Dry Chemical Powder for Fighting A, B, C, Class Fires -Specification

IS 14609: Key Specifications & Sampling Scope

Scope Summary (Clause 1.2 & Annex B)

• Sampling is done per lot to verify material conformity.
• Sample size depends on lot size (Table 1):

Particle Size Distribution (Clause 4.4)

Additional Notes

• Clause 8.1.1.1 governs BIS certification and marking.
• Base material and its percentage must be specified (Clause 8.1 f).
• Refer to IS 1607 for test sieving methods.

flowchart LR
    LotSize --> SampleSize
    LotSize["Lot Size"]
    SampleSize["Sample Size"]
    LotSize -->|Up to 50| SampleSize3["3"]
    LotSize -->|51 to 100| SampleSize4["4"]
    LotSize -->|101 to 150| SampleSize5["5"]
    LotSize -->|151 to 300| SampleSize6["6"]
    LotSize -->|301 and above| SampleSize7["7"]

This ensures quality control by statistically valid sampling and particle size conformity.

IS 14609 Sampling Procedure Summary

1. Sampling Scale (Clause B-1.2 & Table 1)

• Containers are selected randomly from the lot (refer IS 4905 for random sampling methods).

2. Sampling Method (Clause B-2.1)

• Draw small portions from different parts of each selected container using an appropriate sampling instrument.
• Mix thoroughly portions from the same container.
• Quantity must be sufficient to perform all tests (apparent density, particle size distribution, water repellency, free flowing).
• Each container's material is tested individually.
• Lot conformity: All samples must meet specification requirements.

3. Reference Standards for Sampling and Testing

• IS 4905: Methods for random sampling.
• IS 1607: Methods for test sieving.
• Other related IS codes as per Annex A for foam and powder specifications.

flowchart TD
    A[Lot of Containers] --> B[Randomly Select Containers]
    B --> C[Draw Portions from Different Parts]
    C --> D[Mix Portions per Container]
    D --> E[Conduct Tests]
    E --> F{All Samples Meet Criteria?}
    F -- Yes --> G[Lot Conforms]
    F -- No --> H[Lot Rejected]

This procedure ensures representative sampling and reliable conformity assessment of dry chemical powders for fire fighting.

Key Specifications & Formulas from IS 14609 (Dry Chemical Powder for A, B, C Class Fires)

1. Chemical Content (Clause 4.3)

• Declared chemical content excludes constituents <10% by mass.
• Must cover >50% mono-ammonium phosphate or polyammonium phosphate of total powder composition.
• Tolerance: ±3% of declared value for constituents.
• Chemical content verification follows the procedure specified in the amendment (Sept 2003).

2. Moisture Content (Clause 4.8)

• Maximum moisture content allowed: 0.25% (mass/mass).

3. Absorption (Clause 4.5.1)

• Absorption shall not exceed 2.5% (revised from 1.5%).

4. Material Composition

• Mainly mono-ammonium phosphate or ammonium polyphosphate and ammonium sulphate.
• Additives ensure water repellency, free flow, non-toxicity, non-corrosiveness, and electrical non-conductivity.

Summary Table of Key Limits

Notes:

• Particle size balance (fine and coarse) is critical for fire knockdown efficiency.
• Powder should be compatible with foams as per IS 4989.
• Not suitable for fires involving reactive metals (Class D) or radioactive metals.

flowchart LR
    A[Raw Materials] --> B[Mono/Poly Ammonium Phosphate >50%]
    A --> C[Ammonium Sulphate + Additives]
    B & C --> D[Dry Chemical Powder]
    D --> E[Moisture ≤ 0.25%]
    D --> F[Absorption ≤ 2.5%]
    D --> G[Particle Size Balanced]
    G --> H[Effective Fire Extinguishing]

This concise overview covers the essential chemical content and material specifications per IS

IS 14609: Dry Chemical Powder for Fighting A, B, C Class Fires - Key Physical & Chemical Requirements

1. Absorption Limit

• Moisture absorption shall not exceed 2.5% (Clause 2.5, replacing 1.5%).

