DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY ETL 1110-3-484

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

CEMP-ET Washington, DC 20314- 1000

Technical Letter
No. 1110-3-484 26 September 1997

Engineering and Design

AIRCRAFT HANGAR FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS

1. Purpose. This letter provides guidance for the design and construction of fire protection
systems for hangars and similar facilities housing important and valuable military aircraft.

2. Applicability. This letter applies to all HQUSACE elements and USACE commands having
military construction and design responsibility.

3. References. See Appendix A.

4. Distribution. Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

5. Objective. The objective of this letter is to provide a uniform approach to the design and
construction of costly and complex fire protection systems required to be installed in aircraft
hangars housing military aircraft.

6. Action. The guidance included in Appendix B to this technical letter will be used for planning,
design and construction of fire protection features and systems for military facilities.

7. Implementation. This technical letter will have special application, as defined in paragraph 8C,
ER 1110-345-100.

FOR THE COMMANDER:

2 Appendices
APP A - References
APP B - Aircraft Hangar
Fire Protection Systems

This ETL supersedes ETL 1110-3-411, dated 26 April 1990.

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APPENDIX A

REFERENCES

GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS

Department of Defense

MIL-HDBK 1008C Handbook, Fire Protection For Facilities,

Engineering, Design and Construction

Department of the Army

CADD-93-1 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Waterways

Experiment Station CADD Details Library, Report
2, Mechanical Details, April 1995,

Department of the Air Force

ETL 96-1 Engineering Technical Letter 96-1, Fire Protection

Engineering Criteria - New Aircraft Facilities, 22
January 1997

National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)

Technical Note 1423 Analysis of High Bay Hangar Facilities For Fire
Detector Sensitivity and Placement

NONGOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269-9101

NFPA 13 Sprinkler Systems

NFPA 16A Closed-Head Foam-Water Sprinkler Systems

NFPA 20 Centrifugal Fire Pumps

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NFPA 22 Water Tanks For Private Fire Protection

NFPA 24 Private Fire Service Mains and Their Appurtenances

NFPA 72 National Fire Alarm Code

NFPA 409 Aircraft Hangers

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APPENDIX B

AIRCRAFT HANGAR FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

1. GENERAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-1

2. DESIGNER REQUIREMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-1

3. SUBMITTALS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-1

4. TECHNICAL CENTER OF EXPERTISE (TCX) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-1

4.1 Required Design Reviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-2
4.2 Submittal Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-2

5. DESIGN ANALYSIS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-2

5.1 Narrative ................................................... B-2
5.2 Water Supply/Demand Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-3
5.3 Hydraulic Calculations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-3
5.4 Manufacturer’s Catalog Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-4

6. FIRE PROTECTION DRAWINGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-4

6.1 Fire Protection Piping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-4
6.2 Fire Detection and Control System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-5
6.3 Fire Protection Equipment Room . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-6
6.4 Fire Pump Building or Room . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-6
6.5 Drawing Details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-6

7. ELECTRICAL DRAWINGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-6

7.1 Building Fire Alarm System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-6
7.2 Fire Protection Equipment Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-7

8. SITE UTILITY DRAWINGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-7

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9. SPECIFICATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-7
9.1 Corps of Engineers Guide Specifications (CEGS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-7
9.2 Editing and Submittal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-8

10. TECHNICAL GUIDANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-8

10.1 Fire Protection Water System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-8
10.2 AFFF Concentrate Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-9
10.3 Foam-Water Sprinkler Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-12
10.4 Nozzle Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-13
10.5 Interior Hose Stations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-15
10.6 System Valves and Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-15
10.7 Detection and Control Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-16

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AIRCRAFT HANGAR FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS

1. GENERAL. Fire protection systems are provided in aircraft hangars for protection against a
potentially devastating fire and the loss of valuable military assets. Current state-of-the-art
protection systems utilize aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) to combat fuel spill fires that can
occur in facilities housing fueled aircraft. Because of the critical nature and the inherent
complexity associated with foam fire protection systems, it is essential that they be designed and
installed by those with the required expertise and experience. Lessons learned have identified
numerous installation and operational problems that can adversely affect system adequacy,
reliability and maintainability. It is therefore imperative that attention be directed to the design
and installation of these systems. The focus of this ETL is on design. Since there is a correlation
between the adequacy of the design and the acceptability of the final installation, emphasis must
be placed on producing designs that are technically correct and comply with applicable design
criteria. To better assure system acceptability, it is essential to thoroughly and clearly define
system requirements. This ETL establishes a number of procedures and technical direction to
assist designers in achieving this objective.

2. DESIGNER REQUIREMENTS. Design of foam-water sprinkler systems for aircraft

hangars requires specialized design knowledge and expertise. To assure adequacy of design, it is
essential that such systems be designed and specified by engineers with extensive experience in
this specialized area of fire protection system design. This is mandatory for Air Force projects
covered by Air Force ETL 96-1, Fire Protection Engineering Criteria-New Aircraft Facilities.

3. SUBMITTALS. Each design submittal stage should address crucial considerations affecting
the fire protection system design. This includes water supply systems, proposed types of sprinkler
and nozzle systems, foam concentrate proportioning systems, fire detection and controls systems,
etc. Of particular importance is the water supply system which must meet system demands.
Lessons learned indicate the need for more comprehensive water demand and water supply
analyses. After the initial design submittal, each succeeding submittal should be a further
elaboration and refinement of what was previously submitted. For example, whereas the concept
submittal may include only rough approximations of system water demand, the intermediate
(preliminary) and final submittals need to include detailed hydraulic calculations to confirm that
calculated system demands can in fact be met with the existing or proposed water system. This
analysis should be correlated with the design to provide substantiation of pump selection, pipe
sizes, nozzle selection, sprinkler discharges, etc. Specific requirements for design analysis,
drawings and hydraulic calculations are described later in this document.

