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HYDRAULIC
VENTILATION

 

For Fireground Operations with HEN® Nozzle Technology

Hydraulic Ventilation Usage

Why Hydraulic Ventilation Is Critical in Modern Firefighting

Hydraulic ventilation is one of the most effective yet underutilized tactics in today’s firefighting operations. By using a precisely engineered water stream to induce airflow, this method significantly improves interior conditions during fire suppression and overhaul, enhancing visibility, reducing heat, and creating safer environments for crews.

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HEN Hydraulic Ventilation Products

HEN BLADE 185

BLADE™

Combination Smoothbore Nozzle

Combination smoothbore nozzle designed for precise hydraulic ventilation. The BLADE delivers a wide linear stream with the reach and penetration of a solid stream, making it ideal for both fire suppression and smoke removal.

HEN HYDRO FORCE shutoff

FORCE™

Integrated TURBO shutoff

Integrated TURBO shutoff for high-flow ventilation performance. This innovative design allows for 175 GPM at just 45 PSI nozzle pressure, ensuring optimal airflow and smoke ejection during ventilation operations.

HEN TURBO for 1.75 inch handlines

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TURBO™

Hoseline Back Pressure Increaser

Hoseline back-pressure increaser that boosts pressure by 25–30 PSI while maintaining the nozzle’s intended operating pressure. Perfect for consistent hydraulic ventilation efficiency.

Superior Hydraulic Ventilation Application 

Why It Matters

Hydraulic ventilation is a critical tactic for controlling interior conditions during firefighting operations. Using the right nozzle pattern can make all the difference. The HEN BLADE nozzle enhances efficiency and safety by delivering superior smoke removal without disrupting thermal layers.

  • Enhanced Smoke Ejection: 

    • The BLADE nozzle produces a high-velocity, rectangular stream that can be precisely shaped to fit a window opening. This targeted stream improves hydraulic ventilation by increasing standoff distance, maximizing water exit, and leveraging Bernoulli’s principle for effective smoke removal.

  • Tactical Continuity—No Tool Changes Needed:

    • With its combination smoothbore stream, the BLADE allows crews to transition instantly from fire suppression to ventilation, reducing tool changes, saving time, and simplifying operations inside the structure.

  • Preservation of the Thermal Layer:

    • Unlike traditional fog streams that disrupt heat and gas stratification, the BLADE nozzle maintains thermal stability by directing flow with minimal disturbance to the upper gas layer. This creates safer, more tenable conditions for interior crews.

Hydraulic ventilation isn’t just about pushing smoke—it’s about applying physics and fluid dynamics to improve visibility, reduce ambient temperatures, and protect firefighters from rapidly evolving hazards.

Performance

HEN Nozzles: Optimizing Hydraulic Ventilation

Effective ventilation is critical for improving interior conditions during a fire attack. The right nozzle pattern can dramatically impact how quickly and efficiently smoke is cleared. Here’s why the HEN BLADE nozzle stands out:

  • Precision Ventilation:

    • UL research shows that increasing distance from an opening significantly boosts air entrainment. The HEN BLADE pattern leverages this principle with its solid linear stream, filling the shape of a window opening from greater distances inside the structure. This design maximizes hydraulic ventilation capabilities.

  • Faster, More Efficient Smoke Removal:

    • The BLADE nozzle creates a wide, controlled pattern, enabling firefighters to remove smoke from compartments quickly. This improves visibility, reduces heat, and enhances safety for crews operating inside.

  • Designed for Performance:

    • With versatile stream control, the HEN BLADE seamlessly transitions between fire attack and ventilation operations, making it an indispensable tool for interior firefighting.

Hydraulic Ventilation: The HEN FORCE BLADE in Action
Maximizing Hydraulic Ventilation with the HEN BLADE Nozzle
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Try It for Yourself —

Request a Demo

Experience the proven performance of HEN Nozzles through a customized live demonstration in your region. See firsthand how our innovative nozzle technology enhances fire suppression, foam application, and hydraulic ventilation efficiency.

HEN BLADE and HYDRO nozzle

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