What is ABC powder in fire extinguishers?

ABC powder in fire extinguishers refers to a multipurpose dry chemical agent that is effective on Class A, B, and C fires. This versatility makes it one of the most commonly used types of fire extinguishers.

Class A fires involve ordinary combustible materials like wood, paper, and cloth. Class B fires involve flammable liquids, such as gasoline and oil. Class C fires are associated with electrical equipment. The components of the ABC powder extinguishing agent (often a combination of monoammonium phosphate and ammonium sulfate) create a barrier between the fuel and the fire, helping to interrupt the combustion process across these diverse fire classes.

Because of its broad effectiveness, ABC powder is favored in many public and commercial spaces, allowing it to address a variety of fire scenarios while minimizing the risk of re-ignition. This adaptability and wide application set ABC powder extinguishers apart from agents that are limited to specific classes of fire.