fire suppression system

MJHanna · 08-16-2002, 11:13 AM

Would you use an AFFF fire suppression system on your car? or Halon? I'm
leaning towards a AFFF as the foam is not toxic (as Halon is) and could
help smother the fire? It is suppose to be cleanable with water.

addictionMS · addictionMS's Garage

I can't answer your question but I would also consider putting a hand held in the car as well, here in California, over half the fires are grass fires started under the car, an fire system will not put that out, and all you can do is watch the car burn, but with a 2.5lb hand held you can at least try to stop it.

I have both a haylon and a bc marine 2.5lb in my car.

Jim

Brad Roberts · 08-22-2002, 01:55 PM

Is this Mark Hanna from Texas ??

Brad

MJHanna · 08-23-2002, 09:12 AM

Yeap. Went with 1301 Halon after a serious investigation (3 nozzles 10 lbs).

campbellcj · 08-23-2002, 10:11 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by MJHanna
Yeap. Went with 1301 Halon after a serious investigation (3 nozzles 10 lbs).

Hey Mark,

Would you mind sharing the major "bullet points" as to Halon vs. AFF?

Also, which particular system (brand) did you go with? Mechanical or electric?

Thanks,

MJHanna · 08-26-2002, 10:47 AM

Halon 1211: Advantages are that it leaves no residue, effective, not thermal shocking and the bottle withstands higher cockpit heat compared to Halon 1301. Disadvantages are that it is toxic, does not quench the fire and is Ozone depleting. This chemical was not designed for system use as it is toxic, designed for hand held fire extinguishers only.

AFFF: This is s foaming water-based system. Advantages are that it quenches the fire.
Disadvantages are that systems are heavy, large, may thermal shock, will not spread out like Halon, leaves a mess both in the car and on the track and it is expensive. Also if the temperature is close to freezing must take out of car etc, could have problems with electrical continuity if used.

Halon 1301: Advantages are that it is effective, non-toxic, non-caustic, leave no residue, small, lightweight, industry standard with plenty of supply, no thermal shock, leaves no mess. Disadvantages are that it does not quench the fire and it is Ozone depleting.

campbellcj · 08-26-2002, 11:07 AM

Thanks Mark - I wasn't aware of the 1211 vs 1301 issues. Sounds like 1301 is a good way to go.

MJHanna · 08-26-2002, 11:24 AM

Yeah I didn't know it either that's why I went with a Safecraft unit (10 lbs.) their container is DOT approved (some of the other ones are not) plus I like how they put their components together.
http://www.safecraft.com/motorsports.htm