IS 138491993AI Search Enabled✦ AI Generated

Specification for portable fire extinguisher dry powder type (constant pressure)

IS 13849:1993 specifies the requirements for portable dry powder fire extinguishers of the stored pressure type used to combat Class BC and ABC fires. It covers design, materials, construction, performance, testing, and marking of extinguishers with capacities ranging from 0.5 kg to 10 kg. This standard is essential for manufacturers, quality controllers, and safety engineers ensuring reliable, safe, and effective fire extinguishing equipment compliant with Indian regulatory norms.

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Alternative search terms: IS 13849 PDF, IS 13849 pdf free download, IS 13849 free download pdf, IS13849 PDF, IS-13849 PDF, IS 13849 1993 PDF, IS 13849:1993 PDF, IS 13849-1993 PDF, IS 13849 (1993) PDF, IS 13849 1993 edition PDF, IS 13849 edition 1993 PDF

What This Standard Covers

IS 13849:1993 specifies the requirements for portable dry powder fire extinguishers of the stored pressure type used to combat Class BC and ABC fires. It covers design, materials, construction, performance, testing, and marking of extinguishers with capacities ranging from 0.5 kg to 10 kg. This standard is essential for manufacturers, quality controllers, and safety engineers ensuring reliable, safe, and effective fire extinguishing equipment compliant with Indian regulatory norms.

Who Uses This Standard

  • Fire Safety Engineers
  • Fire Extinguisher Manufacturers
  • Quality Control Inspectors
  • Safety Compliance Officers
  • Facility Managers
  • Fire Protection Consultants
  • Regulatory Authorities

Key Topics Covered

Scope and application for stored pressure dry powder extinguishers
Materials and construction requirements for extinguisher components
Design criteria including body shape, thickness, and valve assembly
Anti-corrosive treatments and coatings
Performance and reliability testing procedures
Hydrostatic pressure and leakage tests
Discharge fittings and nozzle specifications
Marking, labeling, and operational instructions
Sampling and conformity criteria
Environmental considerations including ECO-Mark optional requirements
Safety features such as safety pins and pressure gauges
Drop and shock resistance testing
Standards referenced for materials and testing
Colour and paint specifications
Assembly and quality control processes

Table of Contents

1Scope

IS 13849: Scope - Key Specifications & Tables

Scope:
IS 13849 specifies requirements for portable dry powder fire extinguishers (stored pressure type) including performance, construction, and testing.


Key Table: Fire Extinguisher Performance (Clause 10.5.1)

Capacity (kg)Min. Jet Throw Duration (s)Min. Discharge Time for 85% Content (s)Min. Jet Range (m)
0.558≥ 1.5
1 and 2810≥ 2
51520≥ 4
102330≥ 6
  • Jet range is measured from nozzle to center of discharge pattern.
  • Ensures effective discharge duration and reach for fire suppression.

Additional Notes:

  • Materials: Stainless steel sheet per IS 6911 for certain components.
  • Quality control sampling per lot size (Clause 1.2.2):
Lot SizeSample Size
Up to 253
26 to 505
51 to 1008
101 to 2008% of lot

This scope ensures minimum performance criteria for fire extinguishers to be reliable and effective in firefighting.

2Materials

IS 13849 - Key Specifications for Materials of Fire Extinguishers (Clause 5.1 & related)

ComponentMaterial(s)Relevant IS Standards
BodyMild steel sheetIS 513:1986, IS 2062:1992, IS 1875:1992
Neck ringMild steelIS 2062:1992, IS 1875:1992
Valve bodyForged brass, Leaded bronze, PlasticIS 6912:1985 (Grade LTB-2 IS 318:1981), Annex C
Washers & O-ringsRubber (acid/alkali resistant, hardness as per Type 3)IS 5382:1985
SpindleBrass (Grade 2 IS 291:1989 / Type 1 IS 319:1989), Stainless steelIS 6528:1972
SpringSpring steel (plated)IS 4454 (Part 1):1981
Syphon tube sheetBrass Alloy No. 2, CopperIS 407:1981, IS 1545:1982
NozzlePlastic, BrassAnnex C, IS 291:1989, IS 319:1989
Hose (5 & 10 kg)Braided rubber or braided PVCMin bursting pressure: 50 kgf/cm² (5 MN/m²)

