What is the objective of the expansion and drainage test method?

The objective of the expansion and drainage test method is to obtain a sample of foam for anticipated fire conditions. This test allows for the assessment of a foam’s ability to expand and hold its structure, ultimately providing insights into how it will perform in realistic fire scenarios. By measuring the properties of foam, including its expansion ratio and drainage rate, practitioners can simulate conditions that mimic actual fire environments, ensuring that the foam is suitable for the expected fire scenarios.

This is critical for understanding the effectiveness of foam solutions in combating different types of fires, particularly for aviation incidents where hydrocarbons might be involved. By evaluating the foam under these test conditions, responders can make informed decisions about which type of foam would be best suited to manage potential fire situations in an airport or aircraft emergency.