Compressed Air Foam Systems (CAFS)

Compressed Air Foam Systems (CAFS)

Compressed Air Foam System Air Metering Valves Compressed Air Screw Air Compressor Gauges Check Valve Water Valve Foam Tank Pressure Water Tank Foam Proportioner Water Pump

CAFS Components Water pump Compressor Proportioner

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

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

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

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

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%

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

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

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

Aerial CAFS Discharge

Bumper Turret CAFS Discharge Thinking outside the box

CAFS 5" Handline Way outside the box

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

Compressed Air Foam Systems (CAFS)