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CO 2 Total flooding extinguishing system for fire protection onboard

chemical tankers

Use of CO2

Many chemical tankers have a CO2 “total flooding" system for the cargo
pump rooms. This is a most effective method for extinguishing a fire in a
closed compartment. Certain dangers, however, are involved :

i) make sure the room has been evacuated before admission of CO2 . No
one will have a chance of escaping once the gas has been admitted.

ii) the released CO2 may assume a strong electrostatic charge which may
cause incendive sparks. This is of no consequence if the room is already
on fire, but if the room is to be inerted with CO2 as a preventive, measure
this should only be done knowing that the room is gas free.

Lately halogen gas total flooding systems have been installed on a trial
basis. This gas does not possess the above disadvantages and is easier
to install.

Inert gas in the cargo tanks, is to be considered a preventive safety

measure only. The delivery capacity of inert gas generators etc is far
below the requirements for active fire fighting.

Carbon dioxide and vaporising liquids

Carbon dioxide is an excellent smothering agent for extinguishing fires

when used in conditions where it will not be widely diffused. However, it
has poor cooling qualities and the possibility of re-ignition by hot
surfaces should be borne in mind. Due to the possibility of static
electricity generation, carbon dioxide should not be injected into any
space containing a flammable atmosphere which is not already on fire.
Carbon dioxide is asphyxiating and cannot be detected by sight or smell.
Halogenated hydrocarbons are vaporising liquids which have a flame
inhibiting effect, similar to dry chemical powder, and also have a slight
smothering effect. The different liquids available are identified by a
system of halon numbers. The environmental disadvantages of halons
are well known, and modern ships are not fitted with them. But where
fitted, their use in emergency may be necessary and appropriate to save
lives or the ship.

As with carbon dioxide, halons and other chemical fire extinguishing

gases are most effective in enclosed spaces, where they will not be
widely diffused. All halons are considered to be toxic to some degree
because contact with hot surfaces and flame causes them to break down,
yielding toxic substances. After a fire has been extinguished, it is
necessary to use suitable breathing apparatus to enter the space.

Related Info pages

Water extinguishing method for fire protection

Foam extinguishing method for chemical tankers

Dry powder fire extinguishing method

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