fire ext

[flipper1]

I have halon fire extinguishers in my engine compartment. These need replacing. I don't want to use powder in case that ruins the engines. Any ideas, on the most economic replacement?

<hr width=100% size=1>Harvey White

 

[aztec]

probably a "glib" reply...

so you don't think the fire will ruin the engines then?!

pyrogen and other halon replacements are still quite expensive. CO2 is a good flooding media, but for a fuel fire needing quick knockdown (e.g. petrol) DP is very effective.

i always have a DP to hand, after seeing quite a few boats (with halon and CO2) still burn. the memorable one was a yacht engine fire extinguished with DP, they mended the fuel leak, resarted the Vire petrol and made her own way (under escort) back into harbour. was a bit messy down there though.

welcome to the forum, and you'll find that the halon/replacement debate is a healthy one... but remember the legal standpoint.

regards, steve.





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[steverow]

I have two 5kg Co2's and two similar sized powders, one of each at either end of the engine bay...covers most eventualities. (37ft Twin)

I also have a .9lt powder and a similar size AFFF (foam) on each bulkhead/compartment as well as same plus blanket in galley.

If you're looking for a direct auto halon replacement, then either HFC23 (Triflouromethane) or HFC227 (Heptaflouropropane) are adequate replacements.
The latter seems to have been taken up by the marine industry more, under FM200 and FE227 branding.

Preserving your engines becomes less of a worry when on fire in the middle of the channel.

You cant have too many extinguishers, but get 'em tested/recharged regularly.

Steve.

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[anchorhandler]

One of the biggest problems with CO2 is that it has very little cooling effect on the fire, it extiguishes by smothering the fire (replaces air and hence oxygen) and therefore 'suffocates' the fire. Problems arise when the engine compartment/room is opened up for inspection allowing fresh air back in and, (since the heat of the fire is still present) whoosh it can re-ignite. For CO2 to work effectively, it also needs to be injected into a space with very little air circulation otherwise the fire will just draw fresh air back in through the vents, air gaps etc...CO2 is however relatively cheap and, if used in the right situation can be quite effective. Modern replacement alternatives use high pressure (20-25bar) fresh water mixed with a chemical compound which interferes with the chemical process of combustion. The advantage is that when the treated water is injected, not only does it atomise and cool the fire but it fights it on a molecular basis also. These systems have so far been found very effective on commertial vessels. I believe Kidde now produce a 'leisure' version of the FM200 system which may suit your needs. Otherwise,as mentioned previously, stick with the dry powder as making a mess of the engine room will be your last concern should you need to use it anger!. Hope this helps.

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[anchorhandler]

Actually, has anyone out there actually had the FM200 system fitted or bought a boat with it already in place ? If so, are you happy with it?
Thanks in advance for any replies.

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[jimg]

You mean who has had a fire? That's the only way to know you are happy with it!

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[sailorman]

MOVE TO U.S.A. THEY CAN STILL USE IT.
say buddy what OZONE LAYER / KIOTO ( sorry about the spelling)

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[Nick2]

I have just had an FM200 system inc alarms fitted to my boat and as I have not yet seen the instalation will post comment next week.

My old halons were literally old halons so felt an upgrade was now due anyway.

Stand by for extra interesting post on my new extinguisher that may give my thread on "What rechargable battery" a run for its money.....zzzzzzzzzzzzz

Nick

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