Assessment of the Impact of Extinguishing with a Low-Pressure Fog Lance on a Fire Environment

Abstract

A main purpose of the study was to assess the impact of extinguishing with a low-pressure fog lance on a fire environment, especially of temperature. A low-pressure fog lance has recently been recommended for fighting fires in either limited spaces or difficult to access places. Four tests were conducted in real internal fire conditions. The following lances were used in sequential tests: fognail attack, MK with attack head, fognail defense and MK with defense head. They were fed from a fire vehicle GBA 2.5/24 equipped with a pump with automatic pressure regulation and hose lines W75 and W52. The temperature was measured with thermocouples at various points of the room, including the ceiling. Photographic documentation of the tests was prepared using thermal and video cameras. The best way of using a fog lance was established from literature sources and the manufacturer’s requirements. Two main factors of effective firefighting were observed during the tests: smoke cooling and isolation of the fire by formed water vapor. The use of a fog lance significantly improves of fire-fighting operations. A proper application of water mist eliminates the risk of fire gases’ ignition. The assumed times of ensuring safe conditions in the room were confirmed.