Foam Fire Extinguishers

One of the most common types of fire extinguishers is a foam fire extinguisher. They are stocked in many industrial, commercial, and residential buildings. They are used to put out fires involving flammable solid and liquid materials. The foam sprayed out of the extinguisher creates a cooling blanket that ensures that the fire does not reignite. This type of extinguisher is also known as the AFFF fire extinguisher.

Let’s discuss these in detail.

AFFF Fire Extinguisher

Always be aware of the type of fire extinguisher that you have inside your premises. AFFF fire extinguishers are clearly identified with a cream-colored sticker that says ‘Foam’. Using an incorrect extinguisher may lead to complications during a fire. These extinguishers are rated for Class A and B fires.
These fire extinguishers come in different sizes. 6-liter size is the one that is most commonly used. It also comes in 2, 3, and 9-liter sizes.

How Does An AFFF Fire Extinguisher Work?

In the case of a Class A or Class B fire, involving wood, gasoline, or other flammable materials, you can pick up the nearby AFFF fire extinguisher and use the advised method to spray the foam at the base of the flame.
The thick layer of foam creates a film that suffocates the flame. The film suppresses the liquid vapors of the flame and the fire goes out.

What is An AFFF Fire Extinguisher Used For?

Here are the real-world uses of the commonly used fire extinguishers:

 

• When there is a fire involving solids like wood, clothes, or paper, these type of extinguishers are recommended
• When there is a fire involving petrol or paint, careful and methodic use of these extinguishers should be practiced
• Another use case of these extinguishers is in the case of electrical fires. But do check if the extinguisher you are using has passed the required conductivity tests. Normal AFFF fire extinguishers are not recommended for electrical fire use
• Do not use these extinguishers on Class F fires – fires that are caused by grease or oil
• Do not use these extinguishers on Class C fires – fires that are caused by gasses like butane

• How Does Foam Extinguish Flammable Liquid Fires?

  When using to put out a liquid-related fire, do not spray directly on the fire. The splashing liquid can spread the fire to nearby areas. If the fire is burning inside a container, spray the foam at the inside edge of it.

  If the fire is burning on the outside, spray the foam across the top of the flame. Or you can also spray it on the surface adjacent to the flame. The foam will drip down to the flame and suffocate the flame. It creates a barrier between the flame and the liquid so the fire is cut off from the flammable liquid.

  How Does Foam Extinguish Flammable Solid Fires?

  When the flames are on the top of a solid material spray the foam at the base of the flames and move it side to side. This way, the water-based solvent in the extinguisher will cool down the fire.

  You also have to move the foam spray backward and forward to cover all of the flames. You also have to examine the fire area to see if there are any embers left that can cause the fire to reignite. Spray the area thoroughly for maximum safety.

  What Is Inside A Foam Fire Extinguisher?

  AFFF fire extinguishers are mainly made of two ingredients. There is a water-based ingredient that can cool the fire. There is also the main ingredient Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF). This is the foam that creates a film on top of the flame to keep it from reigniting.

  Please always be careful in using the extinguisher and always adhere to the specific instructions for the type of fire that you are dealing with. Read the label of the extinguisher you are using to make sure that it is the right one for the Class of fire you are using to extinguish.

  About Capital Fire and Safety Solutions:

  Capital Solutions is the premier provider of fire extinguisher solutions for businesses and residential clients. We have AFFF fire extinguishers for factories, industrial complexes, office buildings, and residential premises. Contact us today to get all types of quality fire safety equipment and products.