New methods of tank fire fighting
The need for large capacity storage tanks over 80-100 metres diameter has brought a new challenge to firefighters around the globe. The extinguishment of such fire surfaces is not simply a question of quantity, which can be solved by increasing the number of foam generators or foam pourers, new theories and methods also need to be developed. All the traditional recommendations and standards (including NFPA, BS, API, VcS, EN) suggest using static tactical rules for fighting fire in hydrocarbon storage tanks. In this case the foam application rate is independent (static) of the fire surface. But experience shows a poor success rate when using low foam application intensity values.
Conventional foam systems
In conventional foam systems a number of steps are required to convert foam concentrate, water and air into foam. The foam can subsequently be applied onto the burning surface. In the majority of cases these activities take place close to the scene of the fire. A team of trained manpower is required to set up these relatively complicated systems. In view of the tense situation during any fire, mistakes are likely to be made resulting in malperformance of the system.
The users have, over the past few years, had no choice but to accept this complicated and expensive system. But the on-going drive to reduce costs in the industry in general has, in many cases, resulted in very low manpower levels.
