Description

ADVANTAGES DCP FIRE EXTINGUISHER is the most common type used in Pakistan. It is also known as a DCP, BE, or ABE fire extinguisher. To determine if a fire extinguisher is a dry chemical type, one simply needs to look for the white band that runs around the tank. One can also check the description sign to ensure they have a dry chemical fire extinguisher. With this information, people will know more about these extinguishers and how they work so they can be used safely.
Identifying Dry Chemical Powder fire extinguishers | DCP, ABE
DCP fire extinguishers are easily distinguishable by the white band that is around the fire extinguisher cylinder near the top and if installed in a building they should also be identified by what is known as a description sign, which describes what fires the fire extinguisher can and cannot be used for.
What fires can dry chemical powder fire extinguishers be used on?
As has already been mentioned, dry chemical powder fire extinguishers and extremely effective and versatile.
ABE Type :
Class A Fires – paper, cardboard, wood, fabrics, people etc.
Class B Fires – flammable liquid fires, petrol, deisel, oil etc
Class E Fires – electrical fires, computers, photocopiers, switchboards etc
BE Type:
Class B Fires – flammable liquid fires, petrol, deisel, oil etc
Class E Fires – electrical fires, computers, photocopiers, switchboards etc
Class F Fires – although not included in the rating the BE type is capable of extinguishing cooking oil fires
Both types of dry chemical powder fire extinguishers can be used on flammable gas fires, however evaluate the situation carefully before doing this, as burning gas eliminates the gas, whereas if the fire is extinguished, the gas can continue to leak, build up and become a potential bomb if ignition is triggered.
How Does a Dry Powder Chemical Extinguisher Work?
Each type of extinguisher works by attempting to remove one of the elements that are needed for a fire to flourish. Most ABE extinguishers are filled with monoammonium phosphate which has the ability to flow easily and melt so it continues to cover the flames as it moves over the fire. BE powder does not melt so it is ineffective against class A fires.
ADVANTAGES DCP FIRE EXTINGUISHER
Quick Knockdown – Dry powder, when correctly applied and at the required application rate, has the ability to ensure an initial quick knockdown of the fire.
Non-Conductor of Electricity – Dry powder can safely be used at incidents where it is known or suspected that ‘live’ electrical equipment is present.
Good on Running Fuel Fires – Owing to its fire extinguishing action, dry powder, when used in conjunction with foam sprays, can be extremely effective when used on running fuel fires.
Creates No Thermal Shock – Because the application of dry powder onto hot metal does not cause thermal shock, it is particularly useful for dealing with fires involving undercarriage assemblies.
Good Heat Shield – The discharge of dry powder creates an effective shield against radiated heat. In cases where large quantities of powder are discharged, this has the potential to shield surrounding structures and personnel from the damaging effects of the fire.
Wide Range Of Use – Dry powder extinguishers can be used on class A,B and C Fires.
Wide Temperature Range – Typically can be used between -20oc to +60oc.
Mass for mass the most effective fire-fighting medium.