IS 133851992AI Search Enabled✦ AI Generated

Specification for fire extinguisher 50-litre capacity wheel mounted water type (Gas Cartridge)

IS 13385:1992 specifies the requirements for 50-litre capacity wheel-mounted water type fire extinguishers operated by gas cartridges. It covers materials, construction, anti-corrosion treatment, performance, testing, marking, and conformity criteria to ensure reliability and safety. This standard is essential for manufacturers, quality controllers, and safety engineers involved in producing or maintaining large water-based fire extinguishers mounted on trolleys.

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What This Standard Covers

IS 13385:1992 specifies the requirements for 50-litre capacity wheel-mounted water type fire extinguishers operated by gas cartridges. It covers materials, construction, anti-corrosion treatment, performance, testing, marking, and conformity criteria to ensure reliability and safety. This standard is essential for manufacturers, quality controllers, and safety engineers involved in producing or maintaining large water-based fire extinguishers mounted on trolleys.

Who Uses This Standard

  • Fire Safety Engineers
  • Fire Extinguisher Manufacturers
  • Quality Control Inspectors
  • Maintenance Technicians
  • Safety Compliance Officers
  • Procurement Specialists in Fire Protection
  • Industrial Safety Managers

Key Topics Covered

Material specifications for extinguisher components
Construction and welding requirements
Anti-corrosion treatments and coatings
Design of gas cartridge piercing mechanism
Performance and discharge tests
Hydraulic pressure and bursting tests
Marking and labeling requirements
Sampling and conformity criteria
Wheeled carriage and mobility features
Nozzle and discharge fitting design
Safety valve and snifter valve specifications
Paint and color standards
Drain plug and siphon tube design
Quality assurance and lot evaluation
Use of Standard Mark and ECO Mark eligibility

Table of Contents

1Scope

IS 13385: Scope Summary for 50 Litre Wheel Mounted Water Type Fire Extinguisher (Gas Cartridge)

  • Capacity: 50 litres liquid capacity filled to specified level.
  • Operation: Upright position; gas cartridge pierced by plunger to discharge water.
  • Construction: Good finish, free of burrs/sharp edges.
  • Materials: As per Table 1 (e.g., nozzle made of Leaded tin-bronze Gr LTB2 IS 318).
  • Wheeled Carriage Tolerance: ±10 mm.
  • Referenced IS Codes: Includes IS 318, IS 319, IS 7328, IS 1239, IS 2190, IS 4984, IS 7328, etc. (Annex A).
  • Marking: Standard Mark may be applied (Clause 11.1.1).
  • Sampling & Conformity: Detailed in Annex B to ensure reliability.

Key Material Specification Example (Table 1 excerpt):

ComponentMaterial Specification
NozzleLeaded tin-bronze Gr LTB2 (IS 318), Type 1 (IS 319), or Gr 1 (IS 291)

Operational Principle Diagram

flowchart TD
    A[Gas Cartridge] -->|Pierced by plunger| B[Gas Released]
    B --> C[Pressurizes Water]
    C --> D[Water Discharged Through Nozzle]
    D --> E[Fire Extinguishing]

For detailed design, materials, and testing, refer to full IS 13385 standard and its Annexes.

2Referenced Indian Standards

Referenced Indian Standards in IS 13385

IS 13385 references several key Indian Standards essential for components and materials of fire extinguishers. These include:

IS No.Title
IS 5 : 1978Colours for ready mixed paints and enamels
IS 2643 (Part 1):1975Dimensions for pipe threads for fastening purposes: Part 1
IS 318 : 1981Leaded tin bronze ingots and castings
IS 3203 : 1982Methods of testing local thickness of electroplated coatings
IS 3601 : 1984Steel tubes for mechanical and general engineering purposes
IS 3618 : 1966Phosphate treatment of iron and steel for corrosion protection
IS 4454 (Part 1):1981Steel wires for cold formed springs: Part 1 Patented and cold drawn steel wires
IS 4947 : 1985Gas cartridges for use in fire extinguishers
IS 4984 : 1987Specification for high density polyethylene pipes for potable water supplies
IS 4989 (Part 2):1984Specification for foam concentrate for mechanical foam: Part 2 Aqueous film forming foam (AFFF)
IS 5382 : 1985Rubber sealing rings for gas mains, water mains and sewers
IS 6528 : 1972Stainless steel wire
IS 6603 : 1972Stainless steel bars and flats
IS 7328 : 1992High density polyethylene materials for moulding and extrusion
IS 9595 : 1980Recommendations for metal arc welding of carbon and carbon manganese steels