2. Particle Size Distribution (Clause 4.4, tested as per IS 1607)

3. Apparent Density (Clause 4.2.1)

• Apparent density shall be within ±10% of the manufacturer's declared value (g/ml).

4. Colour

• Dry chemical powder shall be pale yellow (Clause 4.13).

5. Composition & Safety

• Mainly mono ammonium phosphate or ammonium polyphosphate with ammonium sulphate.
• Must be non-toxic, non-corrosive, non-abrasive, and electrically non-conductive.
• Compatible with foams per IS 4989 (Parts 1, 2, 3).

Summary Diagram: Particle Size Distribution

barChart
    title Particle Size Distribution (% Retained)
    x-axis Particle Size Sieve
    y-axis % Retained
    0.425 mm/40 mesh: 0 to 0
    0.150 mm/100 mesh: 2 to 15
    0.075 mm/200 mesh: 18 to 28
    0.045 mm/325 mesh: 18 to 32
    Bottom pan: 25 to 62

Notes:

• Avoid use on fires with chemicals containing oxygen supply (e.g. cellulose nitrate), radioactive metals, or sensitive electronics.
• Deposits may be corros

IS 14609 Guidance Notes: Key Apparatus and Specifications

Apparatus (Clause 4.3.2)

Sample Preparation (Clause 4.6.2.1)

• Use 100 g powder sample placed in a nickel crucible-shaped cup.
• Tray height: 200 mm (Fig. 5).
• Crucible diameter updated to 26 mm and volume to 1000 cc (Fig. 4).

Density Specification (Clause 4.2.1)

• Apparent density of dry chemical powder must be within ±10% of manufacturer's declared value (g/ml).

Additional Specification (Clause 8.1)

• Include base material and its percentage in reporting.

This ensures accurate testing and consistency with IS 14609 standards.
If you need formulas for density or titration calculations, please specify!

IS 14609: Criteria for Conformity - Key Points

Sampling Procedure (Annex B, Clause 1.2)

• Samples are selected randomly from each lot per IS 4905.
• Number of containers sampled depends on lot size (Table 1):

Criteria for Conformity (Clause 6)

• Samples tested to verify compliance with specification.
• Conformity judged based on test results on the sampled containers.

Additional Notes

• Powders must be non-toxic and safe for live electrical equipment.
• Multipurpose powders may cause corrosion or conductivity if exposed to high humidity (>50%) or temperature (>121°C).
• Prompt cleanup recommended to avoid damage.

Summary Diagram of Sampling Process

flowchart TD
    A[Start: Lot of Containers] --> B{Determine Lot Size}
    B -->|Up to 50| C[Select 3 Samples]
    B -->|51 to 100| D[Select 4 Samples]
    B -->|101 to 150| E[Select 5 Samples]
    B -->|151 to 300| F[Select 6 Samples]
    B -->|301 and above| G[Select 7 Samples]
    C --> H[Test Samples]
    D --> H
    E --> H
    F --> H
    G --> H
    H --> I{Conformity Met?}
    I -->|Yes| J[Accept Lot]
    I -->|No| K[Reject Lot]

References:

• Sampling method: IS 4905
• Safety & powder properties: Clause 5 Guidance Notes
• Certification Mark: Clause 8.1.1.1 (BIS rules)

IS 14609: Packaging and Container Strength — Key Points

1. Container Strength Requirements (Clause 7.1.1)

• Container must not distort or fail when placed on any side/end with 10 kg weight applied.
• Must not disintegrate when dropped from 1 m height on concrete after packing.

2. Sampling for Testing (Clause 1.2.1 & B-1.2.1)

• Containers are selected randomly using procedures from IS 4905 for unbiased sampling.

3. Number of Tests & Conformity Criteria (Clause B-2)

• Draw samples from different parts of each container.
• Mix thoroughly; sample size sufficient for all tests.
• Tests include:
  • Apparent density
  • Particle size distribution
  • Water repellency
  • Free flowing
• Lot conforms if all samples pass these tests.

