Foam Concentrate Testing & Sample Transport Guidelines

Ensuring IMO MSC.1/Circ.1312 Compliance for Marine Fire-Fighting Systems

At Varuna Marine Services B.V., we help you meet the stringent requirements of IMO MSC.1/Circ.1312 through clear, actionable guidance for testing and transporting foam concentrates. Our approach promotes global compliance, product reliability, and fire safety performance.

Why Choose Us.?

Deep understanding of IMO standards

Global reach with authorized testing labs

Hands-on support from sample to certification

Efficiency that saves time, money, and risk

PART A:

Shipment Guidance for Foam Concentrate Samples

To preserve the integrity and authenticity of foam concentrate samples during transit, we provide comprehensive instructions on:

Packaging & labelling standards
Documentation required for regulatory clearance
Container compatibility to prevent contamination or degradation

These guidelines help streamline the sample dispatch process and ensure alignment with regulatory expectations.

PART B:

Technical Test Requirements for Foam Concentrate Type Approval

We adhere strictly to the IMO MSC.1/Circ.1312 testing protocol, which includes a broad suite of evaluations designed to assess the stability, safety, and performance of foam concentrates under varying conditions. These include:

✅ Physical and Chemical Testing

Freezing and thawing resistance
Heat stability and chemical integrity
Sedimentation and particle dispersion
Kinematic viscosity (ASTM D 445-86 / ISO 3104)
pH value (should remain between 6 and 9.5)

✅ Performance Evaluation

Expansion ratio and drainage time with simulated seawater
Film formation capabilities (where applicable)
Fire suppression performance under controlled conditions
Corrosiveness testing to ensure material compatibility
Volumic mass testing (ASTM D 1298-85)

✅ Fire Test Protocol

All fire performance tests are conducted under standardized conditions, measuring:

Extinction time (≤ 5 minutes)
Burnback time (≥ 15 minutes)
Using appropriate fuels (e.g., heptane, acetone, or isopropyl alcohol)

🔹 Additional Compliance Elements

Batch Certification: Each concentrate must be delivered with a declaration of key characteristics including pH, expansion ratio, sedimentation, and more.
Container Marking: All foam containers must be clearly labeled with product information, manufacturer details, usage instructions, and safety guidance.

🔹 Annual and Periodical Controls

For protein-based alcohol-resistant foam concentrates, additional testing is required:

Annual reference tests at approved labs (ISO 7203-3, EN 1568-4, SP Method 2580)
Small-scale fire tests and chemical stability tests with acetone
Periodical tests for onboard foam stocks including pH, viscosity, and drainage evaluations to identify aging or degradation due to storage conditions

Trusted by Maritime Operators Worldwide

Varuna Marine Services BV is committed to ensuring your foam concentrates are tested, transported, and certified in line with IMO standards and flag state expectations. Our experts are equipped to guide you through every step — from sample shipment to full-scale fire testing.