RESEARCH ON SUBSURFACE FIRE SUPPRESSION USING COMPRESSION FOAM IN TANKS WITH PETROLEUM PRODUCTS

The article is devoted to studying the effectiveness of "subsurface" fire suppression in tanks containing flammable liquids using compression foam. The research utilized a specially designed experimental setup that enables the generation and delivery of compression foam directly beneath the fuel layer. The compression foam covered the burning surface, remained stable for an extended period without breaking down, and prevented combustible vapors from entering the combustion zone, which is a key factor in halting the burning process. Experiments were conducted under laboratory conditions using a mock tank with a capacity of 250 liters. The compression foam generation system included: a fire extinguisher-like structure with a 12-liter capacity, air cylinders, medium- and high-pressure regulators with pressure gauges, a mixing chamber, valves, and flexible hoses through which the prepared foam was delivered. The foam was injected beneath the flammable liquid layer at a pressure of 4 MPa, ensuring its even distribution across the entire burning surface area. The results, based on three conducted experiments, demonstrated that the extinguishing time ranged from 52 to 57 seconds, with foam solution consumption varying between 2.9 and 3.2 liters. The low expansion ratio of the foam contributed to the formation of a dense and stable layer that effectively remained on the gasoline surface, preventing the evaporation of combustible vapors and eliminating the possibility of re-ignition. Particular attention was given to the economic efficiency of the method, as "subsurface" suppression with compression foam significantly reduces the consumption of foaming agents compared to traditional methods. The article also examines the main advantages of the "subsurface" approach over surface extinguishing. Delivering foam from below ensures a stable and controlled suppression process. Key limitations of the method are outlined, including the need to optimize the foam delivery system for large-volume tanks. Directions for further research are proposed to adapt the method for industrial conditions.