Flammable metals often require special chemicals to extinguish, assuming there are any. So, in fact, you WOULD use a "chemical extinguisher", but probably not an ordinary dry chemical extinguisher.
Only a Class D fire extinguisher should be used on fires involving combustible metals, such as magnesium. It will smother them by denying access to oxygen.
Fire extinguishers are marked by letter and color. These identify the contents of extinguisher (water, foam, wet chemical, e.g.), and fire classification.(paper and wood, combustible metals, e.g).
bismuth
A Class D fire involving combustible metals like magnesium or titanium should be extinguished using a specialized Class D fire extinguisher designed for metal fires.
You would not want to use a pressure water extinguisher on any electrical fire due to the possibility of electricity being conducted through the water and injuring someone. A CO2, dry chemical or "clean agent" (e.g., "Halogenated") extinguisher would be a better choice for an electrical fire, knowing that dry chemical powder will make quite a mess.
A class ABC which is an all purpose (Monoammonium phosphate) dry chemical fire extinguisher. Probably a 20# capacity within 25 feet reach lets say or minimum two 10# ABC extinguishers which are easier to handle weight wise. A class D (Sodium Chloride or Graphite chemical) fire extinguisher for burning metals may also be appropriate given the scenario here regarding a vessel with a fuel tank. If a fire gets hot enough to burn metals nearby, this class D type works wonders.
No, compressed air should not be used to recharge a dry chemical fire extinguisher. These extinguishers require specific dry chemical agents that are designed for fire suppression, and using compressed air could compromise their effectiveness or damage the extinguisher. Recharging should only be performed by certified professionals using the proper materials and methods according to manufacturer guidelines. Always refer to the extinguisher's manual or consult a fire safety expert for proper maintenance.
NO!!!!! Use a Dry Chemical extinguisher
NO!!!!! Use a Dry Chemical extinguisher
Fire extinguisher
Class D- Dry Chemical for fires in combustible metals such as sodium, magnesium, and potassium.
red = water and is used for wood paper textiles and solid material fires. DO not use on liquid elictrical or metal fires. blue = powder and is used for liquid and electrical fires. DO not use on metal fires. yellow = foam and is used for liquid fires. DO not use on electrical or metal fires black = carbon dioxide (CO) and is used for liquid and electrical fires DO not use on metal fires. halon can be used on all fires as well as dry chemical