8/19/2019 Fixed or Semi Fixed Foam...
1/35
In the early years of the oil industry, fire in astorage tank was a common occurrence. Virtuallyall products were stored in cone roof tanks built ofriveted steel plates and the roof was oftenconstructed with wood and tar coated paper.Tank fires were common especially after alightning storm. This costly experience graduallyled to improvements in better codes andguidelines for handling storage tank fires.Floating roof tanks were adopted for low flashpoint petroleum products and proved to be a most
reliable method of protection against losses due tofires. The less volatile products with higher flashpoints continue to be stored in welded steel coneroof tanks.
As the frequency of fully involved storage tankfires decreases to a more acceptable level, thesize of fire, when it happens, becomes larger dueto the increase in tank size and capacity. It isquite common to see tanks with diameters in ex-cess of 328 ft. (100 meters) capable of storing amillion barrels of product
One practical method to protect flammable liquidstorage tanks from fire is with a fixed or a semi-fixed foam fire protection system. Whenengineered, installed and maintained correctly,these systems will give many years of reliableservice. The foam system can be used for fireprevention, control or direct extinguishment of anyflammable or combustible liquid fire within thetank.
In order to select the correct foam system, it isnecessary to understand the following systems:
A Fixed System is a complete installation piped
from a central foam station, discharging throughfixed discharge devices on the hazard being pro-tected. Foam proportioning components are per-manently installed.
A Semi Fixed System is an installation where the
hazard is equipped with fixed discharge device(s)which connect to piping that terminates a safe
FIXED OR SEMI-FIXED
FOAM FIRE PROTECTION
SYSTEMS FOR STORAGE
TANKS
distance from the hazard. (Normally outside thedike wall.) Foam producing materials are trans-ported to the scene after the fire starts and areconnected to the piping.
DEFINITIONS
There are three major types of tanks commonlyused for the storage of combustible or flammableliquids.
• Cone roof tank
• Open top floating roof tank
• Internal floating roof tank/Covered FloatingRoof
A Cone Roof Storage Tank has vertical sides
and is equipped with a fixed cone-shaped roofthat is welded to the sides of the tank. Tanks thathave been designed in accordance with APIstandards have a weak seam at the joint wherethe roof and sides meet. In the event of aninternal explosion, the roof separates and blows
off leaving the tank shell intact. This systemallows the tank to retain its contents and anyresulting fire will involve the full surface of theexposed flammable liquid.
An Open Top Floating Roof Storage Tank is
similar to the cone roof tank in construction butwith the exception that it has no fixed roof. Apontoon type roof floats directly on the flammableliquid surface. This floating roof has a mechanicalshoe or tube seal attached to its full perimeter.The rim seal covers the space between thefloating roof and the tank shell ( side wall ).
An Internal Floating Roof/Covered Floating
Roof Storage Tank is a combination of both the
cone roof and the open top floating roof tank.The tank has a cone roof but with the addition ofan internal floating roof or pan that floats directlyon the fuel surface. This type of tank can beidentified by the open vents in the tank side walls
just beneath the roof joint. If the internal floatingroof is other than a steel double deck or pontoon
8/19/2019 Fixed or Semi Fixed Foam...
2/35
type, the fire protection system should bedesigned for full surface fires ( similar to cone rooftanks ). For the double deck or pontoon internalroofs of steel construction, a design for seal areaprotection shall be permitted (same as openfloating roof tanks).
Small quantities of flammable liquids aresometimes stored in horizontal style tanks whichnormally sit on saddles or in underground storagefacilities. This section applies only to the threemajor types of tanks as listed above.
IDENTIFY THE FLAMMABLE LIQUID
There are two basic classifications of flammableand combustible liquids:
•
Hydrocarbon ( non water miscible ) and• Polar Solvent ( water miscible )
The Hydrocarbon family typically consists ofstandard petroleum products such as - Gasoline,Kerosene, Diesel, Jet Fuel, Heptane, Crude Oiletc. products that do not mix with water.
The Polar Solvent group typically consists of -Ethanol, Methanol, Ketone, Acetone etc. or pro-ducts that will mix readily with water.
All Chemguard U.L. Listed and Standard Grade
Foam Concentrates are suitable for use onHydrocarbon fuel fires or spills.
Only Chemguard U.L. Listed and Standard GradeUltraGuard 3% and the 3%-6% ( at 6% propor-tioning rate ) Alcohol Resistant - Aqueous FilmForming Foam ( AR-AFFF ) concentrates aresuitable for use on Polar Solvent Fuel fires orspills.
NOTE: Pure MTBE is only slightly water miscible
( approx. 4% - 6% ).
FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
PER NFPA 11
Flammable liquids mean any liquid having a flashpoint below 100
o
F ( 37.8o
C ) and having a vaporpressure not exceeding 40 psi (276 kpa)(absolute)at 100
o
F ( 37.8o
C ).
Flammable Liquids are subdivided as follows:
Class I liquids include those having flash pointsbelow 100
o
F ( 37.8o
C ) and may be subdivided asfollows:
(a) Class IA liquids include those having flashpoints below 73
o
F ( 22.8o
C ) and having aboiling point below 100
o
F ( 37.8o
C ).(b) Class IB liquids include those having flash
points below 73o
F ( 22.8o
C ) and having aboiling point above 100oF ( 37.8
o
C ).(c) Class IC liquids include those having flash
points at or above 73o
F ( 22.8o
C ) and below100
o
F ( 37.8o
C ).
Combustible Liquids mean any liquid having aflash point at or above 100
o
F ( 37.8o
C ). Theymay be sub-divided as follows:
(a) Class II liquids include those having flashpoints at or above 100
o
F ( 37.8o
C ) andbelow 140
o
F ( 60o
C ).(b) Class IIIA liquids include those having flash
points at or above 140o
F ( 60o
C ) and below200
o
F ( 93.3o
C ).(c) Class IIIB liquids include those having flash
points at or above 200o
F ( 93.3o
C ).
FIRE PROTECTION OF STORAGE TANKS
U.L. has established two different types of foam
discharge outlets:
• Type II Discharge Outlet - A fixed device thatdelivers foam onto the burning liquid and partiallysubmerges the foam and produces restrictedagitation of the surface. Examples of this type ofdevice are Foam Chambers and Foam Makers.
• Type III Discharge Outlet - A fixed or portabledevice that delivers foam in a manner that causesthe foam to fall directly onto the surface of theburning liquid in such a manner that causesgeneral agitation. Examples of this type of device
are Hose Stream Nozzles and Monitors.
There are two basic methods of fire protectionsystems for storage tanks:
• Sub-surface Base Injection
• Over the Top - (Subdivided as follows)Foam ChambersFoam MakersPortable Foam MonitorFoam Tower
8/19/2019 Fixed or Semi Fixed Foam...
3/35
SUB-SURFACE BASE INJECTION
The sub-surface method of fire protectionproduces foam with a "High Back Pressure FoamMaker" located outside the storage tank. Thissystem delivers the expanded foam mass throughpiping into the base of the tank. The pipe may bean existing product line or can be a dedicated fireprotection foam line. The expanded foam enteringthe tank through a discharge outlet is injected intothe flammable liquid. The discharge outlet mustbe a minimum of 1 ft. above any water that maybe present at the base of the tank. The foam willbe destroyed if injected into the water layer. Wheninjected into the fuel, the foam will rise through thefuel and form a vapor tight foam blanket on thefuel surface.
Advantages of Sub-surface
• The rising foam can cause the fuel in the tankto circulate which can assist in cooling the fuelat the surface.
