For decades, testing foam extinguishing systems meant taking a hands-on approach – physically measuring foam solution samples, calculating proportioning rates and recording results in a maintenance log.
While effective, these manual methods have always carried a certain risk of human error, whether in reading, calculation, or documentation.
In fire protection, where accuracy determines performance, even small mistakes can have costly or dangerous consequences.
FireDos Technical Team
FireDos has introduced their new generation of proportioners with an optional monitoring system – combining the proven reliability of mechanical design with the intelligence of digital technology. The result is a smarter, safer and more efficient way to ensure foam systems are always ready to perform.
Traditional proportioner checks involve generating a foam-water premix and measuring its properties or calculating proportioning rates from water and foam agent flow volumes. Even with improved methods – such as operating in a “return/test mode” that recirculates the foam agent back to its tank to avoid waste – the process still relies on operator precision.
Smart proportioners take this process into the digital age. Built on the same mechanical principles that have powered thousands of FireDos systems worldwide, they add a suite of sensors, a control unit and optional displays to handle measurement, recording and calculation automatically.
The proportioning rate – the single most important parameter in foam system performance – is calculated in accordance with recognized international standards, eliminating potential math or transcription errors.
In test mode, the foam agent is circulated through a return line instead of being mixed into the water stream. Flow meters measure both the foam agent and water volumes simultaneously and the monitoring system calculates the proportioning rate instantly. All data is stored in a log file, complete with time stamps, ready for review.
For facilities that need full operational tracking, an optional flow meter in the proportioning line enables measurement during actual firefighting or live drills.
FireDos Technical Team
This means operators can verify not only that the system works in theory, but that it delivers precise results in real-world conditions.
The monitoring system’s wireless interface connects to smartphones, tablets, or laptops, allowing easy visualization of parameters on-site or remotely. Where required, data can also be displayed locally on an integrated screen.
Smart proportioners offer a range of benefits that go beyond accuracy:
The ability to perform remote diagnostics and reduce on-site visits is more than just convenient – it’s cost-effective. Travel expenses for specialized service technicians can be significant, especially for remote or offshore facilities. By addressing many issues before they require a site visit, smart proportioners cut both service costs and downtime.
Environmental considerations also play a role. The return/test mode allows for complete proportioning checks without discharging foam into the environment, reducing waste and minimizing costs for cleanup or disposal.
The move toward smart proportioners reflects a broader industry trend: combining proven mechanical reliability with digital intelligence. Mechanical water-driven proportioners have a long record of dependable performance, operating without the need for electricity and functioning under challenging conditions.
By adding a layer of smart monitoring, operators gain continuous insight into system performance, better documentation and greater confidence.
FireDos Technical Team
In high-risk environments – from tank farms to chemical processing plants, offshore platforms to large warehouses – readiness is not negotiable. Smart proportioners provide the assurance that systems are not just installed, but operating within the exact parameters needed to suppress fires effectively.
In the high-stakes world of fire safety, that’s more than just an upgrade – it’s peace of mind.
