Pressurized dry powder systems
Pressurized dry powder fire protection systems offer an advanced solution for fire suppression, delivering power-based extinguishing agents quickly and precisely.
These systems are particularly effective against a wide range of fire types because of the chemical properties of the powder and the dispersion method.
Operating principle
Pressurized dry powder fire suppression systems consist of a network of pipes, nozzles, and tanks containing the extinguishing agent, often accompanied by a propellant such as nitrogen or carbon dioxide.
When the system is activated, either manually or automatically via fire detection sensors, the propellant gas releases the powder from the extinguisher, which is then dispersed over the fire.
The suppression mechanism is based on a combined action:
- Suffocation: As the powder disperses in the environment, it reduces the concentration of oxygen, interrupting the chemical reaction of combustion.
- Inhibition: The powder particles interfere with the chemical reaction that sustains the fire, blocking combustion.
- Cooling: Although cooling is not the powder's primary effect, by absorbing the heat generated by the flames, the powder helps reduce the temperature and slows the spread of the fire.
These systems are particularly suited for extinguishing fires involving flames, oils, hydrocarbons, or cryogenic gases, due to their chemical reaction with these substances.
The advantages of effective technology
Pressurized dry powder systems offer several key benefits that make them more suitable in certain situations than other fire protection technologies such as water, foam, or gas systems.
Versatility
They are highly effective against a wide range of fires, particularly electrical fires, for which water or foam systems are unsuitable.
Non-conductivity
The powder is non-conductive, making it safe to use on electrical fires involving live equipment.
Speed of response
Pressurized dry powder systems provide rapid fire suppression, extinguishing the flames in a very short time.
Effectiveness
The force with which the powder is expelled also creates a mechanical suppression effect on the flames.
Main applications
The versatility of dry powder extinguishing agents and the effectiveness of pressurized distribution systems make them suitable for a wide range of applications. They are widely used to fight fires across different classes:
- Class A: Fires involving solid materials (wood, paper, fabrics)
- Class B: Fires involving flammable liquids (gasoline, oils)
- Class C: Fires involving flammable gases
- Class E: Electrical fires
Industrial facilities
Used in sectors such as chemical, petroleum, pharmaceutical, food and energy to combat fires involving flammable liquids and gases.
Explosion-risk areas
Ideal for handling fires involving flammable liquids and gases in ATEX zones and environments with combustible dust.
Warehouses and storage facilities
Designed to protect storage areas containing materials with chemical compositions that are difficult to extinguish.