• If there is an explosion and fire that coulddamage the top of the tank, the sub-surfaceinjection system is not likely to suffer damage.
• The discharging foam is more efficientlydirected to the fuel surface without anyinterruption from the thermal updraft of thefire.
Disadvantages of Sub-surface
• CANNOT be used in storage tanks containingpolar solvent type fuels or products thatrequire the use of AR-AFFF type foamconcentrates.
• Not Recommended for use in either FloatingRoof or Internal Floating Roof type tanks.
• Caution must be used so that the maximumfoam inlet velocity is not exceeded; otherwise,excessive fuel pickup by the foam as it entersthe tank will be experienced.
• Not to be used for protection of Class 1Ahydrocarbon liquids.
HIGH BACK PRESSURE FOAM MAKER
The HBPFM device is mounted in the foam lineused to aspirate the foam solution before it isdischarged into the storage tank base. It willtypically give an expansion ratio of between 2 -1
and 4 - 1. The device is capable of dischargingagainst considerable back pressure which can beas high as 40% of the operating pressure. Theback pressure is an accumulation of the headpressure of the fuel inside the storage tank andany friction loss between the foam maker and thetank. A minimum of 100 psi inlet pressure into theHBPFM is normally required to ensure correctoperation. The foam velocity through the piping tothe tank from the HBPFM is very critical. Withflammable liquids, the foam velocity entering thetank should NOT exceed 10 ft. per second andwith combustible liquids the foam velocity shouldNOT exceed 20 ft. per second.
The following chart shows the minimum dischargetimes and application rates for Sub-surfaceapplication:
Hydrocarbon Minimum Minimum
Type Fuel Discharge Application
Time Rate
Flash point between 100oF and 30 min. 0.10 gpm / ft.
140oF (37.8oC and 93.3oC) 4.1 L/min./m
Flash point below 100oF 55 min. 0.10 gpm / ft.
(37.8oC) liquids heated above 4.1 L/min./m
their flash points.
Crude Petroleum 55 min. 0.10 gpm / ft.
4.1 L/min./m
NOTE: The maximum application rate shall be
0.20 gpm / ft. ( 8.1 L/min./m ).
FOAM CHAMBERSTYPE II DISCHARGE DEVICE
The Foam Chamber is normally used on coneroof storage tanks. The chamber is bolted orwelded on the outside of the tank shell near theroof joint. A deflector is mounted on the inside ofthe tank so that the discharging foam from thefoam chamber will be diverted back against theinside of the tank wall.
The foam chamber is mounted on the cone roofstorage tank wall shell in a vertical position justbelow the roof joint, or approximately 8" to 12"down from the roof joint to the center point of thefoam chamber outlet.
In sequence Chemguard Models FC 2.2, 3, 4 and6 foam chambers are to be mounted from approx.8" to approx. 12" down from the roof joint.
8/19/2019 Fixed or Semi Fixed Foam...
4/35
When the foam chamber is mounted correctly, theinternal glass seal of the chamber will be justslightly higher in elevation than the roof joint onthe storage tank.
Each foam chamber mounted on a cone roof
storage tank SHOULD have its own individuallyvalved riser supplying the foam solution fromoutside the dike area. For correct operation, aminimum of 40 psi is required at the inlet to thefoam chamber.
FOAM MAKERSTYPE II DISCHARGE DEVICE
The foam maker is normally used to aspirate foamsolution before being discharged inside a dike(bund) area or when used with external floating
roof tanks to supply foam to the rim seal area.
The discharge pipe down stream of the foammaker is sized to slow the velocity of theexpanded foam and shaped to deflect the foamback against the inside of the dike wall or onto asplash board or the tank shell wall when used forfloating roof seal protection.
The splash board is to be mounted above the topof the floating roof tank. The correct sizedischarge pipe from the foam maker should beinstalled per the information supplied in the dike
protection system design information.When mounted on a storage tank or used in adike protection system, the foam maker can bemounted in either a horizontal or vertical positionwithout any detrimental effect on foamperformance.
It is recommended that a minimum 12" length ofstraight pipe be installed upstream from the foammaker during the installation.
When using the Chemguard Model CGFM 1.5Foam Maker for a dike fire protection system, a3" diameter pipe with minimum length of 28" and amaximum of 100" must be connected to the foammaker outlet ( down stream side ). This length ofdischarge pipe allows for the correct foamexpansion to take place and slows the dischargevelocity. The Model CGFM 2.5 Foam Makerrequires a length of 4" pipe to be connected to thedischarge side of the maker. This length of pipeshould also be a minimum of 28" but can have a
maximum length of 120". The discharge pipe inboth instances should be directed back againstthe inside wall of the dike. This installation allowsa more gentle application to the flammable liquidwithin the dike and lessen the submergence of thefoam.
Criteria for sizing a foam system for a cone roof storage tank.
• Identify the fuel inside the tank.
• Type of foam concentrate to be used.
• Calculate the fuel surface area (TTR2). *****
• Application rate.
• Type of discharge device required and quantity(based on fuel flash point and tank diameter).
• Calculate discharge duration.
• Supplementary hose lines required and dis-charge duration.
• Quantity of foam concentrate required.
• Establish bill of materials.
NOTE:
To determine the quantity of foam concentrate ina given quantity of foam solution, use the fol-lowing formula:
Multiply the foam solution by x .01 if using a 1% type of concentrate x .03 if using a 3% type of concentrate x .06 if using a 6% type of concentrate
EXAMPLE
Cone roof tank - 150 ft. diameter
Fuel - Gasoline
Foam Concentrate - 3% AFFF
Surface area - 75' x 75' x 3.1417 = 17,672 sq. ft.
App. Rate @ .10 gpm per sq. ft. ( Per NFPA 11).10 x 17,672 sq. ft. = 1,767.2 gpm of foamsolution required
8/19/2019 Fixed or Semi Fixed Foam...
5/35
Discharge device - Foam Chamber, Qty. 4required
Discharge Duration - 55 min. 1,767.2 x 55 =97,196 gallons of foam solution x .03 =2,915.88 gallons of 3% AFFF concentrate
required.
Supplementary Hose Lines required ( Per NFPA11) - Qty. 3 required ( each minimum 50 gpm ) (Tank dia. over 120 ft. )
Hose Line discharge duration ( Per NFPA 11) -30 min. ( Tank dia. over 95 ft. ) 3 x 50 = 150 x30 = 4,500 gallons of foam solution x .03 =135 gallons of 3% AFFF. 3,051 (135 + 2,916)gallons of foam concentrate required.
A suitable bill of materials of major componentsfor the above system using a bladder tank could
be.
• 1 x 3,200 Gallon horizontal style bladder tank.
• 1 x 6" Between flange style ratio controller.
• 4 x Model FC6 foam chambers each with aflow rate of 395 to 1,050 gpm depending onincoming pressure.
• 1 x 2 1/2" Threaded type ratio controller (Forsupplementary system).
• 3 x 50 gpm handline nozzles.
• foam concentrate.
NOTE:
This chart identifies the number of Foam Cham-bers required for the protection of a flammableliquid contained in a vertical cone roof atmos-pheric storage tank where the discharge device isattached to the tank. Where two or more outletsare required, the outlets are to be equally spacedaround the tank periphery and each outlet is to besized to deliver foam at approximately the samerate.
