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Whereas the Parliament of India has set out to provide a practical regime of right to
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in order to promote transparency and accountability in the working of every public authority,
and whereas the attached publication of the Bureau of Indian Standards is of particular interest
to the public, particularly disadvantaged communities and those engaged in the pursuit of
education and knowledge, the attached public safety standard is made available to promote the
timely dissemination of this information in an accurate manner to the public.

“जान1 का अ+धकार, जी1 का अ+धकार” “प0रा1 को छोड न' 5 तरफ”

Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan Jawaharlal Nehru
“The Right to Information, The Right to Live” “Step Out From the Old to the New”

IS 4989 (2006, Reaffirmed 2012): Foam Concentrate for

Producing Mechanical Foam for Fire Fighting--Specification
(Third Revision). ICS 13.220.10 : 71.080

“!ान $ एक न' भारत का +नम-ण”

Satyanarayan Gangaram Pitroda
“Invent a New India Using Knowledge”

“!ान एक ऐसा खजाना > जो कभी च0राया नहB जा सकता ह”

है”
ह
Bhartṛhari—Nītiśatakam
“Knowledge is such a treasure which cannot be stolen”
 IS 4989 : 2006
[Amalgamating IS 4989 (Part 1): 1985,
IS 4989 (Part 2) : 1984 and IS 4989 (Part 3) : 1987]

3ITff ~ ~ ~ ~ ~I~I ~FlI~

cpr ~IJI x=rr~ - Fc1~lf6c
( d)~=tYI ~erar )

Indian Standard
FOAM CONCENTRATE FOR PRODUCING
MECHANICAL FOAM FOR FIRE FIGHTING -
SPECIFICATION
(Third Revision)

Ies 13.220.1 0; 71.080

© BIS 2006

BUREAU OF INDIAN STANDARDS

MANAK BHAVAN, 9 BAHADUR SHAH ZAFAR MARG
NEW DELHI 110002

October 2006 Price Group 7

Fire Fighting Sectional Committee, CED 22

FOREWORD
This Indian Standard (Third Revision) was adopted by the Bureau of Indian Standards, after the draft finalized
by the Fire Fighting Sectional Committee had been approved by the Civil Engineering Division Council.
Foam is a homogeneous mass of tiny air or gas filled in bubbles of low specific gravity which when applied in
correct manner and in sufficient quantity, fonn a compact fluid and stable blanket which is capable of floating on
the surface of flammable liquids and preventing emission of flammable vapours. It is produced by mechanically
mixing a gas or air to a solution of a foam compound (concentrate) in water. This standard covers the foam
compound in the form of a homogeneous liquid, free from suspended matter and visible impurities used for the
production of fire fighting foam which is produced by mechanical aeration of water foam concentrate solution.
The foam produced from the concentrates in this standard are of low expansion (up to 20 times). The low
expansion foam concentrates are of the following types:
a) Protein foam (PF) - A foam concentrate that has a hydrolyzed protein base with stabilizing additives
suitable for Class A and B fires.
b) Aqueousjilmformingfoam (AFFF) - A foam concentrate that has a fluorinated surfactant with stabilizing
additive and synthetic surfactants foaming agents for Class A and B fires.
c) Filmformingfluoro-proteinfoam (FFFP) -A foam concentrate that is protein base with one or more
fluorinated surfactant additives for Class A and B fires.
d) Synthetic foam I) - A non-fluoro surfactant base concentrate non-hydrolyzed protein suitable only for
Class A fire.
The earlier version of this standard was existing in four parts. This standard amalgamates first three parts, namely,
Part 1 Protein foam concentrate, Part 2 Aqueous film forming foam (AFFF) and Part 3 Fluoro-protein foam. The
purpose of all the three types is same, that is, for use in Fire Extinguishing agent for Class 'A' and 4B' flammable
liquid (Hydrocarbons) fires. Alcohol resistant foam which forms Part 4 of IS 4989, is not covered in this standard.
Chemical foam produced by mixing of sodium bicarbonate and aluminium sulphate with stabilizer has already
been discontinued from fire fighting foams and declared an obsolete technology.
Other types of foams are medium expansion and high expansion (20 - 200 and 200 - I 000 expansions) are also
excluded from this standard as their principle for foaming method of use and application in fire protection also
differs appreciably.
For the purpose of deciding whether a particular requirement of this standard is complied with, the final value,
observed or calculated, expressing the result of a test or analysis, shall be rounded off in accordance
with IS 2 : 1960 'Rules for rounding off numerical values (revised)'. The number of significant places retained in
the rounded off value should be the same as that of specified value in this standard.

I) This can be also medium and high expansion.

 AMENDMENT NO.1 NOVEBER 2008
TO
IS 4989 : 2006 FOAM CONCENTRATE FOR PRODUCING
MECHANICAL FOAM FOR FIRE FIGHTING -
SPECIFICATION
( Third Revision)

(Page 1, clause 3.2, line 4) - Delete 'amber colour'.

