Foam Systems/Deluge

Mainly used on large applications where water or gas cannot be used. These tend to be external such as transformers, oil tanks and oil storage silos.

A simple sprinkler open deluge type system with heads spread around the risk. A foam concentrate is mixed with the water to provide the typical expanding agent (the same as with extinguishers).

Will need a large amount of fabrication work to support the pipework, valves and heads.

Advantages

• Good for external areas.
• Covers large areas.
• Protects flammable liquids – suitable for airports, aircraft hangers, oil storage.

Disadvantages

• Foam deluge is a wet agent, so electrical risk needs to be considered.
• Messy – clean up required.
• Same disadvantages as sprinklers for water and pump supplies, although because of the expanding effects of foam sometimes not as much water is required.

Applications

• Machine spaces
• Tunnels
• Switch rooms
• Transportation
• Generators (local application)
• Fuel stores
• Aircraft hangars
• Storage silos
• Machines/processes that are outdoors