ABC dry chemical
Monoammonium phosphate, ABC Dry Chemical, ABC Powder, tri-class, or multi-purpose dry chemical is a dry chemical extinguishing agent used on class A,
Uses
Common use
Dry chemical powder is used on all classes of fires. Dry chemical powder puts out the fire by coating the burning material with a thin layer of dust, thereby separating the fuel from the oxygen in the air. The powder also works to interrupt the chemical reaction of fire, so these extinguishers are extremely effective at putting out the fire. Pressure is generated by gas cartridges stored inside the cylinder. Its force will last for 45 seconds and can reach 3–4.5 metres (10–15 ft). [3][1]
Common combustible solids
It insulates Class A fires by melting at approximately 180–200 °C (350–400 °F). Class A fires are caused by the burning of common combustible materials, such as wood, paper, or most plastics.[4]
Burning liquids and gases
The powder breaks the chain reaction of liquid and gas fires by coating the surface to which it is applied. These fires (Class B in the American system; Classes B and C in the European and Australian systems) include the burning of gasoline, oil, propane, and natural gas.[1]
Electrical fires
It is safe and effective for electrical fires since it is a non-conductor of electricity. Fires involving live electrical equipment (Class C in the American system; Class E in the Australian system) need to be put out with equipment that will not conduct its energy back to the user as is the case with water. Electricity can also cause fires of the other classes.[1]
Chimney bombs
Chimney bombs are zip-lock bags or other small bags filled with ABC dry chemical powder. Chimney bombs are used by fire service personnel to help extinguish chimney fires. Creosote, which is the by-product of the incomplete burning of wood (typically due to chronic combustion-air insufficiency), is extinguished by the chain reaction caused by the chimney bombs. Chimney bombs work by first being dropped directly down a chimney, where upon contact with the flue bottom and heat of the fire, they explode, thereby releasing the powder. Then, the natural chimney draft will carry the dry chemical powder up the shaft of the chimney, thus coating the creosote and eventually neutralizing the fire. Use of multiple chimney bombs may be necessary, depending on how severe the fire is. Chimney bombs can also be effective if they are opened and then dropped down the chimney. In order for chimney bombs to be effective, it may be necessary to first unclog the chimney.[5][6]
Inappropriate uses
ABC dry chemical is inappropriate for
ABC dry chemical is inappropriate for certain metal fires (
Due to the corrosive properties of ABC dry chemical, it is not recommended for use around aircraft or sensitive equipment.
| Fire class (US) | Geometric symbol | Pictogram | Intended use | Mnemonic | Compatibility | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A |  |
 |
Ordinary solid combustibles | A for "Ash" | Compatible | |
| B |  |
 |
Flammable liquids and gases | B for "Barrel" | Compatible | |
| C |  |
 |
Energized electrical equipment | C for "Current" | Compatible | |
| D |  |
(none) | Combustible metals | D for "Dynamite" | Not compatible | |
| K |  |
 |
Oils and fats | K for "Kitchen" | Not compatible |
Recycling
The powder contains monoammonium phosphate, with the
References
- ^ a b c d e The Assessment of Fire Suppression Capability for the Ammonium Dihydrogen Phosphate Dry Powder of Commercial Fire Extinguishers. Chung-Hwei Su, Chan-Cheng Chen, Horng-Jang Liaw, Shiuan-ChengWang. Procedia Engineering Volume 84, 2014, Pages 485-490
- ^ "Ecological Effects of Fire Retardant Chemicals and Fire Suppressant Foams". Archived from the original on 2007-08-18. Retrieved 2011-02-16.
- ^ "Classes Of Fires And Extinguishers". Safety Notes. 2019. Retrieved 2019-08-08.
- ^ "Classes of Fire – A, B, C, D, and K – Falck Productions".
- ^ "Fire Engineering". Archived from the original on 2018-11-03. Retrieved 2013-02-27.
- ^ "Chimney Bombs". Retrieved 2015-10-19.[permanent dead link]
- ^ "Selection of Fire Extinguishers for Fires Involving Oxidizers (Swimming Pool Chemicals)". Archived from the original on 2009-03-07. Retrieved 2008-09-13.
- ^ "Chlorine facts". Archived from the original on 2008-04-30. Retrieved 2008-09-13.
- ^ "Sprinkler protection for swimming pool chemicals". NFPA Journal. 2004. Retrieved 2008-09-13.
- ^ Cholin, Roger (1975). "NFPA - ABC Dry Chemical". Triangle Fire Safety. Archived from the original on June 6, 2019. Retrieved June 5, 2019.
External links