(Page 2, clause 5.3) - Add the following:

'5.4 Range of storage temperature shall be O°C to 50°C for prolonged storage.'

[Page 2, clause 6.1, Sl No. 0)] - Delete.

(Page 2, clause 7, last line) - Substitute the following for the existing:

'Density/specific gravity 0.65 to 0.75 at 27 ± 5°C'.

[Page 3, Table 1, Sf No. (iv), col 7] - Substitute the following for the
existing:

'Using viscosity meter of size No.3 for AFFF and Class A foam and size No.4
for other foams as given in Table 2 of IS 1206 (Part 3)'.

[Page 3, Table 1, Sl No. (vi)] - Substitute 'Sludge content (percent, w/w),

Max' jor 'Sludge content (percent, v/v), Max'.

[Page 3, Table 2, Sf No. (ii), col 3 and 4] - Substitute '6 to 10' for '3,6 to 10'.

[Page 3, Table 2, Sl No. (ii), col 5] - Substitute '6 to 12' for '3,6 to 10'.

[Page 3, Table 2, Sf No. (iii), col 4 .] - Substitute' I min 30 s' for '2 min 30 s'.

(Page 4, Annex C, clause C-1.1, table, last line) - Substitute 'Distilled

water' for 'Potable water'.

(Page 4, Annex C~ clause C-l.l, table, col heading) - Substitute 'mlm'

for'mm'.
Amf!nd No. 1 to IS 4989 : 2006

(Page 4, Annex C, clause C-2.2) - Substitute the following for the

existing:

'Prepare a solution of 250 ml containing 2 percent of Type 1 foam concentrate

in 98: percent distilled and synthetic sea water.'

(Page 5, Fig. l, Captions) - Substitute 'ApPARATUS FOR POUR POINT

TEST' for' ApPARATUS FOR POUR TEST'.

(Page 7, Annex F, clause F-2.3, last line) - Substitute 'dynes/cm' for

'dynes/cm 2 , .

(Page 8, Annex F, clause F-4, para 5) -- Delete 'The spreading

coefficient shall be determined with ................ as determined in F.3',

(Page 11, Annex H, clause H-2.1, line 4) - Insert 'for 40 sec' after 'of the
nozzlle gently' .

(Page 13, Annex K, clause K-1.4,para 3, line 2) - Substitute 'Fig. 3' for
'Fig. 4'.

(CED 22)

Reprography Unit, SIS, New Delhi, India

2
 IS 4989 : 2006

Indian Standard
FOAM CONCENTRATE FOR PRODUCING
MECHANICAL FOAM FOR FIRE FIGHTING -
SPECIFI CATI ON
(Third Revision)
1 SCOPE IS No. Title
1.1 This combined standard for fire fighting foams lays Dimensions, tolerances and
down requirement in respect of physical, chemical designation (fourth revision)
properties and performance over fires of standard fuel, 1206 Determination of viscosity: Part 3
for which these foams are formulated. With the invent (Part 3) : 1978 Kinematic viscosity
of new, improved formulations and improved test 1783 : 1993 Drums, large, fixed ends -
methods, all latest formulations and test methods are Specification
introduced through this standard. This standard also 2552: 1989 Steel drums (galvanized and
lays down requirement for packaging and storage. ungalvanized) (third revision)
The foam concentrate covered in this standard shall 2932 : 1975 Enamel exterior (a) undercoating,
be of the following types: (b) finishing (second revision)
4309 : 1979 Method of measurement on direct
a) Type 3 - To be used with 97 percent water
readingpH meters (first revision)
and 3 percent concentrates,
4905 : 1968 Method for random sampling
b) Type 6 - To be used with 94 percent water
and 6 percent concentrates, and 4989 Multipurpose aqueous film forming
c) Type 1 - To be used with 99 percent water (Part 4) : 2003 foam liquid concentrate for
and 1 percent concentrate. extinguishing hydrocarbon and polar
solvent fires - Specification
1.2 All the above types of foam concentrates are 7959: 1987 Specification for polyethylene
suitable only for top application. A special requirement containers for foam compounds (first
can be put separately for base injection system for revision)
storage tanks.
3 REQUIREMENTS
2 REFERENCES
3.1 On visual examination of foam concentrate liquid
The following standards contain provisions which shall not show any sedimentation or stratification,
through reference in this text, constitute provisions of contained in a covered glass beaker for 24 h at a
this standard. At the time of publication, the editions temperature of27 ± 5°C (One cycle). The concentrate
indicated were valid. All standards are subject also shall not show such sedimentation/stratification
to revision, and parties to agreements based on this after freezing and thawing at -5°C to 27 ± 5°C.
standard are encouraged to investigate the possibility
3.2 General
of applying the most recent editions of the standards
indicated below: Protein foam and Film forming fluoro protein foam are
dark brown or redish brown colour liquids with some
IS No. Title
offensive odour. The AFFF and Synthetic Class A foams
5 : 1994 Colours for ready mixed paints and are amber colour clear transparent liquids with no
enamels offensive odour.
123 : 1962 Specification for ready mixed paint,
brushing, finishing, semi-gloss, for 3.3 Characteristics
general purposes, to Indian Standard The foam concentrates shall conform to physical,
colours (revised) chemical and fire performance requirements indicated
554: 1999 Pipe threads where pressure-tight in Tables 1 and 2 respectively against them when tested
joints are made on threads - in accordance with method specified against each.
IS 4989 : 2006

