Extintores de Incendio
Cargado por
Camilo PerezTemas abordados
- productos químicos,
- extintores de halón,
- sustitutos de halón,
- extintores de dióxido de carbo…,
- incendios de metales,
- extintores,
- incendios de líquidos,
- gases inertes,
- uso de extintores,
- prevención de incendios
Extintores de Incendio
Cargado por
Camilo PerezTemas abordados
- productos químicos,
- extintores de halón,
- sustitutos de halón,
- extintores de dióxido de carbo…,
- incendios de metales,
- extintores,
- incendios de líquidos,
- gases inertes,
- uso de extintores,
- prevención de incendios
Common questions
Con tecnología de IAWater-based fire extinguishers are inappropriate and potentially dangerous when used on Class B fires involving flammable liquids, as water can spread flammable substances and exacerbate the fire. They are also risky for Class C fires involving electrical equipment, where water usage can cause electric shocks or short circuits. Additionally, for Class D fires involving combustible metals, water reacts violently with some metals and can intensify the fire or cause explosions . Using water in these situations not only fails to extinguish the fire effectively, but also increases safety hazards for those handling the extinguishing process .
Understanding the class of fire is crucial before selecting a fire extinguisher because each class involves different combustible materials and requires specific extinguishing agents. For instance, Class A fires involve ordinary combustibles like wood and paper, which need water or foam for cooling and soaking. Class B fires, involving flammable liquids like gasoline, need foam or CO2 to limit oxygen and cool the flames. Class C fires involve electrical equipment, thus water cannot be used due to electrocution risk; instead, CO2 or dry chemicals are applied. Class D fires include combustible metals such as magnesium, necessitating special powders since standard agents could exacerbate the fire . Selecting the wrong extinguisher can be ineffective and may increase fire hazards or risks to the user .
Halogenated fire extinguishing agents, such as Halon, have significant environmental and regulatory considerations due to their impact on the ozone layer. The production and use of these agents have been heavily restricted under international agreements like the Montreal Protocol because they deplete atmospheric ozone. These regulatory measures led to a phase-out starting January 1, 1994, and necessitated the search for alternatives, such as INERGEN or hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which are less harmful to the ozone layer. Although existing installed Halon systems can still be used for specific risks, they require careful handling to mitigate environmental impact and adhere to stringent regulations .
The classification of fire extinguishers based on the propulsion method impacts functionality by influencing how the extinguishing agent is stored, activated, and applied. Those with permanent pressure, such as CO2 extinguishers, utilize the propellant's natural pressure to release the agent quickly and consistently. Extinguishers using compressed gas rely on an internal or additional charged cylinder to propel the agent. This classification affects the speed and distance at which the extinguishing medium is dispensed, influencing response time and suitability for various fire scenarios . Choosing the right propulsion method is crucial for effective firefighting, considering the type of environment and fire risk characteristics .
The factors that determine the effectiveness of a fire extinguisher include the type of extinguishing agent used, compatibility with the fire class, maintenance and condition of the extinguisher, and proper training in its usage. The extinguishing agent must match the specific class of fire to ensure it can adequately suppress it. Regular maintenance ensures that the extinguisher functions as intended without technical failures. Proper training means that the user can operate the extinguisher effectively under pressure, knowing where to aim and how to control the extinguishing agent to maximize coverage and efficacy . Furthermore, its location and accessibility are crucial during an emergency .
Inhibition in fire extinguishing refers to stopping the chemical chain reaction necessary for combustion. This method involves using chemical agents that interfere with the burning process, thereby preventing the spread or sustenance of the fire. Agents like Halon and certain dry chemicals achieve inhibition by releasing compounds that either absorb free radicals or alter the chemical reactions sustaining the fire. Halogenated hydrocarbons, such as Halon 1211 and Halon 1301, act by interrupting the chain reaction, providing both smothering and inhibition effects . These agents are effective at quickly stopping fires, particularly in environments where equipment may be sensitive to other forms of extinguishing media .
A CO2 fire extinguisher operates by releasing compressed carbon dioxide gas that is stored under high pressure. When the fire extinguisher is activated, CO2 is expelled, which displaces the oxygen surrounding the fire and reduces its ability to combust. The primary advantages are that CO2 is non-conductive, so it's suitable for electrical fires, and it leaves no residue, minimizing damage to delicate equipment like electronics. However, its disadvantage includes limited effectiveness in open spaces due to rapid dispersion and potential asphyxiation risks in confined spaces because it reduces available oxygen .
Regular maintenance on fire extinguishers is crucial to ensure they function properly during emergencies. Maintenance includes checking the pressure levels, monitoring the weight to ensure no significant loss of contents, inspecting the physical condition for any damage or corrosion, and ensuring accessibility and proper placement. Regular inspection ensures the extinguishing agent remains effective and the mechanism is operable. Additionally, some extinguishers require periodic refilling or recharging, especially after use, to maintain readiness. FIFO (first in, first out) practices for replacements or trainings help maintain reliability .
The four basic methods for extinguishing a fire are sofocación (smothering), enfriamiento (cooling), separación (segregation), and inhibición (inhibition). Sofocación involves isolating the burning fuel from the surrounding air, thereby reducing the oxygen available. Enfriamiento decreases the temperature of the burning material below its ignition point to stop the fire. Separación refers to dispersing or removing the burning materials to isolate them from others. Inhibición stops the heat transfer between fuel particles by using chemical compounds that neutralize combustible vapors, thereby breaking the chain reaction necessary for the fire to sustain itself .
The potential hazards of using CO2 extinguishers in confined spaces include asphyxiation due to displacement of oxygen. As CO2 is heavier than air, it can reduce oxygen levels to dangerous concentrations, posing a severe risk to people in the vicinity. It's crucial to ensure adequate ventilation after discharging CO2 in such environments to prevent suffocation. Operators must leave the area immediately after use, allowing enough time for dispersion before reentry. Monitoring oxygen levels is advisable if frequent use occurs, to ensure safety .