Important Notes:

  • Body shape: Cylindrical; filler opening ≥ 20 mm diameter.
  • Rubber washers/O-rings: Must resist corrosion after 10 min dip in 20% H₂SO₄ & 5% NaOH.
  • Burst pressure for hoses: Minimum 50 kgf/cm² (5 MN/m²).
  • K-coefficient for burst pressure test (Clause 7.1.1):
Diameter (D) mmK-Coefficient
≤ 800.45
> 80 and ≤ 1000.50
3Construction Requirements

IS 13849: Construction Requirements - Key Formulas, Tables & Specs

1. General & Specific Requirements (Clauses 11.1 & 11.2)

  • Construction must ensure durability, safety, and compliance with material standards (e.g., stainless steel sheet as per IS 6911).
  • Components should pass physical and mechanical tests (e.g., burst pressure, specific gravity).

2. Fire Extinguisher Performance (Clause 10.5.1, Table)

Capacity (kg)Min. Jet Throw Duration (s)Min. Discharge Time for 85% Content (s)Min. Range (m)
0.558≥ 1.5
1 & 2810≥ 2
51520≥ 4
102330≥ 6
  • Range measured from nozzle to center of discharge pattern.

3. Physical Tests on Caps (Clause 1.1, Table C-1)

PropertyTest MethodRequirement
Specific GravityIS 8543 (Part I/Sec 2) 19791.25 ± 0.02
Melting PointIS 762 1970215 to 225 °C
Ash ContentIS 7188 197415 ± 1 %

Summary

  • Use stainless steel (IS 6911) for certain parts.
  • Fire extinguisher discharge times and ranges are standardized by capacity.
  • Caps must meet strict physical property criteria.
flowchart TD
    A[Material Selection] --> B[Physical Tests]
    B --> C[Specific Gravity]
    B --> D[Melting Point]
    B --> E[Ash Content]
    A --> F[Construction]
    F --> G[Fire Extinguisher Performance]
    G --> H[Jet Throw Duration]
    G --> I[Discharge Time]
    G --> J[Range]

This ensures safe, reliable, and

4Anti-Corrosive Treatment

IS 13849: Anti-Corrosive Treatment Key Points

1. Coating Requirements (Clause 8.1):

  • Material: Lead-tin alloy (tin ≥ 10%)
  • Method: Hot dipping or electrolytic process
  • Minimum thickness: 0.012 mm
  • Measurement: As per IS 3203:1982
  • Alternative: Epoxy powder coating with minimum thickness 0.050 mm

2. Alternative Treatment (Clause 8.2):

  • Phosphating per IS 3618:1966 can be applied on external surfaces instead of lead-tin coating.

3. Acid Resistance Test (Clause 3.2):

  • Submerge sample in 10% HCl for 72 hours at 27 ± 3°C
  • No discoloration, distortion, or deterioration allowed post-test

Summary Table

Treatment TypeCoating MaterialThickness (mm)Reference Standard
Lead-Tin Alloy CoatingLead-tin alloy (≥10% Sn)≥ 0.012IS 3203:1982
Epoxy Powder CoatingEpoxy powder≥ 0.050-
PhosphatingPhosphate layerAs per IS 3618IS 3618:1966

Measurement Reference: IS 3203:1982

  • Specifies methods for measuring coating thickness (micrometer, magnetic, or other standard methods).
flowchart LR
    A[Surface Preparation] --> B{Choose Coating}
    B -->|Lead-Tin Alloy| C[Hot Dipping/Electrolytic]
    B -->|Epoxy Powder| D[Powder Coating]
    B -->|Phosphating| E[Phosphating per IS 3618]
    C --> F[Thickness ≥ 0.012 mm]
    D --> G[Thickness ≥ 0.050 mm]
    E --> H[Apply per IS 3618]
    F & G & H --> I[Acid Resistance Test]
    I --> J{No deterioration after 72h in 10% HCl}