NOTES d) Quantity in litres;

1 The tests described in Annex K are more expensive and time e) Month and year of manufacture and production
consuming than the other tests of this standard. It is
batch No;
recommended that they are carried out at the end of the test
programme, so as to avoid the expense of unnecessary testing f) Net and gross mass in kg;
of foam concentrates which do not comply in other respects. g) Do not store in direct sunrays; and
2 Method of generating foam shall be as per Annex G j) Freeze protected foam storage temperature (up
to -20°C)
4 PACKING
4. t Foam concentrate shall be packed in polyethylene 6.2 BIS Certification Marking
HOPE containers conforming to IS 7959 or suitable The product may also be marked with the Standard
polythelene container of specification as agreed to Mark.
between the purchaser and the supplier.
6.2. t The use of Standard Mark is governed by the
4.2 In addition to above ungalvanized mild steel drums provisions of Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 1986
for Protein foam and FFFP shall conform to Grade A2 and the Rules and Regulations made thereunder. The
or B2 of IS 2552 of capacity 20 I or as specified. The details of conditions under which the licence for the
closure shall consist of75 or 100 nun according to the use of Standard Mark may be granted to manufacturers
provision given in this standard. The mild steel barrels or producers may be obtained from Bureau of Indian
of capacity 200 I shall conform to IS 1783. Internal Standards.
surface may be left in natural finish free from rust. The
external surface of drums and barrels shall be painted 7 FUEL FOR FIRE PERFORMANCE TESTING
with suitable primer (see IS 123) and then painted fire
Fuel shall be n-heptane and its certain mixture called
red or post office red conforming to shade No. 536 or
commercial heptane with the following specification
538 of IS 5. The paint shall conform to IS 2932.
shall be used:
5 STORAGE Distillation range 84° to 105°C
5. t The storage place shall be free from dampness and Maximum difference between initial and final b.p.
shall be well ventilated and the container shall not be shall not exceed 10°C
directly exposed to the sun rays. Density/sp. gr. 0.70 to 0.80 at 27 ± 5°C
5.2 The polyethylene jerry cans shaH be preferably
8 TYPE TEST
stacked in single layers and shall not exceed more than
2 layers. 8. t Conditioning and fire performance test shall be
considered as type test and should be carried out at an
5.3 For bulk storage, the recommended storage
interval specified in the scheme of testing.
container should be made of stainless steel (SS 304) or
as per foam manufacturer's recommendation. 9 SAMPLING OFTHE FOAM COMPOUND
CONCENTRATE
6 MARKING
9.1 The number of filled containers to be sampled from
6. t Each container shall be legibly and indelibly
each batch for ascertaining conformity shall be in
marked with the following information:
accordance with following table:
a) Manufacturer's name and trade-mark, if any;
Scale of Sampling
b) To be written:
PF - For Protein foam concentrate for Total Number ofFilled Number of Containers
fire fighting Containers from Each Batch to be Selected
FFFP - For Film forming fluoro-protein Up to 100 5
foam concentrate for fire fighting 101 to 200 10
201 and above 15
AFFF - For Aqueous film forming foam for
fire fighting
9.2 The containers shall be selected at random from
SF - For Synthetic foam Class A for fire each batch. To ensure the randomness of selection,
fighting method given in IS 4905 may be adopted. The equal
And Type l/Type 3/Type 6 as amount of samples collected from each selected
applicable; container should be mixed to make a composite sample
c) Foam compatable with sea water; to carry out the single conformity test.

2
 IS 4989 : 2006

Table 1 Chemical and Physical Properties at 27 ± SoC

Both Original and Aged Sample
(Clause 3.3)

SI Property Protein Film Forming AFFF Synthetic Test Method

No. Fluoro Protein (Class A)
. 3% and 6% 3% and 6% 3% and 6% 1%

(I) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7)

i) pH 6 -7.5 6 -7.5 6.5 - 8.5 6.5 - 7.5 Annex A

ii) Specific gravity 1.13-1.18 1 - 1.15 1 - 1.12 1 - 1.12 Annex B

iii) Miscibility with Miscible (Shall pass the test) Annex C

water

iv) Viscosity 20 cSt, Max 16 cSt, Max 10 cSt, Max 10 cSt, Max Using viscosity
meter, see SI No. (iv)
of Table 2 of
IS 1206 (Part 3)

v) Pour point Zero Zero Zero Zero Annex D

vi) Sludge content Original 0.5 Original 0.5 Original 0.25 Original 0.25 Annex E
(percent, vlv), Max Conditioned 1.0 Conditioned 1.0 Conditioned 0.5 Conditioned 0.5

vii) Spreading - - +3 minimum Annex F

coefficient

Table 2 Fire Performance Requirements

(Clauses 3.3, G-I.1 and K-1.1)

