Automatic vs. Selectable flow nozzle : what differences ?

What is the difference between an automatic fire nozzle and a selectable-flow fire nozzle?
These two technologies address different operational needs during firefighting, in terms of flow management, pressure control, and ease of use for firefighters.
Understanding their specific features helps in choosing the nozzle best suited to the conditions on the ground, the available water resources, and the operational habits of the teams.

What is the role of a fire nozzle ?

A fire nozzle is firefighting equipment that allows water under pressure to be directed and controlled, forming a manageable stream with a range and flow rate suited to the conditions of the operation.
The flow rate of a fire nozzle depends on several factors:

• the diameter, length, and condition of the hose,
• the available pressure,
• as well as the reliability of the pump and control instruments.

In this context, the choice of nozzle technology plays a crucial role in ensuring an effective attack on the fire while maintaining the safety of the firefighters.

The Selectable-Flow Fire Nozzle : MULTIFLOW

The MULTIFLOW selectable-flow fire nozzle allows firefighters to manually choose the flow rate best suited to the situation, providing precise control over water use.

Precise flow adjustment

MULTIFLOW fire nozzles are equipped with a control ring that allows different pre-set flow rates to be selected with a simple rotation.
This setup gives firefighters the ability to adjust the water flow precisely according to the type of fire and the operational conditions.
 

Manual management requiring attention

When pressure varies, the nozzle operator must adjust the settings themselves to maintain an effective reach. This requires simultaneous management of:

• the flow control ring,
• the shape of the stream,
• the operating handle.

This manual operation makes using the nozzle more technical, but it allows better control over water consumption in certain situations. These adjustments demand high attention, as the firefighter is primarily focused on extinguishing the fire rather than operating the nozzle.

Limiting water hammer with the sliding valve

Each MULTIFLOW selectable-flow nozzle is equipped with a sliding valve that ensures smooth operation without turbulence and a consistent flow, regardless of its position.
Unlike the ball valve, this system greatly reduces water hammer, prevents blockages, and preserves the quality of the stream.

For these reasons, LEADER, a manufacturer of firefighting equipment solutions, has chosen the sliding valve for its MULTIFLOW fire nozzles, providing firefighters with a high level of operational performance.
 

The Automatic Fire Nozzle : FLOWMATIC

The FLOWMATIC automatic fire nozzle is designed to provide maximum ease of use while ensuring optimized reach and flow, regardless of pressure fluctuations. 

Automatic pressure regulation

The operation of an automatic or selectable-flow fire nozzle can be compared to a garden hose.

When the tap is opened, the water flows with limited reach. By partially closing the nozzle at the hose end, the stream becomes more concentrated and the reach increases, while the flow remains constant. Conversely, when available pressure rises, the stream’s reach also increases, and the nozzle opening must be adjusted to maintain a stable reach.
 

Automatic fire nozzles operate on the same principle: by adjusting the nozzle opening or using an internal regulation system, they adapt the stream shape, flow, and reach to the operational conditions.

The functioning of an automatic nozzle relies on a system that automatically adjusts the internal opening to maintain constant pressure, ensuring optimal stream reach.
Unlike selectable-flow nozzles, the firefighter does not need to manually compensate for pressure variations—the nozzle adapts itself to hydraulic conditions.

With MULTIFLOW selectable-flow nozzles, the firefighter manually sets the flow by rotating the control ring. FLOWMATIC automatic nozzles, however, have a regulation system that automatically adjusts the pressure to maintain optimal reach.
Thanks to its opening starting at just 2 bars, the FLOWMATIC remains fully functional even under low-pressure conditions.

Simple and intuitive flow adjustment

Although the regulation system maintains constant pressure within the nozzle, the firefighter can still adjust the flow using the operating handle, up to the maximum flow limit.
This provides an excellent balance between ease of use and operational control.

Reduced water hammer and improved ease of use

Like MULTIFLOW nozzles, FLOWMATIC automatic nozzles are equipped with a sliding valve. This system smooths out sudden pressure variations and reduces water hammer during nozzle opening or closing.

What are the operational differences on the field ? 

In operation, the FLOWMATIC automatic fire nozzle allows firefighters to focus primarily on the stream shape and manoeuvring, as the pressure adjusts automatically. It provides the simplest and most operationally effective solution.

FLOWMATIC nozzles are available in multiple configurations to suit operational practices and the preferences of fire departments.

The MULTIFLOW selectable-flow fire nozzle, on the other hand, requires more active management of settings (flow, stream shape, operating handle), but is particularly suitable for situations where precise water consumption control is a priority. It is also often chosen for budgetary reasons.

Automatic vs. Selectable Fire nozzle : comparative table

The choice between a FLOWMATIC automatic fire nozzle and a MULTIFLOW selectable-flow nozzle primarily depends on operational needs, team practices, and field constraints.

In both cases, our nozzles are equipped with a sliding valve to ensure optimal water control, high stream quality, and enhanced safety for firefighters.

LEADER, a manufacturer of firefighting equipment solutions, offers a wide range of nozzles designed to meet the operational requirements of firefighters.

FAQ – Automatic and Selectable-Flow Fire Nozzles

• What is the difference between an automatic nozzle and a selectable-flow nozzle?

The automatic nozzle adjusts the pressure automatically to maintain a consistent reach, while the selectable-flow nozzle requires manual flow adjustment by the firefighter.

• Which fire nozzle is the easiest to use ?

The FLOWMATIC automatic nozzle is the easiest to use, as it automatically adapts to pressure variations.

• Why choose a MULTIFLOW nozzle ?

The MULTIFLOW is particularly suitable when precise water resource management is essential, offering an excellent balance between performance and cost.