This ensures durable corrosion protection complying with IS 13849 specifications

5Design and Dimensions

IS 13849: Design and Dimensions Key Points


1. Minimum Wall Thickness Calculation (Clause 7.1.1)

  • For cylindrical portion:

    [ t = \frac{200 \times 0.8 \times J \times R_e + p \times h - p \times h}{p \times h \times D_o \times k_z} ]

  • For tori-spherical part or end:

    [ t = \frac{200 \times 0.8 \times J \times R_e + p \times h \times 4}{p \times h \times D_o \times k} ]

  • For semi-ellipsoidal part or end:

    [ t = \frac{p \times h \times D_o \times k (0.65 + 0.1 k)}{200 \times 0.8 \times J \times R_e + p \times h \times 4} ]

Where:

SymbolMeaning
tMinimum wall thickness (mm)
(p_h)Test pressure above atmosphere (kgf/cm²)
(D_o)Outer diameter (mm)
JWeld joint factor (0.9)
(R_e)Yield strength (kgf/mm²)
hDepth of dishing (mm)
kRatio (D_o/h)

2. Materials of Construction (Clause 5.1, Table 1)

ComponentMaterialRelevant IS No.
BodyMild steel sheetIS 513:1986
Neck ringMild steelIS 2062:1992 / IS 1875:1992
Valve bodyForged brass / Leaded bronze / PlasticIS 6912:1985 / IS 318:1981
Washers & O-ringsRubber (acid/alkali resistant)IS 5382:1985 (Type 3)
SpindleBrass / Stainless steelIS 291
6Valve and Discharge Fittings

IS 13849: Valve and Discharge Fittings Key Points

1. Discharge Nozzle (Clause 7.5.1)

  • Must be either screwed to valve body/hose or integral to valve body.
  • Nozzle design & orifice size must meet performance requirements (Clause 10.5).

2. Valve Design (Clause 7.4)

  • Valve shall conform to Fig I' (refer IS 13849 for dimensional details).

3. Syphon Tube (Clause 7.5.4)

  • Fitted by press fit, soldering, brazing, or suitable threads per IS 2643 (Part 2):1975.
  • Must not be completely removable during use.
  • Should be notched or secured to avoid unintended discharge blockage.

4. Anti-Corrosive Treatment (Clause 8)

  • All fittings require appropriate anti-corrosive treatment to ensure durability.

Typical Valve Nozzle Orifice Sizing (per Clause 10.5)

ParameterValue/Remarks
Orifice DiameterAs per flow requirements (see Clause 10.5)
MaterialCorrosion resistant (e.g., brass, stainless steel)
Thread SizeStandard pipe threads (e.g., BSP, NPT)

flowchart LR
  ValveBody -->|Screwed or Integral| DischargeNozzle
  DischargeNozzle -->|Fitted with| SyphonTube
  SyphonTube -.->|Notched/secured| PreventBlockage
  ValveBody -->|Anti-Corrosive Treatment| Durability

For detailed dimensions and performance, consult Fig I' and Clause 10.5 in IS 13849.

7Performance Tests

IS 13849 – Performance Test (Clause 10.5)

Key Requirements for Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers:

  • Discharge Capacity: ≥ 85% by mass of rated powder content.
  • Nozzle Angle: 45° above horizontal.
  • Temperature: 27 ± 5°C.
  • Weather: Still conditions.
  • Discharge Form: Continuous jet.

Performance Table (Clause 10.5.1)

Capacity (kg)Min. Jet Throw Duration (s)Max. Discharge Time for 85% Content (s)Min. Jet Range (m)
0.5581.5
1 and 26124
5 and 1015254
  • Jet Range measured from nozzle to center of discharge pattern.

