Foam type fire extinguisher: Advantages and Uses

Foam type fire extinguisher: Advantages and Uses

Foam fire extinguishers can provide fire protection. Fires can happen anytime and anywhere, especially in areas with potential combustible materials. To deal with this risk, the selection of an appropriate light fire extinguisher (APAR) is essential. 

One of the leading choices that is widely used in various sectors is foam fire extinguishers, especially the AFFF (Aqueous Film Forming Foam) type. This type of APAR offers various advantages that make it very effective in dealing with fires, both in industrial environments and public buildings. 

In addition, AFFF foam is known to be environmentally friendly and able to work quickly to stop the spread of fire.

Advantages of Foam Type Fire Extinguisher

Foam extinguishers, especially the AFFF type, are designed to provide quick and thorough protection against fires. Unlike other types of extinguishers such as chemical powders or carbon dioxide, foam has special capabilities that make it highly effective for certain fire situations. 

One of its main distinctive features is its ability to form a protective layer that stops the supply of oxygen to the fire. In addition, the lightweight and widespread characteristics of foam make it an ideal choice in various high-risk locations. Here are some of the main advantages that foam fire extinguishers have:

Can Cover a Large Area

One of the main advantages of foam fire extinguishers is their ability to cover a large area when used. When the foam is sprayed, it expands quickly and forms a film over the burning surface. 

These characteristics make foam highly effective in tackling spreading fires, especially in open spaces or areas with large amounts of combustible materials. The speed at which the foam spreads also helps minimize the potential for the fire to spread further.

Non-toxic and Leaves No Residue

Another advantage is the non-toxic and environmentally friendly nature of APAR foam. The chemicals in AFFF foam do not harm humans or the surrounding environment. This makes it safe to use, even in areas inhabited or used by many people. 

In addition, this foam does not leave a residue that is difficult to clean after the extinguishing is complete. This means that the risk of additional damage to equipment or property around the fire point can be significantly minimized.

Use of AFFF Foam Type Fire Extinguishers

Foam fire extinguishers are ideal for fighting class A and class B fires.

• Class A Fire

These fires involve non-metallic solid materials such as wood, fabric, paper, or rubber. In these situations, foam works by cooling the burning material while forming a protective layer that prevents oxygen from continuing to feed the fire. This process speeds up extinguishment and avoids the fire from reigniting.

• Class B Fire

This type of fire involves flammable liquids such as gasoline, oil, alcohol and other chemical solvents. AFFF foam is very effective for these situations due to its ability to form a film that seals the surface of the liquid, preventing contact with oxygen and stopping combustion completely.

Due to their effectiveness in dealing with both classes of fires, foam extinguishers are often the first choice in high fire risk locations, especially in the oil, chemical, fuel transportation and warehousing industries.

From its ability to cover a large area, its non-toxic nature, to its effectiveness in extinguishing various types of fires, foam fire extinguishers are clearly the ideal choice for optimal fire protection. 

Its use is highly recommended in industrial, commercial areas, as well as public facilities that have high fire potential.

To ensure the fire protection system functions optimally, it is best to use the services of a professional contractor such as Adiwarna.

As a trusted fire protection contractor, Adiwarna can help design a customized extinguishing system, install equipment to a high standard, and ensure all devices, including foam fire extinguishers, are ready for use whenever needed. Environmental and property safety can be better ensured with the right support from the start.