Air-Foam Fire Extinguishers (OVP): Features, Usage, and Safety

At safsale.com, we’re committed to fire safety, offering a detailed look at Air-Foam Fire Extinguishers (OVP)—a vital tool in fire prevention and control.


What Are Air-Foam Fire Extinguishers?

Air-foam fire extinguishers, designated as OVP (воздушно-пенные), are devices equipped with foam generators and water-based foaming agents. They are designed to suppress fires by creating a dense, cooling foam layer over burning surfaces, effectively cutting off oxygen and reducing heat.


Structure and Working Principle

Each OVP extinguisher consists of:

  • Durable Body: Withstands pressures up to 1.5 MPa.
  • Gas Cylinder: Contains nitrogen, carbon dioxide, or compressed air for propelling the foam.
  • Discharge Mechanism: Includes a siphon tube, nozzle, and foam generator.

When activated, the extinguisher releases foam that expands up to 50-70 times its volume, providing efficient fire suppression.


Types of Air-Foam Fire Extinguishers

  1. By Pressure System:

    • Stored-Pressure: Continuous pressure inside the tank.
    • Gas Cartridge Models: Release pressure upon activation for extended shelf life.
  2. By Foam Expansion Ratio:

    • Low Expansion (5-20): Ideal for targeted fire suppression.
    • Medium Expansion (20-200): Covers larger areas effectively.
  3. By Foam Composition:

    • Hydrocarbon-Based Foams: Cost-effective and versatile.
    • Fluorinated Foams: Enhanced performance but higher cost.

Suitable Applications

Air-foam extinguishers are effective against:

  • Class A Fires: Combustible solids like textiles, wood, and paper.
  • Class B Fires: Flammable liquids such as oils and fuels.

They are not suitable for:

  • Class C Fires: Gas fires.
  • Class D Fires: Reactive metals.
  • Fires involving electrical equipment or materials that burn without oxygen.

Benefits of Air-Foam Extinguishers

  • Safe for Use Around People: No toxic emissions during operation.
  • Prolonged Discharge Time: Typically lasts 20-60 seconds.
  • Wide Coverage: Ideal for suppressing fires in warehouses, chemical plants, and transportation hubs.

Maintenance and Precautions

  1. Annual Servicing: Most OVP extinguishers require maintenance every year.
  2. Storage Guidelines: Keep away from sunlight, high heat, and physical damage.
  3. Temperature Range: Standard models operate between +5°C to +50°C, with winterized versions extending to -40°C.

Enhance Fire Safety with Safsale.com

For reliable and certified air-foam fire extinguishers, visit safsale.com. Our collection includes high-performance models suitable for industrial, commercial, and transportation needs. Stay prepared and protect your assets with the right fire safety tools.