Info
Fire Extinguishers
Fires involving lithium-ion batteries require special extinguishers and an in-depth understanding of the fire class, testing procedures, and extinguishing agents. Due to high energy densities and potential re-ignition, battery fires have special requirements. In the following section you will receive a concise overview of the classification, tests, and differences of extinguishing agents.
Lithium-ion batteries are not currently assigned to any specific fire class. These batteries consist of various solid and liquid components, which makes a specific classification difficult. Focusing solely on, for example, fire class D is not effective.
There are currently no specific, standardized testing procedures that conclusively prove suitability. All systems sold to us have been tested for suitability through the manufacturers’ internal tests and/or, in some cases, verified by external laboratories. Where clear statements regarding suitability (e.g., maximum energy density) are available, these are included in the product description. Please contact us if you have any doubts or questions.
In most cases, this involves water with various additives.
Bavaria’s Water Glue is a gel that adheres exceptionally well to surfaces and also ensures that the areas treated with the gel cannot ignite.
The systems from Gloria and Neuruppin consist of water with an extinguishing agent additive (Imprex-C or F500-EA) that alters the properties of the water. These additives change the surface tension of the water, improve penetration depth, and enhance the water’s cooling effect.
LithiumX from Bavaria is an aqueous dispersion in which natural silicon crystals are suspended in an aqueous solution. When sprayed onto the burning material, the water evaporates and the microscopic silicon flakes swell and fuse into an impermeable barrier layer. This isolates the fire, and the thermal radiation above the barrier layer immediately drops below 100°C. These systems are also marketed under the alternative designation “AVD.”
PyroBubbles: PyroBubbles are small glass beads. In the event of a fire, the granules melt and form a closed, thermally insulating layer around the fire source, thereby depriving it of oxygen. Combustible reaction gases are reduced thanks to the pores in the beads. The high specific heat capacity absorbs thermal energy, and the temperature is lowered due to the cooling effect. Furthermore, combustible material is shielded by the low thermal conductivity.
Please note: Active fire suppression with PyroBubbles requires a specific fire protection design.