Sampling (Clause 1.2.4)

  • One sample tested per lot.
  • Lot passes only if sample meets performance criteria.

Additional Physical Test for Caps (Clause 1.1)

PropertyTest MethodRequirement
Specific GravityIS 8543 (Part I/Sec 2)1.25 ± 0.02
Melting PointIS 762 (1970)215 to 225°C
Ash ContentIS 7188 (1974)15 ± 1 %

Summary Diagram of Performance Test Setup

flowchart LR
    A[Extinguisher] --> B[Nozzle @ 45°]
    B --> C[Continuous Jet Discharge]
    C --> D[Measure Jet Range & Duration]
    D --> E{Discharge ≥ 85% mass?}
    E -- Yes --> F[Pass Test]
    E -- No --> G[Fail Test]

This ensures reliable extinguisher performance under specified conditions as per IS 13849.

8Hydrostatic Pressure Test

Hydrostatic Pressure Test (IS 13849 - Clause 10.1)

  • Test Pressure: 30 MN/m² (30 kgf/cm²)
  • Duration: 2 minutes
  • Requirement: No rupture, leakage, or visible distortion
  • When: Before anti-corrosive coating & painting

Key Formulae for Minimum Thickness (Clause 7.1.1)

PartFormulaParameters
Cylindrical portion( t = \frac{200 \times 0.8 \times J \times R_y + p_h \times D_i}{200 \times 0.8 \times J \times R_y - p_h} )(t): thickness (mm), (p_h): test pressure (kgf/cm²), (D_i): inner dia (mm), (J): weld factor (0.9), (R_y): yield strength (kgf/mm²)
Toro-spherical part/end( t = \frac{200 \times 0.8 \times J \times R_e + p_h \times D_o}{200 \times 0.8 \times J \times R_e - p_h} )(D_o): outer dia (mm), (R_e): yield strength for end
Semi-ellipsoidal part/end( t = \frac{p_h \times D_o \times k \times (0.65 + 0.1k)}{200 \times 0.8 \times J \times R_e + p_h \times 4} )(k = \frac{D_o}{H}), (H): depth of dishing (mm)

Additional Specifications

  • Weld Joint Factor (J): 0.9
  • Yield Strength (R): As per relevant IS standards
  • Test Pressure (p_h): 30 kgf/cm² (hydrostatic test pressure)

Summary Diagram

graph TD
A[Extinguisher Body] --> B[Apply Hydrostatic Pressure: 30 kgf/cm²]
B --> C{Duration: 2 minutes}
C --> D[Check for Rupture]
C --> E[
9Leakage and Retention of Pressure Tests

IS 13849: Leakage and Retention of Pressure Tests

Leakage Test (Clause 10.3)

  • Cover extinguisher valve with an inverted transparent glass jar.
  • Immerse fully in water tank for 24 hours.
  • No air bubbles should appear inside the glass jar after 24 hours.
  • Bubbles in the first 6 hours can be ignored.

Retention of Pressure Test (Clause 10.3.1)

  • Discharge extinguisher for 2 seconds; note pressure drop ( \Delta P_1 ).
  • After 15 minutes, note pressure drop again ( \Delta P_2 ).
  • Variation between ( \Delta P_1 ) and ( \Delta P_2 ) must be ≤ 5%.
  • Repeat test twice; take mean pressure drop.
  • After 2 discharge cycles, keep extinguisher for 24 hours.
  • Pressure drop after 24 hours ≤ 5% to pass.