Key Specifications:

  • Components must conform individually if manufacturer’s certificate is absent (Clause 1.2.6).
  • Standard Mark usage is governed by BIS under the BIS Act, 1986.
  • Sampling and conformity criteria are detailed in Annex B.
  • Fire extinguisher body capacity: 50 litres (liquid capacity).
  • Tolerance for wheeled carriage: ±10 mm (Clause 7.13).

Summary Diagram: Component Conformity Check

3Materials of Construction

IS 13385: Materials of Construction — Key Specifications & Formulas

ComponentMaterialRelevant IS Standard
BodyMild steel sheetIS 1079 : 1978
Neck ringa) Leaded tin bronze (LTB 2)IS 318 : 1981
b) Mild steel pipeIS 1239 (Part 1) : 1979
CapLeaded tin bronze (LTB 2)IS 318 : 1981
Cap washerRubber (acid/alkali resistant)IS 5382 : 1985 (Type 3)
Safety valveBrass (Type I)IS 319 : 1974
SpringSpring steel (Grade I)IS 4454 (Part 1) : 1981
Siphon tubeMild steel / Brass / HDPE / CopperIS 3601 : 1984 / IS 407 : 1981 / IS 4984 : 1987 / IS 1545 : 1982
Discharge fittingsLeaded tin bronze / BrassIS 318 : 1981 / IS 291 : 1989 / IS 319 : 1974
NozzleLeaded tin bronze / BrassIS 318 : 1981 / IS 319 : 1974 / IS 291 : 1977
Gas cartridgesSeamless/welded steel tubeIS 4947 : 1985
HoseBraided rubber/plastic (burst ≥ 50 kg/cm²)IS 7328 : 1992
Snifter valveBrass / Stainless steelIS 319 : 1974 / IS 6603 : 1972
StrainerBrass (CuZn 37)IS 410 : 1977
PiercerSteelIS 6528 : 1972

Minimum Wall Thickness of Extinguisher Body (Clause 7.2)

  • For Carbon Steel Bodies:

    [ t = \frac{P \

4Construction Requirements

IS 13385: Construction Requirements Summary

1. Welding Construction (Clause 7.2.1)

  • Spot Welding: For attachment of fittings only, must comply with IS 819:1957.
  • Metal Arc Welding: Must comply with IS 9595:1980.

2. Painting (Clause 9.4)

  • Paint must conform to IS 2932:1974 for protective coatings.

3. Testing Requirements (Clause 1.2.5 & 10.2)

  • Bursting Pressure Test: One type test is mandatory.
  • Must meet specified pressure requirements per the standard.

Key Specifications:

AspectIS Code ReferenceRequirement
Spot WeldingIS 819:1957For fittings attachment only
Metal Arc WeldingIS 9595:1980For main welding
Paint CoatingIS 2932:1974Protective paint specification
Bursting Pressure TestClause 10.2One type test, must conform

Typical Bursting Pressure Formula:

[ P_b = \frac{2 \times t \times \sigma_y}{D} ]

Where:

  • (P_b) = Bursting pressure
  • (t) = Wall thickness
  • (\sigma_y) = Yield strength of material
  • (D) = Diameter of the component

flowchart TD
    A[Start Construction] --> B{Welding Type?}
    B -->|Spot Welding| C[IS 819:1957]
    B -->|Metal Arc Welding| D[IS 9595:1980]
    C & D --> E[Painting]
    E --> F[IS 2932:1974]
    F --> G[Testing]
    G --> H{Bursting Pressure Test}
    H --> I[Conform to Clause 10.2]
    I --> J[Construction Complete]

Ensure all welding, painting, and testing strictly follow the referenced IS codes for compliance and safety.

