Cockpit Fire Extinguisher

[BobTurner]

Originally Posted by scsmith

I have an H3R A344 that has been in the cockpit for 10 years. Gauge still shows full charge.

Do I really need to get it "maintained"? What would change that would benefit from maintenance when the gauge still shows full charge?

Can maintenance of H3R halon fire extinguishers be performed by local fire extinguisher servicing companies?

In the US practically all pressurized cylinders (Halon, oxygen) are subject to DOT rules, and are often required to be inspected (time frame depends on material, pressure, etc) periodically via a hydrostatic pressure test. Our local airport actually looks for out of date extinguishers in hangars (but not in the airplane) during hangar inspections, and asks you to comply with the rules if out of date. YMMV.

[RV7A Flyer]

Originally Posted by BobTurner

In the US practically all pressurized cylinders (Halon, oxygen) are subject to DOT rules, and are often required to be inspected (time frame depends on material, pressure, etc) periodically via a hydrostatic pressure test. Our local airport actually looks for out of date extinguishers in hangars (but not in the airplane) during hangar inspections, and asks you to comply with the rules if out of date. YMMV.

https://www.h3raviation.com/download...ged-Exting.pdf

Looks like 12 years between hydrostatic tests.

[BrianDC]

I think I first learned of the Element fire extinguisher on a previous thread. I'm considering this instead of a conventional extinguisher.

https://elementfire.com/

Basically looks like a road flare. Less weight and no need to service.

[BillL]

Originally Posted by scsmith

I have an H3R A344 that has been in the cockpit for 10 years. Gauge still shows full charge.

Do I really need to get it "maintained"? What would change that would benefit from maintenance when the gauge still shows full charge?

Can maintenance of H3R halon fire extinguishers be performed by local fire extinguisher servicing companies?

You might want to weigh it Steve. It is a liquid in there, the pressure is vapor pressure at unit temperature. I think the gage shows full until the liquid is depleted. My unit loses weight each year. And - - I called my local fire extinguisher company was assured they can replace the o- rings, pressure test and refill for $20. I have not exercised the service though.

Here is an NFPA page on the Halons http://www.nfpa.it/d_faq_avi.htm

Edit II. Self Correction - I called H3R and spoke to a technical person. He said it is "possible" that it could lose a significant portion of the Halon 1211 and still read green on the gage. He also said the materials with the unit specify how much weight loss is acceptable. Pressure is augmented by nitrogen in this unit as the Halon 1211 vapor pressure (at all temps) is not sufficient to propel the liquid for a full discharge. He also confirmed that many local companies can service and refill. Sorry for the confusion.

[Veetail88]

To the OPs original question about what type should I get, Yes, you should get Halon. Specifically Halon 1211, which is a liquid streaming agent that is particularly suitable for our airplanes. Halon is no longer made because it's supposedly bad for the Ozone layer. (don't know one way or the other as it's difficult to distinguish actual science from political "science" these days.)

In addition to being a superior fire fighting agent, it won't kill you if you discharge inside the cabin while you're in it, PLUS, it leaves no mess.

The product Element unit posted by someone else here is an unknown animal to me. Might be good, don't know.

[rocketman1988]

Halon may not poison you, however, it WILL suffocate you just like the fire.

That is specifically WHY we have PBE's located at every point a Halon extinguisher is present at work. If you discharge a Halon extinguisher in the cabin of an RV, be aware...

[Paddy]

I just ordered an Element extinguisher. It seems like a better alternative to Halon, although I think I'll keep both in the airplane.

[Carlos151]

Originally Posted by Veetail88

To the OPs original question about what type should I get, Yes, you should get Halon.

I thought that?s what we were all talking about

Originally Posted by Frankster13

... I am looking into a small Halon Fire Extinguisher. Is there any thoughts, ideas or consensus on the best option?

[scsmith]

Originally Posted by BillL

You might want to weigh it Steve. It is a liquid in there, the pressure is vapor pressure at unit temperature. I think the gage shows full until the liquid is depleted. My unit loses weight each year. And - - I called my local fire extinguisher company was assured they can replace the o- rings, pressure test and refill for $20. I have not exercised the service though.

Here is an NFPA page on the Halons http://www.nfpa.it/d_faq_avi.htm

Edit II. Self Correction - I called H3R and spoke to a technical person. He said it is "possible" that it could lose a significant portion of the Halon 1211 and still read green on the gage. He also said the materials with the unit specify how much weight loss is acceptable. Pressure is augmented by nitrogen in this unit as the Halon 1211 vapor pressure (at all temps) is not sufficient to propel the liquid for a full discharge. He also confirmed that many local companies can service and refill. Sorry for the confusion.

Thanks Bill, very helpful. I will weigh mine next month at condition inspection.

[mbauer]

Have two First Alert Tundra Fire Extinguishing Aerosol Spray style.

easy to mount, used a bicycle lite-weight water bottle cage. One mounted between back seat cushions of seats. Haven't bumped it yet with my shoulder, the same when carrying passengers. But is totally reachable.

Second one is mounted between my seat and the fuselage side; down low where it is out of the way, but easy to get.

Bought one at WalM and the other at Home Depot for $15 each.

Last longer, non-toxic, doesn't corrode electrics. 3 year shelf life, actual expires on date is on the top where it necks down to the plastic nozzle.

Here is a link to a PDF of the SDS Sheet: http://www.brkelectronics.com/BRK&#3...S%20160516.pdf

Did a test with a third one. Tested on small gasoline fire burning on concrete: was out quick. Slight wind didn't stop it from doing its job. Had a small wood fire going in my fire ring in the front yard, put it out quick as well and still had more to go. Used about 20-seconds worth, forgot to use a stop watch so just guessing.

Best regards,
Mike Bauer