What type of fire extinguisher is classified for combustible metals?

The classification of fire extinguishers is based on the type of materials they are designed to effectively combat. For combustible metals, the appropriate extinguisher is classified as Class D. This classification is specifically intended for fires that involve metals such as magnesium, titanium, and sodium, which can burn at extremely high temperatures and react differently compared to ordinary combustible materials.

Class D extinguishers contain dry powder agents that can effectively smother metal fires without reacting with the burning metal. Other classes of extinguishers are aimed at different categories of fires; for instance, Class A extinguishers are designed for ordinary combustibles like wood and paper, Class B for flammable liquids, and Class C for electrical fires. Since combustible metals require specialized handling and extinguishing methods, Class D is uniquely suited to address these challenges and safely extinguish such fires.