5Anti-Corrosive Treatment

IS 13385: Anti-Corrosive Treatment Key Points

  • Internal Surface Coating (Clause 8.1):

    • Coated with lead-tin alloy (tin ≥ 10%)
    • Application: electrolytic or hot dipping process
    • Minimum thickness: 0.012 mm
    • Thickness measured as per IS 3203:1982
    • No visible uncoated areas internally or externally
  • External Surface Coating (Clause 8.1.1 & 8.2):

    • Either lead-tin alloy (same as internal)
    • Or phosphating treatment as per IS 3618:1966

Summary Table for Anti-Corrosive Treatment

SurfaceTreatment TypeMaterial/ProcessMin. ThicknessReference IS Code
Internal BodyLead-Tin Alloy CoatingElectrolytic / Hot Dipping0.012 mmIS 3203:1982
External BodyLead-Tin Alloy CoatingElectrolytic / Hot Dipping0.012 mmIS 3203:1982
External BodyPhosphatingChemical PhosphatingAs per IS 3618IS 3618:1966

Notes:

  • Lead-tin alloy coating ensures corrosion resistance inside and outside.
  • Phosphating is an alternative external treatment providing a protective phosphate layer.
  • Ensure no uncoated areas to maintain corrosion protection integrity.
flowchart LR
    A[Body Surface] --> B[Internal Surface]
    A --> C[External Surface]

    B --> D[Lead-Tin Alloy Coating]
    D --> E[Thickness ≥ 0.012 mm]
    D --> F[Measured as per IS 3203]

    C --> G{Treatment Options}
    G --> H[Lead-Tin Alloy Coating]
    G --> I[Phosphating (IS 3618)]

    H --> J[Thickness ≥ 0.012 mm]
    I --> K[Phosphate Layer as per IS 3618]

This ensures compliance with IS 13385 anti-corrosive treatment requirements.

6Performance Requirements

IS 13385: Performance Requirements Key Points

  • Clause 7.8.4:

    • Nozzle and orifice area must be designed to meet performance criteria ensuring effective discharge.
  • Clause 10.3 (10.3.1 - 10.3.2):

    • Specifies detailed performance tests for extinguishers, including discharge rate, spray pattern, and effective range.
    • Tests ensure minimum extinguishing capacity and operational reliability.
  • Clause 1.2.4:

    • Performance test is mandatory on one sample per lot.
    • The lot passes only if the sample meets all performance criteria.
  • Clause 11.1:

    • Covers general design and construction requirements to ensure performance consistency.

Typical Performance Formulas & Parameters (Based on IS 13385 and general practice):

ParameterTypical Range/Formula
Orifice Area (A)( A = \frac{Q}{C_d \sqrt{2gH}} )
- (Q): Discharge flow rate (m³/s)
- (C_d): Discharge coefficient (~0.6-0.8)
- (g): Gravity acceleration (9.81 m/s²)
- (H): Pressure head (m)
Discharge Rate (Q)Determined by pressure and orifice size
Spray AngleEnsures effective coverage (typically 30°-60°)
Minimum Discharge TimeAs per extinguisher capacity and test standards

flowchart LR
    A[Design Nozzle & Orifice] --> B[Calculate Orifice Area]
    B --> C[Ensure Discharge Rate & Spray Pattern]
    C --> D[Conduct Performance Test (Clause 10.3)]
    D --> E{Pass Test?}
    E -- Yes --> F[Lot Conforms]
    E -- No --> G[Reject Lot]

Summary: Design nozzle/orifice per flow and pressure formulas, verify via performance tests (Clause 10.3), and certify lot only if tests pass.

