Comparative Nozzle Study for Applying Aqueous Film Forming Foam on Large-Scale Fires
Abstract
A large-scale fire test program was conducted to evaluate the relative fire-fighting effectiveness of applying aqueous film forming foams (AFFF) through commercially available air-aspirating and non air-aspirating nozzles. The Navy MB-1 and P-4A and Air Force P-4 aircraft fire-rescue vehicles were used as nozzle test-beds. Nozzles with rated capacities of 250 gpm and 750 to 800 gpm were tested and evaluated on 4000 square feet and 8000 square feet JP-4 fuel fires, respectively. Eight of the 16 fires conducted contained an aircraft mock-up. The lower expansion, more fluid, longer reach aqueous film forming foams generated with the non air-aspirating type nozzles were found to provide superior fire extinguishing effectiveness compared to the air-aspirating type nozzles. Air-aspirated foams required approximately 50 percent longer to achieve 90 percent fire control than the non air-aspirated foams. No discernible difference in burnback resistance was found for either type of foam.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1978
- Accession Number
- ADA058562
Entities
People
- Edwin J. Jablonski
Organizations
- United States Naval Research Laboratory