4. TECHNICAL CENTER OF EXPERTISE (TCX). A TCX for Aircraft Hangar Fire

Protection was established to provide technical assistance to those involved in the design,
installation, and testing of aircraft hangar foam fire suppression systems. The TCX will provide,

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on a cost reimbursable basis, technical guidance and assistance to those tasked to design hangar
fire protection systems. The office requesting services will provide funding to cover TCX costs
associated with each project. Costs are directly related to the size and complexity of the project
and the quality of the design submittal. Arrangements should be made by contacting Mr. Ed
Lockwood at (540) 665-3919 (voice) and (540) 665-3628 (facsimile). Correspondence and
submittal packages should be sent as follows:

U.S. Postal Service: Federal Express or UPS

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Transatlantic Programs Center Transatlantic Programs Center
ATTN: CETAC-EC-TM (Lockwood) ATTN: CETAC-EC-TM (Lockwood)
P.O. Box 2250 201 Prince Frederick Drive
Winchester, Virginia 22604-1450 Winchester, Virginia 22602

4.1 Required Design Reviews. As mandated by U.S. Air Force ETL 96-1, aircraft facility fire
protection designs will be submitted for technical review by the TCX. Comments will be
incorporated to the satisfaction of the Air Force. For other than Air Force designs, Corps offices
are encouraged to utilize the TCX for technical assistance and to submit designs for review. This
will serve to assure technical adequacy of the design and conformance to the requirements of this
ETL.

4.2 Submittal Procedures. Corps offices tasked to design projects with aircraft facility fire
protection systems will contact the TCX as early as possible during the design process to discuss
required services, design schedule, and funding requirements. To assure timely reviews by the
TCX, the requesting office should transmit required funds as early as possible, but in no case less
than 10 work days prior to submission of the first submittal. A submittal schedule should be
provided to the TCX to facilitate workload management. All design submittals, i.e., concept,
intermediate (preliminary) and final, will be submitted to the TCX for review. Documents will
include all drawings, design analyses, calculations, specifications, confirmation notices, meeting
minutes, and other related documentation associated with the project. As soon as possible
following their submission, technical comments provided by the TCX will be annotated with the
action taken and returned to the TCX reviewer. Comments to which exception is taken will be
discussed and resolved prior to continuation of the design process and submission of the next
submittal.

5. DESIGN ANALYSIS.

5.1 Narrative. Provide a Fire Protection narrative separately from other disciplines. Prepare a
comprehensive design analysis in accordance with MIL-HDBK-1008C. Clearly indicate the basis
of design and application of specific design criteria. Describe the overall fire protection system
proposed for the facility including types and arrangement of all systems and subsystems. This

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includes sprinkler, nozzle, detection, control, AFFF concentrate, proportioning, and etc. Include
detailed descriptions of sprinkler systems in terms of applicable sprinkler types, spacing
limitations, and etc. As applicable, include reference to other disciplines where related systems
are described. For example, refer to applicable civil site utility portions of the analysis for
description of water storage, distribution, and etc.

5.2 Water Supply/Demand Analysis. Hangar fire protection systems typically have high water
demands, in terms of water quantity and pressure. It is not unusual for such systems to have
water demands for sprinklers and nozzles in excess of 18925 L/min (5000 gpm) at pressures of
862 kPa (125 psi). To assure adequacy of water supply to meet such demands, the designer must
perform a detailed hydraulic analysis. This will compare the system demand with the supply and
identify system adjustments necessary to assure that all applicable design parameters will be met.
Include an exterior hose stream demand of 1893 L/min (500 gpm) where the water supply for the
building sprinklers and nozzles also supplies hydrants available for use by the fire department.

5.3 Hydraulic Calculations. Calculations in the absence of a specific design will constitute, at
best, rough approximations. While such approximations may suffice for the concept submittal,
subsequent submittals need to include calculations based upon an actual layout of discharge
devices and corresponding piping configuration.

5.3.1 Computer Software. Perform hangar fire protection system hydraulic calculations using
recognized fire protection software. The “HASS” (Hydraulic Analyzer of Sprinkler Systems) is a
recognized hydraulics program used by many contractors and fire protection design firms. This
program is taught in PROSPECT Course, “Fire Extinguishing System Design”and should be used
by Corps of Engineers offices performing or specifying fire protection systems for aircraft
hangars.

5.3.2 System Sketch. Include in the design analysis (not the contract drawings) a sketch
representative of the overall fire protection system. It should show all pipes and nodes in the
sprinkler, nozzle and underground water distribution systems. Assure that the sketch corresponds
to what is indicated on the project drawings as well as in the hydraulic calculations.

5.3.3 Hydraulic Reference Points. Identify all hydraulic reference points (nodes) in the piping
system being calculated. Include elevation and pressure at each node in the system. For
discharging nodes, indicate the k-factor and flow.

5.3.4 Pipe Segments. Identify all pipes in the system and indicate the two nodes to which each
pipe is connected. Include the diameter, length, number and type fittings, equivalent length,
friction loss per foot, flow, velocity, total friction loss in the pipe segment, Hazen-Williams
coefficient, and etc. As permitted by computer software used, label pipe segments as “strainer,”

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“proportioner,” “fire pump,” “backflow preventer,” and others as appropriate to identify the
specific system components with special features and friction loss characteristics.

