Compressed Air Foam Systems CAFS Compressed Air Foam

Compressed Air Foam Systems (CAFS)

Compressed Air Foam System Compressed Air Screw Air Compressor Water Tank Check Valve Water Valve Foam Tank Pr es su re Gauges Air Metering Valves Foam Proportioner Water Pump 124

CAFS Components Water pump Compressor Proportioner 125

Complete Systems • Fire pump manufacturers offer full CAFS packages. Components are assembled, tested and calibrated as a complete system. Darley “Auto. CAFS” 126

Compressed Air Foam Systems • Capabilities – Superior absorption of heat – Quick knockdown – Light hose lines: (per 100’ length) – 1 -1/2” Hose: Water - 103 lbs. CAFS - 35 lbs – 2 -1/2” Hose: Water - 271 lbs. CAFS - 84 lbs – Extended stream reach – Ability to make wet or dry foam • Limitations – Tradition and knowledge base 127

CAFS Is A Versatile Tool • Limited only by the user’s imagination – Think outside of the box – Be progressive – Be safe 128

Nozzles For CAFS • Straight bore – CAFS bubble • Variable pattern nozzle – foam solution 129

CAFS Characteristics • High energy system – Can be pumped higher and further than water at same psi due to lack of head pressure • Lower foam concentrate % required – 0. 2% - 0. 3% vs. 0. 5% 130

CAFS Characteristics • Small strong uniform bubbles • Greater foam durability • Low expansion system • User can easily adjust – Expansion ratio – Drain time – Foam type 131

CAFS Safety Characteristics • Light weight hose – Less strain on firefighters • Effect on hose – No water hammer – Reduced friction loss • Hose kinks – Effective hose stream with kink 132

Additional CAFS Benefits • High volume air compressor – – Air tools Air bags Tires Drain hose 133

Aerial CAFS Discharge 134

Bumper Turret CAFS Discharge Thinking outside the box 135

CAFS 5" Handline Way outside the box 136

Concentrate Delivery Systems • Many different levels of technology are used to deliver today’s water additives • Fully understand the capabilities and limitations of each before deciding on a system 137