Sl Performance Protein Film Forming AFFF Class AI) Test

No. Fluoro Protein Method

3% and 6% 3% and 6% 3% and 6% 1% and 3%

(I) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7)

i) Film formation No Yes Yes No Annex H

ii) Expansion at 27 ± SoC 3,6 to 10 3,6tol0 3,6to 10 4, Max Annex J

iii) 25 % Drainage time at 2 min, 30 s 2 min, 30 s I min, 30 s 1 min, 30 s Annex J

27 ± SoC, Min

iv) Fire control(s) 120 90 60 Not for Class B Annex K

Fire

v) Fire extinction(s) 180 120 90 - Annex K

vi) Bum back, Min 10 12 8 - Annex K

vii) Scalability To pass the test To pass the test To pass the test - Annex K

I) For hydrocarbon fue\.

3
IS 4989 : 2006

ANNEXA
[Table 1, Sl No. (i)]
METHOD FOR THE DETERMINATION OF pH VALUE

A-I PREPARATION FORAGED CONDITIONED A-2 PROCEDURE FOR pH DETERMINATION

SAMPLE
A-2. t Take 100 ml of a thoroughly mixed original that
A-t.l Condition a 500 ml thoroughly mixed sample of is unconditioned sample of Foam concentrate in a
concentrate by heating it in an oven maintained at a beaker and measure its pH value on a standard pH
constant temperature of 50 ± 1°C for 24 h. Allow it to electrometer (see IS 4309) using glass electrode at a
return to 27 ± 5°C followed by cooling it in a refrigerator temperature of 27 ± 5°C. Record the pH value to the
maintained at a constant temperature of 0 ± 1°C for 24 h nearest O. 1.
and then aJlowing it to return to temperature of27 ± 5°C. A-2.2 Repeat the experiment as in A-2.I by taking
This sample will be used for all those tests which require 100 ml of conditioned sample taken from A- t. t and
testing of aged conditioned sample. record the pH value to the nearest 0.1.

ANNEXB
[Table 1, Sl No. (ii)]
METHOD FOR THE DETERMINATION OF SPECIFIC GRAVITY

B-1 PROCEDURE B-l.2 Determine the specific gravity of the 100 ml

conditioned sample taken from A-I.1 in the same
B-t.t Determine the specific gravity of 100 ml of the
manner as in B- t.l .
thoroughly mixed unconditioned sample of Foam
concentrate of each type at a temperature of 27 ± 5°C B- 1.3 Record the results to the nearest 0.01.
using a Pyknometer or specific gravity bottle.

ANNEX C
[Table 1, Sf No. (iii)]
METHOD FOR THE DETERMINATION OF MISCIBILITY WITH WATER
AND SYNTHETIC SEA WATER

C-t SYNTHETIC SEA WATER of both fresh distilled and synthetic sea water as
prepared in C-1.1 by volume at a temperature of
C-1.I Prepare synthetic sea water by dissolving the
27 ± 5°C.
following salts in one litre of distilled water:
C-2.2 Prepare a solution of 250 ml containing
Salt Content, Percent, mm 12 percent of Type 6 Foam concentrate in 88 percent
Sodium chloride (NaCO 2.50 of fresh distilled and synthetic sea water prepared as
Magnesium chloride (MgCI 2.6H 20) 1.10 in C- t. t by volume.
Sodium sulphate (Na2S0 4) OAO
Calcium chloride (CaCI 2.H 20) dihydrate 0.16 C-3 PROCEDURE
Potable water 95.84 C-3. t The solutions as prepared in C-2.t and C-2.2
shall be kept separately in stoppered graduated cylinder
C-2 PREPARATION OF SAMPLE
for 24 h. The solutions shall not show any stratification,
C-2. t Prepare a solution of 250 ml containing precipitation and turbidity when examined visually at
6 percent of Type 3 Foam concentrate in 94 percent a temperature of27 ± 5°C.

4
 IS 4989 : 2006

ANNEXD
[Table 1, Sl No. (v)]
METHOD FOR THE DETERMINATION OF POUR POINT

0-1 APPARATUS of cylindrical form, flat bottom about 112 mm

in depth with inside diameter 10 to 12 mm
0- t. t The apparatus shall be as shown in Fig. 1 and
greater than the outside diameter of the test
shall consist of the following:
jar.
a) Test Jar - A test jar of clear glass, cylindrical e) Disc - A disc of cork or felt, 6 mm thick and
form, flat bottom, approximately 30 to 35 mm of the same diameter as the inside of the jacket.
inside diameter and 112 to 125 mm in height.
t) Gasket - A gasket about 5 mm thick, to fit
An ordinary 100 ml sample bottle may be
snugly around the outside of the test jar and
used, if it meets these requirements.
loosely inside the jacket. This gasket may be
b) Thermometer - A cloud and pour test made of cork, felt or other suitable material,
thermometer which can read down to -10°C. elastic enough to cling to the test jar and hard
c) Cork- To fit the test jar, bored centrally to enough to hold its shape. The purpose of the
take the test thermometer. ring gasket is to prevent the test jar from
d) Jacket-Ajacketofglassormetal, water-tight, touching jacket.

