Trystan Casey
Fire-related incidents are common in places like homes, offices, factories, markets, and hospitals, often caused by human error or faulty electrical appliances. Firefighting equipment is essential to ensure maximum protection against the destructive effects of fire incidents. When it comes to electrical fires, it is important to use the right equipment as water can conduct electricity and cause further damage. Foam extinguishers, for example, can be used on some electrical fires, but they must be used from a safe distance and leave a residue. Powder extinguishers are another option for fighting electrical fires, but they do not have a cooling effect, which can lead to reignition. Stand-alone fire suppression systems, like FlexRope, are also available for electrical cabinets and enclosures, releasing fire suppressants when activated by heat. In addition, fire hydrants and hose reels provide access to water and are ideal for high-risk environments.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fire extinguishers | Foam extinguishers can be used on electrical fires if fired from 1 metre away. Powder extinguishers are used for solids, liquids, and gases. |
| Fire hydrants | Fixed devices that provide access to water for fighting fires. Usually connected to the main water supply network. |
| Valves and nozzles | Essential components of fire hydrants that enable users to control the direction, pressure, and flow of water. |
| Fire hose reels | Cylindrical metal spindles with a fire hose wound around them. Permanently connected to a water supply and designed for quick response in the early stages of a fire. |
| Fire protection systems for electrical cabinets and panels | Standalone, pre-engineered, and engineered systems use non-conductive agents to suppress fires without causing damage to electrical equipment. |
| Automatic fire suppression systems | Reacton offers a range of flexible, cost-effective, and certified systems that can be fitted to any cabinet or enclosure to eliminate fires at their source. |
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What You'll Learn
- Fire extinguishers: foam, powder, and CO2 extinguishers can be used for electrical fires
- Fire hydrants: fixed devices that provide water for fighting fires
- Fire hose reels: quick-response method, ideal for high-risk environments
- Fire protection systems: standalone, pre-engineered, and engineered systems for electrical cabinets
- Automatic fire suppression: systems that detect and suppress electrical fires without user input
Fire extinguishers: foam, powder, and CO2 extinguishers can be used for electrical fires
Fire extinguishers are essential for handling specific fire hazards, but not all extinguishers are suitable for electrical fires. Foam, powder, and CO2 extinguishers can be used for electrical fires, but water-based extinguishers are not suitable.
Foam extinguishers can be used on electrical fires if they have been tested and fired from a distance of 1 metre. However, they leave a residue that must be cleaned up, and they are more expensive than water extinguishers.
Powder extinguishers are used for fighting burning solids, liquids, and gases. They are also suitable for electrical fires involving equipment under 1000V. However, the powder does not have an effective cooling effect, so the fire may reignite. The powder is also hazardous if inhaled, so powder extinguishers should only be used in well-ventilated areas and are not suitable for offices or homes.
CO2 extinguishers are widely used in environments where electrical fires pose a risk. They work by displacing oxygen and rapidly cooling the fire, cutting off its ability to spread. They do not cause damage to electrical items or result in short circuits. However, CO2 extinguishers get very cold during discharge, and users should be careful not to touch the horn during deployment, as it may freeze their fingers.
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Fire hydrants: fixed devices that provide water for fighting fires
Fire hydrants are fixed devices that provide water for fighting fires. They are connected to underground water mains and are used by firefighters to access water quickly in the event of a fire. The history of fire hydrants can be traced back to the 16th century when wooden mains water systems were installed. Firefighters would dig down to the pipes and drill a hole to fill a "wet well" for buckets or pumps. Permanent underground access points were introduced when cast iron pipes replaced wood, and the first cast-iron hydrants were patented in 1801.
Today, fire hydrants are typically installed at a depth that protects them from freezing and ensures proper operation. They are strategically placed to provide adequate coverage for firefighting, with their locations carefully considered by local authorities. Fire hydrants have colour-coded caps, with colours like blue indicating a connection to a public water main and red signifying a private water source. The colour coding may also vary by location, indicating flow rate or other information about the hydrant's capabilities.
To use a fire hydrant, firefighters attach a hose to it and open a valve to release a powerful flow of water, which can then be boosted by a fire engine's pump and split into multiple streams. The pressure of the water flow can be around 350 kilopascals (51 psi) and may be adjusted using pressure-reducing valves. Fire hydrants are essential for firefighting, providing a readily available water source that can be quickly accessed in emergencies.
It is important to note that unauthorised use of fire hydrants is not permitted as it can hinder firefighting efforts and cause damage. Fire hydrants are also utilised for non-emergency purposes, such as filling water tanks or supplying water to riot control vehicles. In rural areas without municipal water systems, dry hydrants, similar to standpipes, are used to access water from sources like lakes or ponds for firefighting.
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Fire hose reels: quick-response method, ideal for high-risk environments
Fire hose reels are an essential component of fire response planning in commercial and industrial settings. They are designed to deliver a steady stream of water to Class A fires, which involve wood, paper, and textiles. These reels can be used to tackle electrical fires, but only if they have been tested and are used from a safe distance of at least 1 metre.
There are several types of fire hose reels, each designed for specific situations. Manual fire hose reels, for example, require users to activate the water flow by turning a valve. This gives users control over when and how much water is released, making them suitable for various settings, including commercial, industrial, and residential buildings. Automatic fire hose reels, on the other hand, start dispensing water as soon as the hose is pulled out, allowing for a faster response. This type of reel is ideal for high-risk environments where every second counts, such as factories, warehouses, and large commercial buildings.
