Is DSPA the Answer to your Knockdown Needs? Aerosol generators have been around for some time, but the relatively new DSPA-5 knockdown tool could be the solution to a variety of issues currently being faced by various fire and rescue services in India, including: high rise apartment blocks; reducing water damage; safer working conditions for firefighters. First introduced at an open demonstration hosted by Pune Fire department in 2012, the DSPA-5 is being closely monitored by a number of fire and rescue services in India, with Steel Authority India Ltd. Fire Service the latest brigade to test it at their Fire Training Unit. The DSPA-5 is a hand held, grenade-like device that is activated manually by a sharp tug on the detonator. The firefighter then has around eight seconds to throw the device towards the seat of the fire, either through an open door or window. There is no need for the firefighter to enter the structure. This activation converts the solid material in the canister into an aerosol that floods the compartment. The compound consists mainly of potassium-based particles, which are non-toxic, non-conductive and non-corrosive. They are harmless to humans and animals and environmentally friendly; so there are no issues with clearing away afterwards and disposing of the used canisters. Any subsequent fire investigation is not compromised. The compound acts by interrupting the chemical reaction that causes the flames. By removing the flames the temperature in the compartment is dramatically reduced, so making it safer for the firefighters to enter the structure to attack the fire. On the
After the pin is removed from the starter, the device will make a clicking sound. The DSPA-5 is now activated and will start producing aerosol after a delay of 6 to 8 seconds. The DSPA-5 will produce all its aerosol within 40 seconds. Always throw the DSPA5 directly inside the room without any hesitation! Keep 48
downside, however, is the lack of visibility once the DSPA-5 has been activated. This can be overcome by the use of thermal imaging cameras. Trained fire fighters and first responders need to evaluate and judge the situation carefully before deciding if the DSPA-5 can be deployed. If a room is properly closed (preventing aerosol loss), the more effective the DSPA-5 will be. Activation of the DSPA-5 has been made very simple for any fire person to use it : Bend the far ends of the pins straight, like displayed down below:
a safe distance considering the temperature build up around the DSPA-5. Close the room immediately after deployment. Frans Vogelzangs, CEO of DSPA b.v., the Netherlands manufacturer for the DSPA products, explains, June 2021 - www.visionmediahitech.com
