Metal fire

Metaalbrand is een pyrotechnisch effect dat wordt gecreëerd door het verbranden van metaalpoeders.

Fires involving flammable metals such as magnesium, aluminium, sodium, and potassium fall under fire class D. These metals can reach extremely high temperatures and react violently with standard extinguishing agents. Water, in particular, can cause vigorous reactions, sometimes even resulting in explosions. This makes fighting metal fires difficult and hazardous.

Metal fires primarily occur in industrial environments where metal is worked or processed, such as in foundries, laboratories, or manufacturing companies. The smallest spark, friction, or heat source can be enough to ignite fine metal particles.

Een metaalbrand moet je blussen met een speciale klasse D blusser. Je mag absoluut geen water gebruiken, want dat kan een explosieve reactie veroorzaken.

For metal fires, it is crucial to use only suitable extinguishing agents. Many common agents – such as water, foam, or CO₂ – can actually make the situation more dangerous. This *does* work:

Special D powder extinguishers – Specifically designed for flammable metals. The powder forms a heat-resistant layer that smothers the fire and prevents further reaction.
Dry sand or graphite powder – can be useful in some cases as an emergency measure to smother flames and dissipate heat.

Important: Never use water, foam, or CO₂ on a metal fire. Water can react with hot metals and produce hydrogen gas, which can lead to an explosion. CO₂ extinguishers are not capable of withstanding the high temperatures and are therefore ineffective.

How to reduce the risk of a metal fire

Keep the workplace clean and remove fine metal dust and particles.
Use spark-free tools and avoid grinding or abrading flammable metals.
Store metals safely in a controlled environment, without open flames or other heat sources.
Ensure that suitable extinguishing agents are always available in places where flammable metals are processed.

What if the fire spreads?

If you cannot bring the fire under control immediately, the heat can transfer to other materials and create an explosion risk. Leave the room immediately, warn others, and call the fire brigade. Never use unsuitable extinguishing agents – this can make the situation worse.

Assistance with prevention and protection

Metal fires require a specialised approach. Flame Control can help you with the right fire protection. From special D-powder extinguishers and clear safety procedures to on-site inspections and advice. This way, you can reduce the risk and ensure a safe working environment. Want to know more about fire safety in metal processing? Get in touch with us – we'll be happy to help.

Is a fire detection and alarm system compulsory?

A fire alarm system is mandatory in a building according to the Building Decree when occupants or employees are warned.

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Fire class A

Class A fires encompass fires involving solid materials such as wood, paper, textiles, and some plastics. These are the most common types of fires.