What is the purpose of saponification in relation to Class K extinguishers?

The purpose of saponification in relation to Class K extinguishers is to turn fats into soap-like foam. Class K fires typically involve cooking oils and fats, which can be particularly challenging to extinguish because they burn at higher temperatures and can reignite easily. When a Class K extinguisher is deployed, the agent typically contains a potassium-based compound that reacts with the fats in the cooking oil. This reaction produces a soap-like foam that helps to encapsulate the burning material and effectively cools it down, reducing the possibility of reignition. The foam forms a barrier that suppresses the flames and prevents the release of flammable vapors, making it an essential feature for managing kitchen fires safely and effectively.