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Must Have a Fire Extinguisher? Get to Know the Types of Fire Extinguishers Before Buying
Fires can occur anytime and anywhere, which is why it is essential to have a fire extinguisher, whether at home, in the office, or in an industrial environment. However, before deciding to purchase one, it is important to understand the types of fire extinguishers available on the market.
Each type of fire extinguisher has different functions and uses, depending on the classification of the fire being faced. By recognizing the different types, users can choose the most suitable fire extinguisher for their specific needs in their respective environments.
What is APAR?
A fire extinguisher is a lightweight, portable firefighting device designed to be used manually by one person.
Its function is to extinguish small fires in the early stages before they spread and become larger. This device consists of a pressurized cylinder filled with a specific extinguishing agent, such as water, foam, chemical powder, or carbon dioxide.
Fire extinguishers have three main functions:
- Stop the spread of small fires early on.
- Protecting human safety and surrounding assets.
- Be part of the fire safety system in various locations, including households, offices, and industries.
Types of Fire Extinguishers (Lightweight Fire Extinguishing Equipment)
The following is a complete explanation of the types of fire extinguishers commonly used, complete with their functions and uses:
Types of Water Fire Extinguishers
Water-based fire extinguishers use high-pressure water as the extinguishing agent. These devices are highly effective for extinguishing Class A fires, which involve non-metallic solid materials such as paper, cloth, wood, plastic, and rubber.
The advantages of this type of fire extinguisher are its ease of use and relatively low cost, making it a good choice for households or small offices. However, water fire extinguishers are not suitable for use on fires involving oil, gas, or electrical equipment as they can worsen the situation and endanger users.
Foam Fire Extinguisher (AFFF)
Foam fire extinguishers use Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) as the extinguishing agent, which forms a layer of foam to cover the surface of the burning material and isolate oxygen. This device is suitable for use on class A and B fires, especially those caused by flammable liquids such as oil and chemical solvents.
This fire extinguisher is effective in preventing fires from reigniting and is suitable for use in industrial and office areas. However, its use is not recommended for electrical equipment because the foam is conductive and can cause short circuits.
Fire Extinguisher Dry Chemical Powder
This type is one of the most versatile because it can handle Class A, B, and C fires. Containing ingredients such as monoammonium phosphate or sodium bicarbonate, chemical powders work by enveloping the burning material and breaking the chemical reaction that spreads the fire.
Fire extinguishers are often used in industrial environments and motor vehicles due to their flexibility. However, the use of chemical powders can leave residues or dirt that can potentially damage sensitive equipment and require thorough cleaning after use.
Fire Extinguisher Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
CO2 fire extinguishers work by spraying carbon dioxide gas to reduce the oxygen level around the fire to below the combustion threshold. This type is ideal for extinguishing class B and C fires, especially in areas where electronic equipment is used, such as server rooms or electrical panels.
Since CO2 gas leaves no residue, this device will not damage electronic equipment. However, its disadvantage is that it is not effective for solid fires such as wood or paper, and it must be used with caution in enclosed spaces as it can significantly reduce oxygen levels.
Understanding the different types of fire extinguishers is essential to ensure effective fire suppression according to the source of the fire. Every environment has different fire risks, and choosing the right equipment can save lives and valuable assets. To ensure maximum protection, it is also important to work with a professional fire protection contractor.
Adiwarna is a trusted fire protection specialist with over 16 years of experience. We provide comprehensive and integrated solutions for various sectors, including high-risk industries such as oil and gas, banking, and data centers. With a commitment to quality and international standards, Adiwarna is the best partner for your fire protection system needs.
