The most common fire extinguisher you see inside or outside of buildings is a stored pressure fire extinguisher. However, there’s another type of fire extinguisher, cartridge-operated. A cartridge-operated extinguisher looks and functions differently than a stored pressure extinguisher. It is important one understands the differences in these extinguishers so that one can safely and accurately use the fire extinguisher in the event of an emergency.
Operation Of The Extinguishers
A stored pressure extinguisher has the agent and pressure mixed in the same container inside of the extinguisher. A cartridge-operated extinguisher has just powder/agent inside, and there is a separate pressure cartridge that has to be activated to pressurize the extinguisher.
The way these extinguishers are manufactured affects the way they are operated. A stored pressure extinguisher can be operated by using the PASS Method. The cartridge-operated extinguisher has an added step. Since there is a pressure cartridge, one’ll need to activate the cartridge first, which immediately adds pressure to the inside of the extinguisher. Once the cartridge has been activated, one can then aim, squeeze, and sweep to extinguish the flames.
Inspection & Maintenance Of The Extinguishers
The inspection and maintenance are different for both extinguishers. A stored pressure fire extinguisher has a quicker inspection process, only taking about ten steps (for most manufacturers). They need an internal examination every six years and a hydrostatic test every twelve years. A cartridge-operated fire extinguisher has a longer inspection process, with about 43 total steps (depending on the manufacturer). There is a hydrostatic test needed every 12 years, but a 6-year internal examination is not required.
Both types of extinguishers should be inspected every month by an appointed individual at one's facility. The monthly inspection is done to ensure the extinguishers: Cartridge-operated extinguishers are more durable
- Are in their designated locations
- Are accessible
- Instruction labels are legible
- All seals and tamper indicators are sound
- There are no signs of corrosion, damage, leakage, or clogging
Keep a written record of each manual inspection.
Why Choose A Cartridge-Operated Extinguisher?
This is a common question asked because cartridge-operated extinguishers are extremely unfamiliar to the public. However, cartridge-operated extinguishers do well in facilities with low temperatures or places exposed to adverse conditions. While cartridge-operated extinguishers are more durable, they are also heavier.
They have fewer accidental discharges, but tampering with the agent is possible since the pressure is not stored inside of the extinguisher. Newer cartridge-operated extinguishers include an indicator, so one is aware when the pressure has been activated; however, it is not required. The pressure gauge on a stored-pressure extinguisher is still considered an advantage.
