Evaluation of the Compressed Air Foam System-Mobile (CAFS-M)
Abstract
The Marine Corps has approved the replacement of the Twin Agent Unit (TAU) with the Compressed Air Foam System-Mobile (CAFS-M) to provide initial response fire protection capabilities. Modifications were performed on the CAFS-M due to issues on the adequacy of the system to meet mission requirements. This test series validated the modifications, reconfirmed the CAFS-M capabilities and determined the radiant heat effects on firefighters while using the system. A series of seven JP-8 pool fires, ranging in size from 2500 to 7800-sq ft, were used to evaluate the 90% control and full extinguishment times. The effects of radiant heat on the firefighter were monitored using a remote telemetry data acquisition system to monitor skin temperature using temperature probes. System operation was evaluated by conducting tests for throw distance, agent duration, agent stream decay, agent flow rate, expansion ratio, 25% drainage time and foam concentration. The CAFS-M controlled and extinguished all fires within the maximum time criteria. The CAFS-M is capable of extinguishing fires twice the minimum requirement using only 25% of its capacity. Skin temperature measurements confirmed that the CAFS-M provided adequate performance to reduce radiant heat exposure and prevent any subsequent burns. System evaluation showed no performance inadequacies.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 05, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADA398737
Entities
People
- Jennifer L. Kalberer
Organizations
- Air Force Research Laboratory