AHI-FOG Water Mist Nozzles: End of Life Notice and Safety Implications
The manufacturer has recently issued an important announcement regarding the end of life of specific HI-FOG water mist nozzles used for fire protection in ro-ro spaces, vehicle spaces and special category spaces.
Because these components form part of critical fire-fighting systems, operators must address such updates promptly. Failure to do so may directly affect SOLAS compliance and onboard fire safety.
Affected HI-FOG Water Mist Nozzle Models
The end-of-life notice applies to the following models:
- HI-FOG 1000
(Type designation: 2N 1MD 6MC 10RE) - HI-FOG 2000
(Type designation: C12-93C/0)
These HI-FOG water mist nozzles have seen extensive use in fixed fire-fighting installations for ro-ro and vehicle spaces. However, operational experience has revealed important limitations.
Identified Operational Concerns
Operational feedback has identified performance issues when these nozzles operate in systems using Temper S antifreeze.
In particular:
- corrosion may develop inside the nozzle assembly, and
- this corrosion can impair nozzle performance at stand-by pressure.
As a result, the system may not deliver the expected level of fire protection under certain conditions. Therefore, continued reliance on these models introduces an unacceptable safety and compliance risk.
Withdrawal of EC Type Approval
Due to the identified concerns, the authorities have revoked the EC type approval certificates previously issued for the affected models.
Consequently:
- the HI-FOG 1000 and HI-FOG 2000 nozzles no longer hold valid EC type approval, and
- vessels operating with these nozzles may face non-compliances during PSC inspections, vetting processes or audits.
Moreover, continued operation without corrective action may expose operators to enforcement actions.
Recommended Replacement Strategy
In response, the manufacturer recommends replacing the affected nozzles with the HI-FOG 3000 model.
This newer model addresses the corrosion-related issues and meets current approval and performance requirements. Therefore, operators should incorporate the replacement into their maintenance and upgrade planning without delay.
Actions Required from Shipowners and Operators
Shipowners, managers and operators with vessels fitted with these HI-FOG water mist nozzles should take immediate action.
Specifically, they should:
- liaise with the manufacturer to confirm applicability and technical details,
- consult their Recognised Organisations (ROs) to verify compliance implications, and
- coordinate with qualified and approved service providers to plan and execute replacements.
By doing so, operators can implement corrective actions in a structured and timely manner.
Conclusion
Proactive management of end-of-life notifications for fire-fighting equipment is essential. In practice, early action helps maintain regulatory compliance, system reliability and onboard fire safety.
Ultimately, monitoring manufacturer notices and responding without delay reduces the risk of operational disruption, inspection findings and safety exposure.
