Fire protection in aviation: Aircraft hangars and helipads

Hangars

Firefighting foam is a critical element in hangar firefighting, where high-expansion foam generators are commonly used as part of a fire protection system. They are mounted at ceiling height and supplied by a foam proportioner. In the event of a fire, the hangar must be foamed up within 3 minutes, up to a height for doors and walls of 1.5 meters. 

Fires may break out in various places in the hangar. However, the biggest potential ignition source is below the aircraft’s wings as leaking fuel may gather there. This is why the extinguishing technology planning must consider all options while the area under the wings must be specially protected. This is often mandated by law for a wing size of more than 280 sqm. Thus, in the event of a fire, the extinguishing foam is discharged with pinpoint accuracy instead of covering the entire surface, which significantly reduces cleaning costs after such an extinguishing operation. 

Infrared early fire detection systems 

An early fire detection system allows early localization of the fire source. Continuous heat detection helps determine whether the fire has been successfully extinguished or if further action must be taken. 

Remote-controlled firefighting monitors for pinpointed extinguishing 

Remote-controlled fire monitors, which are integrated into the early fire detection system, enable targeted fire suppression within a limited area for a defined duration – namely, only until the fire hazard has been eliminated. FireDos’ compact fire monitors feature an innovative, flow-optimised ‘Oval-Flat’ design, which results in minimal pressure loss and maximises the spray range. To protect the area beneath the aircraft wing, a combination of oscillating and remote-controlled fire monitors is recommended, installed at a height of 2 to 4 metres on walls or columns. The most suitable fire monitors are those with a flow rate of 660 to 1321 gpm, fitted with a foam nozzle and, optionally, a deflector to create a foam blanket beneath the engines. During a fire-fighting operation, care must be taken to ensure that the jet of extinguishing agent does not strike the engines. Wings, engines and other aircraft components can cast shadows over the extinguishing agent jet. This shading must be taken into account when planning the system. The positioning and mounting height of the fire monitors are therefore tailored to the specific aircraft type, the hangar geometry and the intended parking positions.

FireDos fire monitors can be controlled from a safe position and integrated into the operational procedures of the airport or industrial fire service. Depending on the fire safety plan, either a wired control system or a radio remote control can be used. The fire service’s access routes and operational pathways should be taken into account during the planning stage of the system. This ensures that the monitors remain controllable even if certain access areas can no longer be used safely in the event of a fire.

Reliable foam proportioners to supply the high-expansion foam generators and monitors

Stationary proportioners reliably supply high-expansion foam generators with premix to generate extinguishing foam. The purely mechanical FireDos proportioner is characterized by a constant proportioning rate across a wide range of flow rates and pressure of the extinguishing water, guaranteeing maximum reliability. In addition, it allows testing of the proportioning rate while producing no premix at all – a cost-saving and eco-friendly solution. 

Helipads

When it comes to fire safety at helipads, extinguishing flammable liquids with fire-fighting foam is also essential. Short response times are crucial to the success of the fire-fighting operation. In addition, containment systems are required to allow kerosene to drain away, thereby preventing the fire from spreading and spreading to buildings. The use of fire-resistant materials and the provision of emergency exits are essential. 

Fire monitors for rapid automatic extinguishing

Due to limited space, several small fire monitors with flow rates of 66 to 264 gpm are often installed close to the ground (0 - 0.5 m) on helipads. By positioning the monitors opposite one another or in a coordinated arrangement, shading caused by the helicopter can be reduced. This ensures that the relevant areas can still be reached even when parts of the helicopter block the jet of extinguishing agent from a single monitor.

In addition to the strong rotor downwash, high wind speeds can occur, particularly on rooftop landing pads and offshore helidecks. The wind can affect both the throw distance and the trajectory and distribution of the extinguishing agent. Depending on the conditions, the effective range may be reduced by around 20 to 30 per cent.

A sufficient performance reserve is therefore an essential part of system planning. It is not just the monitor’s nominal flow rate that is decisive. The actual performance is determined by the interplay of the available water volume, inlet pressure, pressure loss, nozzle, jet pattern, throw distance and wind stability.

On helipads and helidecks, short response times are crucial to the success of firefighting operations. FireDos fire monitors can be operated via a PLC control system from a protected observation or technical room. Wired control panels and radio remote controls are also available. This enables operating personnel to control all relevant monitor functions from a safe distance.

When used in conjunction with a suitable multi-purpose nozzle, the spray pattern can be adjusted whilst the system is in operation. This enables operating personnel to respond to changes in the fire and wind conditions.

Foam proportioning systems for extinguishing with foam

Stationary foam proportioning systems are used at helipads. These are often installed on helipads – for example, on hospital roofs – in the helipad’s sub-control centre. The water supply for firefighting is then provided via the fire control centre in the basement. A portable proportioning system can also be used as a backup and mobile unit.

Firefighting monitors 

Our monitors can be integrated into automated fire extinguishing systems and operated via remote control.   

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Stationary foam proportioners 

Our stationary foam proportioners are highly reliable, guaranteeing a constant proportioning rate and the delivery of all foam agent types.   

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