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The fire suppression requirements of each facility vary depending on factors such as the size of the facility, the hazardous areas that need protection, the authority having jurisdiction, and the assets that require protection. Therefore, the selection of a suitable fire suppression system depends on these factors.

 

Whether installing new systems or inspecting or modifying existing systems, we assure that testing and maintenance comply with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) codes for foam systems. WolffFireFoam also works with clients' workforce to teach them how to properly maintain and operate their foam fire protection systems. 

Maintenance

Installation

Testing

Standard Services:

  • Transferring C8 concentrate from tanks and lines to containers with caution

  • Periodically flushing concentrate lines and tanks as needed

  • Replacing bladders when necessary

  • Filling tanks with new concentrate according to the manufacturer's instructions

  • Upgrading proportioner with foam and ensuring that it's listed

  • Testing the system for proportioning accuracy

  • Preparing service and test reports

  • Conducting annual inspections

  • Inspecting foam concentrate tanks to confirm their functionality

  • Performing system flow testing

  • Collecting samples of foam concentrate for laboratory analysis to verify its efficacy

  • Rectifying deficiencies resulting from failed testing or changes to the hazard being protected

 

Additionally, we can recommend and assist with procuring equipment and materials including:

  • Identifying containers for existing foam and solution

  • Properly disposing of existing foam and solution

  • Ensuring that the bladder, foam concentrate, and proportioner are listed or approved for the existing equipment

There are growing concerns over foam containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (“PFAS”).  Products that contained larger fluorinated components (C8) are being phased out in favor of products that only contain smaller fluorinated components (C6) where fluorinated foams are still allowed.  For jurisdictions where fluorinated foams may no longer be allowed (e.g., military installations after October 1st 2024 according to National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020), facilities using fluorinated products (C8 or C6) would need to replace their foam with fluorine free products.

 

The FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 directs the Federal Aviation Administration (“FAA”) to cease requiring the use of fluorinated foam (e.g., C8 or C6) in Airports by October 4, 2021 opening the door for the use of fluorine free foam products as they become available.  

Replacement of AFFF Foam Concentrates

How Does a Foam Fire Suppression System Work?

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A foam suppression system is a water-based system that incorporates an extinguishing agent. It is suitable for environments where flammable or combustible liquids are utilized, processed, manufactured, or stored, and also for reducing vapor concentration.

 

There are 3 different ways a foam system will suppress a fire:

  • Rapidly withdrawing heat at a higher rate than it is produced

  • Preventing oxygen from reaching the fire and separating the fuel from the oxidizing agent

  • Suppressing the vapor phase concentration of the fuel and/or oxidizing agent below the level required for combustion


Types of Foam Fire Suppression Systems

There are 3 standard types of foam suppression systems, each offering a different method of suppression based on the need of the facility.
 

Foam Bladder Tank Wolff Fire Foam

1

Low Expansion Systems

This type of foam is characterized by a very wet and fluid blanket with small bubbles. It is usually discharged through sprinkler systems, fire hoses, monitors, spray nozzles, and foam makers. The primary applications of this foam are in locations such as warehouses where flammable liquids are stored, process or manufacturing areas, truck or rail loading racks, fuel storage tanks, rooftop helipads, and aircraft hangars.

2

Medium Expansion Systems

This type of foam is a dense blanket, which can be two feet deep or more. It is primarily employed for vapor suppression in refineries, chemical manufacturing areas, and containment dikes to provide protection.

3

High Expansion Systems

This foam type consists of large bubbles, and the blanket is more damp than wet, with a depth typically ranging from three to forty-five feet. This system type is the preferred option when total flooding of a hazard area or large area volume protection is necessary. High expansion systems are commonly used in applications such as aircraft hangars, total flooding warehouses, and Liquified Natural Gas impound basins.

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