How does a foam bladder tank work?

A foam bladder tank is an integral component of a fire protection system, particularly in scenarios where large volumes of foam are required to suppress fires effectively.

The foam bladder tank contains a quantity of foam concentrate, which is a concentrated liquid solution that, when mixed with water, forms firefighting foam. The foam concentrate is stored within the tank under pressure.

Water from the fire protection system's water supply enters the bladder tank. The water pressure forces the bladder inside the tank to compress, displacing the foam concentrate and maintaining pressure on it.

When a fire occurs and foam is needed, a valve is opened, allowing the foam concentrate to flow out of the bladder tank.

As the foam concentrate exits the bladder tank, it mixes with water flowing from the water inlet. This mixture typically flows into a proportioning device or a foam induction system.

In the proportioning device, the foam concentrate mixes with the water at the appropriate ratio to produce the desired firefighting foam solution. This ratio is typically predetermined based on the type of fire and the concentration of the foam concentrate.

The foam solution is then delivered through firefighting equipment, such as foam generators, nozzles, or sprinkler systems, to the area where the fire needs to be suppressed.

Upon contact with the air and the fire, the foam solution expands to create a thick blanket of foam that covers the fuel surface, cutting off the fire's oxygen supply and suppressing the flames.

After the foam has been discharged, the bladder tank can be replenished with foam concentrate and water, ready for future use.

The foam bladder tank operates by storing foam concentrate under pressure and releasing it in combination with water to produce firefighting foam, which is then applied to extinguish fires effectively.