123. Compressed Air Foam Systems (CAFS)

124. 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

125. CAFS Components
Water pump
Compressor
Proportioner

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

127. Compressed Air Foam Systems
Capabilities
Superior absorption of heat
Quick knockdown
Light hose lines: (per 100’ length)
1-1/2” Hose: Water lbs. CAFS - 35 lbs
2-1/2” Hose: Water lbs. CAFS - 84 lbs
Extended stream reach
Ability to make wet or dry foam
Limitations
Tradition and knowledge base

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

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

130. 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%

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

132. 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

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

134. Aerial CAFS Discharge

135. Bumper Turret CAFS Discharge
Thinking outside the box

136. CAFS 5" Handline
Way outside the box

137. 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