Firefighting foam works by smothering the fire, breaking the chain reaction of the fire triangle, and cooling the fire to prevent re-ignition. There are several different types of firefighting foam, each with its own unique properties and applications. This article will take a closer look at the different types of firefighting foam.

Aqueous Film-Forming Foam

Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) is a synthetic foam that forms a thin layer of foam on the surface of flammable liquids. AFFF is effective in extinguishing fires involving flammable liquids, such as gasoline, diesel fuel, and aviation fuel. AFFF is also effective in preventing fires from spreading, as the film created by the foam helps to contain the fire. This is one of the most powerful firefighting foams used by any emergency services. It's effective and has broad use.

Alcohol-Resistant Aqueous Film-Forming Foam

Alcohol-Resistant Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AR-AFFF) is a type of AFFF that is specifically designed for use on fires involving alcohol-based fuels, such as ethanol and methanol. AR-AFFF is more effective than traditional AFFF in extinguishing fires involving alcohol-based fuels, as it is resistant to the solvent properties of these fuels.

Fire departments at airports commonly need a foam that's resistant to alcohol-fueled fires, such as AR-AFFF. Many other fire departments carry this foam, too.

Protein Foam

Protein foam is a type of foam made from natural proteins, such as animal or vegetable proteins. Protein foam is used to extinguish fires in flammable liquids, such as oil and grease fires. Protein foam is effective in extinguishing fires because it has a high expansion rate, which helps to smother the fire and cool the surrounding area.

Class A Foam

Class A foam is a type of foam designed for use on fires involving ordinary combustibles, such as wood, paper, and textiles. Class A foam is effective because it creates a blanket of foam that smothers the fire and prevents it from spreading. Class A foam is also effective in preventing re-ignition, as it helps to cool the fire and prevent it from re-igniting.

Class B Foam

Class B foam is a type of foam designed for use on fires involving flammable liquids, gases, and greases. Class B foam is effective because it creates a blanket of foam that smothers the fire and prevents it from spreading. This foam is also effective in preventing re-ignition, as it helps to cool the fire and prevent it from re-igniting.

For more information on firefighting foam, contact a professional near you.