Engine Bay Extinguishers

Greg2

Greg2

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My new boat (Firline Targa 35) still has two halon extinguishers in the enginebay so I need to change them. I am looking at one of the halon replacements (i.e. not dry powder) but I can't seem to find any big enough.

As I undertand it two extinguishers shouldn't be installed (in case one goes off and doesn't manage to extinguish the fire and then the second does the same - insurance companies a bit iffy on this).

My Surveyor says I need capacity for 7 cubic metres but all the extinguishers I have seen only go up to about two cubic metres. I have seen aerosol systems but they aren't cheap.

Any suggestions?
 
You should be able to get them big enough. Are you sure your engine space, with the engines in it is that big?? Thats a fair size for a boat that big??
 
Thanks all...some useful tips. The bigger single units from Magicmarine might just do the trick!
 
I cant believe 7m cubed engine bay, imagine 7m by 1m by 1m for a 35footer, 55 footer maybe.
has anyone had a dry powder one go off acidently? they are a lot cheaper than halon replacements
dont really follow argument of two extinguishers are not as good as one, doesnt state that in my policy.
 
it's not an insurance thing, it's a practical thing.

If they are not triggered at the same time (some don't use electronic ignition) then one won't put the fire out as the volume is too big. If the second then subsequently triggers, it also won't have the ability to cope with the volume. Better to have one which actually copes with the volume.


If you are paranoid, then you'd probably go for a system which has two cylinders, either of which can cope with the volume, but one automatic, and one manual as a backup.

Personally wouldn't go for powder, unless the system also turned the engines off before triggering, as too many reports of engine damage.
but then again wouldn't go for a system which turned my engine off outside my control!
 
Dry powder are a nuisance in engine rooms! They get into the engine, and they cause a huge mess. Go for Halon replacement, much better. I know they are expensive, but...............
In Spain we can still use Halon, as long as it's an engine room installed system, so I will! Need new ones, mine have leaked! Check yours, corrosion around the alloy cylinder and palstic top??
 
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