Specification for portable fire extinguisher mechanical foam type

IS 10204: Scope Overview & Key Specifications

• Scope: IS 10204 specifies requirements for portable fire extinguishers, mechanical foam type, covering materials, construction, performance, and testing.

• Sampling & Conformity: Clause 14.1 refers to Annex C for detailed sampling plans and conformity criteria.

• Referenced IS Standards: The code refers to multiple Indian Standards for materials and testing, e.g.,

  • IS 5: Colours for paints
  • IS 265: Hydrochloric acid
  • IS 2190: Installation & maintenance of fire extinguishers
  • IS 4984: HDPE pipes for water supply
  • IS 6528/6529: Stainless steel specifications
  • IS 6911: Stainless steel sheets
  • IS 11804: Aluminium alloy pressure die castings
  • IS 13871: Powder coatings

• Rounding Off: Numerical test results must be rounded as per IS 2:1960, retaining significant digits matching the standard's specified value.

• Global Warming Potential (GWP): Annex F lists GWP values for substances used in extinguishers, e.g., Halon 1301 (5600), FM 200 (3300).

Summary Table: Key Code Aspects

flowchart TD
    A[IS 10204 Scope] --> B[Materials & Construction]
    A --> C[Performance & Testing]
    A --> D[Sampling & Conformity]
    A --> E[Environmental Impact]
    D --> F[Annex C: Sampling Plan]
    E --> G[Annex F: GWP Values]

This concise scope guide helps ensure compliance with IS 10204 by referencing critical clauses, related IS standards, and environmental considerations

IS 10204: Referenced Indian Standards Summary

• Clause 2.1 states that Annex A lists Indian Standards referenced in IS 10204, which form part of its provisions.
• These standards cover materials, testing methods, welding codes, fire safety, and more.
• Users should verify if newer editions supersede those listed.

Key Referenced IS Standards (Selected Examples)

Notes on Application

• For sampling and conformity, see Annex C (Clause 14.1).
• Use IS 2:1960 for rounding test results.
• Always check for the latest editions of referenced standards.

Example: Rounding Rule (IS 2:1960)

flowchart LR
    A[IS 10204] --> B(Annex A: Referenced IS Standards)
    A --> C(Annex C: Sampling & Conformity)
    B --> D{Material Specs}
    B --> E{Welding Codes}
    B --> F{Fire Safety}
    D --> IS513[Cold Rolled Steel Sheets]
    E --> IS1323[Oxy-Acetylene Welding]
    F --> IS2643[Fire Extinguishers]

This structure helps users navigate IS 10204 references efficiently.

IS 10204: General Requirements Summary

Clause 12.1 - General Requirements

• Specifies the overall quality, workmanship, and compliance criteria for materials and products.
• Ensures conformity to standards and proper documentation.

Clause 14.1 - Sampling and Criteria for Conformity

• Sampling details and acceptance criteria are given in Annex C.
• Ensures statistical validation of product batches.

Key Specifications (from referenced IS standards)

• Materials must comply with relevant IS codes (e.g., IS 265 for Hydrochloric Acid, IS 513 for cold-rolled steel sheets).
• Physical properties for plastics (Table B-1):
  • Specific Gravity: 1.25 ± 0.02 (IS 8543 Part 1/Sec 2)
  • Melting Point: 215°C - 225°C (IS 5762)
  • Ash Content: 15 ± 1% (IS 7180)

Sampling & Conformity (Annex C)

• Sampling plans follow statistical methods (e.g., AQL levels).
• Criteria include dimensional checks, physical tests, and chemical composition.

Typical Formula for Sampling Size (if applicable):

[ n = \frac{N}{1 + N(e)^2} ]

• n = sample size
• N = lot size
• e = margin of error

flowchart TD
    A[Start: Material Receipt] --> B[Check Documentation]
    B --> C{Meets IS Standards?}
    C -- Yes --> D[Sampling as per Annex C]
    C -- No --> E[Reject Material]
    D --> F[Physical & Chemical Tests]
    F --> G{Conforms?}
    G -- Yes --> H[Accept Material]
    G -- No --> E

Summary: IS 10204 emphasizes strict adherence to referenced IS standards, detailed sampling protocols, and physical/chemical property verification to ensure product conformity.

