My department was just recently donated a foam inductor I believe thats what it is called. We're a rural department so funding is an issue and the foam concentrate can get a bit expensive. Anyway we were told that the High Expansion foam it uses is basically soap with some sort of flame retardant chemical added to it. Is there anyway to make it, that would be cheaper to buy it? We've tried using some industrial soap we have, it foams up pretty good, its fairly close, but its not the same, anyone have any input on this?
This link will direct you to National Foam which is what my company uses.
As stated before I would not recommend making your own foam unless it is only for training. even with training you should train with what you will be using for the real deal. Remember the saying that you play how you practice. Well that definitely is true when it comes to using foam right down to the quality of water that you use.
Don't get me wrong, it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with foam by practicing with some home made brews but when it comes down to it and knowing how every little factor will determine your particular application when using foam is key.