CO₂ fire extinguishers are part of the essential equipment for fire prevention and firefighting, specially designed to extinguish class B fires (flammable liquids) and class C fires (fires caused by electrical equipment under voltage). These extinguishers use carbon dioxide, an inert and non-conductive gas, which acts by displacing oxygen from the combustion zone and rapidly cooling the affected surfaces.
Advantages of using CO2 fire extinguishers:
- High efficiency in extinguishing electrical fires: Due to the non-conductive nature of CO₂, these extinguishers are ideal for protecting electrical equipment, servers, computers, and other devices sensitive to dust or liquids. Unlike other types of extinguishing agents, CO₂ does not affect the functioning of this equipment.
- No residue: Carbon dioxide disperses quickly after use, meaning it leaves no marks or residual substances. This is essential in environments where cleanliness and equipment protection are priorities, such as in laboratories, data centers, server rooms, and spaces with delicate electronic equipment.
- Rapid surface cooling: CO₂ also has an immediate cooling effect on surfaces affected by the fire, thus helping prevent reignition.
- Increased safety in industrial and commercial environments: CO₂ fire extinguishers are frequently used in industrial and commercial settings where there is a risk of fires caused by flammable liquids (oils, fuels, solvents). They provide effective protection without damaging goods.
Areas of application:
- Offices and commercial spaces: In work environments where electrical equipment is under voltage (computers, servers, office equipment), CO₂ fire extinguishers are essential for fire protection.
- Laboratories and data centers: These extinguishers are recommended in locations where flammable substances and electronic equipment coexist, such as research laboratories, server rooms, and IT equipment storage facilities.
- Industrial spaces: In industrial sectors, where there are risks related to flammable liquids and electrical equipment, CO₂ fire extinguishers are indispensable for rapid and effective intervention in case of fire.
How does a CO2 fire extinguisher work?
CO₂ fire extinguishers work by releasing carbon dioxide in the form of a gas at high pressure. When used, CO₂ forms a dense cloud of gas that removes oxygen from the area affected by the fire, thus stopping the combustion process. The gas is also cold, which helps cool flammable materials, reducing the chances of reignition.
Usage recommendations:
- Do not use for Class A fires: CO₂ fire extinguishers are not recommended for extinguishing Class A fires (solid materials like wood, paper, textiles) as they do not have the capacity to efficiently cool materials that continue to burn.
- Equip yourself properly: Before use, ensure that the designated personnel are properly trained. Also, periodically check the condition and pressure of the extinguisher to ensure it is operational at all times.
Compliance with safety standards:
All fire extinguishers in this category comply with national and international regulations and safety standards in fire protection. They are certified and approved for use in both industrial and commercial spaces, giving you confidence that fire protection is ensured at the highest level.