Tank Diameter Meters Minimum Number (or equivalent of discharge area) outlets
Up to 80 ft. 24 1Over 80 to 120 24 to 36 2Over 120 to 140 36 to 42 3Over 140 to 160 42 to 48 4Over 160 to 180 48 to 54 5Over 180 to 200 54 to 60 6
It is suggested that for tanks above 200 ft. (60 m)in diameter at least one additional discharge outletbe added for each additional 5,000 sq. ft. ( 465sq. m. ) of liquid surface or fractional part.
This chart indicates the number of SUPPLE-
MENTARY hose streams required for various sizetanks. Each hose stream must be capable of aminimum flow rate of 50 gpm of foam solution.
Diameter of Largest Minimum Number of Tank Hose Streams Required
Up to 65 ft. ( 19.5 m ) 165 to 120 ft. ( 19.5 to 36 m ) 2Over 120 ft. ( 36 m ) 3
This chart shows the Minimum discharge time andapplication rate for Type II fixed foam dischargedevices on Cone Roof storage tanks.
Hydrocarbon Application Discharge
Type Rate Time
Flash point between 0.10 gpm/ft. 30 min.
100o
F and 140o
F (4.1 L/min./m)
(37.8o
C and 93.3o
C)
Flash point below 100o
F 0.10 gpm/ft. 55 min.
(37.8o
C) or liquids heated (4.1 L/min./m)
above their flash points
Crude Petroleum 0.10 gpm/ft. 55 min.
(4.1 L/min./m)
• Flammable liquids having a boiling point of lessthan 100
o
F might require higher rates ofapplication. These should be determined bytest.
• For high-viscosity liquids heated above 200o
F,lower initial rates of application of foam may bedesirable to minimize frothing and thesubsequent expulsion of the stored liquid fromthe storage tank. Good judgment should beused in applying foams to tanks containing hotoils, burning asphalts or burning liquids that
have boiling points above the boiling point ofwater.
• The above table includes Gasohols andunleaded gasolines containing no more than10% oxygenated additives by volume. Wherethese additives exceed 10% by volume orwhere the flammable liquid is a polar solvent orwater miscible product, fire protection isnormally supplied by the AR-AFFF type foamconcentrates. In those instances check with
8/19/2019 Fixed or Semi Fixed Foam...
6/35
Chemguard to establish recommended appli-cation rates. The minimum discharge durationis 55 min.
The following chart indicates the minimumoperating time of the supplementary hosestream(s) for various size tanks.
Diameter of Largest Minimum Operating Tank Time
Up to 35 ft. ( 10.5 m ) 10 min.35 to 95 ft. ( 10.5 to 28.5 m ) 20 min.Over 95 ft. ( 28.5 m ) 30 min.
Equipment List using a Foam Pump Skid Assy.for a 150 ft. dia. tank containing gasoline.
1 x Atmospheric Foam Concentrate Storage Tank 3,100 Gallons
1 x Electric powered Foam Pump Proportioning skid with prepiped 6" ratio controller ( Foam Chambers ) and prepiped 2 1/2" ratio controller ( Supplementary Hose Lines )
4 x Model FC4 or FC6 Foam Chambers
3 x 50 gpm Hand Line nozzles
3,051 x Gallons 3% AFFF ( plus any additional for testing of the system )
NOTE:
When protecting multiple storage tanks the foamsystem is to be sized to protect the single largesthazard.
Fig. 9 depicts a manual foam pump skid systemshowing all necessary piping, valves, dischargedevices, ratio controller, foam pump and foamstorage tank for the above system.
Fig. 10 shows a Cone Roof Storage Tank with a
Semi-Fixed Foam System.
The following example shows the foam systemrequirements for seal protection of a 150 ft.diameter open top floating roof tank.
Type of Tank - Open Top Floating Roof Tank
Diameter of Tank - 150 ft.
Type of Fuel - Gasoline
Foam Dam installed on roof - Yes - 2 ft. fromtank wall and 2 ft. in height
Sq. ft. area of annular ring - 930 sq. ft.
Application Rate - .30 gpm per sq. ft. ( PerNFPA 11).30 x 930 sq. ft. = 279 gpm of foam solution required.
Type of Discharge Device - Foam Makers
Discharge Duration - 20 min.279 x 20 = 5,580 gallons of foam solution - x.03 ( 3% AFFF ) = 167.4 gallons of foamconcentrated
Quantity of Foam Makers Required ( Per NFPA11) 6 required.
Add supplementary hose lines per example forCone Roof Tank with Foam Chambers.
NOTE:
The number of fixed foam discharge points on anopen top floating roof tank is determined by thecircumference of the tank.
The maximum spacing between discharge points
is 40 ft. ( 12.2 m ) of tank circumference whenusing a 12" ( 305 mm ) high foam dam and every80 ft. ( 24.4 m ) of tank circumference when usinga 24" ( 610 mm ) high foam dam.
In accordance with NFPA 11
Foam Dam Design - The foam dam should be
circular and constructed of at least No. 10 USStandard Gage Thickness ( .134 in./3.4 mm )steel plate. The dam is to be welded or otherwisesecurely fastened to the floating roof. The foamdam is designed to retain foam at the seal area ata sufficient depth to cover the seal area whilecausing the foam to flow laterally to the point ofseal rupture.
Dam height is to be at least 12" ( 305 mm ) andshould extend at least 2" ( 51 mm ) above anymetal secondary seal or a combustible secondaryseal using a plastic foam log.
It is to be at least 2" ( 51 mm ) higher than anyburnout panels in metal secondary seals.
8/19/2019 Fixed or Semi Fixed Foam...
7/35
Foam dams are to be at least 1 ft. ( 0.3 m ) butno more than 2 ft. ( 0.6 m ) from the edge of thefloating roof.
Foam solution & rain water is to be drained by,slotting the bottom of the dam on the basis of 0.04
sq. in. of slot area per sq. ft. (278 mm sq./sq. m)of diked area while restricting the slots to 3/8 in.(9.5 mm) in height. Excessive dam openings fordrainage should be avoided to prevent loss offoam through the drainage slots.
SUB-SURFACE SYSTEM
( Sub-surface injection of foam is generally notrecommended for fuels that have a viscositygreater than 2,000 ssu ( 440 centistokes ) at theirminimum anticipated storage temperature ).
Example of a Sub-Surface Base Injection System
Cone Roof Tank - 80 ft. diameter
Fuel - Gasoline
Foam Concentrate - 3%-6% AR-AFFF
Surface Area - =40' x 40' x 3.1417 = 5,026.7 sq. ft.
App. Rate - .10 gpm per sq. ft..10 x 5,027 sq. ft. = 502.7 gpm of foam solution
Discharge Duration - 55 min.
Quantity of Foam Concentrate required -503 (502.7 ) x 55 x .03 = 829.95 gallons
Discharge Device - Qty. 1 High Back PressureFoam Maker ( " Foam generator " )
Number of Discharge outlets inside tankQty. 1 (Tank 80 ft. or less) (Per NFPA 11)
Supplementary hose lines per example for ConeRoof Tank.
The following chart shows the number of dis-charge outlets required inside the tank.
Tank Diameter Number of Discharge Outlets Required
Flash Point below Flash Point 100o
F
100o
F (38o
C) (38o
C) or Higher
Up to 80 ft. ( 24 m ) 1 1
Over 80 to 120 ft. ( 24 - 36 m ) 2 1
Over 120 to 140 ft. ( 36 - 42 m ) 3 2
Over 140 to 160 ft. ( 42 - 48 m ) 4 2
Over 160 to 180 ft. ( 48 - 54 m ) 5 2
Over 180 to 200 ft. ( 54 - 60 m ) 6 3
Over 200 ft. ( 60 m ) 6 3
Plus 1 outlet for Plus 1 outlet for
each additional each additional
5,000 sq. ft. 7,500 sq. ft.
