How Many Types of Dry Chemical Powder are There?

Views: 19     Author: Site Editor     Publish Time: 2023-02-08      Origin: Site

Good coverage is essential for effective fire suppression, and dry chemical powder does exactly that. There are several types of dry chemical powder; Mono-ammonium phosphate and sodium bicarbonate are commonly used as the main chemical agents in industrial fire extinguishing applications. Sodium bicarbonate effectively extinguishes Class B fires and can be used for some Class C fires. On the other hand, mono-ammonium phosphate is suitable for extinguishing fires classified as A, B, and C. Two other commonly used types of dry chemical powders are Purple-K and Monnax.

It is necessary that you refill the dry chemical powder in the fire safety equipment after each use. Additionally, it is important to ensure the dry chemical powder you choose adheres to chemical agent regulations. If you are searching for a dry chemical powder, here are four options.


What is Dry Chemical Powder, and How Does It Work?


These are the extinguisher powders used on different types of fires. They coat the fuel, effectively neutralizing the molecular structure of the flames. When the oxygen supply to the fire is cut, their chemical activity ceases, causing them to separate. Dry chemical powders are discharged by high-pressure nitrogen when the system operates manually or through detection, extinguishing the fire shortly after.


dry chemical powder


Benefits Of Dry Chemical Powder


  • They are suitable for your fire extinguishing equipment; You can rely on them to keep your buildings, products and workers safe.

  • They are pumped out on high pressure; hence, they can put out fires faster.

  • They are ideal for spaces where you cannot install a sprinkler system

  • It is a good choice if you don't have a water supply or are worried about sprinklers damaging your electric system.

  • They are efficient and readily available for rechargeable systems.



4 Types of Dry Chemical Powder


Monoammonium Phosphate (ABC)


Mono ammonium phosphate is a popular extinguisher powder. This chemical agent comprises mono ammonium phosphate but has other chemical additives. It is produced through a unique chemical process that produces a product with properties like non-abrasiveness, water-repelling and free-flowing. You can safely handle this powder while taking the necessary precautions, as it poses no hazardous side effects. This extinguisher powder can be distinguished by its unique yellow color.  It is important to note that after a fire, moisture can lead to a chemical reaction with materials containing mono ammonium phosphate, resulting in minor corrosion. Therefore, a quick cleanse is recommended.


The ABC dry chemical powder is suitable for extinguishing Class A fires, which involve materials like paper, cloth, plastics, and rubber. It is also effective for Class B fires, which include flammable liquids, greases, and gasses. Additionally, it can be used to put out Class C fires that involve electrified electrical equipment. ABC Dry Chemical powder is available in various extinguisher types, such as portable, stationary, and wheeled units.


Sodium Bicarbonate (BC)


BC agent is an extinguisher powder that is produced using a specialized chemical process involving sodium bicarbonate and also includes chemical additives. The end product of this special process is a substance safe for use as a fire suppressant with no harmful side effects. It is also non-abrasive and does not absorb water. This chemical agent is coloured blue-white to distinguish it from similar dry chemical agents. Sodium bicarbonate is effective in extinguishing fires because it generates carbon dioxide. This carbon dioxide surrounds the fire, depriving it of oxygen and interrupting the chemical reaction that sustains it.


The BC extinguisher powder is effective in extinguishing fires that involve powered electrical appliances (Class C) as well as fires that involve greases, liquids, and gasses (Class B). Two examples of applications include the safeguarding of machinery used in the textile industry and the refining of petroleum. However, you should note that it is unsuitable for extinguishing Class A fires as it lacks the efficiency to prevent flames from reigniting.


Potassium Bicarbonate (Purple-K)


Purple K powder, also referred to as potassium bicarbonate, is an extinguishing powder that is commonly used and suitable for combating Class B fires involving flammable liquids. It is more effective for putting out these fires than CO2. Simply put, the powder is used for extinguishing Class B and Class C flames. However, it is important to note that it should not be used in enclosed spaces. Additionally, while the extinguisher is non-toxic in small doses, it can be harmful if you ingest it in large amounts. Purple K is popular in industrial applications that handle large amounts of flammable liquids.


Potassium  Bicarbonate And Urea Complex (Monnex)


Monnex, an extinguisher powder containing potassium bicarbonate, is commonly used when combating Class B and C flames. It does the job by breaking down into fine particles, increasing the surface area available for fire suppression compared to other powders. Monnex is popular in applications like airport fire safety measures and firefighting.


Take Away


Dry chemical powders are excellent for industrial applications requiring a fire suppression system. A professional from Macro Fires can help you decide which dry chemical powder is best for your application.