5.4 Manufacturer’s Catalog Data. Include in the design analysis catalog information for all
major items of equipment upon which the design is based. This includes, but is not limited to, fire
pumps, jockey pumps, foam concentrate tanks, foam pumps, foam proportioners, automated foam
concentrate valves, nozzles, automatic water control valves, sprinklers, and etc.

6. FIRE PROTECTION DRAWINGS

6.1 Fire Protection Piping. Prepare separate "FP" drawings to indicate all fire protection
equipment and devices associated with the fire protection system. Provide complete fire
protection system design including sizes and locations of all equipment and piping. Determine
pipe sizes using computer software developed specifically for design of fire protection systems.
Since the fire protection system design will be provided as part of the contract drawings, do not
include design criteria on the drawings or in the specifications. This is apt to be misinterpreted by
the contractor as an invitation to redesign the system.

6.1.1 Sprinkler and Piping Plan. Prepare a separate “FP” drawing showing the overall
arrangement of the sprinkler system. Assure that the scale is adequate to clearly show sprinklers,
branch lines, crossmains, riser nipples, feed mains, risers and other major components. A drawing
scale of 1:100 (1/8"= 1'-0") is recommended. Indicate routing of all piping and identify pipe sizes,
but do not indicate lengths of pipe segments. Leave this for the contractor to determine and
provide for review and approval as part of shop drawing submittal.

6.1.2 Nozzle System Plan. Prepare a separate “FP” drawing showing nozzle system piping,
automatic control valves as well as nozzles. Where possible, position nozzles so as to direct the
foam discharge toward the hangar door. Nozzle system design should strive for gentle
application of foam solution into the protected area. Keep in mind that the discharge velocity will
carry the foam beyond the area of nozzle stream impact on the floor. Nozzle discharges should
not overlap those from opposing or converging nozzles. Such arrangements will result in
undesirable turbulence, particularly in the under-aircraft area and is apt to adversely affect fire
control or extinguishment. Show the approximate area to be covered by each nozzle. Include a
detail of each nozzle type required. Where possible, use nozzles with the same discharge
characteristic as this will simplify installation and maintenance as well as design. Indicate, on the
drawings, the k-factor for each nozzle. Where a number of different k-factors are involved,
include a nozzle schedule to clearly convey design intent and requirements.

6.2 Fire Detection and Control System. Prepare separate “FP” drawings identifying each
device connected to the foam system control panel (FSCP). Develop unique symbols for
identifying the various components comprising the foam system. Clearly identify each symbol and

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omit any which is not used for a specific design. Assure that symbols are dissimilar to those used
in the fire alarm or other building systems. Provide unique identification of each such device
using a subscript indicating the applicable zone number and a sequentially allocated device
number for each specific circuit. For example, if Zone 3 includes four manual actuation stations,
identify them with subscripts of “3-1,” “3-2,” “3-3," and “3-4.” If Zone 4, for example, has
twenty (20) rate compensated heat detectors, identify them “4-1".......thru “4-20.” Use this device
numbering scheme for floor plans and riser diagrams.

6.2.1 Foam System Control Panel (FSCP). Locate the FSCP on the “FP” drawings, preferably
within, or in close proximity to, the fire protection equipment room. To minimize cost and to
simplify testing and maintenance, specify FSCP’s with integral annunciators rather than providing
remote annunciators. Include a sequence of operation in narrative form, controls matrix or both
as necessary to describe system operation.

6.2.2 Foam System Riser Diagram. Identify and group the various inputs and outputs associated
with the control panel. This will include alarm initiating and supervisory input circuits as well as
“alarm notification and release device output circuits.

a. Alarm Initiating Device Circuits--includes waterflow switch, nozzle system manual

actuation station, heat detector, ultra-violet/infrared flame detector, etc.

b. Supervisory Device Circuits-- includes valve supervisory (tamper) switches, pump

controllers, low liquid level, etc.

c. Release Device Circuits--includes circuits to solenoid valves for actuation of automatic

water control valves controlling foam solution flow to nozzle systems and preaction sprinkler
system.

d. Alarm Notification Device Circuits-- includes alarm bells, horns, sirens, strobe lights,
rotating beacons, etc.

6.2.3 Schedule of Supervised Valves. For applications involving numerous valves requiring
supervisory (tamper) switches, a valve schedule indicating designation, size, type, location, and
area controlled is recommended. Include in the schedule the unique device identifier
corresponding to what is shown in the riser diagram. Valves requiring supervision include those
controlling water, foam concentrate and foam solution.

6.3 Fire Protection Equipment Room. Include an enlarged plan at a scale of 1:50 (1/4"=1'-0")
of the fire protection equipment room. Show the AFFF concentrate tank, water service entrance,
sprinkler riser/valve manifold, foam system control panel, and piping. Provide sections and details
to clearly show the riser manifold and all associated components, piping, valves, fittings, etc.

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Assure that the equipment is arranged to facilitate maintenance and regular testing. In particular,
assure that AFFF bladder tanks are of the horizontal type and located with sufficient space at one
end to permit removal and replacement of bladders. As much as practicable, arrange components
to be serviceable from the floor. Otherwise, work platforms may be necessary.

6.4 Fire Pump Building or Room. Fire pumping systems for most hangar fire protection
systems can provide water supply to the facility included in the current design project as well as
future hangars. These pumping systems often involve multiple, high-capacity, diesel engine-
driven fire pumps. It is therefore preferred to locate and arrange such pumping systems in a
separate pump house or building adjacent to the water storage tanks from which the pumps take
suction. This pump facility will house the pumps, drivers, controllers, fuel tanks, test headers and
associated equipment. The configuration of the equipment space should consider the need to test,
maintain and even replace major components of the system. If the fire pump installation must be
co-located with the AFFF concentrate tank, proportioning equipment, valve header, and control
panels, assure that adequate space is allocated to facilitate maintenance of all subsystems.