7Tests

IS 13385 — Key Testing Specifications & Sampling

Sampling for Tests (Clause B-1.2.3 & Table 2)

Lot Size (No. of Items)Sample Size for Testing
Up to 253
26 to 505
51 to 1008
101 to 2008% of lot size
  • Samples are taken randomly from the lot.
  • Visual examination covers requirements in Clauses 4-7, 9, 11.
  • Tests include hydraulic pressure (Clause 10.1) and corrosion (Clause 8).

Specific Tests & Frequency

  • Bursting Pressure Test (10.2): One type test per lot; must meet specification.
  • Performance Test (10.3.1): One sample tested; must pass for the entire lot to conform.

Summary

  • Follow sampling sizes per lot size.
  • Conduct visual, hydraulic, corrosion, bursting pressure, and performance tests as specified.
  • Lot conformity depends on passing these tests.
flowchart TD
    A[Lot Produced] --> B[Random Sampling]
    B --> C{Sample Size per Table 2}
    C --> D[Visual Examination]
    C --> E[Hydraulic Pressure Test]
    C --> F[Corrosion Test]
    A --> G[Bursting Pressure Test (1 type test)]
    A --> H[Performance Test (1 sample)]
    D & E & F & G & H --> I{Pass?}
    I -->|Yes| J[Lot Conforms]
    I -->|No| K[Lot Rejected]
8Marking and Labeling

IS 13385 - Marking and Labeling Key Points

Clause 11.1 - Mandatory Markings on Fire Extinguishers:

Every extinguisher must be clearly and permanently marked with:

  • Manufacturer's name or trade-mark
  • Operating instructions in clear, bold letters
  • The words "WATER TYPE (GAS CARTRIDGE)" prominently
  • Nominal liquid charge in litres
  • Liquid level to which it should be charged
  • Declaration of hydraulic pressure test: 3.0 MN/m² (30 kgf/cm²)
  • Year of manufacture
  • Size of gas cartridge

Clause 11.1.1:

  • Extinguishers may also carry the Standard Mark of BIS indicating conformity.

Annex B - Sampling and Conformity:

  • Sampling criteria ensure high reliability.
  • Each component must meet specifications individually if no manufacturer certificate is provided.

Summary Table of Marking Requirements:

Marking ItemDescription/Value
Manufacturer Name/Trade-markPermanent identification
Operating InstructionsClear, bold letters
Type"WATER TYPE (GAS CARTRIDGE)" prominently
Nominal ChargeIn litres
Liquid LevelSpecified charging level
Hydraulic Test Pressure3.0 MN/m² (30 kgf/cm²)
Year of ManufactureFour-digit year
Gas Cartridge SizeSpecified size

flowchart TD
    A[Fire Extinguisher] --> B[Markings]
    B --> C[Manufacturer Name]
    B --> D[Operating Instructions]
    B --> E[Type: WATER TYPE (GAS CARTRIDGE)]
    B --> F[Nominal Charge (litres)]
    B --> G[Liquid Level]
    B --> H[Hydraulic Test Pressure: 3.0 MN/m²]
    B --> I[Year of Manufacture]
    B --> J[Gas Cartridge Size]
    B --> K[Standard Mark (optional)]

This ensures traceability, safe operation, and compliance with IS 13385.

9Sampling and Criteria for Conformity

IS 13385: Sampling and Criteria for Conformity (Annex B)

Key Points:

  • High reliability is essential due to the critical safety function of fire extinguishers.
  • Sampling ensures quality control during manufacture and assembly.

Sampling Plan (Table 2):

Number of Items in LotSample Size (No. of Samples)
Up to 253
26 to 505
51 to 1008
101 to 2008% of lot size
  • Samples are selected randomly from each lot.
  • Samples undergo visual examination (Clauses 4-7, 9, 11).
  • Followed by hydraulic pressure test (Clause 10.1) and corrosion test (Clause 8).

Criteria for Conformity:

  • The lot is accepted if all sampled items meet the specified requirements.
  • Failure in any critical test leads to rejection or rework.