4. Packaging Specifications (Clause 7.1)

• Powder packed in hermetically sealed, moisture-proof plastic bags or lined containers.
• Pack sizes: 1, 2, 5, 10, 25 kg.

Summary Table: Container Strength Test

flowchart LR
    A[Select Containers Randomly (IS 4905)] --> B[Draw Samples from Different Parts]
    B --> C[Mix Samples Thoroughly]
    C --> D[Test for Density, Particle Size, Water Repellency, Flow]
    D --> E{All Tests Passed?}
    E -- Yes --> F[Lot Conforms]
    E -- No --> G[Reject Lot]

This ensures packaging integrity and material quality per IS 14609.

IS 14609: Marking and Labeling Key Points

Clause 8.1 - Labeling Requirements for Dry Powder Packs:

Each pack must be labeled with:

• Manufacturer's name or trade-mark
• Quantity of powder (kg)
• Type: Foam Compatible
• Date of manufacture / Batch No.
• Class of fire: A, B, C
• Base material and its percentage

Clause 8.1.1 - BIS Certification Marking:

• Use of the Standard Mark is governed by the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 1986.
• Packs may be marked with the Standard Mark if licensed.

Annex A - Referenced IS Standards:

Summary Table for Labeling Information

flowchart TD
    A[Pack of Dry Powder] --> B[Label]
    B --> C[Manufacturer Name]
    B --> D[Quantity (kg)]
    B --> E[Type: Foam Compatible]
    B --> F[Date of Manufacture / Batch No.]
    B --> G[Class of Fire (A, B, C)]
    B --> H[Base Material & %]
    B --> I[Standard Mark (if licensed)]

This ensures traceability, safety, and compliance with BIS requirements.

IS 14609: Fire Performance Testing Procedures — Key Points

1. Fire Extinguishing Powder Test (Clause 1.6)

• Sample must extinguish fire 4 times consecutively; 5th test optional if successful.
• Test environment: No wind disturbance.
• Fire extinguishers on standby: Halon 1211, CO2, Dry Chemical Powder (DCP), or AFFF foam.
• Allow fire pan to cool before retesting.
• Puffer chamber specs: Stainless steel sheet, 1.6 mm thick, pressure at 276 kN/m² (40 psi).

2. Foam Compatibility & Fire Tray Test (Clause 6.35)

• Fire tray: 3 L n-heptane over water layer.
• Foam: Protein foam concentrate per IS 4989 (Part 1), 4% concentration.
• Procedure:
  • Ignite fuel, burn 10 s.
  • Apply foam for 10 s.
  • Ignite LPG gas bubbling through foam after 30 s.
  • Measure time ( T ) for full tray involvement in flames.
• Apply 60 g dry powder with puffer chamber at 276 kN/m².
• Reapply foam, measure time ( T_2 ).
• Compatibility criterion: ( T_2 \geq \frac{1}{2} T ).

3. Fire Knocking Down Test (Clause 4.12.1.2)

• Test fire construction:
  • Crib of wooden sticks, 13 layers, 6 sticks/layer.
  • Sticks stacked at right angles, square layout.
  • Supported on two 63×63 mm angle irons on 300×300 mm concrete blocks.
  • Height above floor: 405 mm.
  • Outer sticks stapled/nail for strength.

Summary Table

IS 14609: Test Equipment and Apparatus Summary

Key Equipment (Clauses 4.12.2.1, 4.3.2, others)

• Air System:

  • Air compressor
  • Air pressure regulator + moisture trap (mounted on stand)

• Measurement & Handling:

  • Weighing scales (analytical balance to 0.1 mg accuracy)
  • Weights
  • Plastic/Stainless steel spoon
  • Graduated glass measuring cylinder (1 L capacity)
  • Stopwatch
  • Small torch and matchbox

• Specialized Apparatus:

