BREAKING NEWS: Warrior™ is the the only Type 1 fire hose in the industry!
In municipal firefighting, the performance of fire hoses under extreme temperatures is crucial. To ensure equipment meets the necessary standards, there are specific industry heat resistance requirements, and recently, they’ve seen updates.
UL-19, the standard for lined fire hose and hose assemblies, saw revisions on February 5, 2025, requiring manufacturers to assign hoses 3-inches in diameter and under a heat resistance “type.” These types, categorized as Type 1, Type 2, or Type 3, are determined based on the results of two important tests: the Radiant Heat Test and the Conductive Heat Test.
Let’s dive into the specifics of these classifications and how they impact the performance of fire hoses.
What are the Radiant and Conductive Heat Tests?
Both tests assess a fire hose’s ability to withstand heat exposure without failing. The Radiant Heat Test simulates a hose's performance when exposed to direct radiant heat. In a laboratory setting, this test is completed by exposing a section of charged fire hose to a controlled heat source while monitoring how long it takes for the pressure to drop 20 pounds per square inch (PSI).
The Conductive Heat Test measures the hose's endurance when in contact with heated surfaces or other conductive materials. A steel block is heated to 752°F and placed directly on the surface of a charged fire hose. Similarly to the radiant heat test, this reaction will be monitored until there is a 20 psi drop in pressure.
The results of these two tests determine a fire hose’s heat resistance type. The hose must meet the criteria for both tests to qualify for a specific type.
The Heat Resistance Types: What Do They Mean?
Type 1:
Radiant Heat Test: The fire hose must withstand exposure for 15 minutes without any leakage.
Conductive Heat Test: The fire hose must endure 15 minutes of exposure without leakage.
This type is assigned to hoses that exhibit the highest resistance to heat, ideal for the most demanding applications requiring prolonged heat exposure. Snap-tite's Warrior™ is the only Type 1 fire hose in the industry. We don’t call out its best-in-class heat resistance for nothing!
See the Warrior’s™ radiant and conductive heat test results here.
Type 2:
Radiant Heat Test: The fire hose can handle exposure for at least 45 secondswithout exceeding the leakage rate of 20 gpm.
Conductive Heat Test: The fire hose must withstand at least 10 seconds of exposure without exceeding the leakage rate of 20 gpm.
Type 2 hoses are suitable for applications that experience moderate levels of heat. We are proud to classify the following fire hoses as Type 2: Gladiator™ FG 1-¾" and 2-½", Gladiator™ FGN 1-¾", Conquest™ 1-¾" and 2-½", Supreme™ 1-½", 1-¾", and 2-½", 8D™ 1-¾" and 2-½", and HFX™ 1-¾".
Type 3:
Radiant and Conductive Heat Tests: Type 3 encompasses all other exposure durations and leakage rates that do not meet the criteria for Type 1 or Type 2. In other words, this type is assigned to fire hoses that don't meet the more stringent requirements of Types 1 and 2 but still provide a level of heat resistance appropriate for demanding conditions.
Hoses falling under Type 3 may be used in applications where conditions are less severe, allowing for more flexibility in design and cost.
Why Are These Standards Important?
Heat resistance is a critical factor in the reliability of fire hoses. Equipment that fails under heat stress can cause leaks, system failures, and even cost a firefighter their life. By adhering to the heat resistance classifications, manufacturers can guarantee that their hoses meet the necessary safety standards and perform reliably under various thermal conditions. Similarly, users can trust that they are selecting the right hose for their specific needs based on its heat resistance type.
Understanding the new fire hose heat resistance types is essential for ensuring both safety and efficiency on the fireground. Whether you're running a Type 1, Type 2, or Type 3 fire hose, understanding the meaning of these classifications can help you choose the best hose for the job and ensures the longevity and safety of your equipment.
Always refer to the Snap-tite's product specification sheets to verify the heat resistance type and test results. By doing so, you can rest assured that your equipment will stand up to the heat—whatever the challenge.