avflagningsmedel

Avflagningsmedel is a Swedish term for extinguishing agents used to suppress or control fires. The category encompasses a variety of chemicals and compounds that interrupt the fire triangle—heat, fuel, and oxygen—either by removing oxygen, cooling the fire, or preventing the release of combustible gases. The primary types of avflagningsmedel include carbon dioxide, foam, dry powder, and water, each suited to particular fire classes and environments.

Carbon dioxide agents consist of compressed gas that displaces oxygen in the vicinity of the fire. They are effective on electrical, flammable liquid, and metal fires, as they cool the combustion zone and suppress the fire without leaving residue. Foam agents are mixtures of surfactants and water that form a blanket over liquid fuels, preventing vapor contact with oxygen. They are commonly used in Class A and B fires involving liquids such as petrol or oil.

Dry powder agents, often composed of monoammonium phosphate or sodium bicarbonate, work by forming a barrier on the fire surface and releasing heat-absorbing gases. They are versatile for Class A, B, and C fires and leave minimal cleanup. Water agents are the most common for Class A fires involving ordinary combustibles. In electrically powered environments, water is avoided due to conductivity concerns.

Regulations for avflagningsmedel use vary by country, but generally require training for operators, proper storage conditions, and routine inspection to ensure reliability. Proper selection of an avflagningsmedel is critical for effective fire protection, minimizing damage, and safeguarding human life.