Fire extinguisher "OU-3": principle of operation, advantages and application features

A fire is a terrible accident that results in loss of property, and sometimes life. Naturally, any source of ignition should be eliminated. For this purpose, the fire extinguisher "OU-3" may come up.

The principle of the device and its technical characteristics

This device works very simply. The fire extinguisher "OU-3" acts due to the expulsion from the balloon of carbon dioxide, which is in it under pressure. After the shut-off trigger is activated, the carbonic acid along the siphon tube advances to the socket. If it is in a calm state and has a liquefied appearance, it turns into gas at the moment of action.

A special feature of this fire extinguisher is instantaneous cooling of the combustion zone. In addition, the gas-air medium, which is blazing, is quickly diluted with inert CO2. As a result, the burning stops.

The fire extinguisher "OU-3" has the following characteristics:

- The length of the jet is 2.1 m.

- The capacity of the flask is 4.3 liters.

- The charge goes for 8 seconds.

- The weight of the device ready for use is 12.5 kg.

- Temperature of use - from -40 to +50 degrees.

- The service life, which is guaranteed by the manufacturer, is 1 year from the date of issue.

Scope of application

The OU-3 fire extinguisher is effective for extinguishing fires where water-based apparatus can not be used.

It is used in the following cases:

1. In museums and galleries, where valuable exhibits are stored, which can be damaged by water.

2. To extinguish electrical installations, the voltage in which does not exceed 1000 V.

3. To eliminate fire in trolleybuses, trams, electric trains.

4. To extinguish gaseous, liquid and solid combustible substances.

Use of such a fire extinguisher is possible both indoors and outdoors.

Advantages, disadvantages and precautions

Note that this device has certain advantages:

- Does not leave traces after extinguishing.

- Provides an opportunity to save valuable items that spoil the water.

The only drawback of the device under consideration is that it can not be used to extinguish those substances that burn even without access to air. Here, carbon dioxide is simply useless.

As for the safety of the application, the carbon dioxide fire extinguisher "OU-3" has some operational requirements:

1. If it is necessary to extinguish an electrical installation that is under voltage, you should not approach it closer than one meter.

2. Do not recharge or repair the device yourself. For this, there are special service centers.

3. It is not recommended to use the machine if there is no seal on it.

4. During CO ₂ discharge, do not direct the bell to people, since the gas temperature is -60 degrees.

5. Do not leave the unit in direct sunlight.

6. At least twice a year, check the operation of the device.

Instructions for use

Fire extinguisher "OU-3", the characteristics of which are discussed above, should be used strictly according to the instruction:

1. Lift the fire extinguisher to the fire, taking into account the minimum permissible distance.

2. Point the bell to the side where the fire is located, pull out the check and press the handle that actuates the shut-off valve .

3. If the ignition does not occur indoors, then try to direct the socket so that the carbon dioxide does not go out against the wind.

4. After extinguishing the device should be taken to refill.

Please note that the fire extinguisher can accumulate thermal stress and static electricity. Try to extinguish the fire so that carbon dioxide does not fall on you, because it has a toxic effect.

That's all the features of the application of the device. Good luck!