THERMOMETER

TEST JAR

COOLING BATH

FIG. 1 ApPARATUS FOR POUR TEST

5
IS 4989 : 2006

g) Bath - A cooling bath of suitable size and bulb immersed so that the beginning of the
shape to obtain the required temperatures. The capillary shall be 3 mm below the surface of
bath shall be provided with a support, suitable the sample.
for holding the jacket firmly in a vertical c) Fix the thermometer in vertical position.
position. The required bath temperature may d) Place the disc in the jacket and insert the test
be mentioned by refrigeration, if available, jar with the ring gasket 25 mm above the
otherwise by suitable freezing mixtures. bottom into the gasket. '
e) Maintain the temperature of the cooling bath
D-2 PROCEDURE
at -5°C. Support the jacket containing the test
D-2.1 The following procedure shall be followed: jar, firmly in a vertical position in the cooling
bath so that not more than 25 mm ofthe jacket
a) Pour the thoroughly shacked sample of foam
projects out of the cooling medium. As soon
compound into the test jar to a height of not
as the temperature of the foam compound in
less than 50 mm and not more than 56 mm.
the test jar goes down to O°C, the jar shaI1 be
Mark the jar to indicate the proper level. tilted and flow observed by holding the test
b) Close the test jar tightly by the cork carrying jar in a horizontal position for 5 s as noted by
the test thermometer in a vertical position in stop-watch and foam compound shall flow
the centre of the jar with the thermometer freely.

ANNEXE
[Table 1, Sf No. (vi)]
METHOD FOR THE DETERMINATION OF SLUDGE CONTENT

EDI PREPARATION after drawing the sample. Pour out the liquid gently
after centrifuging. Dry the centrifuge tube containing
E-1.1 Shake/roll the container in which the Foam
the sludge in an oven at 60°C for 1 h. The,n keep it at
concentrate is stored after keeping upside down for
ambient temperature for 30 min and take the weight of
] 0 min till the sediment completely disperses in the
centrifuge tube along with sludge. Calculate the sludge
liquid and then draw two samples out of it.
content as follows:
Sample A - 50/100 ml to be drawn in 50/100 ml
cone shaped graduated clear glass Weigh of sludge content
Sludge content, of the sample
centrifuge tube, which can read percent -----------------x
Volume of foam
100
nearestto 0.1 ml, each type separately.
(50/1 00 m]) x sp. gr.
Sample B - 300 m] to be drawn in a 500 ml
capacity stoppered conical flask, E-2.2 Any standard centrifuge may be used so long as
each type separately. its rev/min conforms to the following requirements:

E-l.2 Take 100/50 ml conditioned sample and allow it rev/min = 423.j ReF / d
to attain temperature of27 ± 5°C. Shake well by rotation
till any sediment which may have settled has dispersed where
uniformly and pour into 100/50 centrifuge tube. ReF = relative centrifugal force shall be between
500 and 600, and
E-2 PROCEDURE
d = diameter in cm between the tips of the
E-2.1 Centrifuge the Sample A for 30 min immediately opposite tube while in rotating position.

6
 IS 4989 : 2006

ANNEXF
[Table 1, Sl No. (vii)]
DETERMINATION OF SURFACE TENSION, INTERFACIAL
TENSION AND SPREADING COEFFICIENT
(For AFFF Foam Concentrate 3 and 6 Percent Type)

F-l MATERIALS F-3 PROCEDURE FOR DETERMINATION OF

INTERFACIAL TENSION
F-1.1 Solution ofFoam concentrate, at the recommended
concentration for use in freshly made distilled water After measuring the surface tensiorr in accordance
complying having surface tension not less than 70 m N/m. with F-2, introduce a layer of cyclohexane (F-1.2) at
NOTE - The solution may be made up in a 100 ml volumetric
27 ± 5°C onto the foam solution (F-l.l), being careful
flask using a pipette to measure the foam concentrate. to avoid contact between the ring and the cyclohexane.
Wait 6 ± 1 min and then measure the interfacial tension
F -1.2 Cyclohexane, of purity not less than 99 percent as under.
(AR grade) for interfacial tension and spreading
coefficient only. F-3.1 Apparatus

F-2 PROCEDURE FOR DETERMINING SURFACE Same as in F-2.1.