Double-action fire hose reels offer the best of both worlds, combining the features of manual and automatic reels. This versatility makes them suitable for environments with varying fire risks. For low-risk environments, first-aid hose reels are a better option. These reels are smaller and designed for minor fire incidents, such as those that might occur in office kitchens or small retail stores.
Heavy-duty fire hose reels are constructed from robust materials, making them ideal for industrial settings where the hose may be exposed to harsh conditions, such as chemicals, heat, or rough handling. Portable fire hose reels, on the other hand, are not fixed to a wall but can be moved to different locations, making them ideal for large, open spaces like construction sites.
Regardless of the type of fire hose reel, regulations ensure that they are installed, maintained, and used correctly. For example, the British Standard BS EN 671-1 specifies the requirements for hose reels with semi-rigid hoses used in fixed firefighting systems, covering construction, performance, and installation. Fire hose reels must also be marked with appropriate signage to ensure they are easily identifiable in emergencies and accessible when needed.
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Fire protection systems: standalone, pre-engineered, and engineered systems for electrical cabinets
Fire protection systems are an essential aspect of safeguarding electrical cabinets, mitigating potential hazards, and ensuring business continuity. The three primary types of fire protection systems for electrical cabinets include standalone, pre-engineered, and engineered systems, each offering distinct advantages and catering to specific needs.
Standalone fire suppression systems refer to individual devices that operate independently, without connecting to a larger network. These systems, such as FlexRope by Firetrace, are designed to protect enclosures from the spread of electrical fires. They are cost-effective, easy to install, and require no maintenance. Standalone systems activate when exposed to high temperatures, releasing fire suppressant granules that convert into an aerosol-like cloud, effectively suppressing the fire.
Pre-engineered fire systems offer a more advanced level of protection, particularly suitable for small enclosures and electrical cabinets. These systems utilize fire detection tubing that bursts when exposed to heat or flames, releasing the suppression agent. Indirect pre-engineered systems deliver the agent through strategically placed nozzles, ensuring clean and residue-free suppression. They are often chosen for their ability to minimize downtime and prevent damage to electrical components.
Engineered fire suppression systems provide the highest level of protection, making them ideal for large environments with multiple electrical panels. These systems employ clean, non-conductive agents like FM-200™ or FK-5-1-12 instead of water, as water can cause equipment damage or conduct electricity. Engineered systems are designed to rapidly detect and suppress fires, offering comprehensive protection for unique facility risks. They are customizable and engineered to meet the specific needs of the electrical room but come at a higher cost.
When selecting a fire protection system, it is crucial to consider factors such as the size of the space, the type of equipment being protected, and the level of risk associated with electrical fires. Investing in appropriate fire protection systems not only safeguards equipment but also ensures the safety of individuals relying on that equipment, making it a crucial investment for any business.
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Automatic fire suppression: systems that detect and suppress electrical fires without user input
Firefighting equipment has evolved to include automatic fire suppression systems that can detect and suppress fires without human intervention. These systems are designed to protect electrical equipment and assets from fire damage. Here are some key points about automatic fire suppression systems for electrical fires:
Types of Automatic Fire Suppression Systems
Automatic fire suppression systems can be categorised as engineered or pre-engineered. Engineered systems are design-specific and used for larger installations, such as server rooms, industrial buildings, and electrical switch rooms. They use clean agents, chemical clean agents, or inert gases to suppress fires without causing water damage to sensitive equipment. Pre-engineered systems, on the other hand, use pre-designed elements and are suitable for compact enclosures, machinery, and electrical panels.
Detection Mechanisms
Automatic fire suppression systems use either mechanical or electrical means for detection. Mechanical detection relies on fusible-link or thermo-bulb detectors that separate at a specific temperature, releasing a tension mechanism. Electrical detection uses heat detectors with self-restoring contacts that close when a predetermined temperature is reached, activating the system.
Actuation and Delivery
Actuation methods include pressurised fluid with a release valve or an electric pump. The fire suppressant is then delivered through piping and nozzles specifically designed for the agent used and the desired coverage.
Clean Agent Systems
Clean agent fire suppression systems are effective for Class A, B, and C fires. They use chemical agents or inert gases that dissipate without leaving residue, making them safe for people and the environment. These systems are ideal for populated areas and sensitive electronics.
Alternative Systems
Other types of fire suppression systems include water-based, CO2, and powder-based systems. Water is the most prevalent fire suppression agent, but it may not be suitable for all situations, especially where water-reactive chemicals or metals are present. Powder-based systems are effective for Class A, B, and C fires and are designed to form a crust that smothers the fire. However, they may not be ideal for electrical fires as they leave a residue and lack a cooling effect.
Reliable Protection
Companies like Reacton offer UL-listed clean agent fire suppression systems that are power-free, compact, and provide 24/7 asset protection. Their systems are flexible and can be integrated with safety alarm systems, ensuring reliable protection for electrical equipment.
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Frequently asked questions
Foam extinguishers can be used on some electrical fires if they have been tested and are fired from 1 metre away. However, they leave a residue and are more expensive than water extinguishers.
Foam fire extinguishers are cream-coloured.
Red for water, white and red for water mist, blue for dry powder, yellow for wet chemical, green for clean agent, and black for CO2 extinguishers.
Standalone fire suppression systems refer to individual devices that contain fire suppression mechanisms that are not linked to a bigger system. For example, FlexRope by Firetrace is a low-cost, easy-to-install, no-maintenance solution that can be used to prevent electrical fires in a cabinet or panel from spreading to the entire building.
Automatic fire suppression systems are designed to eliminate fires at the source. They are especially important for electrical panels and equipment because fires usually start out of sight and in enclosed spaces. Reacton is a well-known manufacturer of these systems.
