Class D Fire Extinguishers

Best for Classes of Fire: A, B

Class D Powder
Fire Extinguishers

Class D extinguishers are for covering a unique risk which is burning metals, and this is something which is becoming more frequently amongst us with the vast amount of battery-operated equipment around us and the huge amounts of lithium.:

Class A (Flammable Solids : Wood, plastics, paper )
Class B ( Flammable Liquids: Petrol, solvents, spirits )

What Are Class D Fire Extinguishers?

Class D fire extinguishers are specifically designed for fires involving combustible metals, including magnesium, titanium, potassium, and sodium. These types of fires occur mainly in industrial facilities, laboratories, and manufacturing environments where metal shavings, dust, or powders can ignite

Unlike standard extinguishers, Class D extinguishers contain specialized dry powder agents, such as M28 and L2, which effectively smother metal fires by forming a barrier that prevents further combustion.

Why Are Class D Fires Unique

Combustible metals burn at extremely high temperatures and react aggressively with water or CO2-based extinguishers, making conventional fire suppression methods ineffective or even dangerous. Class D extinguishers provide the safest and most reliable solution for controlling such fires.

Types of Class D Fire Extinguishers

There are two primary types of Class D fire extinguishers based on the powder agent used:

M28 Powder: Suitable for magnesium, sodium, and other non-lithium metal fires.
L2 Powder: Designed for lithium fires, offering a specialized suppression method for environments where lithium-based materials are present.

Both extinguishers utilize a low-velocity lance, ensuring the powder is applied gently without spreading burning metal particles.

Where Are Class D Fire Extinguishers Used?

Class D fire extinguishers are essential in industries where combustible metals are processed or stored, including:

Manufacturing plants – Metalworking and machining processes
Laboratories – Scientific research and chemical testing facilities
Automotive and aerospace – Production facilities handling magnesium or titanium components
Battery production sites – Environments where lithium fires are a risk

How to Use a Class D Fire Extinguisher

Using a Class D extinguisher requires specific handling due to the nature of metal fires:

Pull the pin to activate the extinguisher.
Aim the lance nozzle at the base of the fire.
Gently squeeze the handle to release the powder.
Apply in a slow, sweeping motion to fully cover the burning material.

Unlike ABC fire extinguishers, Class D extinguishers should not be used with high-pressure discharge, as it may disperse the burning metal and worsen the situation.

Protect your spaces efficiently

Contact us now to learn more about Class D Powder Fire Extinguishers and how they can be an essential part of your fire safety plan.

+44 (0)1234 357357

sales@blazequel.com

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Class D extinguishers different from other types?

Class D extinguishers contain dry powder agents specifically designed to suppress metal fires. Unlike water, foam, or CO2 extinguishers, they prevent combustion without reacting violently with metals

Can a Class D extinguisher be used on electrical fires?

No. Class D extinguishers are intended for metal fires only. For electrical fires, CO2 or dry powder (ABC) extinguishers are recommended.

What metals are considered combustible and require a Class D extinguisher?

Metals like magnesium, titanium, sodium, potassium, and certain alloys are considered combustible and require the use of Class D fire extinguishers.

How do Class D fire extinguishers work?

Class D fire extinguishers work by smothering the fire and preventing the metal from reacting with oxygen. They often contain dry powder agents, such as sodium chloride or powdered graphite, which create a barrier to inhibit the chemical reactions that sustain the fire.

Where are Class D fire extinguishers commonly used?

Class D fire extinguishers are commonly found in industrial facilities, laboratories, and locations where combustible metals are present. This includes places where metalworking, machining, or other processes involving combustible metals take place.

Do Class D extinguishers require regular maintenance?

Yes. Like all fire safety equipment, Class D extinguishers must be inspected regularly to ensure they are fully operational. This includes checking pressure levels, verifying powder integrity, and scheduling professional servicing when necessary.

Are you ready to prioritize safety?

Don’t hesitate to reach out to us, or you can easily fill out the form below. We’re here to assist you.