The term ‘Dry Powder‘ is the general term for a category of fire extinguishing agents. Dry powder consists of very fine particles. The primary chemical components of dry powder include sodium bicarbonate, potassium bicarbonate, or mono-ammonium phosphate, along with additional particulate materials that undergo special treatment to enhance resistance to packing, moisture absorption (caking), and to ensure optimal flow capabilities.

The ABC powder is a type of dry chemical used in most fire extinguishers. It is the most commonly utilized dry powder for extinguishing fires and demonstrates effective performance against various types of blazes. However, there are other types of dry powders available. Purple K powder, a compound of potassium bicarbonate, is highly effective on petrol and oil-based fires. Purple K is commonly used in oil refineries, airport tarmacs, gas stations, military facilities, navy warships, power plants, and other locations that handle large quantities of flammable liquids.

The chemical powders utilized in the powder extinguishing system are highly efficient and quick-acting extinguishants. The rapid extinguishing effect of the dry chemical powder is attributed to its suffocating action, which intervenes chemically in the combustion process.Dry chemical powder is the most commonly used and widely used extinguishing agent in fire extinguishers.