(465 sq. m) (697 sq. m)
Equipment list for the above example using abladder tank foam supplied foam system.
• 1 x 900 Gallon vertical style bladder tank.
• 1 x 4" Between flange style ratio controller.
• 1 x 2 1/2" Threaded type ratio controller ( forsupplementary hose lines ).
• 1 x Model CFM500 High Back Pressure FoamMaker ( HBPFM ).
• Supplementary hand line nozzles and foamconcentrate.
Determining Number of Discharge Outlets forSubsurface Base Injection.
The number of discharge outlets required is bas-ed on the tank diameter and the flash point of thefuel as shown in the above chart.
FOAM MONITORS AND HANDLINES
Monitors are not to be considered as the primarymeans of protection for fixed roof tanks over 60 ft.in diameter. Foam handlines are not to beconsidered as the primary means of protection fortanks over 30 ft. in diameter or those over 20 ft. inheight.
Application Rates Using Monitors orHandlines
The minimum foam solution application rate isbased on the assumption that all discharging foamwill reach the area being protected. In consider-ing actual solution flow requirements, considera-tion should be given to potential foam losses fromclimatic conditions and thermal updraft of the fire,etc.
The following chart shows application density andduration for monitors and handlines on tanks
containing hydrocarbons.
Hydrocarbon Type Minimum Minimum
Application Rate Discharge
gpm/ft2 (L/min.)/m2 Time
(min.)
Flash point between
100oF and 140oF
(37.8oC and 93.3oC) 0.16 6.5 50
Flash point below 100oF
(37.8oC) or liquids heated
above their flash points 0.16 6.5 65
Crude Petroleum 0.16 6.5 65
8/19/2019 Fixed or Semi Fixed Foam...
8/35
Included in the above table are gasohols andunleaded gasolines containing no more than 10percent of an oxygenated additive by volume.
On tanks containing water miscible/polar solventflammable liquids the recommended foam appli-cation duration is 65 minutes.
Flammable liquids having a boiling point less than100oF and products that have been burning forsome time can develop a heat layer which mightrequire foam solution application rates as high as.2 or .25 gpm per sq. ft.
Where monitors or handlines are used to protectstorage tanks containing polar solvent or watermiscible liquids the discharge duration shall be aminimum of 65 minutes at the recommended
application rate.
FSFPrv 995
8/19/2019 Fixed or Semi Fixed Foam...
9/35
TECHNIQUE IN EXTINGUISHING LARGETANK FIRES
Large storage tank fires are very complex eventsand satisfactory extinguishment requiresmethodical planning and the effective use ofresources. At this time, existing Codes andStandards do not provide guidelines for using highflow monitor foam applications for large tank fires.The existing Codes and Standards do providegood recommendations for fixed fire protection
systems. Full surface fires involving largediameter tanks have occurred around the world.Extinguishment of such fires has not been totallysuccessful. With the introduction of large capacityfoam monitors, new varieties of foamconcentrates and improvements in applicationtechniques there has been some degree ofsuccess in achieving extinguishment.
The largest fully involved tank fire that has beensuccessfully extinguished was 150 ft. (46 meter).The extinguishment was carried out with a largecapacity monitor/cannon applying non-aspirated
foam "over-the-top" onto the burning surface. It isbelieved that present fire fighting technology iscapable of extinguishing fully involved tank firesup to 197 ft. (60 meters) in diameter. In theory itmay be technically feasible to extinguish tank firesin excess of 200 ft. (61 meters) using the "over-the-top" method of employing very large capacitymobile monitors with improved types of foamconcentrates. The logistics for mounting suchmassive operations must be fully considered.
APPLICATION RATE
NFPA 11 application rate for mobile equipment isoften interpreted as 0.16 gpm/ft2. (6.5 L/min./m7).
The code also states that flammable liquidshaving a boiling point of less than 100
o
F (37.8o
C)may require higher rates of application. In addi-tion flammable liquids with a wide range of boiling
STORAGE TANK
PROTECTION WITH HIGH
FLOW MONITORS
points such as Crude Oil may require applicationrates of 0.2 gpm/ft2. (8.1 L/min./m2) or more. Theapplication rate stated in the code is based on theassumption that all the foam solution reaches theburning surface.
Note: The rates are intended for Liquid Hydro-
carbon Fuels. Polar solvent liquids are destruc-tive to regular foams and require the use ofalcohol resistance foams. Chemguard, Inc.
should be consulted to determine the recom-mended application rate.
In view of the above, rates and practicalexperience gained in incidents involving fullsurface fires involving large storage tanks, itwould be more appropriate to consider 0.25gpm/ft2. (10.4 L/min./m2) which is equal to a 60%increase for mobile systems. For burning crudeoil tank a rate of 0.32 gpm/ft2. (12.9 L/min./m2)may be more appropriate.
The elevated application rates provide a betterchance of ensuring foam reaching the burningsurface thus increasing the probability for extin-guishment. Consideration for such high ratestake into account fall out from the delivery system,losses due to strong thermal updraft, break downof foam as it travels through the flames to reachthe burning fuel and destruction of the foam dueto the hot fuel and any hot metal surface.
WATER AND FOAM CONCENTRATE RE-QUIRED FOR FIGHTING LARGE TANK FIRES
Water supply both in terms of pressure, flow rateand adequate amount of foam concentrate areamong the most important factors for launching asuccessful extinguishing operation. Unless ade-quate and uninterrupted supply is guaranteed, anattempt to extinguish a fully involved large tankfire is doomed to failure at the very onset of theoperation.
8/19/2019 Fixed or Semi Fixed Foam...
10/35
The amount of water and the flow rate needed toproduce 3% foam solution to generate foam tofight a large tank fire can be found in Table 1.
The quantity of 3% foam concentrate and the flowrate needed to produce 3% foam solution togenerate foam to fight a large tank fire can befound in Table 2.
COOLING INVOLVED TANK AND THE PRO-TECTION OF ADJACENT TANKS FROM RADI-ATED HEAT SOURCE
With reference to existing guidelines, the amountof water needed to cool the involved tank shell isestimated by tank size:
100 ft. (30 meter) diameter 750 gpm (3m3
/min.)120 ft. (36 meter) diameter 1000 gpm (4m3 /min.)160 ft. (48 meter) diameter 1250 gpm (5m3 /min.)220 ft. (67 meter) diameter 1500 gpm (6m3 /min.)
Cooling water required to protect each adjacenttank not shielded from the tank on fire is 500 gpm(2 m3 /min.).
In practice water applied to the shell of a largetank on fire is ineffective in preventing it frombuckling and deforming. In the late stages ofextinguishment, cooling water applied on the area
above the liquid level would help the foam stay incontact with the tank shell. The cooling streamsshould be stopped when foam attack has startedto conserve water and to concentrate on extin-guishment.
The need for protecting adjacent tanks can bestbe illustrated with information and data publishedin a recent study done on large tank fires.Although not yet fully validated it neverthelessprovides valuable information for pre-fireplanningpurposes.
The time required to create an escalation condi-tion in an adjacent tank depends upon a numberof factors including: tank size, separation, type,initial boiling point of flammable liquid in the tanks,water cooling, tank design, wind speed anddirection.
For example, a full surface fire involving a 164 ft.(50m) diameter open top, floating roof naphtha
tank fire could be expected to fully involve aneighboring identical tank in approximately 1.5hours under the following conditions.
