What makes class D fire extinguishers unique?

What makes class D fire extinguishers unique?

• A. They throw water at fires.
• B. They absorb heat and cool the metal below ignition temperatures.
• C. They work on all types of fuel sources.
• D. They use foam to smother flames.

Answer: (B)

Class D fire extinguishers are specifically designed for fires involving combustible metals, such as magnesium, titanium, and sodium. What makes them unique is their ability to absorb heat and cool the metal below its ignition temperatures. This is crucial in preventing re-ignition of the fire, as metals can continue to burn when they reach high temperatures. Unlike other extinguishing agents, Class D extinguishers use dry powders that do not contain water or foam, which could potentially react violently with certain metals. The other choices provided do not accurately represent the characteristics of Class D fire extinguishers; they do not throw water, work on all fuel sources, or use foam. Instead, they specifically target the unique burning properties of combustible metals, which is why the ability to absorb heat and cool the material is essential for safely extinguishing Class D fires.

Class D fire extinguishers are specifically designed for fires involving combustible metals, such as magnesium, titanium, and sodium. What makes them unique is their ability to absorb heat and cool the metal below its ignition temperatures. This is crucial in preventing re-ignition of the fire, as metals can continue to burn when they reach high temperatures. Unlike other extinguishing agents, Class D extinguishers use dry powders that do not contain water or foam, which could potentially react violently with certain metals.

The other choices provided do not accurately represent the characteristics of Class D fire extinguishers; they do not throw water, work on all fuel sources, or use foam. Instead, they specifically target the unique burning properties of combustible metals, which is why the ability to absorb heat and cool the material is essential for safely extinguishing Class D fires.