The Waterous HL and HLU pumps balance dual-standard compliance with operational flexibility and reliability simultaneously meeting global firefighting requirements.
The Waterous HL and HLU series of international rear-mount pumps represent a strategic and effective solution for fire brigades operating in an increasingly globalised market. Designed specifically for international-style fire trucks and urban-interface apparatus, these series masterfully address the complex need for a single, compact unit capable of delivering both high-volume suppression flow and high-pressure attack capabilities simultaneously.
Bridging the Standards: EN1028 vs. NFPA
The genius of the Waterous lineup lies in its dual-compliance strategy. The HL series is engineered to meet the rigorous EN1028 European standards, making it the preferred choice for UK and continental European brigades where metric performance and specific pressure stages are mandated.
Conversely, the HLU series is the North American counterpart, specifically designed to meet NFPA 1901 and NFPA 1906 standards. By offering the HLU, Waterous provides North American departments and global OEMs with a pump that fits the compact European footprint while satisfying the strict flow and certification requirements of the National Fire Protection Association. This allows for a standardised vehicle platform that can be deployed anywhere in the world without compromising regulatory compliance.
The Advantage of Dual Capability
The defining feature of both the HL and HLU is the simultaneous high and low-pressure operation. This two-stage design is particularly valuable in diverse firefighting environments from municipal structure fires requiring high-volume, low-pressure attack, to wildland scenarios demanding the reach and penetration of high-pressure lines 40 bar/ 600 PSI.
Design and Reliability
The series’ rear-mount, compact design is a key selling point for modern chassis, offering flexibility in apparatus layout and weight distribution. Waterous has engineered these pumps with features that emphasize reliability:
- Construction: The use of anodized aluminium or optional bronze (gunmetal) provides excellent corrosion resistance, vital in regions with varying water quality.
- Mechanical Seal: A self-adjusting, maintenance-free mechanical seal reduces the routine servicing often associated with traditional packing.
- Built-in Relief Valve: The interstage crossover valve incorporates a built-in high-pressure relief valve, providing immediate protection against over-pressurization which is a critical safety element during high-pressure transitions.
- Foam Integration: The availability of the Round-the-Pump (RTP) Foam Proportioner allows for easy, proportional foam delivery to both low and high-pressure discharges, enhancing tactical versatility without adding a complex external system.
The Bottom Line: Performance Meets Compliance
The Waterous HL and HLU series are more than just pumps; they are purpose-built engine rooms for the modern fire service. By merging the operational requirements of both EN1028 and NFPA into a robust, relatively lightweight package, Waterous has created a truly global pump. For departments prioritising versatility, minimal space usage, and the proven longevity of a two-stage design, the HL200 through HLU 1500 stand out as the premier choice for protecting communities on any continent.