6.5 Drawing Details. Include details of critical system components including valve headers,
nozzles, concentrate tanks, test headers, and etc. Clarify, to the greatest extent possible, the
design intent. A number of standard details can be found in the CADD Details Library distributed
by the Tri-Service CADD/GIS Technology Center. Keep in mind that these details must be
customized for specific applications.

7. ELECTRICAL DRAWINGS.

7.1 Building Fire Alarm System. It is customary to include the building alarm system as part of
the electrical design and to show the system on electrical rather than fire protection drawings.
While this is considered appropriate, it is important that the design of the fire alarm system be
coordinated with the design of the foam system, specifically the foam system control panel. In
some cases, such as where there is a wet-pipe foam-water sprinkler system and no nozzles, there
may be no need for a foam system control panel. In such cases, the building fire alarm panel can
be used to perform all alarm and supervisory functions.

7.1.1 Riser Diagram. Identify and group the various inputs and outputs associated with the fire
alarm control panel, similar to what is done for the foam system control panel. This will include
alarm initiating and supervisory input circuits as well as alarm notification output circuits.

7.2 Fire Protection Equipment Power. On the electrical drawings, clearly indicate power to
fire pumps, fire pump controllers, foam concentrate pumps and controllers, foam system and fire
alarm system control panels. Assure that power supply arrangements to pumps are in compliance
with NFPA 20, Centrifugal Fire Pumps. This applies to centrifugal fire pumps (water) as well as
gear or vane type pumps used for AFFF concentrate. In particular, assure that disconnecting

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means, if provided, are in accordance with Chapter 6 of NFPA 20. Also assure that feeder
routing and installation complies with all requirements of this chapter. Power supplies for foam
system control panels and fire alarm system panels must be in accordance with NFPA 72,
National Fire Alarm Code.

8. SITE UTILITY DRAWINGS.

Fire Protection Water System. Most aircraft hangar fire protection systems will require
large volumes of water at high pressures. With few exceptions, water supplies are delivered to
the hangar through separate fire protection water mains supplied by fire pumps taking suction
from one or more ground level water storage tanks. In many cases, an existing fire protection
water system can supply demands of the new hangar fire protection systems. In such cases, the
drawings will indicate extensions of existing water distribution systems. Otherwise, a new water
storage, pumping and distribution system will be required. The site utility drawings need to
include provisions for the water storage tanks and underground piping system. The fire pump
facility, and the pumps provided therein, will be included with the fire protection drawings. Site
utility drawings will also indicate locations of fire hydrants as required by applicable criteria. If
the existing domestic water system is capable of supplying hose stream demands, fire hydrants
should be supplied by the domestic water system rather than the fire protection system supplying
hangar foam systems. The means for automatic filling of fire protection water storage tanks
should be detailed on the site utility drawings.

9. SPECIFICATIONS.

9.1 Corps of Engineers Guide Specifications (CEGS). As applicable, CEGS will be used to
delineate technical requirements of the hangar fire protection system. CEGS for various portions
of the overall fire protection system are listed below. It is important to verify that the
specification is consistent with what is shown on the drawings. To minimize the potential for
conflicts, it is recommended that system requirements be delineated either in the specifications or
on the drawings, with little or no redundancy.

a. CEGS-15320, Fire Pumps.

b. CEGS-15355, AFFF Fire Protection System.

c. CEGS-16721, Fire Detection and Alarm System.

9.2 Editing and Submittal. Edit or mark up CEGS as early as practicable during the project
design. Use care when customizing guide specifications, particularly with regard to modifying or
deleting specific provisions. The preliminary or 60% design submittal will include a mark-up,
either by hand or with word processing techniques, of the original CEGS. It is essential that the

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mark-up identify which original CEGS provisions have been deleted and which have been
modified. Assure that the final specification reflects the changes accepted during the design
review process.

10. TECHNICAL GUIDANCE.

10.1 Fire Protection Water System.

10.1.1 General. In most instances, fire pumps taking suction from aboveground water storage
reservoirs will be required for hangar foam fire suppression systems. Except for filling of water
storage tanks, avoid connections to domestic water systems.

10.1.2 Locate water storage tanks and associated pumping facilities as close as practicable to the
hangar facilities or hangar groups being protected. Size tanks for 120% of the supply needed to
meet the calculated demand for the duration required by applicable design criteria. Where
required by applicable design criteria, divide water storage tanks into two approximately equal
sections, so at least one-half of the water supply will always be maintained in service. As a
practical matter, two interconnected tanks provide the most suitable means for meeting this
requirement. Arrange tanks for automatic filling in accordance with NFPA 22, Water Tanks for
Private Fire Protection.

10.1.3 Maximize the reliability of the underground water distribution system piping by looping
mains where feasible. This is particularly applicable to water systems supplying multiple hangars.
Limit dead end configurations as much as feasible. Generally, dead end mains should be limited to
no more than 457 m (1500 ft). Provide underground sectional control valves to allow isolation of
impaired sections of piping to minimize the number of facilities to be adversely affected by an
impairment.

10.1.4 Provide fire pumps with rated capacities of 3785 L/min (1,000 gpm), 5678 L/min (1500
gpm), 7570 L/min (2000 gpm) or 9463 L/min ( 2500 gpm). If required by applicable criteria,
provide one additional pump so the maximum water demand can be met with the largest pump
out-of-service. Minimize the pressure rating of the pump as much as possible, but in no case
design for normal system pressures exceeding 1207 kPa (175 psi).

