What happens if dry chemical systems are not properly maintained?

If dry chemical systems are not properly maintained, the likelihood of failure during activation increases. This maintenance is critical because it ensures that all components of the system, such as the storage tanks, valves, discharge nozzles, and control mechanisms, are in optimal working condition. Neglecting regular maintenance can lead to obstructions, leaks, or degradation of the chemical agent, which impairs the system's ability to effectively suppress a fire when activated.

Proper maintenance practices, including routine inspections, testing, and servicing, are essential to identify and rectify any issues before they lead to system failure. In a fire emergency, an unmaintained system may not deploy the dry chemical agent as intended, resulting in potentially disastrous consequences. Thus, the increased likelihood of failure underscores the importance of adhering to maintenance protocols as outlined in the NFPA 17 standard.