Fire Extinguishers

[discovery2]

I need to install an automatic fire extinguisher in the engine space on a new Antares Series 9 motor cruiser.

Is there any merit in installing two smaller capacity extinguishers instead of one large extinguisher?

Although two smaller ones might cost a little more initially, if/when the gauge shows that a replacement is needed (not as a result of a fire!) it is cheaper to replace one smaller one!

Any thoughts?

Thanks
David

 

[enterprise]

Yes, I can understand your reasoning,

If one fails you have a second in reserve.

There are some other benefits, you could cover a wider area than with a single extinguisher.
Whilst having one serviced the other could remain in situ.

The pros certainly outweigh the cons.

Only downsides are additional weight and double servicing costs.

If not an issue why not.

 

[andy_wilson]

The only de-merit is knock down potential. If a fire only activates one, this may not be enough to completely snuff the fire.

Why not get two big ones instead?

Get them from an inland fire protection company and you will get 2kg for the price of 1kg marine version anyway.

 

[Chris_Robb]

What type are you proposing to install? Think twice about powder - will damage the engine if it goes off with the engine running. Also the powder congeals on any hot surface.

If you do put powder, then put more than one as it only covers a small area, and you don't know where abouts the fire will break out in the engine compartment

The replacement for Halon is very expensive, but is the only proper protection.

 

[SteveA]

At work we are replacing the Halon with a water mist system - has anyone heard of such a system for the leisure market?

 

[SailingDoc]

The recent PBO article is good in this subject. I've started investigating prices for HFC (replaces Halon as of this year) systems with automatic firing and an alarm, to tell you it's fired! Not cheap (around £300) but better than a burned-out hulk, which is what I would be if the boat caught fire.....

Brian

 

[JerryHawkins]

Look at Pyrogen

Have a look at Pyrogen http://www.pyrogen.co.uk

I have one of their smaller units in my engine space. More expensive than std extinguisher but does not need servicing as the extinguishant is generated when its needed and is not stored.

Cheers,

Jerry