TENSION F -3.2 Sample
Determine the surface tension of the solution (F-l.l) Same as in F-2.2.
at a temperature of 27 ± 5°C using the ring method.
F-3.3 Procedure
F-2.1 Apparatus
The interfacial tension is determined in the same
The following apparatus is required: manner as the surface tension with the following
modifications:
a) Du Nouy precison tensiometer,
b) Platinum ring of 4 or 6 cm circumference, and a) Use fresh solutions and freshly cleaned
platinum ring for each determination.
c) Sample container (glass) 6 cm in diameter.
b) Always move the ring from the aqueous side
F -2.2 Sample of the interface through to the non-aqueous
side liquid.
A solution of 10 mlof 3 ± 0.05 percent of Type 3 AFFF
and 97 percent of distilled water by volume and/or c) First place the aqueous solutions in the sample
6 ± 0.1 percent of Type 6 AFFF and 94 percent of vessel and immerse the ring therein. Carefully
distilled water by volume. pour the cyclohexane on top of the aqueous
solution to form the two-layer systems.
F-2.3 Procedure Contact between the oil and the platinum ring
should be avoided during this operation.
Calibrate the tensiometer. Clean the glassware with After allowing sufficient time, make the
chromic sulphuric acid rinsing in distilled water. The measurement in the same manner as that used
platinum ring shall be rinsed thoroughly in a solvent for measuring surface tension.
and distilled water and then dry it in the oxidizing
portion of the gas flame. Check the level of the F-4 SPREADING COEFFICIENT
tensiometer and insert the platinum ring in the sample
Calculate the spreading coefficient between the
of AFFF solution contained in glass sample
solution (F-1.1) and cyclohexane (F-1.2) from the
container. Take the measurement. Set the dial and
equation:
the vernier at zero portion. Raise the sample platform
until the ring is first submerged. Lower the platform S = Yc - Yr- 1.
slowly, at the same time applying torsion to the wire where
by means of dial adjusting screw so that the ring
system remains constantly at its zero position. As S spreading coefficient, in dynes/em;
the breaking point is approaching neater and nearer, 'Yc surface tension of the cyclohexane, in
adjustments are made slowly. Record the dial reading dynes/cm;
when the ring detaches from the surface and express Yr surface tension of the foam solution, in
it in dynes/cm 2• dynes/cm; and

7
IS 4989 : 2006

~ = interfacial ten~ion between the foam ra = surface tension of premixed AFFF solution
solution and cyclohexane, in dynes/cm. as determined in F-2, and
The spreading coefficient shall be determined with r1 = interfacial tension between premixed
reference to cyclohexane in accordance with the AFFF and cyclohexane as determined
following relationship: in F-3.

Sa/b = rb-ra-r, F-5 DIGITAL TENSIOMETER

where Make sure that the digital densitometer is calibrated.

Introduce the solution of AFFF in to device. Ensure
Salb = spreading coefficient, zero reading in the monitor, start operation as
rb = standard value of surfaces tensions of mentioned above and finally note the reading from the
collector, monitor in dynes/cm.

ANNEXG
(Clause 3.3, and Annex H)
METHOD OF GENERATING FOAM

G-l FOAM MAKING NOZZLE b) Adjustable stand,

G-l.l A foam making nozzle having a water foam c) Nozzle (see Fig. 2), and
solution discharge capacity 7.51/min at 7 kgf/cm2 shall d) Air compressor.
be used for producing foam and checking the
G-3 CALIBRATION
performance requirement laid down in Table 2. The
details and the dimensions of the nozzle are given in G-3.1 The pressure gauges and nozzle shall be
Fig. 2. calibrated before use when new and thereafter once
every six months according to the standard procedure.
G-2 ARRANGEMENT FOR GENERATING FOAM
G-2.1 The following apparatus shall be used and G-4 FOAM GENERATION
assembled as shown in Fig. 3: G-4.1 The equipment shall be arranged as shown in
a) I ~O-litre Capacity Pressure Reservoir - Fig. 3. The reservoir should be filled with 90 I of
Made of stainless steel or mild steel sheet and 3 percent or 6 percent premixed solution of foam
tested to withstand an internal pressure of compound and potable water in desired proportions. The
25 kgf/cm2. It shall have a filling orifice of cap shall be tightened. A pressure of 8 kgf/cm2 shalt be
not less than 150 mm diameter with an built up with help of air compressor. The d~scharge value
airtight cap and other arrangements as given is then opened and the pressure is adjusted so as to give
in Fig. 3, a pressure of7 kgf/cm2 at the inlet of the nozzle.

8
 IS 4989 : 2006

REDUCER
SOCKET
BARREL

DISPERSAL CONE

STRAINER
2AASSEMBlY

17 ~1.~5 __~__

28

28 DISPE,RSED CONE

M 16 x 1.5
~

2C STRAINER 2DJET

THREADS AS PER M 31 x 2.5

G 3/4 OF IS:554

M 16 x 1.5
(TO SUIT
RECEIVER)

I - e - - - - 53.5 - - - . - !

2E FOAM MAKING BODY 2F RECEIVER

All dimensions in millimetres.

FIG. 2 FOAM MAKING NOZZLE OF CAPACITY 7.5 IImin - Continued

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IS 4989 : 2006

M 31 x 2.5 (TO SUIT 4-HOLES, C2J 9.5 M 25.5 X 1.75

FOAM MAKING BODY) EaUALLY SPACED (TO SUIT AIR INLET)

M 17 X 1.5
(TO SUIT
BARREL)

2G AIR INLET 2H REDUCER SOCKET

2J BARREL

All dimensions in millimetres.