10.1.5 Drivers for fire pumps will be electric motor or diesel engine as specified by applicable
design criteria. Where electric pumps are provided, assure that electric power is arranged in
accordance with NFPA 20, Centrifugal Fire Pumps. Provide a pressure maintenance (jockey)
pump in accordance with NFPA 20.

10.2 AFFF Concentrate Supply.

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10.2.1 AFFF Concentrate. Use only 3% aqueous film-forming foam concentrate (AFFF)
conforming to the current military specification (MIL-F-21385).

10.2.2 AFFF Concentrate Tank. Provide a single foam concentrate storage tank. Do not provide
a reserve tank unless specifically required by applicable Department of Defense (DoD) design
criteria. Tank capacity should be based upon the maximum calculated foam solution demand for a
duration of 10 minutes unless a longer duration is otherwise required by applicable design criteria.
For design purposes, an additional amount of approximately 20% should be added to the
calculated capacity requirement.

10.2.2.1 Atmospheric Tanks. Tanks constructed of fiberglass or polyethylene are generally used
for pumped AFFF concentrate systems because they are impervious to the corrosive effects of the
AFFF concentrate. Vertical tanks are recommended because they require less floor space than
horizontal.

10.2.2.2 Diaphragm Tanks. Provide bladder tanks of the horizontal type in lieu of vertical type
to facilitate filling, maintenance and bladder removal. Lessons learned indicate these tanks are
often located in equipment rooms where insufficient space is allocated for proper maintenance and
filling. To assure sufficient space for bladder removal, the bladder tank can be positioned in the
room opposite double doors or a single overhead door.

10.2.3 Concentrate Piping System. Specify all piping systems, piping, valves and fittings, that
comprise the AFFF concentrate system to be stainless steel. Specify welded fittings to avoid leaks
associated with threaded joints. Do not use galvanized steel or plastic piping. Route foam
concentrate piping aboveground inside buildings. Do not install concentrate piping underground
or under concrete floors.

10.2.4 Concentrate Control Valves. Provide an automatically-actuated control valve in the foam
concentrate line upstream of each proportioner. This valve is a critical component in the system,
since foam cannot be produced if this valve fails to open. Automatically-actuated valves operated
by system water pressure are specified because of their simplicity of operation and inherent
reliability as compared to electrically powered motorized valves. Arrange to operate from the
alarm line trim of its respective automatic water control or alarm check valve. Provide an
electrically supervised manual ball valve upstream of the automated valve to facilitate maintenance
without impairing other systems or the entire AFFF concentrate system.

10.2.5 Proportioning Systems.

10.2.5.1 Concentrate Pumping. Provide AFFF concentrate pumps of the positive displacement
rotary gear or vane type. Provide one pump to meet the system demand and a back-up or reserve
pump of the same capacity. Establish pressure rating at approximately 207 kPa (30 psi) greater

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than the maximum water pressure, at the point of foam concentrate injection (proportioner).
Configure foam concentrate pumps in accordance with applicable provisions of NFPA 20,
Centrifugal Fire Pumps. Assure that power is in accordance with NFPA 20, 6-3. Pumping of
concentrate, as opposed to using a bladder tank, is mandatory when using in-line balanced-
pressure proportioners (ILBP's). Note: The use of a bladder tank and ILBP’s as shown in the
appendix of NFPA 16A is not permitted.

10.2.5.1.1 Pump Control. Arrange foam concentrate pump for automatic starting of the primary
pump upon detection of flow within the fire protection system. In the event the primary pump
fails to start, the reserve pump should start. Provide necessary lockout to prevent both pumps
from running simultaneously. Also, arrange pump to start upon pressure drop within the foam
concentrate piping systems. Where the length of AFFF concentrate piping exceeds 50 feet from
the pump discharge to the proportioners, provide a pressure maintenance or jockey pump.
Arrange pumps to automatically stop upon actuation of a low-liquid level switch in the
concentrate tank.

10.2.5.2 Diaphragm Supply. With this arrangement, water from the fire protection water system
simultaneously supplies water to the proportioner and pressurizes the foam concentrate through
an elastomeric bladder which separates the foam concentrate from the water in the tank. Locate
bladder tank in close proximity to the proportioners it serves. Provide a single connection and
water line from the fire protection valve header to the bladder tank for pressurization of the
bladder. Include a check valve in the line to prevent backflow of AFFF concentrate into the water
system in the event of a bladder rupture. Arrange connection of bladder pressurization line to
avoid foam solution from entering or migrating into the piping and space between the bladder and
the tank after the system has operated.

10.2.5.3 Proportioners (Ratio Controllers). The term proportioner is used by some

manufacturers whereas ratio controller is used by others. The two terms are synonymous.
Proportioner is used throughout this technical letter.

10.2.5.3.1 Location and Arrangement. Locate foam proportioners in the fire protection
equipment room along with concentrate tanks and sprinkler and nozzles system risers and control
valves. Provide one proportioner in each sprinkler riser unless extenuating circumstances justify
using one proportioner for a single overhead sprinkler system and a nozzle system. This approach
may have merit for relatively small facilities with only one sprinkler system and one nozzle system.

10.2.5.3.2 Flow Range. All proportioners have a range over which they can be expected to
correctly proportion the foam concentrate with water in the correct ratio. Flow ranges for the
same size proportioner can vary significantly between manufacturers. For example, published
data of one major manufacturer’s 150 mm (6-in) proportioner indicates a nominal flow range of
1136-9464 Lpm (300-2500 gpm) whereas another manufacturer’s data indicates a range of 1136-

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12870 Lpm (300-3400 gpm). In consideration of the limited number of manufacturers, prudent
design requires basing the design on the one with the more limited nominal flow range.

