Foam Making Branch Pipe FB 5X

Ships use FB 5X branch pipe to extinguish fires of all classes. There are 5X branch pipes inside the ships, positioned in multiple locations. These positions are always near the fire hydrants and AFFF foam cans, as they require water and AFFF solution to generate foam. The ships utilize a fire main line, which consists of a red-coloured chain of pipes running inside the ship. This line is continuously pressurized with seawater and is used to supply water to branch pipes through fire hydrants.

The foam-making branch pipe FB 5X works on the principle of the Venturi Effect. FB 5X produces mechanical foam containing 87% air, 12.5% water and 0.5% AFFF (Aqueous Film Foaming Foam) solution. It consumes 13.5 litres of AFFF solution in one minute when the seawater pressure is 6kg/cm² (80 PSI) and produces 500 gallons (2250 litres) of foam per minute.

Operating Procedure

1. Remove FB 5X from the stowage position.
2. Remove the AFFF cane from its stowage position and place it near the branch pipe.

1. Straighten the spill tube.

1. Check the branch pipe for any mechanical obstructions.
2. Connect the fire hose to the fire hydrant.

1. Connect FB 5X to the fire hose.
2. Hold the gun in the direction where the foam is to be filled/ sprayed.
3. Open the hydrant valve.

1. Open the water On/ Off knob on the Branch Pipe in the ON position.

1. Ensure there is no backflow increase in the Spill Tube due to the pressure of seawater.
2. Dip the Spill Tube inside the AFFF cane.
3. Turn ON the Foam Regulator Knob on the branch pipe.

Safety Precautions to use FB 5X Branch Pipe

• Check the spill tube assembly for any obstructions.
• Check the fire hose connection before opening the valve.

Read about FB 10X Branch Pipe HERE.