FIG. 2 FOAM MAKING NOZZLE OF CAPACITY 7.5 IImin

HIGH PRESSURE
RUBBER TUBE

MILD STEEL
PIPE
z~::
MAKING NOZZLE

PRESSURE
VESSEL
100 L
CAPACITY

AIR
COMPRESSOR

FIG. 3 ARRANGEMENT OF FOAM GENERATING EQUIPMENT

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 IS 4989 : 2006

ANNEX H
[Table 2, Sl No. (i)]
FILM FORMATION TEST
(Only for AFFF Type 3 and 6 Percent Foam Concentrates)

H-l EQUIPMENT and fill the tray by operation of the nozzle gently with
the help of a suitable goose neck. Immediately after
a) Mild steel sheet fire tray having dimensions
stoppage of foam application, place the cylindrical
of 60 cm x 60 cm and height 15 cm;
strainer drum with open end up on the tray. Wait for
b) Cylindrical shaped drum made of stainless 3 min. Now lower a lighted torch (lighted with
steel wire mesh of size 180 Jlm IS sieve having Heptane/alcohol through the open end of the strainer
height of 45 cm, and internal diameter 20 cm. and bring it near but not touching) the liquid surface;
The drum is closed at lower end with mild care shall be exercised to ensure that burning alcohol/
steel sheet and open at upper end; Heptane does not drip down from the torch over the
c) A suitable tong to lower and raise the drum in film surface. The surface shall not ignite.
the tray during test; and
Now the burning torch should be very lightly touched
d) The nozzle and the arrangements as per details to the liquid surface. The surface shall not ignite. Keep
given in Annex G. repeating the test at intervals of 1 min from stopping
the foam application. The film shall be held for minimum
H-l PROCEDURE
15 min.
H-2.1 Pour water in the tray, up to a height of 5 cm. NOTE - In all the above tests, intermittent self·extillguishing
Pour 2 I of commercial heptane over the water surface. 'Walk Over'/'Flash' of flame is ignored. However, if sustained
Generate the foam and operate the nozzle at 7 kg/cm 2 burning occurs, and then the film is considered weak/absent.

ANNEX J
[Table 2, Sl No. (ii) and (iii)]
DETERMINATION OF EXPANSION AND DRAINAGE TIME

J-l APPARATUS J-3 PROCEDURE FOR EXPANSION

J-1.1 Plastics or glass collecting vessel, of known J-3.1. Check that the pipework and hose from the foam
volume of approx. 1.6 I ± 1 percent, equipped with a solution tank (J-l.4) to the nozzle (J-1.3) is completely
bottom discharge facility, as shown in Fig. 4. full of solution. Set up the nozzle horizontally, directly
in front of the foam collector (J-l.2) with the front of
J-1.2 Foam collector, for expansion and drainage the nozzle 3 ± 0.3 m from the top edge ofthe collector.
measurement, as shown in Fig. 4. Stainless steel, Wet the collecting vessel (J-l.l) internally and weigh
aluminum, brass and plastics are suitable materials for it (m l ). Set up the foam-making nozzle and adjust the
the collection surface. nozzle pressure 7 kglcm2 • Discharge foam and adjust
J-1.3 Foam-making nozzle (see Fig. 2 and 3), which the height of the nozzle so that the discharge strikes
when tested with water, has a flow rate of 7.5 Vmin at the collector centrally. Keep the nozzle horizontal. Stop
a nozzle pressure of7 kg/cm 2• foam discharge and rinse all the foam from the
collector. Check that the foam solution tank is full.
J-1.4 Foam solution vessel, connected to the nozzle. Start discharging foam and, after 30 ± 5 s to al10w the
discharge to stabilize, place the collecting vessel, with
J-2 TEMPERATURE CONDITIONS
the discharge outlet closed, below the collector.
J-l.l Carry out the tests under the temperatures of Immediately after pouring foam into pant start stop
foam solution 27 ± 5°C. watch and as soon as the vessel is full, remove it from

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IS 4989 : 2006

100

A - Drainage Pot
B - Stand
C - Transport Tube
30 mm to 50 mm Long
6 mm to 8 mm Bore
D - Discharge Outlet Closure
E - Measuring Cylinder 100 ml
with 5 ml Least Measure