IS 10204: Operation of Foam Fire Extinguisher – Key Points

Operation (Clause 4.1 & 7.8.2.1)

• Hold extinguisher upright.
• Pierce gas cartridge seal by pressing knob or squeeze grip.
• Gas pressure expels foam-water solution.
• For squeeze grip type:
  • Squeeze lever + handle together.
  • Lift lever, wait 10s for pressure buildup.
  • Squeeze lever continuously to discharge foam as jet.

Discharge Performance (Clause 11.1)

• Ambient temp: 27 ± 5°C, still air.
• Foam nozzle horizontal.
• Foam throw (projection range): ≥ 6 m for minimum 25 s.
• Discharge time for 90% liquid: ≤ 60 s.
• Foam collected in 1 m² leak-proof tray.
• Foam layer thickness: ≥ 50 mm OR
• Expansion ratio (per IS 4989 Part 2): ≥ 6.

Visual Instructions (Clause 10.2)

• Large pictorial instruction on extinguisher body showing correct operation.

Summary Table

flowchart LR
    A[Hold Extinguisher Upright] --> B{Pierce Seal}
    B -->|Knob Press| C[Gas Released]
    B -->|Squeeze Grip| C
    C --> D[Gas Pressure Expels Foam]
    D --> E[Foam Nozzle Horizontal]
    E --> F[Foam Jet Projection ≥ 6 m]
    F --> G[Discharge 90% Liquid ≤ 60 s]
    G --> H[Foam Collected in Tray (≥50 mm thick)]

This ensures safe, effective extinguisher operation per IS 10204.

IS 10204: Key Materials Specifications & Tables

1. Materials for Fire Extinguisher Components (Clause 5.1, Table 1)

2. Plastic Material Properties (Clause B-1.1)

IS 10204: Shape and Dimensions Key Points

• Body Shape: Cylindrical
• Outside Diameter: 175 ± 5 mm (Clause 6.1)
• Ends (Top & Bottom): Outward dished (convex) without reverse curvature; radius ≤ max outside diameter (Clause 7.1)

Summary Table for Dimensions

Notes:

• Ends must be smoothly convex to avoid stress concentrations.
• Dimensions should be verified with IS 2:1960 rounding rules for conformity.
• Sampling and conformity criteria are detailed in Annex C (Clause 14.1).

graph TD
    A[Cylindrical Body] --> B[Diameter: 175 ± 5 mm]
    B --> C[Top End: Outward Dished (Convex)]
    B --> D[Bottom End: Outward Dished (Convex)]
    C --> E[Radius ≤ 175 mm]
    D --> E

This ensures structural integrity and standardized manufacturing per IS 10204.

IS 10204: Construction Details - Key Specifications & References

• Materials (Clause 5.1): Construction materials must comply with Table 1 of IS 10204, specifying suitable metals/plastics for extinguisher parts.

• Welding Types & Standards (Clause 7.2.1):

  • Oxy-acetylene welding: IS 1323
  • Resistance welding:
    • Spot welding: IS 819
    • Stitch welding: IS 819
    • Seam welding: IS 1261
  • Metal arc welding: IS 9595

• Sampling & Conformity (Clause 14.1): Sampling criteria detailed in Annex C of IS 10204.

Summary Table: Welding Standards for Construction

Construction Workflow (Simplified)

flowchart TD
    A[Material Selection] --> B[Welding Process Selection]
    B --> C{Welding Type}
    C -->|Oxy-acetylene| D[IS 1323]
    C -->|Spot/Stitch| E[IS 819]
    C -->|Seam| F[IS 1261]
    C -->|Metal Arc| G[IS 9595]
    D & E & F & G --> H[Assembly & Inspection]
    H --> I[Sampling per Annex C]
    I --> J[Final Conformity Check]

For detailed dimensions, material specs, and testing, refer to the respective IS codes mentioned. This ensures compliance with IS 10204 construction requirements.

