Dual-Purpose Type Nozzle Suppliers

Dual-purpose nozzles allow firefighters to switch between a solid water jet and a wide spray pattern from the same hose end. The jet reaches far and breaks down fire structure, while the spray cools surfaces, knocks down smoke, and protects the operator from heat.

SOLAS rules make these nozzles mandatory on all merchant vessels under the firefighting equipment requirements, with specific output and pattern ratings for different vessel sizes.

RecordsMarine maintains a directory of dual-purpose type nozzle suppliers for shipyards, safety officers, and crew responsible for fire equipment inspections.

What a Dual-Purpose Nozzle Includes

A standard marine dual-purpose nozzle has several parts:

• Nozzle body in brass, aluminum, or stainless steel
• Jet/spray selector lever
• Shut-off valve at the inlet
• Threaded coupling matching the hose connector
• Internal flow control vanes
• Pressure rating plate
• Optional pistol grip for easier handling

Marine versions are tested for salt spray, drop resistance, and operation at 7 to 10 bar working pressure. Approved suppliers of dual-purpose type nozzles ship each unit with a test certificate, MED wheelmark, and class society type approval.

Where These Nozzles Are Used

Dual-purpose nozzles are found at every fire station on a commercial vessel:

• Main fire hose stations on deck and inside accommodation
• Engine room fire mains
• Cargo hold fire fighting stations
• Helideck fire fighting points (where fitted)
• Pump room fire mains on tankers
• Emergency fire pump connections
• Tug and salvage vessels for external firefighting

Each nozzle must match the hose size — usually 38mm, 45mm, 51mm, or 64mm — and the fire main pressure available at that station. Working with established distributors of dual-purpose type nozzles makes sure each unit fits the existing hose and coupling system without modification.

Recommended Brands

Marine firefighting nozzles come from a small group of certified makers:

• Survitec Group
• Akron Brass
• Task Force Tips (TFT)
• Elkhart Brass
• Viking Group
• Unitor (Wilhelmsen)
• Macron Safety
• Angus Fire

These brands hold MED, USCG, and major class society approvals. Most also supply matched hoses, couplings, and storage boxes as part of a complete fire station package.

What to Check Before Ordering

Useful points to confirm before placing an order:

• MED wheelmark for vessels under the EU flag
• USCG approval for vessels trading in US waters
• Hose coupling type — Storz, BS, NPSH, or instantaneous
• Flow rate at working pressure (L/min at 7 bar)
• Body material suited to the marine environment
• Quantity matches the number of fire stations
• Spare seals and washers in the same order
• Lead time fitting the next safety inspection

Spare nozzles are usually ordered alongside replacement hoses during scheduled safety equipment renewals.

Industry Standards

Marine dual-purpose nozzles fall under SOLAS Chapter II-2 Regulation 10, the FSS Code, IMO Resolution A.951 on portable fire equipment, MED 2014/90/EU, and IACS class society rules. Type approval covers spray pattern, flow rate, drop test, and salt spray resistance. Each unit ships with a test report and approval certificate that surveyors check during fire safety inspections.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should nozzles be tested?

Monthly visual checks plus annual functional testing during the fire equipment survey.

Can nozzles be repaired, or do they need replacing?

Minor parts like seals and selector levers can be repaired. Damaged bodies and worn threads usually call for full replacement.

What is the typical lifespan?

Most marine nozzles last 10 to 15 years with regular care and proper storage.

Are aluminum nozzles acceptable for marine use?

Yes, if marine-grade anodized aluminum. Salt corrosion still shortens life compared to brass or stainless.

Do nozzles need calibration?

No. Flow rate and pattern are set by the body design. Annual function testing confirms performance.

Find Dual-Purpose Type Nozzle Supplier Near You

Below is a vetted list of suppliers stocking marine dual-purpose nozzles at major safety equipment hubs and ship chandler ports. Pick from the entries to match your hose system, vessel flag, and inspection schedule.