Compressed Air Foam Systems Compressed Air Foam Systems (CAFS)(CAFS)

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Air MeteringValves

Check Valve

Water Valve

Compressed Air

Water Pump

FoamTank

WaterTank

Pres

sure

GaugesScrewAirCompressor

Foam Proportioner

Compressed Air Foam SystemCompressed Air Foam System

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CAFS ComponentsCAFS Components

Water pump

Compressor

Proportioner

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Complete SystemsComplete Systems

• Fire pump manufacturers offer full CAFS packages. Components are assembled, tested and calibrated as a complete system.

Darley “AutoCAFS”

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• 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

Compressed Air Foam SystemsCompressed Air Foam Systems

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CAFS Is A Versatile Tool CAFS Is A Versatile Tool

• Limited only by the user’s imagination

– Think outside of the box

– Be progressive

– Be safe

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Nozzles For CAFSNozzles For CAFS

• Straight bore – CAFS bubble• Variable pattern nozzle – foam solution

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• 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%

CAFS CharacteristicsCAFS Characteristics

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• Small strong uniform bubbles

• Greater foam durability

• Low expansion system

• User can easily adjust– Expansion ratio– Drain time– Foam type

CAFS CharacteristicsCAFS Characteristics

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• Light weight hose– Less strain on

firefighters

• Effect on hose– No water hammer– Reduced friction

loss

• Hose kinks– Effective hose

stream with kink

CAFS Safety CharacteristicsCAFS Safety Characteristics

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• High volume air compressor– Air tools– Air bags– Tires– Drain hose

Additional CAFS BenefitsAdditional CAFS Benefits

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Aerial CAFS DischargeAerial CAFS Discharge

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Thinking outside the box

Bumper Turret CAFS DischargeBumper Turret CAFS Discharge

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CAFS 5CAFS 5"" Handline HandlineWay outside the box

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Concentrate Delivery SystemsConcentrate 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