gas pressure - injection, is indicated by the letter “z” (this is not a number). Suitable for extinguishing class fires A, B, E.
Which fire extinguishers are best? Let's figure out how they differ.
When choosing fire extinguishers, you need to take into account the features of their design and the class of the expected fire. There are several types of fire extinguishers, differing in the principle of impact on the source of fire, the extinguishing agent, efficiency, versatility of use, and, of course, price.
Powder fire extinguishers (OP)
Powder fire extinguishers- the most common and universal type of fire extinguisher in terms of application. Due to their low cost, their market share reaches 80% of the total. Depending on the purpose, powder compositions are divided into general-purpose powders (ABSE, VSE) and special-purpose powders, which are used to extinguish class D fires, and can be used to extinguish fires of other classes.
Despite their versatility and prevalence, powder fire extinguishers have significant disadvantages:
- high smoke and a significant decrease in the visibility of the source and exit routes due to the powder cloud formed during application.
- the need to use personal protective equipment in enclosed spaces
- powder contamination of the protected object that is difficult to remove
- Fire extinguishing powders are prone to clumping and caking during storage.
- lack of cooling effect when extinguishing
- high probability of re-ignition of an already extinguished source from a heated object.
When extinguishing with a powder fire extinguisher (OP), high smoke content of the extinguishing object occurs due to a powder cloud
Gas fire extinguishers: carbon dioxide and freon.
Carbon dioxide fire extinguishers (CO)
Liquefied carbon dioxide (carbon dioxide) is used as a fire extinguishing agent in OS fire extinguishers. The effectiveness of flame extinguishing is achieved by cooling the combustion zone and displacing oxygen with non-flammable carbon dioxide.
The main advantages of such fire extinguishers are: efficiency in extinguishing liquid and gaseous substances (class B, C) and electrical installations up to 1000 V (class E), complete absence of traces of extinguishing, since carbon dioxide completely evaporates after use, leaving no traces. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is liquefied in a high-strength steel housing under high pressure, which is why all carbon dioxide fire extinguishers are heavier than other types of fire extinguishers.
Due to high pressure, carbon dioxide fire extinguishers should not be stored near heat sources or exposed to direct sunlight.
When using a carbon dioxide fire extinguisher, it is strictly forbidden to touch the fire extinguisher socket, because Carbon dioxide, when transitioning from a liquid to a gaseous state, instantly cools the fire extinguisher nozzle to -70 ° C.
Advantages of carbon dioxide fire extinguishers:
- efficiency of extinguishing liquid and gaseous substances (class B, C) and electrical installations under voltage up to 1000 V;
- no traces of extinguishing;
- operating temperature range from -40 °C to +50 °C
Disadvantages of carbon dioxide fire extinguishers:
- heavy weight of the fire extinguisher;
- the possibility of significant thermal stresses arising as a result of sudden cooling of the extinguishing object;
- the possibility of frostbite on the hands due to the sudden cooling of the fire extinguisher socket and cylinder;
- accumulation of static electricity charges on the fire extinguisher during use;
- the use of carbon dioxide fire extinguishers in a confined space leads to a sharp increase in CO 2 concentration, which can cause oxygen deficiency and suffocation;
- reduction in the effectiveness of the fire extinguisher at subzero temperatures.
- not used for extinguishing wood and substances that burn without air access (cotton, pyroxylin)
Halon fire extinguishers (OH)
Fire extinguishers based on freons are highly effective and are used where damage to protected equipment or objects is not allowed: data centers, server and communication equipment, electronic equipment, museum exhibits, archives, etc.).
Advantages of freon fire extinguishers:
- high efficiency of freon, 2 times higher than the efficiency of carbon dioxide;
- no destructive effect on extinguishing objects;
Disadvantages of freon fire extinguishers:
- toxic effects of freon and its pyrolysis products in a fire on the human body; - increased corrosiveness of freon;
- the possibility of destruction of the ozone layer;
- negative impact on the environment, impact on the ozone layer.
Water fire extinguishers (WF)
Water fire extinguishers are well suited for extinguishing the fire of solid flammable substances, materials of organic origin, the combustion of which is accompanied by smoldering, for example, paper, wood, rags (class A).
