The study found that water mist systems, effective on diesel fires, do not yield the same results on methanol fires
Survitec, a provider of survival technology solutions, reveals concerning findings regarding the efficacy of existing fire-fighting methods for methanol-based fires on vessels. The study, which included extensive comparative fire tests on dual-fuel marine engines utilising both diesel oil and methanol, indicates that conventional approaches may fall short in extinguishing methanol fires.
Michał Sadzyński, Product Manager for Water Mist Systems at Survitec, emphasised the inadequacy of traditional water mist fire suppression mechanisms when dealing with methanol pool fires and spray fires. He stated, “Our tests confirm that traditional water mist fire suppression mechanisms do not perform as expected on methanol pool fires and methanol spray fires. A completely different approach is required if these ships are to remain safe.”
Methanol, characterised by its significantly lower flashpoint of 12°C (54°F), presents unique challenges in fire safety compared to conventional hydrocarbon fuels like diesel. However, while established fire safety regulations and testing standards exist for diesel fuels, protocols for alcohol-based fuels such as methanol and ethanol are yet to be developed.
Sadzyński highlighted the urgent need for action, stating, “We believe this is a high-risk situation that needs immediate action. Methanol fires are far more aggressive than fires involving traditional hydrocarbon fuels. Methanol fires have different physicochemical properties and so they cannot be extinguished as easily or with the same approach.”
The study found that water mist systems, effective on diesel fires, do not yield the same results on methanol fires. Adjustments in nozzle placement, spacing, and other factors are necessary to enhance water mist suppression effectiveness on methanol fires.
Furthermore, the investigation underscores the need for retrofitting existing vessels to run on methanol, requiring a complete overhaul and redesign of fixed fire-fighting arrangements. Specific regulations outlined in IMO MSC.1/Circ.1621 necessitate approved alcohol-resistant foam systems for ships operating on methanol.
Maciej Nieścioruk, Product Manager for Foam Systems at Survitec, emphasised the challenges of extinguishing methanol pool fires in confined bilge spaces and stressed the importance of delivering properly expanded foam in such scenarios.
These findings come amidst increasing orders for methanol-fueled ships, driven by the fuel’s potential to meet emissions abatement targets. With forecasts predicting accelerated adoption rates, there is a pressing need for stakeholders to address methanol’s unique fire risks and establish clear standards, testing protocols, and safety rules for its use in marine applications.
