ETL 1110-3-481
31 Mar 97
CONTAINMENT AND DISPOSAL OF
AQUEOUS FILM-FORMING FOAM (AFFF) SOLUTION
SCOPE
1.
This engineering instruction provides engineering and design
guidance on containment systems and disposal requirements for
aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) solution. AFFF solution
addressed by this technical letter are produced from AFFF fire
suppression systems. In DoD facilities, AFFF fire suppression
systems are installed primarily in aircraft hangars. Potential
discharges of large amount of AFFF have environmental concerns
and impact that must be considered in the design of these
systems. The guidance in this instruction does not prohibit
utilization of other engineering methods that meet the intent of
this document and achieve equal or better results.
INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND
2.
Fire suppression systems using AFFF foam solutions are often
installed in facilities containing flammable or combustible
liquids because of the rapid and efficient fire extinguishing
capability of foam. Within the Department of Defense, the
primary application of AFFF foam fire suppression systems is in
facilities housing fueled aircraft. Although various types of
fire fighting foams are available, AFFF is used almost
exclusively in fixed fire suppression systems. AFFF provides
superior fire extinguishing capability in controlling flammable
liquid fuel spill fires. However, discharges from AFFF systems
often pose problems relative to collection and disposal, problems
not inherent with plain water sprinkler systems. AFFF systems
especially those with open orifices have been susceptible to
false or unwanted releases, usually caused by system malfunction
or human error. Such releases have resulted in the discharge of
large amount of foam solution during a single occurrence. Such
unplanned discharges can present problems to facility users.
Previously, no detailed guidance addressing the collection and
disposal of AFFF solution discharges has been issued. The intent
of this Engineer Technical Letter (ETL) is to provide such
guidance to facility and system designers.
AQUEOUS FILM-FORMING FOAM (AFFF)
3.
AFFF is a completely synthetic foam consisting of combinations of
fluorochemical and hydrocarbon surfactants combined with high
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