Assessment of gas cooling capabilities of compressed air foam systems in fuel- and ventilation-controlled compartment fires

Abstract

This article studies the cooling capabilities of the compressed air foam system (CAFS) in fuel- and ventilation-controlled compartment fires. Tests were conducted with the CAFS and the traditional suppression agent, water mist. Tests were video recorded and the development of temperature inside the units was recorded using thermocouples, based on which a comparative analysis between the results by the CAFS and water mist is conducted. Results indicate that (1) the CAFS is more efficient in fuel-controlled fires, whereas for ventilation-controlled fires there is no noticeable difference between the two agents and (2) the CAFS does not contribute to or cause backdraft in ventilation-controlled experiments. © 2011 The Author(s).