How does the Trolley Fire Extinguisher perform against high-risk fires such as those involving flammable liquids, gases, or energized electrical equipment?

Trolley Fire Extinguishers designed for Class B fires use extinguishing agents such as Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF), BC dry chemical powder, or carbon dioxide (CO₂), each selected based on the risk environment. Foam-based models are highly effective for suppressing flammable liquid fires (e.g., petrol, kerosene, solvents) by forming a continuous film barrier over the fuel surface, which cuts off the oxygen supply and inhibits vapor release. Dry chemical agents interrupt the chemical chain reaction occurring in liquid-fueled combustion, rapidly extinguishing flames. These trolley units offer extended discharge times and high agent flow rates, enabling fast flame knockdown and wide coverage of fuel spill areas from a safe operating distance.

When dealing with electrical fires involving live equipment or panels, the Trolley Fire Extinguisher must contain a non-conductive extinguishing medium. CO₂-based models are preferred for their clean-agent properties — they leave no residue and are safe for use on sensitive electronics or electrical switchgear. Alternatively, dry chemical extinguishers (using ABC or BC powder) are also non-conductive and effective in extinguishing arc- or equipment-related fires, though they may cause post-discharge cleanup and residue issues. The fire extinguisher’s performance in these scenarios depends on sufficient hose length, nozzle design for directional control, and adherence to proper distance to avoid arc flash or recoil during activation.

Trolley Fire Extinguishers may be applied to gas-fed fires, such as those involving LPG, propane, or natural gas, primarily to suppress the visible flame. However, extinguishing the flame without shutting off the gas source can be dangerous, as unburned gas can accumulate and lead to secondary explosions. Dry chemical powder extinguishers are used for these scenarios, offering rapid discharge and effective surface coverage to contain fires at gas cylinder valves, pipe leaks, or regulator connections. The extinguisher’s role in such settings is not to permanently extinguish the fire but to provide temporary flame control until gas flow can be isolated at the source.

A key advantage of the Trolley Fire Extinguisher lies in its large agent capacity, usually ranging from 25 kg to 100 kg depending on the model and extinguishing medium. This high-volume design ensures sustained discharge — lasting from 30 to 120 seconds — which is essential for managing large, persistent fires common in industrial environments. Extended discharge time allows for complete surface cooling, vapor suppression, and coverage of wide fire perimeters. This is especially important in fuel storage yards, chemical loading stations, or electrical substations, where initial flame suppression must be thorough and reliable.

To protect operators during high-intensity fires, the Trolley Fire Extinguisher is fitted with reinforced hoses and discharge nozzles that enable use from a safe distance, 5–10 meters depending on pressure and agent type. This distance reduces operator exposure to radiant heat, potential explosions, or electrical arc flash. Wheeled trolleys with ergonomic handles and directional maneuverability allow quick repositioning behind barriers or away from ignition points during operation.

The type of extinguishing agent used in the Trolley Fire Extinguisher should match the specific hazards in the facility. For example, CO₂ units are ideal for electrical rooms due to their non-residual nature, while foam-based extinguishers are best suited for flammable liquid processing areas. Dry chemical extinguishers offer general-purpose coverage and are often chosen for outdoor applications or industrial plants where multiple classes of fire hazards exist. Selecting the correct agent ensures maximum effectiveness and reduces the risk of secondary damage or system contamination.