CO2 puts out a fire by displacing the oxygen around it, and it leaves no residue behind. Minimax lists its CO2 units for Class B fires involving liquids such as petrol, spirits and diesel, and for electrically actuated fires. Every CO2 unit carries a black colour band so it can be picked out quickly.
Portable units come with a mild steel (MS) body in 2, 3 and 4.5 kg, or an aluminium body in 2 and 4.5 kg. The aluminium cylinder, grade 6061 and designed as per IS 15660:2017, is stated by Minimax to be up to 30 percent lighter than a seamless steel cylinder and resists corrosion, so it suits coastal and high salinity sites. Both portable types work at 50 bar operating pressure.
For larger risks or outdoor areas in severe conditions, the mobile type comes in 6.5, 9 and 22.5 kg, with a 55B rating in the 6.5 kg size and a minimum effective discharge of 95 percent. The B figure reflects the size of the flammable liquid test fire the unit put out; the 2 kg portable units are rated 21B.
CO2 gets very cold during discharge. Minimax fits a rubber grip and a specially designed horn to reduce the risk of cold burns, and a discharge hose with conductive wires to carry away static built up in the horn. FPS supplies, installs and refills these units in Bhopal and across Madhya Pradesh.