IS 10204: Charge and Filling Key Points

• Total Liquid Capacity (Clause 3.1):
  The extinguisher's total liquid capacity (foam concentrate + water) shall be 9 ± 0.5 liters.

• Foam Concentrate Quantity (Clause 8.1):

  • For 6% foam concentrate: minimum 540 ml foam concentrate.
  • For 3% foam concentrate: minimum 270 ml foam concentrate.
  • The balance volume is filled with water.

• Liquid Level Indicator (Clause 7.10):

  • The specified charge level must be marked externally on the extinguisher body.
  • A permanent internal mark or a means to verify correct filling level must be provided.

Charge Filling Calculation Example

Summary Diagram

flowchart LR
    A[Total Capacity = 9 ± 0.5 L] --> B[Foam Concentrate]
    A --> C[Water]
    B -->|6%| D[540 ml]
    B -->|3%| E[270 ml]
    C -->|Balance| F[Water volume = Total - Foam]

Ensure foam concentrate conforms to IS 4989 (Part 2) and the extinguisher has clear liquid level markings as per Clause 7.10.

IS 10204 - Anti-Corrosive Treatment Key Points

1. Internal Surface Lining (Clause 9.1)

• Material: Plastic or rubber lining applied by centrifuge and heat cured.
• Minimum Thickness: 0.5 mm.
• Adhesion Test:
  • Pressure: 15 kg/cm²
  • Duration: 120 ± 8 hrs at 27 ± 5°C
  • Check for cracks, separation, lifting, or bubbles.

2. Alternative Treatment (Clause 9.1.1)

• Phosphating as per IS 3618 can be applied on the external body surface.

3. Acid Resistance Test (Clause B-3.1)

• Submerge sample in 10% HCl for 72 hrs at 27 ± 5°C.
• No discoloration, distortion, or deterioration allowed.

4. Materials for Fire Extinguisher Parts (Table 1, Clause 5.1)

Summary Diagram of Anti-Corrosive Treatment Process

flowchart LR
    A

IS 10204: Key Marking & Labeling Specifications for Fire Extinguishers

• Marking for Class 'B' Fire Suitability (Clause 10.3):

  • Letter: 'B'
  • Size: 2.5 cm height
  • Color: Black
  • Contained in a square: 4 cm size
  • Square color: Cream (Lemon Yellow), IS 5 Shade No. 355
  • Paint: Must conform to IS 2932

• Mandatory Markings on Extinguisher (Clause 13.1):

  • Method of operation (prominent letters)
  • The phrase "MECHANICAL FOAM"
  • Nominal charge of liquid (litres)
  • Capacity of CO2 gas cartridge
  • Manufacturer's name/trademark
  • Liquid charge level
  • Instruction: "after discharge the extinguisher must be washed out carefully with fresh water using at least two changes"

• Color & Paint Standards:

  • Paint colors per IS 5:1994 (Ready mixed paints and enamels)
  • Paint quality per IS 2932

Summary Table for Class 'B' Marking

flowchart LR
  A[Extinguisher Body] --> B[Marking Area]
  B --> C[Square 4cm, Cream (IS5:355)]
  C --> D[Letter 'B' 2.5cm, Black]
  B --> E[Other Markings]
  E --> F[Operation Method]
  E --> G["MECHANICAL FOAM"]
  E --> H[Nominal Liquid Charge]
  E --> I[CO2 Cartridge Capacity]
  E --> J[Manufacturer Name]
  E --> K[Liquid Level Mark]
  E --> L[Washing Instruction]

This ensures clear identification and compliance with IS 10204 requirements.

IS 10204: Performance Tests - Key Points

Sampling & Conformity (Clause 14.1, Annex C)

• Sampling details and conformity criteria are specified in Annex C.
• One sample is tested for performance; the lot passes only if this sample meets requirements.

Physical Tests for Plastic Caps (Clause 1.1)

Burst Pressure Test (Clause B-2)

• Ensures mechanical integrity under pressure.
• Test specifics (pressure values, duration) are detailed in the code or referenced standards.