FIG. 4 COLLECTING VESSEL FOR DETERMINATION OF EXPANSION AND DRAINAGE TIME

the collector, strike off the foam surface level with the J-4 PROCEDURE FOR CALCULATING
rim. Weigh the full vessel (m 2). 25 PERCENT DRAINAGE TIME
Calculate the expansion E from the equation: J-4.1 25 percent drainage volume is calculated from
the foam expansion and drainage pan volume. The
V
E=--- drainage time is measured from commencing to fill
the pan with foam up to the 25 percent drainage value.
where The example of calculating 25 percent drainage is given
below:
V = volume, in litres, of the collecting vessel;
Volume of drainage pan 1 600 ml
mI = mass, in kg, of the empty vessel; and
Expansion of foam 8
m2 = mass in kg, of foam tilled vessel.
1600
Assume that the density of the foam solution 25 percent drainage time volume = 4 x 8 = 50 ml
is 1.0 kg/I. a) Immediately after pouring foam into pan start
Open the drainage facility (see J-1.1) and collect the the stop watch,
foam solution in the measuring cylinder to measure b) Measure expansion, and
the 25 percent drainage time. Adjust the drainage c) Start noting of volume of drained water from
facility such that the drained foam solution may flow 20 mi to 80 mi and prepare a graph time versus
out whilst preventing the passage of foam. volume of drained liquid. Time in seconds for
NOTE - This may be achieved by controlling the level of the 50 ml drained liquid is the 25 percent drainage
liquid/foam interface in the plastic tube at the outlet. time in the above example.

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 IS 4989 : 2006

ANNEX K
[Clause 3.3; and Table 2, Sl No. (iv), (v), (vi) and (vii)]
DETERMINATION OF TEST FIRE PERFORMANCE

K-l GENERAL CONDITIONS K-I.5 Fuel

K-1.1 A test is successful only if the appropriate Typical fuels meeting this specification are n-heptane.
requirements of this clause are met and performance
is met as per Table 2. K-2 GENTLE APPLICATION

K- t. 1.1 Carry out one test with potable water and the K-2.1 Method for the Determination of Fire
other with the synthetic sea water ofC-I.L Jfboth are Extinguishing Properties
successful or if both are not successful, terminate the K-2.1.1 Equipment
test series. If only one of the tests is not successful,
repeat that test. I f this repeat test is successful, carry Circular mild steel tray having base area of2.5 m2 with
out a second repeat test, otherwise terminate the test height 0.6 m.
series. The concentrate complies with this clause: Adjustable stand to hold the nozzle firmly.
a) if the first two tests are successful, or Torch to ignite n-heptane.
b) if one of the first two tests and both repeat
tests are successful. K-2.1.2 Procedure

K-l.2 Temperature and Wind Speed Pour 225 I of potable water in the tank so that the height
of the water in tank is about 10 cm. Pour 50 I of
Carry out the tests under the following conditions: n-heptane within 30 s into the tank over the water
Foam solution temperature : 27 ± 5°C surface. Position the test nozzle at 7 kgf/cm2 pressure
at such a level and direction that the foam stream, when
Maximum wind speed : 3 mls in the proximity
discharged inside across the tank, strikes it just above
of the test pan
the waterln-heptane level (preferably 10 cm). Nozzle
NOTE - Ifnecessary, some form of wind-screen may be used.
end should not extend over any part of the test pan.
K-l.3 Records
K-2.2 Fire Test
During the first test, record the following:
K-2.2.1 Ignite the n-heptane within 30 s of pouring
a) Indoor or outdoor test, and allow it to burn for 30 s. Generate foam and direct
b) Foam-solution temperature, the stream at the back of the tankjust above the water/
c) Wind speed, fuel surface for 180 s. After 180 s stop the foam
application. Record the time of fire control and
d) Control time,
complete extinction. -
e) Extinction time, and
NOTES
t) 25 percent burn back time (where appropriate).
I Premix solution under pressure should be used within 45 min.
For quality control purposes, it is recommended that 2 Before fire test the fire tank should be cleaned properly free
90 percent control times and complete extinction are from rust and without any projection or dents.
recorded. Control times may be determined visually. 3 Potable water should be used in the fire pan and temperature
should be 27 ± 5°C.
K-l.4 Foam Solution 4 The technical persons performing this test should have to be
protected with fire proof suits, shoes, gloves and helmet with
Prepare a foam solution following the recommendations face shield.
from the supplier for the concentration, maximum
K-2.3 Burn Back Test
premix time, compatibility with the test equipment,
avoidance of contamination by other types of foam, etc. K-2.3. t Burn Back Pot, made of steel with nominal
thickness 1.5 mm, dia 120 ± 5 mm, and depth
Use potable water to prepare up the foam solution and
100± 2 mm.
also make a foam solution using simulated sea water
made up by dissolving the components as per synthetic K-2.3.2 Procedure, a suitable arrangement to hold this
sea water composition given at C-1.L pot and place it in the fire test tank.
Fill up the solution in the foam tank, 100 litres capacity a) Fill up approx. one litre fuel in the burn back
and arrange equipment as given in Fig. 4. pot.

13
IS 4989 : 2006

b) 60 s after complete extinction of fire in fire Allow the fuel to bum in draught free still
tank place burn back tray at approx. centre of air condition and ensure that flames are
tank in such a way the upper surface of foam vertical. Watch by visual observation
and edges of burn back tank are about the same 25 percent fire test tank is under fire. This
level. In any case foam should not enter in the time is recorded as burn back time for a foam
burn back pot. blanket which is a indirect measure of
c) Ignite the pot with the help of a lighted thermal stability as well as sealability of the
torch. foam blanket.

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