Summary Table

TestDurationAcceptance Criteria
Leakage Test24 hours immersionNo bubbles inside glass jar after 24 hours
Pressure Retention2 sec discharge + 15 min wait + 24 hr restPressure drop variation ≤ 5%

flowchart TD
    A[Start Leakage Test] --> B[Invert glass jar on valve]
    B --> C[Immerse extinguisher in water tank]
    C --> D[Wait 24 hours]
    D --> E{Any bubbles inside jar?}
    E -- No --> F[Test Passed]
    E -- Yes --> G[Test Failed]

    H[Start Pressure Retention Test] --> I[Discharge 2 sec, note ΔP1]
    I --> J[Wait 15 minutes]
    J --> K[Note ΔP2]
    K --> L{Variation ≤ 5%?}
    L -- Yes --> M[Repeat test once more]
    M --> N[Calculate mean ΔP]
    N --> O[After 2 cycles, rest 24 hours]
    O --> P[Check pressure drop ≤ 5%]
    P -- Yes --> Q[Test Passed]
    P -- No --> R[Test Failed]

This ensures extinguisher integrity and safety compliance per IS 13849.

10Drop Test

IS 13849: Drop Test (Clause 10.4)

  • Test Conditions:

    • Temperature: 27°C ± 5°C
    • Extinguisher filled to:
      • 90% volume with water, or
      • 80% volume with dry powder
    • Pressurized to rated pressure
  • Drop Test Procedure:

    1. Drop extinguisher from 3 m height onto concrete.
    2. First drop: cylinder axis horizontal.
    3. Second drop: cylinder axis vertical (head up).
    4. Pressure gauge removed during test.
    5. Check for leakage by immersing in water—no leakage allowed.

Related Performance Table (Clause 10.5.1)

Capacity (kg)Min. Throw Duration (s)Max. Discharge Time for 85% (s)Min. Range (m)
0.5581.5
1 and 26124
5 and 1015254

Summary:

  • The 3 m drop ensures mechanical shock resistance.
  • Extinguisher must not leak post-drop.
  • Drop test simulates real-world handling shocks to verify durability.
flowchart LR
    A[Fill Extinguisher] --> B[Pressurize to Rated Pressure]
    B --> C[Drop from 3 m - Horizontal Axis]
    C --> D[Drop from 3 m - Vertical Axis (Head Up)]
    D --> E[Check for Leakage by Water Immersion]
    E --> F{Leakage?}
    F -- No --> G[Test Passed]
    F -- Yes --> H[Test Failed]
11Marking and Labeling

IS 13849: Marking and Labeling of Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers

Clause 11.1 - Mandatory Markings: Each extinguisher must be clearly and permanently marked with:

  • Manufacturer's name or trademark.
  • Method of operation (prominent letters).
  • The words "Dry Powder Extinguisher" stored pressure type.
  • Capacity in kg.
  • The phrase "Recharge After Use".
  • Declaration: Body tested to pressure of 30 kgf/cm².
  • Instruction: "Keep This End Up".
  • Letter indicating suitability for fire classes (e.g., BC or ABC).
  • Year of manufacture and serial number.
  • Fire class (BC or ABC).

Clause 9.3 - Fire Class Marking:

  • Mark with 'BC' or 'ABC' as per IS 2190:1992.
  • Size and color of letters and symbols must comply with IS 2171:1985.

Table: Minimum Jet Throw and Discharge Times (Clause 10.5.1)

Capacity (kg)Min. Jet Throw Duration (s)Min. Discharge Time for 85% Contents (s)Range of Jet (m)
0.558≥ 1.5
1 and 2810≥ 2
51520≥ 4
102330≥ 6

Additional References:

  • Colour and size of markings: IS 5:1978 (Colours for paints)
  • Fire class symbols: IS 2171:1985
  • Fire extinguisher selection & maintenance: IS 2190:1992

flowchart TD
    A[Extinguisher Body] -->|Markings| B[Manufacturer Name]
    A --> C[Operation Method]
    A --> D["Dry Powder Extinguisher" Label]
    A --> E[Capacity (kg)]
    A --> F["Recharge After Use"]
    A --> G[Pressure Test Declaration]
    A --> H["
12Sampling and Conformity Criteria

IS 13849: Sampling and Conformity Criteria

Key Points from IS 13849:

  • Sampling Plan (Clause 1.2.2 / Table B-1.1):
    Sample size depends on lot size for quality-controlled production:

    No. of Items in LotSample Size
    Up to 253
    26 to 505
    51 to 1008
    101 to 2008% of lot
  • Conformity Criteria (Clause 1.2.3.1):
    All samples tested must pass for the entire lot to be accepted.

