Foam fire extinguishers are portable fire-fighting devices that operate by pressurizing and discharging a mixture of water and foam concentrate, proving especially effective against Class A and B fires. They extinguish fires through both cooling and smothering mechanisms. These systems create a film over flammable liquid surfaces, cutting off contact with oxygen and preventing vaporization.

Historical Background

The history of foam fire extinguishing systems dates back to the early 20th century. The first chemical foam-based extinguishing system was developed in 1902 by Russian scientist Aleksandr Loran, marking a major advancement in combating fuel-based fires. As fire risks increased in industrial facilities and oil refineries during the mid-20th century, the use of foam extinguishing systems became widespread. In Türkiye, foam extinguishers became mandatory in both public and private sectors, particularly after the 2000s, with the implementation of the Regulation on Fire Protection of Buildings and related fire brigade directives. Today, foam systems are used both in portable extinguisher form and as fixed installations.

Implementation in Türkiye

Foam fire extinguishing systems have long been employed in fire safety practices in industrial plants and hazardous material storage areas. Their systematic use in buildings and facilities in Türkiye has been guided by the Regulation on Fire Protection of Buildings, first published in 2002 and later updated to include detailed provisions regarding foam systems. This regulation defines where foam-based systems are required and sets forth standards for periodic testing, refilling protocols, and positioning rules.

Fire Classes and Application Areas

Foam extinguishing devices are effective in the following fire types:

• Class A: Fires involving solid materials (e.g., paper, wood, fabric)
• Class B: Fires involving flammable liquids (e.g., gasoline, thinner, alcohol)

They are not recommended for use on electrical fires due to the conductivity risk posed by the foam.

Extinguishing Mechanism

Foam works by cutting off oxygen one of the three essential elements of fire thereby smothering the flames. Simultaneously, the water content in the foam cools the surface, reducing the risk of re-ignition. According to the Erzurum Metropolitan Municipality Fire Department, foam extinguishers offer advantages against both flame spread and reignition.

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Design and Structural Features

Foam extinguishers generally consist of two main compartments: the water-foam mixture and the propellant gas (typically nitrogen or CO₂). Upon activation, the mixture is converted into foam through a specialized nozzle and directed at the fire. Portable models with 6–9 liters of capacity are common, but larger industrial-grade systems are also available.

Need for Periodic Maintenance and Inspection

Foam fire extinguishers must be inspected at least once per year. Additionally, the foam concentrate should be tested periodically, and expired chemical mixtures must be replaced. Regulations require that each extinguisher clearly display the last refill date, inspection date, and technical labeling.

Legal Framework and Application Examples

Reports by the Union of Chambers of Turkish Engineers and Architects (TMMOB) emphasize the importance of placing foam fire extinguishers near liquid chemical storage areas in apartment buildings, office complexes, industrial zones, and shopping malls. The placement of these devices is regulated based on criteria such as user accessibility and visibility.

Foam fire extinguishers provide highly effective suppression for Class A and B fires and are preferred in areas with significant exposure to flammable liquids. In Türkiye, the use of these systems is comprehensively regulated by both legislation and technical guidelines. When used correctly by trained personnel, they are an essential tool in fire protection.