What type of extinguisher is specifically used for class D fires?

Class D fires involve combustible metals, such as magnesium, titanium, and lithium, which require specific extinguishing agents that can effectively smother and cool the burning material without reacting with it. Dry powder extinguishers are specially designed for this purpose, as they use a dry powder agent that can smother the flames and absorb heat. The powder acts by forming a barrier between the metal and the oxygen necessary for combustion, effectively stopping the fire.

In contrast, foam extinguishers, carbon dioxide extinguishers, and water extinguishers are unsuitable for Class D fires. Foam extinguishers can potentially react with certain metals, exacerbating the fire. Carbon dioxide extinguishers are primarily effective on flammable liquid and electrical fires but not on metal fires. Water extinguishers can cause explosive reactions with combustible metals, making them particularly dangerous in the case of a Class D fire. Therefore, dry powder extinguishers are the recommended choice for effectively and safely extinguishing fires involving combustible metals.