  • Rationale (Clause B-0.1):
    High reliability is critical due to the risk of fire extinguisher failure; hence stringent sampling and testing.


Summary:

  • Sampling: Randomly select samples as per lot size table.
  • Acceptance: Zero tolerance for failures in tested samples.
  • Purpose: Ensure reliability through strict quality control.
flowchart TD
    A[Lot of Fire Extinguishers] --> B[Random Sampling as per Table]
    B --> C{All Samples Pass?}
    C -- Yes --> D[Lot Accepted]
    C -- No --> E[Lot Rejected]

This ensures high confidence in product reliability per IS 13849.

13Optional ECO-Mark Requirements

IS 13849: Optional ECO-Mark Requirements (Clause 11)

  • 11.1.1: Any fire extinguisher with BIS Standard Mark is eligible for ECO-Mark consideration.
  • 11.1.2: Manufacturer must submit environmental clearances:
    • Consent under Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1974
    • Consent under Water Cess Act, 1977
    • Consent under Air (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1981
    • Authorization under Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 (if applicable)
  • 11.1.3: Products may briefly display criteria on which ECO-Mark is awarded.

Summary Table for ECO-Mark Application Requirements

RequirementRelevant Act/RuleDocument Needed
Water pollution clearanceWater (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1974Consent clearance
Water cess clearanceWater (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Cess Act, 1977Consent clearance
Air pollution clearanceAir (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1981Consent clearance
Environmental authorization (if needed)Environment (Protection) Act, 1986Authorization document

Note: No specific formulas or numerical tables are provided in this clause; focus is on compliance documentation for ECO-Mark eligibility.

14Referenced Standards

IS 13849: Referenced Standards Summary

IS 13849 (Portable Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers - Stored Pressure) refers extensively to Indian Standards for materials, construction, testing, and performance. Key referenced standards include:

IS No.Title
5:1978Colours for ready mixed paints and enamels
2643 (Part 1 & 2): 1975Dimensions for pipe threads for fastening purposes
4308: 2003Specification for chemical dry powder for B & C class fires
2171: 1999Specification for portable fire extinguishers, dry powder (cartridge type)
4218 (Part 3): 1999ISO general purpose metric screw thread - Basic dimensions
4454 (Part 1): 2001Steel wires for mechanical springs - Patented and cold drawn steel wires
6912: 2005Copper and copper alloy forging stock and forgings
9550: 2001Bright steel bars - Specification
513: 1994Cold-rolled low carbon steel sheets and strips

Important Notes:

  • These standards cover materials (steel, copper alloys), dimensions (pipe threads, screw threads), powder specifications, and testing methods.
  • Annex A and D in IS 13849 list detailed standards necessary for compliance.
  • Standards are subject to revision; always verify the latest editions.

Example: Discharge Performance (Clause 10.5.1)

Capacity (kg)Min. Jet Throw Duration (s)Min. Discharge Time (s)Range (m)
0.558≥ 1.5
1 and 2810≥ 2
51520≥ 4
102330≥ 6

flowchart LR
    A[IS 13849 Standard] --> B[Material Specs (IS 513, 6912)]
    A --> C[Thread Dimensions (IS 2643, 4218)]
   
15Safety and Operational Instructions

IS 13849: Key Safety & Operational Instructions for Portable Fire Extinguishers

1. Fire Extinguisher Performance (Clause 10.5.1 Table)

Capacity (kg)Min. Jet Throw Duration (s)Min. Discharge Time for 85% Contents (s)Min. Jet Range (m)
0.558≥ 1.5
1 and 2810≥ 2
51520≥ 4
102330≥ 6
  • Throw duration: Minimum time the jet must be maintained.
  • Discharge time: Time to release at least 85% of contents.
  • Range: Distance from nozzle to center of discharge pattern.

