Types of Hydrogen Gas Flame Fire Extinguishers

Hydrogen Fire Characteristics

• Hydrogen is a tasteless, colorless and odorless gas, meaning leaks are not easily detected until ignition. Once ignited, a hydrogen flame is light blue in color and nearly invisible to the human eye. Hydrogen flame usually burns as a small jet or torch flame.

Ignition Sources

• Many possible ignition sources exist when dealing with hydrogen, such as static electricity, sparks from an electrical cord, appliance or outlet, open flame and high heat. While these ignition sources might seem quite common, it’s important to keep in mind that the successful ignition of hydrogen also requires a plentiful amount of hydrogen and enough oxygen or alternative oxidizer. Because hydrogen is typically found in industrial settings such as factories and laboratories, most individuals are not exposed to hydrogen on a regular basis.

Proper Fire Extinguisher

• Not all fire extinguishers are equal. The ideal extinguisher for fighting a hydrogen fire is a dry, powder-based chemical extinguisher. Marked with a rating of either “ABC” or “BC,” these powders leave behind residues that may damage sensitive equipment such as electronic devices or appliances if they are not cleaned up immediately after the fire subsides.

Fighting a Hydrogen Fire

• The easiest and most effective way to put an end to a hydrogen fire is by eliminating the fire’s primary source of hydrogen altogether and completely shutting off the flow of gas to the flame. In fact, the most typical method of combating a hydrogen fire is by letting the hydrogen source burn itself out while ensuring the fire doesn’t spread. If the shutoff for the gas cannot be reached, a dry chemical fire extinguisher can be used to douse the flame. Pointing the nozzle of the extinguisher at the base of the fire, move the nozzle back and forth in a sweeping motion to completely cover the blaze. Those who do this, however, should keep in mind that directly extinguishing a hydrogen flame without first eliminating the source of the hydrogen may result in an explosion.