Typical challenges - and how we solve them
Functioning extinguishing systems are an essential part of fire protection. Deposits of rust, sludge or old foam concentrate constrict the pipes and interfere with the triggering. Mobilized particles can clog nozzles or damage pumps.
Particularly critical: residues from PFAS-containing foam. With Comprex® we thoroughly clean water and foam-based systems – for demonstrably safe systems.
The problem
Over the years, solids such as rust, sludge, biofilm or old foam compound residues build up in extinguishing systems.
These residues constrict the cross-section, clog nozzles and impair the triggering function – in an emergency, the system fails.
Particularly critical: residues from PFAS-containing foams (e.g. AFFF) in foam extinguishing systems, which endanger people, the environment and insurance cover.
The solution
With the Comprex® process, we clean your extinguishing system gently and effectively – without time-consuming dismantling. Air-water pulses are used to loosen and remove deposits from the pipe system.
For PFAS-contaminated systems, we combine mechanical cleaning with a deep rinse based on the Fluorofighter™ additive.
Typical areas of application:
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Sprinkler systems
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Water spray systems
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Water mist systems
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Foam extinguishing systems
The result
After cleaning, the extinguishing agent flows freely again. Your system meets the test requirements, insurance specifications and – in the case of PFAS – even laboratory standards.
On request, you will receive complete cleaning protocols and residue analyses. This safeguards your operation and optimally prepares your system for tests or a foam concentrate changeover.
Water or foam extinguishing system - what's the difference?
Water-based extinguishing systems
Sprinkler, water spray and water mist systems are permanently or temporarily filled with water (with additives if necessary).
Particularly in galvanized or uncoated steel pipes, standing liquid leads to rust formation, deposits and biological growth.
The result: reduced flow, malfunctions, clogged nozzles. Regular mechanical cleaning provides long-term protection against these risks.
Foam extinguishing systems
These systems are mainly used in industrial plants, storage areas, tank fields or special buildings. They work with a water-foam mixture or separate foam compound lines.
In many cases, foams containing PFAS (e.g. AFFF) were previously used. Their residues are considered particularly stubborn and toxic – they accumulate throughout the entire system and make it impossible to switch to modern fluorine-free foams (F3) without thorough cleaning. This is where our combined cleaning with Fluorofighter™ comes into play.
How Comprex® sustainably improves the functional reliability of your extinguishing systems
Comprex® reliably removes deposits, incrustations and stagnation residues from extinguishing water pipes – for clear cross-sections, safe water discharge in an emergency and permanently functional fire protection systems. Without any chemical additives.
- HYGIENIC CONDITIONS
- IMPROVED HYDRAULICS
- SUSTAINABLE GRID OPERATION
- INCREASED OPERATIONAL SAFETY
- INCREASED PERFORMANCE
- ENERGY-EFFICIENT OPERATION
Limescale deposits from a drinking water pipe in the distribution network
Iron sludge from a well water pipe
Manganese deposits from a drinking water network
Before and after cleaning: Semi-solid iron sludge in a raw water pipe
Iron incrustations from a drinking water pipe
Turbidity monitoring: water samples during Comprex® cleaning
Sludge discharge from a raw water pipe
Benefit from the Comprex® advantages now!
Whether drinking water and waste water in municipalities, industrial piping systems or water pipes in buildings – each area has its own requirements. We work with you to develop a tailor-made cleaning solution that works, saves resources and delivers lasting results.
Fast, thorough, resource-saving - without chemicals
Up to 80% shorter
Up to 100x stronger
Up to 90% less
Up to 10x faster
3 steps to a clean system
Step 1 Analysis & planning
We analyze your system: structure, plans, pipe routing, shut-off valves, nozzle technology. Together we plan cleaning sections, venting points and – if necessary – dismantling (e.g. of sprinkler heads).
For foam extinguishing systems, we also check concentrate lines, mixers, tanks and residual quantities in the system.
The result: a well thought-out process plan for safe and resource-saving cleaning.
Step 2 Cleaning
We flush the pipe system specifically and efficiently with suitable equipment.
- With water extinguishing systems, air-water pulse cleaning is usually sufficient – without chemicals, quickly and effectively.
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Foam extinguishing systems with PFAS are additionally decontaminated in two stages:
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Pre-cleaning: Removal of old foam concentrate, biofilm and foam residue
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DeepClean: rinsing with heated Fluorofighter™ solvent + Comprex® for maximum depth effect
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All residues are collected and, if necessary, filtered through activated carbon – environmentally friendly and tested.