10.2.5.3.3 Proportioner Size. Determine required proportioner size based upon detailed
hydraulic calculations because flow rates above or below the manufacturers’ specified nominal
flow range are apt to result in the foam solution being too lean or too rich. The resulting foam
solution can lack the necessary qualities to produce effective fire fighting foam. Therefore, assure
that design utilizes proportioners of the size capable of proportioning for the calculated foam-
water demand for the system or systems involved. With few exceptions, a 150 mm (6-in)
proportioner will be appropriate for sprinkler system applications.

10.2.5.3.4 Test Header. Provide a test header for handling test flows of foam solution. The test
header connection must be downstream of each proportioner and must permit flowing foam
solution through the proportioner at various flow rates. Concurrent with flowing foam solution,
samples of solution are taken and analyzed to verify that the minimum concentration level of 3%
concentrate by volume is being produced by the proportioner. Size the test connection to
accommodate the largest anticipated test flow, which will be the design flow in most cases. For
most applications, particularly those with 150 mm (6-in) proportioners, a test header with four 65
mm (2-1/2-in) hose valves will be adequate. For sprinkler systems, provide an OS&Y gate valve
for the test connection as well as one for system isolation. (Refer to NFPA 16A, Figure A-6.1).
Do not provide a flow meter similar to those used for fire pump applications unless specifically
required by applicable design criteria.

10.3 Foam-Water Sprinkler Systems.

10.3.1 System Type. With few exceptions, automatic sprinkler systems provided in DoD aircraft
storage and servicing areas will be of the closed-head, foam-water type. Where the threat of
freezing is minimal or non-existent, wet-pipe systems will be provided. As outlined in applicable
design criteria, preaction systems will be provided where certain climatic conditions exist. Do not
provide supervisory air for preaction sprinkler piping systems even though such is otherwise
required by NFPA 13, Automatic Sprinkler Systems.

10.3.2 Sprinklers. Use standard sprinklers. Do not use air-aspirating foam water sprinklers.
With few exceptions, sprinklers will be nominal 15 mm (1/2-in) orifice. Avoid use of either small
orifice or large orifice sprinklers except such design requirements cannot be achieved otherwise.
Specify sprinklers to be quick response type with 790C (1750F) temperature rating unless
otherwise required by applicable design criteria.

10.3.3 System Size. Configure foam-water sprinkler systems so each covers an area
approximately the same as each other system. Limit the area covered by a single system to less
than 1393 m2 (15,000 ft2).

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10.3.4 Sprinkler Spacing. Space sprinklers in aircraft storage and servicing areas uniformly
throughout the protected area so spacing does not exceed 12.1 m2 (130 ft2) per sprinkler. Note:
This spacing is consistent with NFPA 409, 3-2.2.3 and NFPA 13, 4-2.2.4.

10.3.5 Design Density. Design foam-water sprinkler systems to provide a minimum discharge
density of 6.5 L/min/m2 (0.16 gpm/ft2) for the entire design area. Design for sprinkler discharge
to be uniform between sprinklers on individual sprinkler systems. Strive to limit densities to a
maximum variation of 20% above the design or minimum design density. Variation below the
minimum is not permitted. This means that where a sprinkler discharge provides a design density
of 6.5 L/min/m2 (0.16 gpm/ft2), no other sprinkler, on the same system, should provide a density
greater than 7.82 L/min/m2 (0.192 gpm/ft2). In other words, if sprinklers are spaced uniformly to
12.1 m2 (130 ft2) each, all sprinklers in the design area should discharge a minimum of 78.7 L/min
(20.8 gpm) and a maximum of 94.6 L/min (25.0 gpm).

10.3.5.1 Maximum Variation in Discharge. A specified maximum variation in discharge is a

means to quantify uniform discharge. Although this concept was originally applied to deluge
sprinkler systems where all sprinklers flow, it can also be applied to closed-head systems. While
this may seem like a questionable design requirement, particularly for closed-head systems,
significant excess discharge can unnecessarily increase water supply and AFFF concentrate
requirements. However, designers should use only reasonable conventional piping configurations
in order to satisfy this somewhat subjective design parameter.

10.3.6 Design Area. Design area is related to the total discharge from sprinklers expected to
operate in an anticipated fire scenario. Design area can be specified in terms of the number of
complete sprinkler systems expected to be actuated by a fire, or it can be specified in terms of the
floor area equating to the number of sprinklers over such an area. Design area for DoD hangar
applications can involve as many as three complete sprinkler systems or floor areas of more than
2230 m2 (24,000 ft2). The required design area will be specified in the applicable DoD criteria.

10.3.7 Sprinkler System Configuration. To facilitate limiting the maximum variation in

discharge noted above, configure piping systems to achieve a reasonably balanced discharge when
all sprinklers on a system are flowing. Among other things, this requires an evaluation of the roof
configuration and slope. For buildings with a sloped roof, for example, locating crossmains at or
near the peak of the building, with branch lines running down the slope, will result in a more
balanced system. Such an arrangement results in a pressure gain at lower level sprinklers due to
flow from higher to lower elevations. This gain will offset at least a portion of the friction loss in
the branch line, yielding similar discharge pressures between sprinklers.

10.3.7.1 Sprinkler Riser Nipples (Sprigs). Locate sprinkler branch lines close to the underside of
the hangar roof deck so maximum allowable sprinkler deflector distances can be achieved without
having to install sprinklers on individual riser nipples or sprigs as they are commonly referred to.