- 4 m/sec.(14 km/hr.) wind towards neighboring tank
- intertank separation of 0.5 diameter (82 ft.) (25 m)- neighboring tank having pontoon roof and inadequate water spray protection
Altering any of the above conditions can changethe time for ignition of the adjacent tank:
Base Case = 1.5 hrs.
Change of conditions:
Calm (no wind condition) = 2.8 hrs.Intertank separation increased to 1.0 D (50 m)= 3.0 hrs.
Intertank separation increased to 2.0 D (100 m)= 17.0 hrs.
Water protection on side facing exposure= 2.8 hrs.
Double deck roof on exposed tank= 1.5 hrs.
Water protection on side facing exposure +double deck roof = 24.0+hrs.Tank diameters only 30 m but with 0.5 Dseparation = 0.5 hrs
Neighboring tank contains kerosene, not naphtha= 22.0 hrs.
Some conclusions drawn from the results are:
−− escalation is likely for unprotected tanks ofvolatile material with normal separation unlessthe original fire is extinguished quickly
− calm conditions only delay the escalationpotential
− increased separation alone only delays theescalation potential
− water spray protection or roof insulation alonedoes prevent escalation
− water spray and roof insulation together areeffective
− smaller diameter tanks at normal separationare at greater risk of escalation than largerdiameter tank
−− lower volatility fuels provide more responsetime for fire fighter
8/19/2019 Fixed or Semi Fixed Foam...
11/35
Cooling of adjacent tanks is best achieved withfixed systems that are designed to provide effec-tive water film coverage of all exposed metalsurfaces. A cooling water rate of 0.05 gpm/ ft2.(2.0 L/min./m2) is sufficient to absorb 90% ofincoming radiant heat. Any increase in thecooling water rate does not increase the coolingeffect significantly. The figure of 10.2 L/min./m2
by NFPA 15 relates mainly to the protection ofpressurized vessels such as LPG tanks subject todirect flame impingement.
OVER THE-TOP-APPLICATION TECHNIQUEWITH LARGE CAPACITY FOAM MONITORS
A present concept in extinguishing large tank firesis to employ Large Capacity Non-aspirated FoamMonitors to apply foam "over-the-top" of theinvolved tank onto the burning fuel surface.Although they are normally known as non-
aspirated monitors, these monitors are capable ofproducing foam with an expansion ratio of about3.1 to 4.5 when used with alcohol resistance typefoam concentrates.
Chemguard has large capacity foam monitorscurrently available have capacities ranging from2,000 to 4,000 gpm (7,570 L/min.). The equip-ment operates at inlet pressure between 100 to130 psig (690 to 890 kPa) and have a range ofabout 250 to 300 feet (61-99 meter).
AR-AFFF type foam concentrate is preferred andit should be transported in bulk totes or trailershaving large capacities. The logistics for trans-porting foam in 5 gallon pails or 55 gallon drumsto the fire scene should not be considered, forobvious reasons.
Large diameter hose should be used to supply theflow required for large volume foam attack. Theuse of 5" (125 mm) diameter hose is preferreddue to low frictional loss and is relatively easy touse. It must be remembered that it is extremelydifficult to move the hose once it is charged with
water. For quick estimation, provide one 5" (125mm.) hose line for every 1,000 gpm (3.8 m3 /min.)flow requirement. At this flow rate the friction lossis 8.0 psig (55 kPa) for every 100 feet (30.5 m).Table 3 provides information on friction loss ofsome large diameter hoses.
The “over-the-top” foam technique attacks theburning tank with either a very large capacitymonitor that meets the required application rate or
combines several monitors to form a MassStream discharging with the wind to concentrateon a selected landing zone within the tank.
This extremely high “local application rate/density”promotes survivability of the foam journey throughthe fire to establish a foothold on a relatively smallarea of the burning surface. Once the foam
blanket at the landing zone is established it canthen be expanded by making adjustments to theMass Stream. The added advantage of largevolume application in a small area may help toreduce “local fuel temperature” and the associatedactual vapor presssure which in turn can help inlowering the fire severity. These factors requireconsideration because as the fuel temperatureapproaches the boiling point of water, it is difficultfor the foam to survive. As fuel temperatureincreases the true vapor temperature will increaseto overcome the effectiveness of the foamblanket.
Large volume foam attack should be launched asquickly as possible; however, it must be stressedthat application must not be carried out until allequipment and logistic support are in place. Thelonger a tank is allowed to burn, the danger ofescalation becomes greater, the fuel temperatureincreases making it more difficult to extinguish,the exposed tank shell deforms (normally theexposed steel curls inwards to create nooks andcrevices) making it difficult for foam to cover allthe burning surface. In the case of crude oil, thepossiblility of having a “boilover” increases withtime.
The ability to deal with large tank fires depends onmethodical pre-fire plan, regular training andexervises. The most important factor, however,rests on minimizing the risk of having a fullyinvolved large tank fire through good engineeringdesign, effective management and maintenanceprograms.
STPrv995
8/19/2019 Fixed or Semi Fixed Foam...
12/35
Fuel
Foam
Wind
Monitor
OVER-THE-TOP FOAM APPLICATION TECHNIQUE
WITH LARGE CAPACITY FOAM MONITORS
D021rv895
8/19/2019 Fixed or Semi Fixed Foam...
13/35
TABLE 1
WATER FLOW RATE TO PRODUCE 3% FOAM SOLUTIONTO FIGHT FIRES IN TANKS
MINIMUM QUANTITIES
TANK DIAMETER WATER FLOW RATE TOTAL WATER REQUIRED TO SUSTAIN65 MINUTES OF OPERATION
Feet Meter Application Rate Application Rate Application Rate Application Rate0.16 gpm./ft2. 6.5 L/min./m2 0.25 gpm./ft2. 10.4 L/min./m2 0.16 gpm./ft2. 6.5 L/min./m2 0.25 gpm./ft2. 10.4 L/min./m2
Gallon Meter3 Gallon Meter3
100 30.5 1218 4598 1904 7357 79170 299 123760 478110 33.5 1474 5563 2304 8902 95796 362 149750 579120 36.6 1754 6621 2742 10594 114005 430 178214 689130 39.6 2058 7770 3218 12433 133797 505 209154 808140 42.7 2387 9012 3732 14420 155173 586 242570 937150 45.7 2741 10345 4284 16553 176133 672 278460 1076160 48.8 3118 11770 4874 18834 202675 765 316826 1224170 51.8 3520 13288 5503 21262 226801 864 357666 1382180 54.9 3946 14897 6169 23837 256511 968 400982 1549190 57.9 4397 16598 6873 26558 285804 1079 446774 1726200 61.0 4872 18391 7616 29425 316680 1195 495040 1913210 64.0 5371 20276 8397 32444 349140 1318 545782 2109220 67.1 5895 22253 9216 35606 383183 1446 598998 2315
230 70.1 6443 24322 10072 38916 418809 1581 654690 2530240 73.2 7016 26483 10967 42376 456019 1721 712858 2754250 76.2 7613 28736 11900 45981 494813 1868 773500 2989260 79.2 8234 31081 12871 49733 535189 2020 836618 3233270 82.3 8879 33518 13880 53632 577149 2179 902210 3486280 85.3 9549 36047 14927 57679 620693 2343 970278 3749290 88.4 10243 38667 16013 61872 665820 2513 1040822 4022300 91.4 10962 41380 17136 66213 712530 2690 1113840 4304
CHARrv895
8/19/2019 Fixed or Semi Fixed Foam...
