C.3.5 Halogenated Agent Extinguishers. C.3.5.

1 The bromochlorodifluoromethane (Halon 1211) fire extinguisher has an agent that is similar to carbon dioxide in that it is suitable for cold weather installation and leaves no residue. Some larger models of Halon 1211 fire extinguishers are listed for use on Class A as well as Class B and Class C fires. Compared to carbon dioxide on a weight-of-agent basis, bromochlorodifluoromethane (Halon 1211) is at least twice as effective. When discharged, the agent is in the combined form of a gas/mist with about twice the range of carbon dioxide. To some extent, windy conditions or strong air currents could make extinguishment difficult by causing the rapid dispersal of the agent. C.3.5.2 In general, bromotrifluoromethane (Halon 1301) fire extinguishers have features and characteristics similar to carbon dioxide fire extinguishers in that they are suitable for cold weather installation and leave no residue. Halon 1301 fire extinguishers are listed for Class B and Class C fires. Compared to carbon dioxide on a weight-of-agent basis, bromotrifluoromethane (Halon 1301) is at least as effective. When discharged, the agent is in the combined form of a gas/mist. To some extent, windy conditions or strong air currents could make extinguishment difficult by causing the rapid dispersal of the agent. C.3.5.3 Fire extinguishers containing a mixture of Halon 1211 and Halon 1301 share properties of the other halogenated agenttype fire extinguishers, such as leaving no residue after use and minimizing thermal shock. The mixture of halogenated agents will discharge in the form of a gas/mist, with the ratio of gas to mist increasing with higher ratios of Halon 1301 to Halon 1211. The discharge range will likewise be affected by the ratio of Halon 1301 to Halon 1211, with the range decreasing as the proportion of Halon 1301 increases. To some extent, windy conditions or strong air currents could make extinguishments difficult by causing the rapid dispersal of the agent. C.3.5.4 Halocarbon agents are similar to halon agents in that they are nonconductive, noncorrosive, and evaporate after use, leaving no residue. Larger models of halocarbon fire extinguishers are listed for Class A as well as Class B and Class C fires, which makes them quite suitable for use on fires in electronic equipment. Compared to carbon dioxide on a weight-of-agent basis, halocarbon agents are at least twice as effective. When discharged, the agent is in a combined form of a gas/mist with about twice the range of carbon dioxide. To some extent, windy conditions or strong air currents could make extinguishing difficult by causing a rapid dispersal of agent.

Copyright NFPA