Design and Development of an Automated Venturi-Based Foam Fire Suppression System for Oil Storage Applications

Author : Khaled Alruwaili

Abstract :Oil storage tank fires pose significant industrial hazards, requiring rapid and effective suppression. This study presents the design and validation of an automated foam fire suppression system tailored for hydrocarbon-based Class B fires. The system features a Venturi-based proportioning unit, custom foam nozzle, centrifugal pump, and Arduino-controlled automation with thermal imaging for early detection and activation. Designed per NFPA 11 and 20 standards, the system delivers a foam flow density of 20.4 lpm/m² for a scaled 1,000-liter tank. Hydraulic design used the Hazen-Williams equation and Bernoulli’s principle, while CFD optimized mixing and spray coverage. FEA confirmed nozzle durability in PA6 and stainless steel. Achieving 50 lpm flow at 2.75 bar and a 5.5% foam induction ratio, the system ensured fast, autonomous response with minimal foam wastage. The solution is scalable, efficient, and ideal for high-risk sectors like oil, gas, and power.

Keywords :Fire suppression, venturi injector, Arduino automation, Oil tank fire safety, Eco-friendly foam systems.

Conference Name :International Conference on Mechanical & Production Engineering (ICMPE-25)

Conference Place Zurich, Switzerland

Conference Date 1st Nov 2025