14/35
TABLE 2
FOAM CONCENTRATE (3%) TO PRODUCE 3% FOAM SOLUTIONTO FIGHT FIRES IN TANKS
MINIMUM QUANTITIES
TANK DIAMETER 3% FOAM CONCENTRATE FLOW RATE TOTAL 3% FOAM CONCENTRATE REQUIREDTO SUSTAIN 65 MINUTES OF OPERATION
Feet Meter Application Rate Application Rate Application Rate Application Rate0.16 gpm./ft2. 6.5 L/min./m2 0.25 gpm./ft2. 10.4 L/min./m2 0.16 gpm./ft2. 6.5 L/min./m2 0.25 gpm./ft2. 10.4 L/min./m2
Gallon Meter3 Gallon Meter3
100 30.5 38 142 59 228 2470 9.25 3835 14.79110 33.5 46 172 71 275 2989 11.19 4640 17.89120 36.6 55 205 85 328 3557 13.31 5522 21.30130 39.6 64 240 100 385 4174 15.62 6481 24.99140 42.7 74 279 116 446 4841 18.12 7617 28.99150 45.7 86 320 133 512 5558 20.80 8629 33.27160 48.8 97 364 151 582 6323 23.67 9818 37.86170 51.8 110 411 171 658 7138 26.72 11063 42.74180 54.9 123 461 191 737 8003 29.95 12425 47.92190 57.9 137 513 213 821 8917 33.38 13844 53.39200 61.0 152 569 236 910 9880 36.98 15340 59.16210 64.0 168 627 260 1003 10893 40.77 16912 65.22220 67.1 184 688 286 1101 11955 44.75 18561 71.58
230 70.1 201 752 312 1204 13066 48.91 20287 78.23240 73.2 219 819 340 1311 14227 53.25 22090 85.18250 76.2 238 889 369 1422 15438 57.78 23969 92.43260 79.2 257 962 399 1538 15697 62.50 25925 99.97270 82.3 277 1037 430 1659 18006 67.40 27957 107.81280 85.3 298 1115 463 1784 19365 72.48 30068 115.94290 88.4 320 1196 496 1913 20773 77.75 32252 124.37300 91.4 342 1280 531 2048 22230 83.21 34515 133.10
CHARrv895
8/19/2019 Fixed or Semi Fixed Foam...
15/35
TABLE 3
FRICTION LOSS PER 100 FEET / 30.5 METERS
FRICTION LOSS IN WATER SUPPLY LINE EXPRESSED AS PSIG & kPa LOSS PER 100 FEET / 30.5 METERS OF HOSE
FLOW 4 INCH SUPPLY LINE 4-1/2 INCH SUPPLY LINE 5 INCH SUPPLY LINE 6 INCH SUPPLY LINEUSGPM LITER/MIN. PSIG kPa PSIG kPa PSIG kPa PSIG kPa
100 369 0.20 1 0.10 1 0.06 1 0.05 0.3 200 737 0.80 6 0.40 3 0.32 2 0.20 1
300 1106 1.80 12 0.90 6 0.72 3 0.45 3 400 1474 3.20 22 1.00 10 1.28 9 0.80 6 500 1843 5.00 34 2.50 17 2.00 14 1.25 9 600 2211 7.20 50 3.60 25 2.88 20 1.80 12 700 2580 9.80 68 4.90 34 3.92 27 2.45 17 800 2948 12.80 88 6.40 44 5.12 35 3.20 22 900 3317 16.20 112 8.10 56 6.48 45 4.05 28 1000 3685 20.00 138 10.00 69 8.00 55 5.00 34 1100 4054 24.20 167 12.10 83 9.68 67 6.05 42 1200 4422 28.80 199 14.40 99 11.52 79 7.20 50 1300 4791 33.80 233 16.90 117 13.52 90 8.45 58 1400 5160 39.20 270 19.60 135 15.68 108 9.80 68 1500 5628 45.00 310 22.50 155 18.00 124 11.25 78 1600 5897 51.20 353 25.60 177 20.48 141 12.80 88 1700 6265 57.80 399 28.90 199 23.12 156 14.45 100 1800 6634 64.80 447 32.40 223 25.92 179 16.20 112
1900 7002 72.20 496 36.10 249 28.88 199 18.05 124 2000 7371 80.00 552 40.00 276 32.00 221 20.00 138 2100 7739 88.20 608 44.10 304 35.28 243 22.05 152 2200 8106 96.80 667 48.40 334 38.72 267 24.20 167 2300 8476 105.80 729 52.90 366 42.32 292 26.45 182 2400 8845 115.20 794 57.60 397 46.08 308 28.80 199 2500 9214 125.00 862 62.50 431 50.00 345 31.25 215
CHARrv195
8/19/2019 Fixed or Semi Fixed Foam...
16/35
EXAMPLE OF BALANCE PRESSURE PUMP
SKID WITH TWO PROPORTIONERS
WaterInlet
FoamConcentrate
Pump
Flush InletConnection
Flush OutletConnection
Atmospheric Tank
Pressure Relief Valve
Balancing
Valve
RatioController
Strainer
System1: Foamsolutionto manifold supplying 4 foamchambers on cone roof tank.
System2: Foam solution toseparate storage tank systemor hose reels, if required.
Pressure VacuumVent
FIG. 9
D004rv895
8/19/2019 Fixed or Semi Fixed Foam...
17/35
FUEL
AeratedFoam
FoamChamber
Dike Wall
FoamChamberTopsideApplicationon Cone Roof Tank
SEMI-FIXED FOAM SYSTEM WITH MOBILE
APPARATUS SUPPLYING THE FOAM SOLUTION
FIG. 10
Foam Solutionfrom MobileApparatus
OS & Y Valve
D085rv995
8/19/2019 Fixed or Semi Fixed Foam...
18/35
FUEL
FoamBlanket
AeratedFoam
TestP ointHigh Back Pressure
FoamMaker
FoamSolution
RuptureDisc
(optional) Gate ValveCheckValve
Dike WallWater Level
SUB-SURFACE INJ ECTION APPLICATION
ON CONE ROOF TANK
D003rv995
8/19/2019 Fixed or Semi Fixed Foam...
19/35
Connections for Sub-surface Foam Makers
Valved Test ConnectionRupture Disc
(optional)2 Outlets
Dike Wall
3 Outlets
4 Outlets
TYPICAL OUTLETS FOR SUB-SURFACE INJ ECTION
INSIDE CONE ROOF STORAGE TANKS
Gate Valve
Check Valve
D023rv195
8/19/2019 Fixed or Semi Fixed Foam...
20/35
R e c o m m e n d e d
A. Straight-In C. Horizontal ELLR e c o m m e n d e d
B. Vertical ELLN o t R e c o m m e n d e d
D. 180 E LLo
N o t R e c o m m e n d e d
E. Horizontal TeeRec om m ended
A
B
C
D
. Best for Cone Roof Tanks
. Possible to Block withSediment
. Good for Floating Roof Tanks (FRT)
. Not Good for FRT, Gives Stream Backlash
TYPICAL SUB-SURFACE TANK PROTECTION INLET DESIGN
Tank Shell
Valve
WaterBottom
90 ELLoPlan
Elev.
Tee
Plan Elev.
90 ELL
o
180 ELLo
E. Bestfor Floating Roof Tank
D019rv195
8/19/2019 Fixed or Semi Fixed Foam...
