Vätskebrand

Vätskebrand is a Swedish term referring to a fire involving flammable liquids. These fires are distinct from solid material fires due to the unique properties of liquids, such as their low ignition points and tendency to spread rapidly.

Flammable liquids are categorized by their flashpoint, the lowest temperature at which a liquid can vaporize to form an ignitable mixture in air. Class B fires, as they are known in fire safety, encompass flammable liquids like gasoline, diesel, oils, and alcohols. The vapors released by these liquids are typically heavier than air and can travel considerable distances to an ignition source before igniting.

Extinguishing a vätskebrand requires specific methods. Water is generally ineffective and can even worsen the situation by spreading the burning liquid, unless applied as a fine mist or fog. Foam, dry chemical powders, and carbon dioxide are the preferred extinguishing agents. Foam works by creating a barrier between the liquid fuel and the oxygen in the air, while dry chemicals and CO2 interrupt the chemical chain reaction of the fire. Proper ventilation is also crucial in controlling the spread of flammable vapors. Understanding the specific type of flammable liquid involved is key to selecting the most effective suppression strategy.