2. Environmental Specifications (Clause 11.2.1 & 11.2.3)

  • Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS) & Global Warming Potential (GWP) are listed, e.g.:
    • Halon 1301: ODP = 10.0, GWP = 5600
    • FM 200: GWP = 3300
  • Use non-ODS and low GWP agents where possible.

3. Marking & Sampling (Clause 11.1.1 & 12)

  • Extinguishers must bear Standard Mark.
  • Sampling and conformity criteria are detailed in Annex B.

Summary Diagram of Fire Extinguisher Jet Performance

flowchart LR
    A[Fire Extinguisher Capacity (kg)] --> B[Jet Throw Duration (s)]
    B --> C[Discharge Time for 85% Contents (s)]
    C --> D[Jet Range (m)]
    style A fill:#f9f,stroke:#333,stroke-width:2px
    style D fill:#bbf,stroke:#333,stroke-width:2px

Use this table and specifications to ensure compliance and operational safety of portable fire extinguishers per IS 13849.

Popular Questions About IS 13849

?What materials are specified for the construction of dry powder fire extinguishers under IS 13849?

Under IS 13849 for dry powder fire extinguishers, the specified materials are:

ComponentMaterialRelevant IS No.
BodyMild steel sheetIS 513:1986, IS 2062:1992, IS 1875:1992
Neck ringMild steelIS 2062:1992, IS 1875:1992
Valve bodyForged brass (Grade LTB-2)IS 6912:1985, IS 318:1981
Leaded bronze or Plastic-
Washers & O-ringsAcid/alkali resistant rubberIS 5382:1985 (Type 3 hardness)
SpindleBrass (Grade 2) or Stainless steelIS 291:1989, IS 319:1989, IS 6528:1972
SpringPlated spring steelIS 4454 (Part 1):1981
Syphon tube sheetBrass (Alloy No. 2) or CopperIS 407:1981, IS 1545:1982
NozzlePlastic or BrassIS 291:1989, IS 319:1989
Hose (5 & 10 kg)Braided rubber or braided PVCMin bursting pressure 50 kgf/cm²

Additional notes:

  • Body shape: cylindrical with filler opening ≥ 20 mm.
  • Rubber parts must resist corrosion after 10 min in 20% H2SO4 and 5% NaOH.
  • Hose bursting pressure ≥ 50 kgf/cm² (5 MN/m²).

This ensures durability, corrosion resistance, and safe operation of dry powder extinguishers.

?What are the key performance tests required for compliance with IS 13849?

Key Performance Tests for IS 13849 Compliance (Fire Extinguishers)

According to Clause 10.5 of IS 13849, the Performance Test is critical to ensure the reliability of fire extinguishers. Although the code does not detail all test types explicitly, the following are essential based on the standard's intent and typical practice:

  • Hydrostatic Pressure Test: Validates body integrity under pressure.
  • Minimum Thickness Verification:
    [ S \geq \max\left(0.64,mm,, K \times D^{0.3}\right) ] where
    • (S) = minimum thickness (mm)
    • (D) = external diameter (mm)
    • (K = 0.30) for (D \geq 100,mm) (Clause 7.1.2)
  • Leakage Test: Ensures no gas or agent leakage.
  • Discharge Test: Confirms proper functioning and agent expulsion.
  • Sampling & Conformity (Annex B): Statistical sampling to maintain high reliability during service life.

Summary:

Test TypePurpose
Hydrostatic TestStructural integrity
Thickness CheckMinimum wall thickness per formula
Leakage TestSeal and valve integrity
Discharge TestFunctional performance
Sampling & CriteriaQuality control during production
Loading diagram...

This ensures high reliability and safety as mandated by IS 13849.

?How does IS 13849 address anti-corrosive treatment of extinguisher bodies?

