FOAM EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS

The technology contained in foam extinguishing systems is highly complex and can therefore rarely be summarised in just a few words. As with all other extinguishing technologies, the application or fire load also determines the given solution for foam extinguishing systems. A wide range of guidelines must be taken into consideration for the design and layout of such systems.

Extinguishing foam is essentially a mixture of water, foaming agent and air. The mixture ratio of these three substances is adapted depending on the application.

The extinguishing effect comes from the heat-resistant foam forming a solid blanket over the flammable materials. This creates a cooling, separating and suppressive effect depending on the type of foam. The foam isolates the flames from the oxygen supply and suppresses the development of toxic flue gases. The chemical reaction for combustion is therefore halted and the flame is extinguished.

AREAS OF APPLICATION

In general, foam can be used anywhere that water alone would not have the desired extinguishing effect or the use of gas extinguishing systems or water mist systems would not be effective. Its largest area of application is therefore for combustible and highly flammable liquids. Foam is a good solution if there is a particularly high risk of a reignition and the burning material must therefore be separated from oxygen for a long period of time. It is also important to note that if one attempts to extinguish burning oil or fat fires with water, this could lead to an explosion

APPLICATIONS