Inadequate dry chemical agent can be dangerous, whether that be due to unacceptable chemical composition or moisture content. Several standards require dry chemical agent be analyzed periodically:
NFPA 10 Portable Fire Extinguishers 2022 Ed. 7.8.3.4.2 requires that dry chemical be thoroughly checked before it can be re-used. This includes checking for proper type and contamination.
NFPA 17 Dry Chemical Extinguishing Systems requires examination of dry chemical at least twice a year and after any system activation for a non-pressurized system. NFPA 17 also requires examination of dry chemical in pressurized systems to be done at least every six years.
IMO 1432 31/5/2012 requires dry chemical agent in fixed dry chemical systems be tested for moisture content every two years.
- OSHA 29 CFR 1910.161(b)(4) requires sampling of the dry chemical agent in all but stored pressure systems at least annually to ensure it is free of moisture.
Why test your dry chemical sample with Dyne Fire Protection Labs?
free shipping within the contiguous United States (limited free 1-way shipping to Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and Canada, inquire for details)
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immediate communication with our chemists or support staff
NOTE: If you are out of the U.S. and your samples will be traveling through customs, please list all dry chemical samples as fire extinguisher powder on your customs forms .Please provide a SDS for each product whenever possible.
• Moisture Content
- High moisture content can lead to caking of the agent, resulting in inadequate flow of the agent through the equipment, and/or corrosion of the storage vessel, potentially compromising its integrity.
• Chemical Composition
- A chemical composition other than that listed with the equipment and hazard may not work as designed. Mixing of different types of agents can lead to a chemical reaction that produces byproducts of water (increasing agent moisture content) and carbon dioxide (increases vessel pressure to dangerous levels).
Dyne helps you meet various inspection, testing, and maintenance requirements in the following standards:
- NFPA 10 Portable Fire Extinguishers
- NFPA 17 Dry Chemical Extinguishing Systems
- IMO 1432
- ISO 7202 Fire protection – Fire extinguishing media – powder
- OSHA 29