IS 13849 Anti-Corrosive Treatment of Fire Extinguisher Bodies

  • Material: Body made from mild steel sheet (IS 513, IS 2062, IS 1875).
  • Coating Requirements (Clause 8.1):
    • Entire internal and external surfaces must be coated with lead-tin alloy (tin ≥ 10%) by hot dipping or electrolytic process.
    • Minimum coating thickness: 0.012 mm (measured per IS 3203:1982).
    • Alternatively, epoxy powder coating with minimum thickness 0.050 mm is permitted.
  • Prohibited substances (Clause 11.2.5):
    • Coatings must not contain mercury, lead, cadmium, chromium VI compounds, except natural impurities ≤ 0.1% by weight.
  • Corrosion resistance:
    • The coating protects against corrosion and chemical attack (20% H2SO4 and 5% NaOH test with no damage).
    • The body shape is cylindrical with filler opening ≥ 20 mm.
  • Durability tests (Clause 3.4):
    • Thread integrity after 100 screw/unscrew cycles.
    • Hydrostatic pressure test at 45 MN/m² (45 kgf/cm²) with no leakage.
    • Thermal cycling (60°C oven for 72h, then -5°C fridge for 72h) repeated 3 times without deterioration or leakage.

Loading diagram...

Summary: IS 13849 mandates lead-tin or epoxy coatings on mild steel extinguisher bodies to ensure corrosion resistance, chemical durability, and mechanical integrity verified through stringent tests.

?What are the marking and labeling requirements for extinguishers as per this standard?

As per IS 13849:1993, Clause 11.1, each dry powder stored pressure fire extinguisher shall be clearly and permanently marked with the following:

  • Manufacturer's name or trademark
  • Method of operation in prominent letters
  • The words "Dry Powder Extinguisher" stored pressure type
  • Capacity in kg (e.g., 5 kg)
  • The phrase "Recharge After Use"
  • Declaration that the extinguisher body is tested to 30 kgf/cm² pressure
  • Instructional phrase "Keep This End Up" during use
  • Letter indicating suitability for fire classes (e.g., A, B, C)
  • Year of manufacture and serial number
  • Fire class designation such as BC or ABC

Additionally, per Clause 9.3, the markings 'BC' or 'ABC' must follow IS 2190:1992 and use size and color codes as per IS 2171:1985.


Summary Table of Marking Requirements

Marking ElementDetails/Example
Manufacturer/TrademarkName or logo
Operation MethodClear instructions
Type"Dry Powder Extinguisher" stored pressure
Capacitye.g., "5 kg"
Recharge Note"Recharge After Use"
Pressure Test DeclarationTested to 30 kgf/cm²
Orientation Instruction"Keep This End Up"
Fire Class LetterA, B, C as applicable
Manufacture Year & Serial No.e.g., "2023, S.No. 12345"
Fire Class Suitability MarkBC or ABC as per IS 2190 & IS 2171

This ensures safety, traceability, and proper usage guidance on all extinguishers.

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?How is the pressure retention and leakage tested according to IS 13849?

According to IS 13849, pressure retention and leakage tests for fire extinguishers are conducted as follows:

Pressure Retention Test (Clause 10.3.1)

  • Discharge extinguisher for 2 seconds, note pressure drop.
  • After 15 minutes, note pressure again; pressure drop variation must be ≤ 5%.
  • Repeat test twice; take mean pressure drop, which must be ≤ 5%.
  • After 2 discharge cycles, keep extinguisher for 24 hours; pressure drop must still be ≤ 5%.

Leakage Test (Clause 10.3)

  • Valve assembly covered by an inverted transparent glass jar.
  • Dip extinguisher in water tank (water level above extinguisher height) for 24 hours.
  • No air bubbles should appear on inside top of jar after 24 hours.
  • Ignore bubbles in first 6 hours.

Additional Valve Assembly Durability (Clause 3.4)

  • Screw/unscrew valve 100 times; no thread damage allowed.
  • Hydrostatic pressure test at 45 MN/m² (45 kgf/cm²) for 1 minute; no leakage.
  • Subject to 3 cycles of heating at 60 ± 1°C (72 hrs) and cooling at -5 ± 1°C (72 hrs), followed by hydrostatic test; no leakage or deterioration allowed.

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