Met-l-x Vs Lith-x Flashcards
What is the main ingredient of MET-L-X?
Sodium Chloride (NaCl)
This is the primary component responsible for its fire suppression capabilities.
What is the main ingredient of LITH-X?
Graphite-based powder
This ingredient contributes to its unique heat absorption properties.
What additive is used in MET-L-X?
Magnesium stearate (anti-caking)
This additive helps prevent clumping of the powder.
What is the fire suppression method used by MET-L-X?
Forms a solid crust to smother fire
This method effectively blocks oxygen from reaching the fire.
How does LITH-X suppress fire?
Heat absorption through graphite layer
Graphite’s properties allow it to absorb heat effectively.
Which fire type is MET-L-X effective against?
Non lithium metal Fires
Rated as effective for suppressing magnesium and other metal fires.
Which fire type is LITH-X best suited for?
Lithium metal Fires
LITH-X is specifically designed to handle lithium-related fires.
What is the effectiveness of LITH-X against flowing metal fires?
✅ Superior due to heat dissipation
Its high thermal conductivity allows for efficient heat management.
How does MET-L-X perform on vertical surfaces?
⚠️ Crust may slide off
This limits its effectiveness in certain applications.
What is the discharge method for both MET-L-X and LITH-X?
Standard dry chemical extinguisher
Both products are compatible with standard fire extinguishing equipment.
What is the cleanup like for MET-L-X?
Moderate (salt residue)
Salt residue can be managed with standard cleaning methods.
What is the electrical conductivity of MET-L-X?
❌ Non-conductive
This makes it safer to use around electrical fires.
What is the corrosive potential of LITH-X?
✅ Non-corrosive
It is safe for use on various surfaces without causing damage.
For magnesium, sodium, and potassium fires, which is the best choice?
MET-L-X – Crust formation blocks oxygen
Its method of forming a stable crust makes it ideal for these fires.
For confined space fires, which product is recommended?
MET-L-X – Crust fills gaps, stable layer
Its ability to fill cavities is advantageous in confined spaces.
Fill in the blank: LITH-X is better for _______ fires.
lithium-based
This includes fires involving lithium batteries and flowing lithium metal.
True or False: LITH-X works effectively on vertical surfaces.
False
LITH-X tends to fall off vertical surfaces, limiting its effectiveness.
What is a key takeaway regarding MET-L-X?
Works on other metals and sticks better due to crust formation
Its performance is particularly effective for traditional Class D fires.
What type of fires is LITH-X specifically designed for?
Lithium metal fires
LITH-X is effective for Class D fires involving pure lithium metal.
What initiates a lithium metal fire?
Reaction with water or moisture producing hydrogen gas and heat
This reaction is characteristic of lithium metal fires.
How does LITH-X work on lithium metal fires?
By smothering and absorbing heat
LITH-X is effective in preventing combustion of lithium metal.
What are the characteristics of lithium-ion battery fires?
Result from flammable electrolyte inside the battery, thermal runaway occurs
Lithium-ion battery fires are classified as Class B/E fires.
Why is LITH-X ineffective against lithium-ion battery fires?
Doesn’t suppress electrolyte fire or stop thermal runaway
The fire behaves like a flammable liquid/gas fire.
What is one reason LITH-X fails on lithium-ion battery fires?
Graphite insulation prevents effective suppression of the fire
LITH-X only absorbs heat but does not cool the cells.
What is a consequence of LITH-X not forming a crust?
No barrier to prevent further combustion
This lack of a barrier increases the risk of re-ignition.
What is the best method to extinguish lithium-ion battery fires?
Water fog/mist
Water fog effectively cools the battery and prevents thermal runaway.
What is the effectiveness of Class B foam on lithium-ion battery fires?
Limited
While it suppresses flames, it does not cool the battery cells.
What are effective methods for managing lithium-ion battery fires?
- Water fog/mist
- Fire blankets
- Cooling agents
These methods help prevent thermal runaway.
For what type of fires should LITH-X be used?
Pure lithium metal fires
LITH-X is not suitable for lithium-ion battery fires.
What happens if cooling is not applied to lithium-ion battery cells?
Cells can reignite
This poses a significant risk even if the flame is suppressed.
Fill in the blank: LITH-X is ineffective on lithium-ion battery fires because it does not address _______.
electrolyte combustion
The combustion of the electrolyte is the primary hazard in lithium-ion fires.
True or False: LITH-X can effectively cool lithium-ion battery cells.
False
LITH-X does not provide cooling, which is necessary to prevent thermal runaway.
