Wheeled Fire Extinguisher

Specifications

1. Type of Fire Classification
   • Class A Fires: Wheeled fire extinguishers are effective against Class A fires, which involve ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper, textiles, and plastics.
   • Class B Fires: They can also handle Class B fires, which involve flammable liquids like oils, gasoline, and solvents.
   • Class C Fires: Some wheeled extinguishers are rated for Class C fires, involving electrical equipment (note: only non-conductive agents like CO2 or dry chemical are suitable for electrical fires).
   • Class D Fires: Certain models are designed to handle Class D fires, which involve combustible metals like magnesium, titanium, and aluminum.
2. Design and Construction
   • Capacity: Wheeled fire extinguishers generally have larger capacities compared to handheld units, ranging from 50L to 450L, depending on the type of agent used (e.g., water, foam, or powder).
   • Agent Type: Wheeled fire extinguishers can be filled with various agents, such as:
     • Water: Suitable for ordinary combustibles (Class A).
     • Foam: Ideal for liquid fires (Class B).
     • Dry Powder: Effective for Class A, B, C, and some Class D fires.
     • CO2: Effective for electrical fires and liquids.
   • Materials: Constructed from high-strength steel or aluminum, which ensures durability and resistance to damage or corrosion.
   • Wheels and Handle: Equipped with large, durable wheels and a handle for easy maneuverability in emergency situations. These features allow the extinguisher to be quickly moved across large areas to the fire source.
   • Pressure Gauge: Many models come with an integrated pressure gauge that helps monitor the operational pressure of the extinguisher, ensuring it is ready for use.
3. Performance Specifications
   • Discharge Time: Wheeled extinguishers typically offer longer discharge times than standard extinguishers, often in the range of 30 to 90 seconds, allowing for extended firefighting capabilities.
   • Range: Depending on the agent, wheeled fire extinguishers can discharge agents at a range of 6 to 12 meters, allowing for a safe distance from the fire.
   • Operating Pressure: These extinguishers operate at high pressure to deliver the extinguishing agent effectively over a large area. The pressure is usually regulated for safety.
   • Temperature Range: Wheeled fire extinguishers can operate effectively in a broad temperature range, often from -30°C to +60°C, making them suitable for various climates.
4. Application and Usage
   • Industrial Settings: Wheeled fire extinguishers are commonly used in factories, warehouses, oil refineries, and other industrial facilities where large areas and high-risk fire hazards are present.
   • Construction Sites: These extinguishers are ideal for construction sites where the risk of fires from materials like wood, flammable liquids, and welding equipment is common.
   • Outdoor Use: In open fields, forests, and storage yards, wheeled fire extinguishers are ideal for handling large fires, especially in areas difficult to access with handheld units.
   • Oil and Gas Industry: In oil rigs and petroleum plants, wheeled fire extinguishers equipped with dry powder or foam agents are used for flammable liquid and chemical fires.
   • Military and Aviation: In military bases or airports, wheeled extinguishers are used for high-volume fires caused by vehicles, aircraft, and industrial equipment.
5. Advantages
   • High Capacity: With capacities ranging from 50L to 450L, wheeled fire extinguishers are suitable for large-scale fires and industrial environments where larger quantities of fire-fighting agents are needed.
   • Easy to Transport: The large wheels and handles allow for easy mobility, even in areas with rough terrain or confined spaces.
   • Extended Discharge Time: The long discharge time means that users can tackle fires without needing to refill the extinguisher immediately.
   • Effective for Large Areas: These extinguishers are ideal for large outdoor areas and industrial settings where rapid fire suppression is critical.
   • Durability: Constructed with high-quality materials, wheeled extinguishers are built to withstand the rigors of industrial use and harsh environments.
6. Limitations
   • Size and Weight: Due to their large size and capacity, wheeled fire extinguishers can be cumbersome to move in tight or confined spaces.
   • Storage Requirements: Because of their size, wheeled extinguishers require ample space for storage and are not ideal for small spaces or residential use.
   • Not for Small Fires: Wheeled fire extinguishers are designed for larger fires and may not be necessary for small-scale incidents where handheld extinguishers are sufficient.
7. Compliance and Standards
   • BS EN 3: Wheeled fire extinguishers are subject to BS EN 3 standards in Europe, ensuring they meet safety, performance, and testing criteria.
   • NFPA 10: In the U.S., wheeled extinguishers must comply with NFPA 10, which governs the design and maintenance of portable fire extinguishers.
   • UL Listed: Many models of wheeled fire extinguishers are UL Listed, meaning they meet or exceed the safety and performance standards set by the Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
   • CE Marked: Wheeled fire extinguishers that are sold within the European market often bear the CE Mark, indicating conformity with health, safety, and environmental standards.
8. Maintenance and Servicing
   • Annual Inspection: Wheeled fire extinguishers should be checked for pressure, leaks, and overall condition at least once a year to ensure they are ready for use.
   • Hydrostatic Testing: Regular hydrostatic testing is required, usually every 5 years, to ensure that the extinguisher’s pressure vessel is safe and intact.
   • Recharge and Refilling: After any use, wheeled fire extinguishers must be recharged with the appropriate extinguishing agent to restore their effectiveness.
   • Servicing: Professional servicing may be required if the extinguisher is damaged or has been used, ensuring that it is properly maintained and ready for future emergencies.