Features of recycling fire extinguishers of various types
Fire extinguishers are classified as pressure vessels. Their disposal requires care and compliance with safety regulations.
Such devices are decommissioned;
- At the end of the service life;
- When detecting dents and damage to the case;
- In the event of a malfunction of the shut-off device (LPU) detected during refilling of the cylinder.
The consequences of illiterate handling of fire extinguishers can be chemical burns, poisoning, mechanical injuries resulting from the rupture of the cylinder or the departure of the locking device from the neck. For disposal, it is better to contact the fire extinguisher recharging station, trust the specialists.
Peculiarities of disposal of various types of fire extinguishers
Disposal of fire extinguishers (see https://eco-ug.com/stati/utilizatsiya-ognetushiteley/) is regulated by SP 9.13130.2009. Persons over 18 years of age who have a certificate of testing knowledge of TB, who have protective equipment for eyes, hands, and respiratory organs are allowed to work.
Depending on the design features and fire extinguishing filling, flame extinguishing devices are divided into powder, carbon dioxide, foam (chemical, air-emulsion), water.
Powder fire extinguishers
Required during the recycling process:
- Determining the internal pressure using a manometer;
- Removing seals and checks, releasing the device from the powder through a hose immersed in a special collector or directed downwind when working outdoors;
- Complete release of pressure by pressing the handle of the device;
- Slow unscrewing of the LHP on a clamped cylinder (located at arm's length, directed "away from you"), gradual bleeding of residual air;
- Remove the LPU.
Powders (mineral salts) can be used as fertilizer or as secondary chemical raw materials.
Carbon dioxide fire extinguishers
Before disposal, clamp the cylinder, carefully lower the carbon dioxide through the funnel using the handle. Then you need to gradually unscrew the ZPU, reducing the residual pressure.
Foam fire extinguishers
To release the pressure, press the lever and release the foam completely. The shut-off device is removed, and the remaining contents are diluted with water and drained into the sewer.
The locking and starting devices of dismantled fire extinguishers of any type are sent for recycling. The cylinder is drilled, rendered unusable, and then sent for remelting.