What is the primary agent used in Class K extinguishers?

Class K extinguishers are specifically designed for fires that involve cooking oils and fats, which are common in commercial kitchens. The primary agent used in Class K extinguishers is wet chemical agents. These agents are formulated to cool the fire and suppress flames by creating a barrier between the fuel and the oxygen. Additionally, wet chemical agents can effectively emulsify the burning oils, preventing re-ignition.

Wet chemical extinguishing agents typically contain potassium acetate, which is effective for combating the high-temperature fires caused by cooking oils. This unique property of wet chemicals makes them essential for safely extinguishing Class K fires without spreading the flames, which can happen with other extinguishing agents like dry powders or carbon dioxide. Understanding the specific application of these extinguishers helps ensure safety in environments where such fires are likely to occur.