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In order to achieve this, branch lines may have to be run through open-web steel joists. If
necessary, branch line segments can be coupled between sprinklers in order to permit getting
piping between closely-spaced joists. This is preferable to using sprigs, particularly where such
would have to be several feet in length. If the use of sprigs is unavoidable, provide for individual
bracing of sprigs longer than about 1 m (3 ft).

10.3.7.2 Auxiliary Drains. Connect branch lines running down roof slopes to a common manifold
or ganged drain at the low points. This will permit simultaneous draining of several branch lines
through one drain valve.

10.3.8 Relief Valves. Provide relief valves or auxiliary air reservoirs on gridded wet-pipe foam
water sprinkler systems in accordance with NFPA 13. Note: Wet-pipe systems with branch lines
manifolded into gang drains are considered to be gridded.

10.4 Nozzle Systems.

10.4.1 General. Nozzle systems are often provided for rapid application of foam to combat fuel
spill fires that threaten irreparable damage to aircraft. For fixed-wing aircraft, the area where the
wings connect to the fuselage are particularly vulnerable to damage from a fuel spill fire.
Consequently, applicable design criteria will often require nozzle systems for certain fixed-wing
aircraft but not helicopters. Nozzle systems can effectively minimize damage to the aircraft of fire
origin and prevent fire spread to adjacent aircraft. Such fire control will indirectly protect the
hangar facility from catastrophic damage. The decision of whether or not to provide nozzle
systems will be based upon various factors as addressed in MIL-HDBK-1008C or supplemental
design criteria of the pertinent DoD agency involved.

10.4.2 Nozzle Placement and Alignment. Experience has shown that nozzles are often
susceptible to failure due to being blocked by moveable equipment used in a hangar.
Consequently, nozzle placement is extremely critical. The designer must consider all factors that
can adversely affect nozzle effectiveness. This includes hangar size and configuration, aircraft to
be housed, proposed and possible aircraft parking positions, equipment proposed for use, and
other factors known by the facility user. To maximize nozzle performance, provide multiple
nozzle locations. The number of locations will vary with the size and configuration of the facility.
Aim nozzles toward designated or assumed aircraft parking locations. Where possible, direct
discharge toward hangar doors. Locate nozzle assemblies, including control valves, along walls
as necessary to avoid obstruction from equipment that can or will be used in the hangar. If
permitted by facility configuration and use, locate nozzle assemblies away from walls to afford
protection against obstruction. In such cases, provide pipe trenches in concrete floors for routing
of piping. Provide concrete-filled pipe bollards to protect nozzle assemblies from physical
damage.

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10.4.3 System Arrangement. Arrange nozzle assembly control valves to minimize the time-delay
between system actuation and foam discharge from the nozzles. For most applications,
proportioners will be located downstream of alarm check valves in nozzle system risers centrally
located in fire protection equipment rooms. The foam-water solution will be supplied to
individual automatic water control (deluge) valves in the hangar area. For alteration of existing
systems where fire protection water is supplied to multiple riser manifolds within the hangar area,
it may be feasible to omit alarm check valves and supply nozzles directly from automatic water
control valves.

10.4.4 Discharge Requirement. Design nozzle systems to produce a minimum application rate of
4.1 L/min/m2 (0.10 gpm/ft2) over the under-aircraft area to be protected. This application rate is
applicable to the area beneath the wings and fuselage of the aircraft. As a practical matter, nozzle
systems cannot be designed to cover just the “shadow areas” of the aircraft. Nozzle discharges
should impact the floor in front of or beside the protected aircraft. The objective is to achieve
gentle application of foam onto burning fuel presumed to exist beneath the aircraft. Determine
the area of coverage of each nozzle and provide a flow rate that achieves the required application
rate. For example, if the discharge from one or more nozzles covers an area of 400 m2 (4300 ft2),
the flow rate of a single oscillating nozzle, or the combined flow rate of multiple fixed nozzles,
needs to be approximately 1640 L/min (430 gpm) in order to achieve the minimum application
rate.

10.4.5 Nozzle Type. Nozzles can be either fixed or oscillating type. Use fixed type nozzle
systems except in unusual situations where only oscillating type will provide the required
performance. Fixed nozzle systems are more reliable than oscillating because they are not
dependent upon water or electric-powered oscillating mechanisms to perform effectively. Also,
fixed nozzles are less suspectable to incorrect alignment after installation. Historically, oscillating
nozzles have experienced numerous problems with maladjustment. Often times, the angle of
nozzle elevation has been found changed from original setting. In some cases, this has resulted in
damage to aircraft where discharges were directed onto the protected aircraft, rather than under
the aircraft.

10.4.5.1 Fixed Nozzle Systems. Available fixed nozzles used in hangar applications have a
discharge characteristic generally less than that of oscillating nozzles. Consequently, multiple
fixed nozzles, with varying discharge rates and patterns, are typically used in a tree or manifold
arrangement. The combined flows of individual nozzles can approximate the flow of a single
oscillating nozzle. For fixed nozzle systems, use nozzles 75 mm (3 in) or less in length.
Generally, flow rates of individual fixed nozzles should be limited to 473 L/min (125 gpm) or less.

10.4.5.2 Oscillating Nozzles. Use oscillating nozzle systems only when fixed nozzle systems
cannot provide effective performance. If fixed nozzles are not used, the reasons must be clearly
addressed and substantiated in the design analysis. Where oscillating nozzles must be used,

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provide water-powered, non-aspirating short barrel type with individual nozzle flow rate of 1893
L/min (500 gpm) or less.

10.5 Interior Hose Stations.

10.5.1 General. Do not provide hose stations in aircraft servicing and storage areas unless
specifically required by applicable Department of Defense (DoD) criteria. The NFPA 409
requirement is not valid for providing hose stations.