Advantages of water fire extinguishers:
- environmental cleanliness and safety for people;
- minor secondary damage from spilled water
Disadvantages of water fire extinguishers:
- water fire extinguishers cannot be used to extinguish flammable liquids (class B)
- water conducts electricity well and is not used to extinguish electrical fires (class E);
- narrow operating temperature range in which use is possible (from +5°C to +50°C)
Air-foam fire extinguishers (AFP)
IN air-foam fire extinguishers The extinguishing agent is foam. It consists almost entirely of air (the proportion of air contained in the foam reaches 90%). They are used to extinguish the initial stages of fire of solid or liquid substances, such as wood, oils, etc.
Disadvantages of air foam fire extinguishers:
- air-foam fire extinguishers cannot be used to extinguish flammable liquids in an area larger than 1 m² (class B)
- are not used to extinguish electrical fires (class E);
- narrow operating temperature range in which use is possible (from +5°C to +50°C);
- possibility of damage to the extinguishing object;
- high corrosive activity of the charge;
- annual recharging is required.
Chemical foam fire extinguishers (CFF)
Despite the improvements that have been made, they are obsolete and have low fire extinguishing ability and are gradually being taken out of service and replaced with more effective fire extinguishers. They are used to extinguish solid flammable substances (class A). Their only advantage is their low cost.
Air emulsion fire extinguishers (AFE)
Air emulsion fire extinguishers (AFE) incorporate the advantages inherent in water and air-foam fire extinguishers, but lack their main disadvantages. OVE fire extinguishers use the injection principle. The water-based fire extinguishing agent (WFA) is safe for humans and the environment, as confirmed by sanitary and epidemiological conclusions. OVE fire extinguishers allow you to immediately begin extinguishing a fire in enclosed spaces before the evacuation of people without the use of personal respiratory and visual protection. The use of OVE fire extinguishers does not reduce visibility in the fire zone. It can be used to extinguish fires in enclosed spaces in the presence of people without the use of personal protective equipment. No secondary damage from spillage or contamination of the facility with fire extinguishing agent, due to minimal consumption of fire extinguishing agent.
Fire extinguishers OVE They are universal and are used to extinguish fires in premises, transport, and outdoors, including at negative air temperatures down to minus 40 ° C.
Due to the high stability of the fire extinguishing agent solution, the service life of air-emulsion fire extinguishers is 10 years without recharging and re-examination.
Advantages of air emulsion fire extinguishers:
- high efficiency of extinguishing solid flammable substances, materials of organic origin, the combustion of which is accompanied by smoldering, and flammable liquids (class A, B);
- possibility of extinguishing live electrical installations and electrical equipment up to 20,000 V(class E);
- effective cooling of the combustion source;
- absence of secondary damage from exposure to the fire extinguishing agent;
- operating a fire extinguisher at temperatures as low as minus 40 °C;
- the long service life of a fire extinguisher without recharging and re-examination is 10 years;
- 40 recharges of the fire extinguisher are allowed over the entire service life;
- environmentally friendly and safe
- fire extinguisher is universal in use
One OVE-5 (air-emulsion) fire extinguisher surpasses 20 OVP-5(z) (air-foam) fire extinguishers in its fire extinguishing abilities of solid combustible substances.
Disadvantages of air emulsion fire extinguishers:
- relatively high cost.
As a rule, it is air emulsion fire extinguishers, due to the combination of high efficiency characteristics, they become the choice of professionals, reputable organizations and departments, as well as ordinary citizens who highly value their safety, the safety of their loved ones and the safety of their property.
After using a fire extinguisher, it must be recharged. Up to 40 recharges are allowed during the service life.
The higher price, compared to other types of fire extinguishers, is justified by the high reliability and efficiency of air-emulsion fire extinguishers.
The fire extinguishing ability of the OVE-5 fire extinguisher when extinguishing solid flammable substances (class A) is comparable to the fire extinguishing ability of the OVP-100(z) air-foam fire extinguisher or the OP-50(z) powder fire extinguisher, and when extinguishing liquid flammable substances, the OVE-5 fire extinguisher is - similar to OVP-50(z), or OP-20(z). There is no need for re-inspection and recharging during the life of the fire extinguisher, saving your money and time.
