Brandbekämpningsmedel

Brandbekämpningsmedel, often translated as fire extinguishing agents, are substances or materials used to suppress or extinguish fires. The primary goal of these agents is to remove one or more elements of the fire tetrahedron: fuel, oxygen, heat, or the chemical chain reaction. Different types of fires require different extinguishing agents because some agents can be ineffective or even dangerous if used on the wrong class of fire.

Water is the most common and widely used fire extinguishing agent. It cools the burning material below its ignition temperature and can also smother the fire by producing steam, which displaces oxygen. However, water is ineffective on fires involving flammable liquids that are lighter than water, as it can spread the burning fuel, and it is also dangerous to use on electrical fires due to its conductivity.

Foam is another important extinguishing agent, particularly effective on Class B fires (flammable liquids). Foam blankets the fuel surface, separating it from the oxygen and cooling it. Different types of foam exist, including aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF), alcohol-resistant aqueous film-forming foam (AR-AFFF), and protein-based foams.

Dry chemical powders are versatile agents used for Class A, B, and C fires. They work by interrupting the chemical chain reaction of the fire and also by forming a barrier between the fuel and oxygen. Common dry chemicals include monoammonium phosphate (ABC powder) and sodium bicarbonate (BC powder).

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a gas that extinguishes fires by displacing oxygen and cooling the fuel. It is particularly useful for electrical fires and fires involving sensitive electronic equipment because it leaves no residue. However, CO2 is less effective in open areas where it can dissipate quickly and can be an asphyxiant in enclosed spaces. Other agents like wet chemicals are specifically designed for Class K fires (cooking oils and fats).