The names CAFS and WEPS are used occasionally in discussion of “Class A” foaming agents. What do these terms refer to?
CAFS (compressed air foam systems) and WEPS (water expansion pumping systems) are terms used to describe high energy systems of producing greatly aerated foam. A typical system includes not only a foam injection system and water pumping system, but also an air compressor. When mixed in common ratios of 1cfm of air to 1 gpm of water, these systems can offer increased reach from lower water flows, and a more “shaving cream” type of consistency foam for extended exposure protection and moisture holding ability on “Class A” fuels. The Bureau of Land Management, Boise Interagency Fire Center continues to do extensive research of CAFS units for both wildland and structural attack applications and can offer a wealth of information on design and implementation of a CAFS.