  • Stainless steel fire pan (Fig. 9)
  • Fire pan cover (asbestos sheet)
  • Puffer chamber (stainless steel, Fig. 10)
  • Centrifuge tubes (100 ml, cone-shaped preferred)
  • Centrifuge
  • Steam bath (~80℃)
  • pH meter or titrimeter
  • Burette (5 ml, 0.1 ml grad., alkali-resistant stopcock)
  • Vacuum oven (operating ~60℃)

Notes:

• Equipment ensures precise measurement, moisture control, and controlled test conditions.
• Figures 9 & 10 (fire pan and puffer chamber) are critical for combustion-related tests.
• Accuracy in weighing and volume measurement is emphasized for reproducibility.

Typical Analytical Balance Specification:

graph LR
A[Air Compressor] --> B[Air Regulator + Moisture Trap]
C[Weighing Scales] --> D[Analytical Balance]
E[Fire Pan] --> F[Fire Pan Cover]
G[Puffer Chamber] --> H[Mounted Stand]
I[Measuring Cylinder] --> J[Stopwatch]
K[Steam Bath] --> L[pH Meter/Titrimeter]
M[Centrifuge Tubes] --> N[Centrifuge]
O[Burette] --> P[Vacuum Oven]

This setup ensures controlled, accurate testing as per IS 14609 requirements.

IS 14609: Heat Resistance Test (Clause 4.9) - Key Details

• Sample Preparation:

  • Dry powder sample: 150 ± 2 g
  • Container: Tinned steel cup, 75 mm diameter × 50 mm depth with a close-fitting flanged lid.

• Test Conditions:

  • Oven temperature: 60 ± 2ºC
  • Duration: 7 days
  • After heating, cool and check for caking/lumps.

• Acceptance Criteria:

  • Lumps/cakes must be friable when dropped from 100 mm height on a hard smooth surface.
  • Must meet particle size distribution as per Clause 4.4.

• Purpose:

  • Ensures thermal stability of powder at elevated temperatures (60ºC).
  • Confirms additives do not melt or degrade, maintaining extinguishing effectiveness in hot environments (boiler rooms, near steam pipes, etc.).

Summary Table for Heat Resistance Test Setup

Notes:

• Friability test ensures powder remains effective after heat exposure.
• Critical for fire extinguishers used in hot industrial environments.

flowchart LR
    A[Prepare 150g powder] --> B[Place in tinned steel cup (75mm dia × 50mm depth)]
    B --> C[Cover with flanged lid]
    C --> D[Place in oven at 60±2°C for 7 days]
    D --> E[Cool sample]
    E --> F[Drop lumps from 100mm height]
    F --> G{Lumps friable?}
    G -- Yes --> H[Pass heat resistance test]
    G -- No --> I[Fail heat resistance test]

This test ensures powder stability and performance under thermal stress as per IS 14609.

IS 14609: Hygroscopicity and Caking Resistance

Key Specifications & Procedure (Clause 4.6)

• Sample: 100 g powder in 250 ml beaker.
• Condition: Store at 90% RH, 27 ± 2°C for 6 hours.
• Post-conditioning: Transfer to desiccator with 98% H2SO4 for 24 hours.
• Observation: Check for caking/lump formation.
• Test: Drop lump from 200 mm height on smooth hard surface.
• Acceptance: Lump must be friable (break easily) and meet physical requirements (Clause 4.4).

Sampling (Clause 2.2)

• Composite sample from equal quantities of each container.
• One test per composite sample.
• Lot passes if sample meets both hygroscopicity and caking criteria.

Summary Table

flowchart TD
    A[Take 100g powder] --> B[Store at 90% RH, 27±2°C for 6h]
    B --> C[Transfer to desiccator with 98% H2SO4 for 24h]
    C --> D[Observe caking/lump formation]
    D --> E[Drop lump from 200 mm height]
    E --> F{Lump friable?}
    F -- Yes --> G[Pass]
    F -- No --> H[Fail]

This method ensures powder stability against moisture absorption and caking, critical for material handling and performance.