21/35
EXPANDED FOAM VELOCITY vs PIPE SIZE2 1/2", 3", 4", 6", 8", 10", 12", 14"
Standard Schedule 40 Pipe
All dimensions in inches (millimeters)
unless otherwise noted
EXPANDED FOAM RATE
FOAM VELOCITY vs PIPE SIZE - 16", 18"Standard Schedule 40 Pipe
1 6 "
( 4 0 0 )
1 8 "
( 4 6 0 )
All dimensions in inches (millimeters)
unless otherwise noted.
M / S E C
F T / S E C
9.1 30
6.1 20
3 10
0
F O A M V
E L O C I T Y
GPM
LPM
2000
7570
4000
15139
6000
22710
8000
3027810000
37848
12000
45420
14000
52990
16000
60560
EXPANDED FOAM RATE D038rv195
8/19/2019 Fixed or Semi Fixed Foam...
22/35
0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400 1600 1800
FOAM FLOW - gpm
FOAM FLOW - gpm
60
50
40
30
20
10
50
40
30
20
10
FOR SI UNITS1 gpm=3.785 / min.
1 psi=6.895kPa1 ft. =0.305 m
l
FOR SI UNITS1 gpm=3.785 / min.
1 psi=6.895kPa1 ft. =0.305 m
3"P IPE DIAMETER
2 1/2"P IPE DIAMETER
0 400 800 1200 1600 2000 2400 2800 3200
4" PIPE DIAMETER
These subsurface graphs depict the friction loss characteristics of foam with an expansion of 4 to 1 and inletvelocities for various pipe sizes. The 4 to 1 ratio is the value to be used for friction loss and inlet velocity
calculations.
D075rv195
FRICTION LOSS OF EXPANDED FOAM
THROUGH VARIOUS SIZE PIPES
8/19/2019 Fixed or Semi Fixed Foam...
23/35
FOAM FLOW - gpm
FOAM FLOW - gpm
50
40
30
20
10
0
FOR SI UNITS1 gpm=3.785 / min.
1 psi=6.895kPa1 ft. =0.305m
l
1600 2400 3200 4000 4800 5600 6400 7200 8000 8800
6" PIPE DIAMETER
FOR SI UNITS
1 gpm= 3.785 / min.1 psi=6.895kPa1 ft. =0.305 m
l
0 4000 8000 12000 16000 20000 24000 28000 32000
14" PIPE DIAMETER
25
20
15
10
5
8" PIPE DIAMETER
10" PIPE DIAMETER
D076rv195
8/19/2019 Fixed or Semi Fixed Foam...
24/35
FOAM CHAMBER INSTALLATIONFIXED SYSTEM USING A BLADDER TANK
Foam
Chamber
Solution Flow
Proportioner
Water
Supply
Bladder Tank
Ball ValveNormally Closed
Ball ValveNormally Open
Swing Check
Hydraulic ActuatedBall Valve
D010rv1296
8/19/2019 Fixed or Semi Fixed Foam...
25/35
FUEL
FoamChamber
FoamSolution
AeratedFoam
Vent
InternalFloatingRoof
Dike Wall
FOAM CHAMBER TOPSIDE APPLICATION
ON INTERNAL FLOATING ROOF TANK
D003rv195
8/19/2019 Fixed or Semi Fixed Foam...
26/35
INSTALLATIONOFFOAMMAKER&SPLASHBOARD
ONFLOATING ROOFTANKS
Sheet steel splash board can be rectangular or cut as shownmounted on top of shell reinforced with suitable supports.Minimumdimensions will depend on minimum clearance neededbetween foam discharge outletand top position of roof.
"L" Shield Length
3/8 of"L"
Foam Maker
1/2 of"A"
Wind Girder
Foam solution piping to otherfoam makers maybe located above or below wind girder orat grade level.
Swing J oint
"A"
12"
SplashBoard
FoamDam
2' 0"
12"
Roof
Urethane Seal
Tank ShellFoam SolutionSupply Piping
Deflector
"A"Dimension is the heightof the foam makeroutletabove the top edge of the tank shell. The minimumheightmustclear the top position of the floating roof.
D040rv195
8/19/2019 Fixed or Semi Fixed Foam...
27/35
Foam Maker
Foam Solution
Weather Shield
AspiratedFoam
Seal
Typical BelowSeal ApplicationTypical Top of Seal Application
PontoonRoof
FoamDam
Aerated Foam
FoamSolution
FoamMaker
EXAMPLES OF TYPICAL TOP AND BELOW SEAL
APPLICATIONS FOR FLOATING ROOF TANKS
Brace
D005rv195
8/19/2019 Fixed or Semi Fixed Foam...
28/35
QuickOpeningValve
Siamese FoamHydran
StairwayPlatform
Stairway
Wind Girder
Solution Piping
Tank Shell
SEAL AREA PROTECTION USING A FOAM MAKER
OR HANDLINE NOZZLE FROM LADDER AREA
FoamDam
BackBoard MountedHigher than Uppermost
Positionof Roof
Ladder
Brace
Floating Roof
Product
Foam
D022rv195
FoamMaker
Siamese FoamOutletforHandlineConnection
8/19/2019 Fixed or Semi Fixed Foam...
29/35
Tank Tank
Tank
WaterSupply
Monitor(Typical)
Dike
TANK AND DIKE PROTECTION WITH FOAM MONITOR SYSTEM
OS &YValve
OS & Y Valve
Monitor
RatioController
FoamConcentrate
D033rv195
8/19/2019 Fixed or Semi Fixed Foam...
30/35
A - B FoamC hamber
Mechanical FoamGenerator Conversion
Foam SolutionDelivery Piping
STORAGE TANKPROTECTION
TopsideApplications
Dike
Existing or NewFoam Chamber
Foam SolutionDelivery Piping
Dike
Foam Delivery Pipe
Forcing Foam Make
SolutionDelivery Piping
Dike Dike
Portable Foam
Tube or Tower
Foam SolutionDelivery Hoses
FixedFoamChamber FoamMaker
PortableFoamTowerA -B PowderConversion
Foam SolutionDelivery Piping
FoamMaker
D016rv195
8/19/2019 Fixed or Semi Fixed Foam...
31/35
Swing
Check
ValveGateValve
Tank Shell
Foam
Flow
Valved Test Connection
Rupture Disc
(optional)
From High Back
Pressure Foam MakerAt Least 1 ft.
(0.3m)
Water Bottom
D012rv195
TYPICAL ARRANGEMENT FOR SUB-SURFACE SYSTEMSINTO A CONE ROOF STORAGE TANK
8/19/2019 Fixed or Semi Fixed Foam...
32/35
Dike Dike
SolutionDelivery
Piping
Foam
DeliveryPiping
NormalWater
Bottom
ProductLine
SolutPipin
STORAGE TANKPROTECTION
Sub-surfaceApplications
ProductionLineApplication
Although dedicated lines may be usedto apply foamusing the subsurface method,
additional economies may be realized by using existing product lines for foam
injection.
In some installations a total tank farmmay be covered by using a single subsurface
injection station at the product line manifold.
Thepiping pressure losses andthe inlet injection velocity must be verified by calculation.
This is to be done with each product line whichis a candidate for subsurface injection.
High Back PressureFoam Maker
High Back PressureFoam Maker
(Hydrocarbon Fuels Only)
DedicatedFoamSolutionLineApplication
D017rv195
8/19/2019 Fixed or Semi Fixed Foam...
33/35
Mechanical Shoe Seal.1 - For each 130 ft. (39.6 m) of tank circumference
(nofoamdamrequired) Tube Seal - Over6 in. (15.2 cm) fromtopofseal to top of pontoon with foamoutlets under metal weather shieldorsecondaryseal.1 - For each 60ft. (18.3 m) of tank circumference
(no foamdamrequired) Tube Seal - Less than 6 in. (15.2cm) fromtopof seal totopof pontoon with foamoutlets under metal weathershield or secondaryseal.1 - For each 60ft. (18.3 m) of tank circumference
[foamdamat least 12in. (30.5 cm) high required].