Summary Diagram:

flowchart TD
    A[Lot Received] --> B[Random Sampling as per Table 2]
    B --> C[Visual Inspection]
    C --> D{Pass?}
    D -- Yes --> E[Hydraulic Pressure Test]
    D -- No --> F[Reject Lot]
    E --> G{Pass?}
    G -- Yes --> H[Corrosion Test]
    G -- No --> F
    H --> I{Pass?}
    I -- Yes --> J[Accept Lot]
    I -- No --> F

This sampling plan ensures statistical confidence in product conformity while maintaining safety standards.

10Wheeled Carriage Specifications

IS 13385: Wheeled Carriage Specifications for 50L Wheel Mounted Water Type Fire Extinguisher


Key Specifications (Clause 7.13)

  • Wheel size: 250 mm × 50 mm × 25 mm (rubber tyred wheels)
  • Axle: Mild steel rod, minimum diameter 25 mm
  • Clearance: Lowest part of extinguisher body ≥ 10 cm above ground (vertical position)
  • Tolerance: ±10 mm for wheeled carriage dimensions

Body Dimensions (Clause 3.15)

  • Shape: Cylindrical
  • Outside diameter: 300 ± 25 mm
  • Sheet thickness: ≥ 3.15 mm (mild steel)

Material (Table 1 - Summary)

ComponentMaterial
BodyMild steel sheet
AxleMild steel rod
WheelsRubber-tyred

Important Notes

  • The carriage must ensure stable vertical positioning.
  • All edges and burrs must be removed for safety (Clause 9.1).
  • The extinguisher capacity is 50 litres.
  • The extinguisher operates by piercing the gas cartridge with a plunger.

flowchart TB
    A[Extinguisher Body] -->|Mounted on| B[Wheeled Carriage]
    B --> C[Rubber Tyred Wheels (250x50x25 mm)]
    B --> D[Axle (Mild Steel Rod, Ø 25 mm)]
    A --> E[Minimum Clearance 10 cm from ground]

This ensures mobility and safe operation of the extinguisher on site.

11Optional Requirements for ECO Mark

IS 13385 - Optional Requirements for ECO Mark (Clause 11)

The ECO Mark scheme promotes environmentally friendly products alongside the ISI Mark. Key points:

  • Eligibility: Product must have the BIS Standard Mark (ISI Mark) first.
  • Additional Requirements: Must meet environment-friendly criteria included as amendments in the relevant standards.
  • Consent Clearances: Manufacturer must provide clearances under:
    • Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974
    • Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Cess Act, 1977
    • Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981
    • Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 (if applicable)
  • Marking: ECO Mark is combined with ISI Mark as a single symbol.
  • Optional: Manufacturers may opt only for ISI Mark without ECO Mark.

Summary Table

RequirementDetails
BIS Standard MarkMandatory before ECO Mark eligibility
Environmental ClearancesConsent under Water and Air Pollution Acts
Authorization under Environment ActRequired if applicable
MarkingCombined ISI + ECO Mark
Manufacturer's choiceECO Mark is optional

This ensures products are both quality certified and environmentally responsible.

flowchart LR
    A[Product with ISI Mark] --> B{Meets Environmental Criteria?}
    B -- Yes --> C[Apply for ECO Mark]
    B -- No --> D[ISI Mark Only]
    C --> E[Submit Pollution Clearances]
    E --> F[Receive Combined ISI + ECO Mark]
Annex AList of Referred Indian Standards

IS 13385 Annex A: List of Referred Indian Standards

This annex lists essential Indian Standards referenced for materials, testing, and components related to 50-litre water-type fire extinguishers (gas cartridge operated). Key IS numbers and titles include:

IS No.Title
5:1978Colours for ready mixed paints and enamels (3rd revision)
2643 (Part 1):1975Dimensions for pipe threads for fastening purposes
318:1981Leaded tin bronze ingots and castings (2nd revision)
1239 (Part 1):1979Mild steel tubes and fittings (4th revision)
2190:1992Code of practice for selection, installation & maintenance of portable fire extinguishers (3rd revision)
4984:1987Gas cartridges for fire extinguishers - Specification (2nd rev)
5382:1985Rubber sealing rings for gas mains, water mains and sewers
7328:1992High density polyethylene materials for moulding and extrusion
9595:1980Recommendations for metal arc welding of carbon steels

Additional Notes:

  • These standards cover materials, dimensions, testing methods, and component specifications critical for manufacturing and quality control.
  • Annex B details sampling and conformity criteria for reliability.
  • Use of the Standard Mark ensures compliance and quality assurance as per BIS regulations.