Summary:

• One sample tested for performance.
• Physical properties must strictly conform.
• Burst pressure test confirms structural safety under load.

flowchart TD
    A[Sample Selected] --> B{Physical Tests}
    B --> C[Specific Gravity]
    B --> D[Melting Point]
    B --> E[Ash Content]
    A --> F[Burst Pressure Test]
    C & D & E & F --> G{Pass?}
    G -->|Yes| H[Lot Accepted]
    G -->|No| I[Lot Rejected]

For detailed test procedures, refer Annex C and respective IS standards listed in IS 10204.

IS 10204: Environmental Requirements - Key Points

1. Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS) - Annex D (Clause 12.2.1)

• Note: ODP values are relative to CFC-11 (assigned 1.0).

2. Global Warming Potential (GWP) - Annex F (Clause 12.2.3)

3. Related IS Standards for Environmental Safety and Materials

• IS 4984: High-density polyethylene pipes for water supply
• IS 4989 (Part 2): Foam concentrate for fire fighting (AFFF)
• IS 6528, 6529, 6911: Stainless steel specifications
• IS 11804: Aluminium alloy pressure die castings
• IS 13871: Powder coatings

Summary

• Use materials and extinguishing agents with low ODP and GWP to minimize environmental impact.
• Follow referenced IS standards for material selection, fire extinguisher components, and environmental safety.
• Refer to Annex D and F for detailed lists of controlled substances.

flowchart LR
    A[Fire Extinguisher Components] --> B[Material Selection]
    B --> C[Low ODP Substances]
   

IS 10204: Certification and Marking Summary

1. BIS Certification Mark (Clause 13.2)

• Portable fire extinguishers may bear the BIS Standard Mark.
• Use of the Standard Mark is governed by the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 1986.
• Manufacturers must obtain a license from BIS to use the mark.
• The ECO-Mark scheme is optional for environment-friendly products, combining ISI Mark + ECO logo.

2. Sampling & Criteria for Conformity (Clause 14.1 and Annex C)

• Sampling details and conformity criteria are specified in Annex C.
• If manufacturer’s certificate is absent, each component and charge must be individually tested.
• The lot is accepted only if all components meet the standard requirements.

3. Marking Specifications

• Extinguishers must be marked clearly with:
  • Manufacturer’s name
  • BIS Standard Mark (if licensed)
  • Type and capacity of extinguisher
  • Date of manufacture
  • Instructions for use

Quick Reference Table: BIS Marking & Sampling

flowchart TD
    A[Manufacturer] --> B{Apply for BIS License}
    B -->|Approved| C[Use BIS Standard Mark]
    B -->|Not Approved| D[No BIS Mark]
    C --> E[Mark Extinguisher with details]
    E --> F[Product Sale]

Note: Refer to Annex C of IS 10204 for detailed sampling plans and criteria for conformity.

IS 10204 Sampling and Criteria for Conformity (Annex C & Clause 14.1)

• Sampling Plan: Samples are taken randomly from a lot as per Clause C-1.2.1.
• Criteria for Conformity: Defined in Annex C, focusing on high reliability due to critical fire extinguisher function.
• Lot Acceptance: Based on test results of sampled units meeting specified performance criteria.
• Risk Consideration: High risk of failure mandates stringent sampling and acceptance criteria.

Key Points from Annex C:

• Sampling ensures reliability throughout the service life.
• Testing includes physical, hydraulic, and UV exposure tests (e.g., Clause 3.3 UV cycle).
• Acceptance criteria are strict to minimize failure risk.

Typical Sampling Table (Example Format):

Note: Exact values are per IS 10204 Annex C tables.

Summary Diagram of Sampling Process:

flowchart TD
    A[Start: Lot Received] --> B[Random Sampling as per Annex C]
    B --> C[Perform Tests on Samples]
    C --> D{Samples Meet Criteria?}
    D -->|Yes| E[Accept Lot]
    D -->|No| F[Reject Lot]

For detailed sampling sizes and acceptance numbers, refer to Annex C of IS 10204.