How to Safeguard Your Property With Cartridge-operated Fire Extinguishers

Fire extinguishers are hand-held cylindrical pressure vessels containing firefighting agents which, when released, can extinguish fires. There are two main categories of fire extinguishers: stored pressure and cartridge-operated. Stored pressure fire extinguishers contain their agent within their container while cartridge-operated models contain it externally with its own separate pressure cartridge that must be punctured prior to use.

Cartridge-operated fire extinguishers are ideal for harsh environments such as chemical plants, which often present high fire risks due to close proximity between flammable chemicals and liquids. They’re also frequently utilized in machinery-rich environments like industrial plants, avionics, tugs and fueling carts of aircraft, dip tanks, welding shops, automotive repair facilities and chemical storage areas.

These extinguishers employ dry chemical powder that acts like a plug to separate oxygen from flames and stop their spreading by cutting off their air supply. Since corrosive fires require special agent, such as those found in Class B extinguishers, to prevent their reignition re-ignition.

As with other fire extinguishers, cartridge-operated units come in various sizes. A smaller model may be easier to handle during an emergency situation while larger models offer greater extinguishing power; however, an individual might find handling 10-pound models difficult under pressure.

ANSUL’s extensive range of wheeled extinguishers – known as Red Line extinguishers – provide maximum flexibility and mobility in various workplace environments. For instance, our cylinder-mounted units come equipped with special wheels designed specifically to tackle rough terrain or volatile areas where steel or metal wheels could damage flooring or cause ignition. Handheld and portable models may come equipped with these special wheels; extra long hoses, scoop/funnels, spare cylinders, quick connect packages, hose blow down kits and test gauges will all ensure optimal performance in hazardous environments.

All RED LINE fire extinguishers require annual inspection, during which their weight, external condition and internal inspection are all examined in detail to verify agent status and look for signs of corrosion or damage. Cartridge-operated extinguishers must also undergo cartridge pressure testing by an authorized ANSUL distributor opening the unit to remove and test its cartridge from its mounting location.

As part of their regular inspections, some cartridge-operated extinguishers from our selection also have recharge capabilities. Recharging can be performed either at a designated recharging station or through certified fire equipment dealers; refills should be conducted following each use or during periods of inactivity such as seasonal downtime.

Ansul wheeled extinguishers can be rented and/or sold with maintenance, inspection, and recharge service available.

To sum up, cartridge-operated fire extinguishers are a very practical equipment to have on hand in many job settings that may have a higher danger of fire owing to close contact to combustible chemicals or machinery. To eventually put out the flames, they use dry chemical powder to shut off the air flow around the oxygen source. These extinguishers come in various sizes to accommodate the requirements of each specific location and have rechargeable options. Last but not least, RED Line extinguishers are thoroughly examined and tested once a year, as well as if required after each usage.