Fire extinguishers are an indispensable element to ensure the safety of any building. If used in a timely manner, these appliances represent the safest method for the prevention of fires since the public services predisposed to rescue and fire-fighting activities cannot guarantee timely interventions.

There are different types of fire extinguishers, depending on the nature of the fire that could potentially develop. CO2 Fire Extinguishers, foam fire extinguishers, powder fire extinguishers, and water fire extinguishers are some common types available.

It is essential to choose the right type because some types of fire extinguishers may prove completely useless for some fires. In this article, we will look at one of the most popular options, CO2 fire extinguishers.

CO2 Fire Extinguishers

The CO2 extinguisher uses carbon dioxide as an extinguishing substance present inside the device in a liquid and compressed state.

What Does a CO2 Extinguisher Contain?

A CO2 extinguisher contains a steel cylinder, inside which there is compressed carbon dioxide in a liquid state. When the device is activated, the air inside will be sucked in, and the liquid, once released, becomes carbonic snow. Also called dry ice, it turns back into gas when it comes into contact with the fire, taming it through a suffocation action.

Carbon snow is heavier than air and causes a drastic drop in oxygen concentration to extinguish the fire. However, it is necessary to be very careful in its use: cooling of the gas inside the extinguisher, with the consequent drop in temperature and the creation of carbonic snow.

How Many Types of Co2 Extinguishers Are There?

CO2 extinguishers all contain the same type of extinguisher, i.e., carbon dioxide. They vary, therefore, depending on the weight of the device. Choosing the right one is essential since you risk getting one that is too heavy or less than your needs.

• A 2 to 4 kg fire extinguisher is ideal for cars, boats, and electrical panels;
• Fire extinguishers from 5 to 12 kg are instead perfect for closed environments, such as houses or villas; the greater the area of ​​these environments, the greater the weight of the fire extinguisher must be;
• There are also wheeled fire extinguishers, which weigh more than 18 kg and require two operators, one who takes care of the transport and the other of the operation.

What Types of Fires Are They Suitable For?

CO2 fire extinguishers are perfect for fire classes B, C, and E. That is, fires caused by flammable liquids, gaseous materials, and electrical systems. It is not very useful for class A fires, especially if the embers have already formed.…