The benefits of F-500

F-500 is known as an encapsulator fire suppression agent. Our previous articles have explained its undoubted superiority in a number of real-life critical circumstances but sometimes it is more educational to actually understand the factual benefits without the detail of an incident determining what aspects are considered important to impart.

What is F-500?

F-500 is a multi-purpose agent used worldwide for various applications, but it is its fire suppressing and spill control attributes we are interested in for the purpose of this article. It is different from conventional foam in that F-500 forms and maintains a chemical cocoon, sometimes referred to as micelles, around the hydrocarbon fuel to neutralise the fuel leg of the fire tetrahedron rather than forming a blanket depriving the fire of oxygen.  As a water-based agent, it is also an effective coolant.  

 

What fires are suitable for F-500?

F-500 is suitable as a suppression agent for the following European classes of fires:

• Class A – combustible materials (wood, paper, fabric, refuse)
• Class B – flammable liquids and gas (spills)
• Class D – flammable metals

Features of F-500

• Non-toxic and non-corrosive
• Fully biodegradable
• Can be pre-mixed for fire extinguishers and appliances
• Can be used through existing equipment including a standard fire hose
• Has no blanket to break as with foam
• Eliminates the combustibility of the fuel leg of the fire tetrahedron
• Significantly reduces heat
• Interrupts the free radical chain reaction

Compare and contrast
F-500 v sand – New coverall powders or sand are efficient in extinguishing fires but they do not cool and are less effective at penetration. Sand and powder also trap heat, so once removed, can cause an explosion.

F-500 v water – Water is an effective coolant, but a large volume is required. It also takes several minutes to work and needs skill in application.

F-500 v foam – Even though foam is compressed and fortified, it still will not penetrate all fires. A foam blanket is also rather fragile.

F-500 benefits recap

1. Rapid action – Works 6 to 10 times faster than water
2. Faster heat reduction – More efficient at cooling than plain water
3. Effective hazardous spill control – Renders flammable liquids non-flammable
4. Vapour reduction – Reduces explosive vapours on contact
5. Smoke reduction – Reduces smoke thus increasing visibility and safety for fire fighters

If you require any further advice, please do not hesitate to Argos Fire or FCT (UK) today.