0.30 gpm. (1.14 L/min.) per sq. ft. (sq. m) of annular ringarea with foamdamor with foamapplicationundermetal
weather seal or secondaryseal. 0.50 gpm(1.9 L/min.)persq. ft.. (sq. m for all otherapplications).
20min. - with foamdamor under metal weathershield orsecondaryseal.
Not covered byNFPA 11.
Monitors not recommended.
Handlines aresuitable forextinguishmentof rimfiresinopen-top floating roof tanks.
0.16 gpm/ft.(6.5L/min./m )For rimfires inopen-top floatingroof tanks.
2
2
Use same times as for open-top floatingroof tankrim
fires.
NotRecommended.
NotRecommended.
NotRecommended.
NotRecommended.
Notapplicable.
NotApplicable.
NotApplicable.
NotApplicable.
Monitors for tanks upto60ft. (18.3m) indiameter.Hand hoselines fortanks less than30 ft.(9.2 m) indiameterand less than20 ft.(6.1 m) high.
0.16 gpm/ft.[(6.5 L/min.)/(m)]
2
2
Flashpoint below100 F (37.8
Flash point 100 F -140 FC)
Crude Oil
o o
o o
Same as table for foamchambers.
Minimum0.1gpm/ft. [(4.1L/min.)/m. ] of liquid surface.
Maximum0.2gpm/ft. [(8.2L/min.)/m. ]Foamvelocity fromoutletshall notexceed10 ft. per sec. (3.05 mper sec.) for Class 1B
liquids or 20ft. per sec. (6.1mper sec.) forall other liquids.
2 2
2 2
Flash point100 F (37.8 C)
to 140 F (194.4 C)
Flashpoint below100 F (37.8 C)CrudePetroleum
o o
o o
o o
Not Recommended.
For S1 units: 1 gpm/ft. =40.746 (L/min.)/m ; 1 ft. =0.305m; 1 ft. =0.0929 m; 1 in. =0.0245 m; C = F - 32/1.8.2 2 2 2 o o
NumberRequired
HydrocarbonApplicationRates
Discharge Times
PolarSolvents
Size of Tank
HydrocarbonApplicationRates
Discharge Times
NumberRequired
HydrocarbonApplicationRates
Discharge Times
PolarSolvents
Fixed-Roof(Cone) Tanks Pontoon or Double-Deck Floating Roof Tanks
STORAGE TANK PROTECTION SUMMARY
65min.
50min.65min.
30min.
55min.55min.
D056rv020
8/19/2019 Fixed or Semi Fixed Foam...
34/35
Numberof Foam
OutletsRequired
HydrocarbonApplicationRates
PolarSolventRates
Fixed-Roof (Cone) Tanks and
Pan-Type Floating Roof Tanks
Pontoon or Double-Deck FloatingRoof Tanks, (Open-Top or
Covered) Annular Seal Area
STORAGE TANK PROTECTION SUMMARY
Up to 80 ft. (2.44 m) dia.81to 120 ft. (24.7 - 36.6 m) dia.121 to 140 ft. (36.9 - 42.7 m) dia.141 to 160 ft. (43 - 48.8 m) dia.161 to 180 ft. (49 - 54.9 m) dia.181 to 200 ft. (55.2 - 61 m) dia.Over 210 ft. (61.2 m)
1 FoamC hamber2 Foam Chambers3 Foam Chambers4 Foam Chambers5 Foam Chambers6 Foam Chambers1 additional for each
5,000 sq. ft.
1 for each 40 ft. (12.2 m) of circumferencewith a 12-inch (30.5 cm) high foamdam.
1 for each 80 ft. (24.4 m) of circumferencewith a 24-inch (61 cm) high foamdam.
0.10 gpm (0.38 L/min.) persq. ft. (sq. m) ofliquidsurface. 0.30 gpm (1.14 L/min.) per sq. ft. (sq. m)of annular ring area between tank walland foam dam.
Notcovered by NFP A 11.See Manufacturer's Approval Report.
Flash Pt. 100 F - 140 F (37.8 C - 194.4 C)
Flash Pt. below 100 F (37.8 C)Crude Petroleum
o o o o
o o
Type I
20 min.30 min.30 min.
Type II
30 min.55 min.55 min.
20 min.
Type I Type II
30 min.55 min.
Notcovered by NFP A 11.
HydrocarbonDischarge
Times
PolarSolvents
D057rv195
8/19/2019 Fixed or Semi Fixed Foam...
35/35
SURFACE APPLICATION
Determining Discharge Time and Application Rate (Cone Roof Tanks)
Discharge time and application rates are determined according to the type of fuel contained in the storagetank being protected. The following are minimum discharge rates recommended by Chemguard.
Foam Chambers Monitors/Hand Hose LinesAs Primary Protection -OR- As Primary Protection
Foam Application Rate Discharge Application Rate DischargeFuel Protected Concentrate gpm/ft2 (Lpm/m2) Time gpm/ft2 Lpm/m2) Time
HydrocarbonFlash point AR-AFFF .10 (4.1) 30 min. .16 (6.5) 50 Min.between Fluoroprotein .10 (4.1) 30 min. .16 (6.5) 50 min.100F and AFFF .10 (4.1) 30 min. .16 (6.5) 50 min.200oF (38oC and 93oC)
HydrocarbonFlash point AR-AFFF .10 (4.1) 55 min. .16 (6.5) 65 min.below 100oF Fluoroprotein .10 (4.1) 55 min. .16 (6.5) 65 min.(38oC) or AFFF .10 (4.1) 55 min. .16 (6.5) 65 min.
liquid heated above flash pointCrude Petroleum AR-AFFF .10 (4.1) 55 min. .16 (6.5) 65 min.
Fluoroprotein .10 (4.1) 55 min. .16 (6.5) 65 min.AFFF .10 (4.1) 55 min. .16 (6.5) 65 min.
AlcoholsMethanol
U.G. .10 (4.1) 55 min. .16 (6.5) 65 min.3/6 .10 (4.1) 55 min. .16 (6.5) 65 min.
EthanolU.G. .10 (4.1) 55 min. .16 (6.5) 65 min.3/6 .10 (4.1) 55 min. .16 (6.5) 65 min.
Isopropanol
U.G. .15 (6.1) 55 min. .16 (6.5) 65 min.3/6 .15 (5.7) 55 min. .16 (6.5) 65 min.
KetonesMethyl Ethyl Ketone
U.G. .10 (4.1) 55 min. .16 (6.5) 65 min.3/6 .10 (4.1) 55 min. .16 (6.5) 65 min.
AcetoneU.G. .15 (6.1) 55 min. .24 (9.8) 65 min.3/6 .15 (6.1) 55 min. .24 (9.8) 65 min.
AldehydesU.G. .17 (6.5) 55 min. .16 (6.5) 65 min.3/6 .17 (6.5) 55 min. .16 (6.5) 65 min.
EstersU.G. .10 (4.1) 55 min. .16 (6.5) 65 min.3/6 .10 (4.1) 55 min. .16 (6.5) 65 min.
EthersU.G. .15 (6.1) 55 min. .24 (9.8) 65 min.3/6 .15 (6.1) 55 min. .24 (9.8) 65 min.
U.G. Ultraguard 3% AR-AFFF