The latest performance tests are a continuation of extensive due diligence work by Survitec on the new fluorine-free formulae. Last year, Survitec’s fire safety specialists conducted laboratory fire tests to assess performance in accordance with maritime rules and regulations using various types of foam sprinkler nozzles on different burning media across different setups. The results confirmed that the foam remained stable and performed well, even against challenging fuels such as methanol.
However, in the case of alcohol-resistant, fluorine-free foam concentrates, there was an additional challenge to address: viscosity. These new formulations rely on different active ingredients to maintain firefighting effectiveness without using fluorinated compounds. The result is a denser, more viscous fluid that behaves differently under varying flow conditions, posing new challenges for marine dosing systems originally designed for lower-viscosity foams.
“Standard proportioners are not typically designed to handle this kind of fluid, so it was essential that we rigorously test the system to ensure compatibility and dosing accuracy,” explained Maciej Niescioruk, Product Manager, Foam Systems, at Survitec.
Rather than replacing existing proportioning systems, Survitec focused on engineering modifications to internal components and orifices. The outcome of the tests was clear; the extent of system modifications varied depending on the type and size of the system, with certain configurations requiring more substantial redesign than others to maintain accurate dosing within the required range.
As Niescioruk explains, “An incorrect dosing ratio can result in a foam that is ineffective in suppressing a fire. Foam proportioning systems must comply with a strict dosing accuracy range of -0% to +30% to ensure that underdosing does not occur – a critical requirement to avoid system failure.
“This is particularly important when using high-viscosity foam concentrates, which typically generate higher flow resistance. If a standard, unchanged, proportioner is used, the increased resistance can cause the actual mixing ratio to fall below the nominal value, violating regulatory requirements and compromising foam performance. By implementing our findings from these tests, we can ensure that our customers won’t face that risk.”
In addition to proportioner compatibility, appropriate pump selection is essential. A standard centrifugal pump designed for low-viscosity, Newtonian fluids, such as the fluoroprotein alcohol-resistant foam concentrates, will most likely fail with the new, fluorine-free formulae, which exhibit non-Newtonian, pseudoplastic behaviour. The worst case scenario is a total system malfunction, where no foam is produced.
The tests come at a crucial time for the industry. From January 1, 2026, the IMO’s MSC.532(107) regulation will prohibit the use and storage of foams containing PerFluoroOctane Sulfonate (PFOS). This chemical is part of the wider PFAS family now being phased out globally due to growing concerns over its impact on human health and the environment. However, some manufacturers have already discontinued production of PFAS foam concentrates in anticipation of further restrictions. Consequently, for shipowners and operators, managing the transition to fluorine-free alternatives is not only a compliance issue but a safety-critical one.
“Fluorine-free, alcohol-resistant foams are particularly suited for chemical tankers, Norwegian double-ended ferries, and methanol-fuelled vessels, where environmental performance and fire safety are paramount. The successful completion of these performance tests allows Survitec to offer a tested and validated solution that mitigates technical risk and supports a smooth, compliant transition to fluorine-free technology. The findings are already being implemented in current projects, including a system commissioning in Turkey,” added Niescioruk.
As additional PFAS restrictions loom and more countries advocate for a total ban on fluorinated foam concentrates, the results of Survitec’s testing offer reassurance that regulatory compliance does not need to come at the expense of safety or operational readiness. However, planning and the support of an OEM are essential to avoid costly mistakes.
“These are safety-critical systems,” warns Niescioruk. Any significant changes to these systems must be handled carefully, allowing time to assess the engineering requirements and obtain the proper approvals. Our message to the market is clear: plan now, test early, and work with an OEM partner who understands the technical and regulatory landscape.”
Survitec’s S Word podcast explores the complexities of transitioning to fluorine-free firefighting foams. From unpacking new regulations, comparing foam performance and safety, and outlining key considerations for retrofitting. Listen now on Spotify.
About Survitec
Survitec is a global Survival Technology leader to the maritime, defence & government, aerospace and energy sectors. Survitec has over 3,000 employees worldwide, covering 11 manufacturing facilities and over 400 service centres. They operate in over 2,000 ports, spanning 96 countries. Survitec are the world’s largest manufacturer and supplier of liferaft, Marine Evacuation Systems (MES) and offshore rental PPE. They are a leading supplier of fire solutions to the maritime industry and hold a market leading position for Pilot Flight Equipment in the aerospace & defence market. The Survitec team live by their purpose “We Exist to Protect Lives”. Throughout its 168-year history, Survitec has remained at the forefront of innovation, design and application engineering and is the trusted name when it comes to critical safety and survival solutions. www.survitecgroup.com