Summary Diagram of Reference Relationships:

graph TD
  A[IS 13385 Fire Extinguisher Spec] --> B[Material Specs (IS 318, 1239)]
  A --> C[Component Specs (IS 4984, 5382)]
  A --> D[Testing & Maintenance (IS 2190, 9595)]
  A --> E[Manufacturing Dimensions (IS 2643)]
  A --> F[Material Properties (IS 5, 7328)]

For detailed tables and exact clauses, refer to Annex A and B of IS 13385:1992.

Annex BSampling and Criteria for Conformity Details

IS 13385: Sampling and Criteria for Conformity (Annex B Summary)

Sampling Plan (Table 2 - Clause B-1.2.2)

Number of Items in LotSample Size (Random Selection)
Up to 253
26 to 505
51 to 1008
101 to 2008% of lot size

Testing & Inspection (Clause B-1.2.3)

  • Visual examination per Clauses 4-7, 9, 11.
  • Hydraulic pressure test (Clause 10.1).
  • Corrosion test (Clause 8).

Key Notes:

  • Sampling is from lots produced under quality control.
  • High reliability is mandatory due to critical safety function.
  • Samples must represent the lot and pass all tests to confirm conformity.

flowchart TD
    A[Lot of Fire Extinguishers] --> B[Random Sampling per Table 2]
    B --> C{Visual Inspection}
    C -->|Pass| D[Hydraulic Pressure Test]
    C -->|Fail| E[Reject Lot]
    D -->|Pass| F[Corrosion Test]
    D -->|Fail| E
    F -->|Pass| G[Lot Accepted]
    F -->|Fail| E

This ensures stringent quality control and reliability per IS 13385 Annex B.

Popular Questions About IS 13385

?What materials are specified for the construction of the extinguisher body and components?

Materials Specified for Fire Extinguisher Construction (IS 13385)

ComponentMaterial(s)Relevant IS Standard(s)
BodyMild steel sheetIS 1079 : 1978 (any grade)
Neck ringLeaded tin bronze or Mild steel pipeIS 318 : 1981 (Grade LTB 2), IS 1239 : 1979 (Part 1)
CapLeaded tin bronzeIS 318 : 1981 (Grade LTB 2)
Cap washerRubber (acid/alkali resistant)IS 5382 : 1985 (Type 3)
Safety valveBrassIS 319 : 1974 (Type I)
SpringSpring steelIS 4454 (Part 1) : 1981 (Grade I)
Siphon tubeMild steel, Brass, HDPE, or CopperIS 3601 : 1984, IS 407 : 1981, IS 4984 : 1987, IS 1545 : 1982
Discharge fittingsLeaded tin bronze or BrassIS 318 : 1981 (Gr LTB 2), IS 291 : 1989, IS 319 : 1974
NozzleLeaded tin bronze or BrassIS 318 : 1981, IS 319 : 1974, IS 291 : 1977
Gas cartridgesSeamless or welded steel tubeIS 4947 : 1985
HoseBraided rubber/plastic (burst pressure ≥ 50 kg/cm²)IS 7328 : 1992
Snifter valveBrass or Stainless steelIS 319 : 1974, IS 6603 : 1972 (Grade 04 Cr 18 Ni 10)
StrainerBrassIS 410 : 1977 (Gr CuZn 37)
Piercer
?What are the performance requirements for discharge duration and pressure?