10.6 System Valves and Components.

10.6.1 Alarm Check Valves. Use alarm check valves in wet-pipe foam-water sprinkler systems
and in systems supplying foam solution to nozzle system automatic water control (deluge) valves.
Include retard chambers with the alarm line trim piping on alarm check valve installations.
Arrange alarm line piping to individually actuate respective water-powered foam concentrate
control valves.

10.6.1.1 Waterflow Switch with Time Delay. Unless otherwise required by applicable design
criteria, provide waterflow switches with adjustable time delay for use in wet-pipe systems
required to actuate nozzle systems upon detection of flow in the sprinkler system. Locate the
switch in the alarm trim upstream of retard chamber and independent of other circuit closers
(pressure switches). Assure that the switch is installed so that there is no shutoff valve in the
piping to the switch. Specify switch to have adjustable time delay of 0 to 45 seconds (minimum).

10.6.2 Automatic Water Control (Deluge) Valves. Provide automatic water control valves in
preaction sprinkler systems and for automatic control of nozzle system flow. Arrange alarm line
piping to individually actuate respective water-powered foam concentrate control valve. To
facilitate resetting valve after operation, specify such valves to have the feature of being resettable
without having to use special tools or to remove the face-plate of the valve.

10.6.3 Shut-off Valves. Specify only UL-listed indicating-type control valves for controlling
water or foam solution. Provide OS&Y type valves for controlling water or foam solution.
Provide indicating type ball valves for controlling AFFF concentrate.

10.6.4 Basket Strainers. Provide basket strainers for installations with nozzle systems. Omit
strainers on systems with overhead sprinklers only. Locate the strainer in the valve manifold or
the nozzle system riser located in the fire protection equipment room.

10.6.5 Fire Department Connections. Do not provide fire department siamese connections on
aircraft hangar foam-water sprinkler systems supplied by water systems with fire pumps.

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10.7 Detection and Control Systems.

10.7.1 Foam System Control Panel (FSCP). A foam system control panel, with integral
annunciator, will be provided for most applications. This panel will be separate from, but
interconnected with, the building fire alarm panel. Arrange the FSCP to perform all functions
related to control of the foam fire protection system. Specify the FSCP provided for actuating
nozzle system or preaction system automatic water control valves to be approved by Factory
Mutual for releasing device service with the particular make and model of automatic water
control valve provided.

10.7.1.1 Arrange the system so the actuation of any alarm initiating device, i.e., UV-IR fire
detector, rate compensating heat detector, nozzle system manual actuation station, alarm pressure
or flow switch, etc., will actuate local alarms associated with the foam system, actuate the
building fire alarm system, and simultaneously transmit an alarm to a central receiving station.

10.7.1.2 Nozzle System Activation. For systems involving nozzle systems, provide manual
actuation stations near exit doors for nozzle system activation. Arrange sprinkler system
waterflow detection devices to activate nozzles upon detection of waterflow in the overhead
sprinkler system. Where specifically required by applicable design criteria, arrange nozzle system
activation by other specific means as specified.

10.7.1.3 Alarm Notification Devices. Provide audible and visual alarm notification appliances
within the aircraft hangar area to warn of a detected fire condition and the impending discharge of
foam fire suppression systems. Assure that audible devices are capable of producing sound
pressure levels adequate to overcome ambient noise levels. In some cases, the use of electronic
horns with field-selectable tones will provide satisfactory service. In some applications, rotating
beacons are suitable for providing required visual alarms. Alarm notification in portions of the
facility other than the hangar area may be provided by appliances associated with the building fire
alarm system.

10.7.2 Alarm Initiating Devices.

10.7.2.1 Heat Detectors. Provide rate-compensated type heat detectors for preaction sprinkler
systems. Do not provide heat detection systems in areas protected by wet-pipe sprinkler systems.
Detectors of the fixed-temperature, rate-of-rise or combination fixed temperature/ rate-of-rise
type are not permitted. Space detectors to a maximum of 7.6 m x 7.6 m (25 ft x 25 ft) per
detector. Arrange so activation of any single detector will trip the preaction sprinkler system and
any associated underwing nozzle system within the protected area served by the actuated
detector. Fire test results reported in the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)
document, Analysis of High Bay Hangar Facilities for Fire Detector Sensitivity and Placement,
indicate that activation temperatures of heat detectors used in conjunction with preaction sprinkler

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systems should be closely matched to automatic sprinkler temperature ratings. Thus, designers
should specify detector temperature ratings of 71oC to 76oC (160oF to 170oF) unless other ratings
are mandated by applicable design criteria or ambient conditions.

10.7.2.2 Optical Detectors. Where required by applicable design criteria, provide optical
detectors of the dual spectrum ultraviolet-infrared type. Specify detectors to be certified by a
nationally recognized testing laboratory to be capable of detecting a fully developed 3 m x 3 m.
(10 ft x 10 ft) JP-4, JP-8 or JET-A fuel fire at minimum distance of 45 m (148 ft) within 5
seconds. Provide a sufficient number of detectors at approximately 3 m (10 ft) above the hangar
floor so the a fire developing in the under-aircraft area will be in the cone of vision of at least one
detector. Connect detectors to the foam system control panel (FSCP) and arrange for alarm-only
unless design direction from the customer requires arranging detectors for nozzle system
actuation. Do not arrange optical detectors to actuate overhead sprinkler systems.

10.7.2.3 Nozzle System Manual Actuation Stations. Provide manual stations for activation of
foam-water nozzle systems. Specify stations to have distinctive labeling and coloring to
differentiate these stations from manual fire alarm stations. Provide a clear plastic tamper-
resistant enclose to protect the station from accidental operation.

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