How do fire extinguishing systems primarily function?

Fire extinguishing systems primarily function by diluting the oxygen levels to stop combustion. Combustion requires three elements: heat, fuel, and oxygen; this is known as the fire triangle. By reducing the concentration of oxygen in the area of the fire, extinguishing systems effectively disrupt this triangle and inhibit the chemical reactions necessary for the fire to continue burning.

In many fire extinguishing systems, agents such as carbon dioxide or inert gases are used. When these agents are released, they fill the space around the fire, lowering the oxygen concentration to levels that do not support combustion. This method is particularly effective in enclosed spaces, such as engine compartments or aircraft cabins, where oxygen levels can be manipulated more easily.

Fire extinguishing systems may use other methods, such as cooling or isolating the fire, but the primary function is to remove or reduce the oxygen available to sustain a fire. These alternative methods, like cooling the flames with water, are secondary tactics that can aid in extinguishing a fire but do not address the oxygen-fuel relationship directly as a controlled approach.