Performance Requirements for Discharge Duration and Pressure (IS 13385):

  • Discharge Quantity: At least 95% of the liquid content must be expelled.
  • Temperature: Tested at 27 ± 5°C in normal working position.
  • Continuous Jet: Must maintain a jet length of ≥ 10 m continuously.
  • Minimum Jet Duration: Continuous jet for at least 60 seconds.
  • Maximum Discharge Time: Entire 95% content must discharge within 180 seconds.
  • Pressure Resistance: The extinguisher must withstand an internal hydraulic pressure of 3.0 MN/m² (30 kgf/cm²) for 5 minutes without leakage or distortion.
  • Nozzle Design: Orifice area and nozzle design must ensure these performance criteria are met.
Loading diagram...

These ensure effective and reliable extinguisher performance under standard conditions.

?How is the gas cartridge piercing mechanism designed and operated?

Gas Cartridge Piercing Mechanism Design & Operation (IS 13385 - Clauses 7.6 & 7.7):

  • Design:

    • The piercing device is spring-loaded and integrated into the extinguisher cap.
    • It aligns through the center of the cartridge holder to ensure precise puncturing.
    • The puncturing end is shaped to create a clear, clean opening in the cartridge seal.
    • A safety clip prevents accidental triggering.
  • Operation:

    1. Fit the gas cartridge (max capacity 300 ±10 g) into the holder inside the cap.
    2. When the cap is secured, the spring-loaded piercer is pushed against the cartridge seal.
    3. The piercer punctures the seal, releasing gas to pressurize the extinguisher.
    4. The safety clip must be removed before operation to allow piercing.
Loading diagram...

This ensures safe, reliable activation of the gas cartridge in water-type extinguishers.

?What anti-corrosion treatments are mandated for internal and external surfaces?

IS 13385 Anti-Corrosion Treatment Requirements:

  • Internal Surfaces:

    • Must be coated with lead-tin alloy (tin ≥ 10%) via electrolytic or hot dipping.
    • Minimum thickness: 0.012 mm (measured as per IS 3203:1982).
    • Alternatively, plastic/rubber lining with minimum thickness 0.5 mm.
    • Also, epoxy powder coating of minimum 0.050 mm thickness is required.
  • External Surfaces (including siphon tube):

    • Same lead-tin alloy coating as internal surfaces (≥ 0.012 mm).
    • Alternatively, phosphating treatment per IS 3618:1966.
    • Epoxy powder coating minimum 0.050 mm thickness is mandatory.
    • No visible uncoated areas allowed internally or externally.

Summary Table:

SurfaceTreatment TypeMinimum ThicknessStandard Reference
InternalLead-tin alloy0.012 mmIS 3203:1982
Internal (alt.)Plastic/Rubber lining0.5 mm-
Internal & ExternalEpoxy powder coating0.050 mmIS 3203
External (alt.)PhosphatingAs per IS 3618IS 3618:1966

This ensures corrosion resistance and long service life of the body and siphon tube.

?What are the marking requirements and what information must be displayed on the extinguisher?

According to IS 13385, every fire extinguisher must be clearly and permanently marked with the following information:

  • Manufacturer's name or trade-mark
  • Operating instructions in clear, bold letters
  • The words "WATER TYPE (GAS CARTRIDGE)" prominently displayed
  • Nominal liquid charge in litres
  • Liquid fill level for charging
  • A declaration of hydraulic pressure test at 3.0 MN/m² (30 kgf/cm²)
  • Year of manufacture
  • Size of gas cartridge used
  • Marked with letter A indicating suitability for Class A fires as per IS 2190:1992

These markings ensure traceability, safe use, and compliance with performance standards, including discharge requirements (95% content discharged within 180 seconds, continuous jet ≥10m for 60 seconds).


Summary Table of Marking Requirements

Marking ItemDetails
Manufacturer's name/trade-markClear and permanent
Operating instructionsClear, bold letters
Type"WATER TYPE (GAS CARTRIDGE)"
Nominal liquid chargeIn litres
Liquid fill levelSpecified level
Hydraulic test declaration3.0 MN/m² (30 kgf/cm²)
Year of manufactureMarked
Gas cartridge sizeMarked
Class suitabilityLetter "A" for Class A fires

This ensures the extinguisher is identifiable, safe, and effective in operation.

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