Purple K Extinguishers: The Effectiveness of Potassium Bicarbonate in Fire Extinguishing

Posted on: March 18, 2024

Different types of fires can destroy your business. However, you cannot extinguish them all with a simple CO2 fire extinguisher. Though carbon dioxide fire extinguishers are highly effective on electric fires, their effectiveness on liquid fires is limited. There are chances that the fire might reignite after it is extinguished. Purple K powder is a better firefighting agent for liquid fires since it inhibits chemical reactions in flammable liquids, thereby preventing the fire from spreading.

WHAT IS PURPLE K POWDER?

Purple K powder is a Potassium bicarbonate-based chemical. It is a free-flowing, water-repellent, non-abrasive, non-toxic and can be easily cleaned with a vacuum cleaner or broom and dustpan. It is obtained through an exclusive chemical process and has a purple colour, which differentiates it from other dry chemical agents.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

Purple K works by slowing down chemical reactions in the combustion zone, which forms one part of the tetrahedron, i.e., heat, oxygen, fuel and chemicals. When introduced to a fire, purple K initiates a chemical reaction that generates free radicals. These radicals then bind to the surface of the powder particles in the extinguishing agent, halting the chemical reactions responsible for igniting the fire.

Besides inhibiting chemical reactions that cause the fire, purple K also acts as a smothering agent by starving the fire of oxygen, preventing it from exploding.

HOW EFFECTIVE IS PURPLE K IN EXTINGUSHING FIRES?

Purple K powder is the most effective dry chemical against class B fires. In fact, it is 4-5 more times more effective than CO2 and has twice the effectiveness of sodium bicarbonate in extinguishing such fires. Purple K is also effective against electric fires since it is non-conductive and non-corrosive, so it will not corrode electric equipment or surfaces on which it is applied.

HOW TO USE PURPLE K POWDER FIRE EXTINGUISHERS?

∙ Purple K fire extinguishers are available in different sizes. You can get them in small handheld units or large wheeled units.

∙ Release the pin to unlock the lock and aim the nozzle toward the fire.

∙ Squeeze the handle to let out the powder. While doing so, sweep the nozzle horizontally so that the powder covers the entire fire.

Purple K powder is the best choice for combating class B and C fires. Its unique formula makes it effective for use on flammable liquids, gases, electric equipment and other surfaces.

Vinati Organics supply this chemical at a purity of 99%. Before shipping, our products go through stringent quality checks that ensure reliability and safety. Having many years of experience in supplying high-quality chemicals, Vinati Organics are known as a trusted potassium bicarbonate manufacturer. This has enabled us to develop long-term relationships with some of the largest chemical companies in the world. Purchase purple k powder from Vinati Organics today. Contact us for pricing details.