Dry Chemical Powder (DCP) is a type of fire extinguishing agent that uses a mixture of chemicals in powder form to extinguish fires. The powder is made of a combination of chemicals such as monoammonium phosphate, potassium bicarbonate, and ammonium sulfate which when applied to a fire, smothers the flames by removing the oxygen and cools down the burning material by an endothermic reaction.
Types of Dry Chemical Powder –
There are several types of dry chemical powder that are used in fire extinguishers, each with its own set of properties and characteristics. The most common ttypes of Dry Chemical Powder include:
Monoammonium Phosphate (MAP) : Monoammonium Phosphate (MAP) is the most common dry chemical powder used in portable fire extinguishers. It’s used for Class A, B, and C fires and it’s known for its low toxicity, which makes it safe for use in occupied buildings. It’s also the most effective at smothering fires, it can be used at temperatures up to 2000 °F.
Sodium Bicarbonate (NaHCO3) : Sodium Bicarbonate (NaHCO3) is another common dry chemical powder that is used in fire extinguishers. It’s used primarily for Class B and C fires and it’s known for its ability to smother flames and interrupt chemical reactions. It’s also relatively low in toxicity and safe to use in occupied buildings.
Potassium Bicarbonate (KHCO3) : Potassium Bicarbonate (KHCO3) is similar to Sodium Bicarbonate and it is also used primarily for Class B and C fires. It’s also known for its ability to smother flames and interrupt chemical reactions. It has a higher fire suppression capability than NaHCO3.
Potassium Chloride (KCl) : Potassium Chloride (KCl) is a dry chemical powder that is used for Class D fires which involve flammable metals. It’s relatively safe to use, but it can be corrosive to some types of metal.
Purple-K (PKP) : Purple-K (PKP) is a dry chemical powder that is used for Class B and C fires and it’s known for its ability to smother flames and interrupt chemical reactions. It’s also relatively low in toxicity and safe to use in occupied buildings. It can be used at temperatures up to 600 °F.
TEC (Ternary eutatic chloride) : Tec is special type dry Chemical Powder used for class D fire like sodium, potassium metals fire. it contains potassium chloride + barium chloride+ sodium chloride.
Each of these types of dry chemical powder has different properties and characteristics, and the appropriate type should be chosen based on the type of fire that it will be used to extinguish. It’s important to note that different types of dry chemical powder are not interchangeable, and it’s crucial to use the right type for the right fire to avoid making the fire situation worse.
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Composition specifications of Dry chemical powder –
Dry chemical powder is a type of extinguishing agent that is used in some types of fire extinguishers, such as DCP (Dry Chemical Powder) fire extinguishers. The technical specifications of dry chemical powder vary depending on the manufacturer and the specific type of powder, but some common properties include:
Composition: Dry chemical powder is typically made up of a blend of chemicals, such as monoammonium phosphate, sodium bicarbonate, or potassium bicarbonate. These chemicals are chosen for their ability to extinguish fires and for their low toxicity.(types of Dry Chemical Powder )
Extinguishing properties: Dry chemical powder works by creating a barrier between the oxygen in the air and the fuel source, suffocating the fire. It also cools down the burning surface, preventing re-ignition.
Temperature range: Different type of dry chemical powder have different temperature range, some powder can be used at up to 2000 °F while other can only work up to 600 °F
Particle size: The particle size of dry chemical powder can vary, but it’s typically around 100 microns. Smaller particle size can be more effective but also harder to clean up.
Flow rate: The flow rate of dry chemical powder can vary depending on the type of extinguisher and the size of the nozzle.
Storage and Shelf life: Dry chemical powder is typically stored in a dry, cool place with a shelf life of approximately 5 years. Some manufacturers also recommend to shake the extinguisher occasionally to prevent the powder from settling and blocking the nozzle
It’s important to check the technical specifications of the dry chemical powder before purchasing or using a fire extinguisher to ensure that it is appropriate for the specific application and that it is still within the shelf life(types of Dry Chemical Powder).