Step 3 Completion & documentation
After cleaning, we check the results (e.g. visually or in the laboratory) and document them in writing.
In the case of PFAS, you will receive documentation with a laboratory analysis of the flushing medium. Our protocols serve as proof for insurers, authorities or experts.
Your extinguishing system is fully functional again – and ready for tests, conversions or the next emergency.
Fast, professional and ready for use: Our experienced team will take care of the cleaning for you – whether as a one-off or regularly as part of your maintenance concept.
Would you like to use the Comprex® process yourself? No problem. Our mobile systems are available for hire – including instruction, accessories and technical support.
Would you like to permanently integrate your own Comprex® cleaning system into your operating processes? Whether mobile or stationary – we have the right system for you and will train your staff.
"Our conclusion: The test of the Comprex® unit can be rated as thoroughly positive. The cleaning effect can be seen as very good, in some cases even blockages could be loosened. Due to the rather simple operation, the unit could be operated without any problems after the short instruction. No problems were encountered during the test phase.
At this point, we would like to thank you again for the test opportunity and the trust you have placed in us."
"We have had very good experiences with comprex and are very satisfied with the cooperation that has grown over the years. The Hammann GmbH technicians know our network, arrangements are quick and uncomplicated and the assignments are already a fixed part of our annual planning for network maintenance."
Remove PFAS from extinguishing systems
Extinguishing water pipeline logistics and transport company
Discover more applications
Frequently asked questions about cleaning extinguishing systems
How does cleaning with Comprex® work?
The patented process works with specifically controlled air-water impulses. These move through the pipes at high speeds (up to 70 km/h) and generate strong shear and drag forces. This efficiently dissolves and removes deposits and residues – completely without chemicals and with minimal use of water.
Are the procedures certified?
For water extinguishing systems, cleaning is carried out on the basis of VdS/TÜV experience. For PFAS cleaning, the Fluorofighter™ additive is used in compliance with REACH and POP regulations and in accordance with official requirements. We can provide WHG certifications or SCC certificates if required.
Is cleaning with Comprex® suitable for all types of extinguishing systems?
Yes, Comprex® is suitable for dry and wet pipes, ring pipes, risers and system components such as wall hydrants, sprinkler or SHEV systems. Even branched networks or pipes with dead sections can be cleaned in a targeted and effective manner – without dismantling.
Can cleaning be carried out during operation?
We coordinate the planning with you individually so that the cleaning process involves minimal disruption to building operations. We always keep safety requirements and applicable regulations in mind. If necessary, we will develop an emergency extinguishing concept with you.
How long does cleaning take?
The duration depends on the size of the pipe system and the degree of soiling or contamination. We will be happy to draw up a schedule in advance based on your system structure.
How is the cleaning effect verified?
After cleaning, we check the results (e.g. visually or in the laboratory) and document them in writing.
An inspection (e.g. 25-year inspection) is carried out subsequently by accredited testing institutes.
In the case of PFAS, you will receive a laboratory analysis of the flushing medium. Our reports serve as proof for insurers, authorities or experts.
Can I use fluorine-free foams immediately after cleaning?
After documented PFAS removal (laboratory report), the system is considered “clean” and is ready for the changeover.
What exactly are "extinguishing systems"?
The term extinguishing system also stands for fire-fighting or fire-extinguishing system and is a permanently operational technical system that contains a fire with an extinguishing agent. Stationary or fixed extinguishing systems often consist of a piping system with suitable extinguishing water discharge devices, e.g. sprinkler heads or extinguishing nozzles, which discharge the extinguishing agent when needed. In the event of a fire, this is done either indirectly or directly, i.e. either indirectly by fire detection systems or directly by fire detection and triggering elements such as glass drums or fusible links. The systems are designed to automatically control a fire until the fire department arrives to extinguish it. The colloquial term “extinguishing system” is therefore rather misleading. This is why the literature often uses the terms fire-fighting or fire-extinguishing system.
What is the purpose of extinguishing agents?
Extinguishing agents have the task of extinguishing flammable substances, taking into account their fire class and the prevailing environmental conditions (e.g. risk to persons or room size). Water extinguishing systems mainly use water alone, water with additives or extinguishing foam. Extinguishing foam is produced by adding air to water with foaming agent.