IS 14609: Free Flowing Characteristics (Clause 4.10)

Procedure (Clause 4.10.3)

• Use two 500 cc Erlenmeyer flasks connected and held vertically by their necks.
• Rotate assembly 180° to transfer powder from upper to lower flask.
• Repeat aeration by rotating back and forth 10 times continuously without pause.
• After the 10th aeration, measure the time (t) for the powder to flow completely through.
• Perform 10 consecutive flow time measurements and calculate the mean time ( t ).

Key Formula

[ \text{Rate of flow (fluidity)} = \frac{500 \text{ g}}{t \text{ (seconds)}} ]

• Powder passes fluidity if: [ \text{Rate of flow} \geq 50 \text{ g/s} ]

Equipment

• Two 500 cc Erlenmeyer flasks
• Suitable stand with levelling screw

Particle Size Distribution (Clause 4.4)

flowchart TD
    A[Start: Powder in Upper Flask]
    B[Rotate 180° → Powder flows to Lower Flask]
    C[Rotate back 180° → Powder aerated]
    D[Repeat 10 times]
    E[Measure flow time t]
    F[Calculate Fluidity = 500/t g/s]
    G{Fluidity ≥ 50 g/s?}
    H[Pass]
    I[Fail]

    A --> B --> C --> D --> E --> F --> G
    G -- Yes --> H
    G -- No --> I

This ensures efficient fluidity testing per IS 14609.

IS 14609: Fire Test Setup for Class A, B, and C Fires

Class A Fire (Clause 4.12.1)

• Test Fire Setup:
  • Wood crib with 13 layers, each layer having 6 sticks of wood.
  • Wood stick dimensions: typically 63 × 38 mm.
  • Supported on 405 mm high concrete blocks with steel angle supports.
  • Arrangement as per Fig. 6 & Fig. 7 in the code.
• Location: Indoor, sheltered from drafts/winds to allow natural fire development (Clause 4.12.1.1).
• Extinguishing Agent: Powder suitable for Class A fire must extinguish this test fire.

Class B Fire (Clause 4.12.2)

• Typically involves flammable liquids; test setup uses a pan or tray with a specified volume of flammable liquid ignited to create the fire.
• Extinguishing powder must effectively suppress this liquid fire.

Class C Fire (Clause 4.12.3)

• Involves electrical fires; test setup simulates energized electrical equipment.
• Powder must be non-conductive and suitable for electrical fires.

Summary Table

Diagram: Class A Fire Setup (Simplified)

graph TD
    A[Concrete Block 405 mm High]
    B[Steel Angle Supports 63x38 mm]
    C[Wood Crib: 13 layers × 6 sticks]
    A --> B --> C

Note: Refer to IS 14609 Fig. 6 & 7 for detailed dimensions and arrangement.

Certification and Licensing per IS 14609

Key Points:

• Standard Mark Use: Governed by the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 1986.
• License Granting: Conditions for license to use the Standard Mark are provided by BIS.
• Marking: Packing may be marked with the Standard Mark as per Clause 8.1.1.
• Sampling & Testing: Sampling procedures and conformity criteria are detailed in Annex B, e.g., fire test requires:
  • Class B fires: 3 samples tested; at least 2 must extinguish fire.
  • Class A fires: 1 test required.
  • Foam compatibility: 2 samples tested; both must pass.

Relevant Tables & Specifications

Summary Diagram of Certification Process

flowchart TD
    A[Manufacturer Applies for License] --> B{BIS Evaluation}
    B -->|Meets Criteria| C[License Granted]
    B -->|Fails| D[Rejected]
    C --> E[Use of Standard Mark on Product]
    E --> F[Market Surveillance & Sampling]
    F --> G{Conformity Tests}
    G -->|Pass| H[Continued License]
    G -->|Fail| I[License Suspension/Revocation]

Additional Notes

• Refer to BIS for detailed licensing conditions.
• Testing equipment and procedures are specified under Clause 4.12.2.1.
• Certification ensures product quality, safety, and compliance with Indian standards.