HNE MFU 50-150 User manual

USER MANUAL
MFU 50-150
Mobile foam unit

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CONTENTS
1Important basic information............................................................................................4
1.1 Content of delivery .................................................................................................4
1.2 Responsibility of the operator.................................................................................5
1.3 Symbols and signal words......................................................................................5
2Safety................................................................................................................................6
2.1 Acting in an emergency..........................................................................................6
2.2 Intended use of the Machine ..................................................................................7
2.3 Operating range and storage..................................................................................7
2.4 Disposal .................................................................................................................7
2.5 Professional repair and maintenance .....................................................................7
2.6 Residual hazards and protective measures............................................................7
2.7 Electrical safety......................................................................................................8
2.8 Emissions...............................................................................................................9
3Design and function ......................................................................................................10
3.1 MFU Description...................................................................................................10
3.2 Front (covers removed)........................................................................................11
3.3 Back cover ...........................................................................................................12
4Delivery, unpacking, transportation.............................................................................13
4.1 Shipping...............................................................................................................13
4.2 Unpacking............................................................................................................13
4.3 Moving and transport............................................................................................13
5Water and operation conditions ...................................................................................14
5.1 Water supply........................................................................................................14
5.2 When mounted stationary… .................................................................................14
5.3 When mounted on vehicles…...............................................................................14
6Installation and initial start-up......................................................................................15
6.1 Mounting ..............................................................................................................15
6.2 Initial start up........................................................................................................16
7Operating........................................................................................................................17
7.1 Control panel overview.........................................................................................17
7.2 Water level control................................................................................................18
7.3 Starting the MFU..................................................................................................18
7.4 Deactivating the MFU...........................................................................................19
7.5 Emergency shutdown...........................................................................................19
7.6 Hose reel..............................................................................................................20
7.7 Foam agent - tank and dosage.............................................................................20
7.8 Turbo jet gun........................................................................................................21
7.9 Jetting operation with (filled) water tank................................................................22
7.10 Jetting operation without water tank .....................................................................22

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8Cleaning the filter and flushing ....................................................................................22
8.1 Cleaning the filter .................................................................................................23
8.2 Flushing ...............................................................................................................23
9Troubleshooting ............................................................................................................24
9.1 Service-Hotline.....................................................................................................24
9.2 Service address....................................................................................................24
9.3 Causes and remedial action.................................................................................24
10 Further troubleshooting................................................................................................25
10.1 Engine fault (Briggs & Stratton Vanguard)............................................................25
10.2 Pressure system...................................................................................................25
10.3 Safety valve and pressure adjustment..................................................................26
10.4 The high-pressure system....................................................................................27
10.5 Electrical troubleshooting .....................................................................................28
11 Maintenance and service ..............................................................................................29
11.1 Safety during maintenance and repair..................................................................29
11.2 Inspection and maintenance schedule..................................................................29
11.3 Maintenance and care after every use..................................................................30
11.4 Monthly inspection................................................................................................30
11.5 Half yearly and yearly inspection..........................................................................30
11.6 Diaphragm pump..................................................................................................31
11.6.1 Oil level...................................................................................................31
11.6.2 Oil change ..............................................................................................32
11.6.3 Pulsation damper....................................................................................32
11.6.4 Reduction gear.......................................................................................33
11.7 Spare parts and consumables..............................................................................34
12 Attachments...................................................................................................................35
12.1 Technical data......................................................................................................35
13 HNE - Contact ................................................................................................................36

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1 Important basic information
Thank you for purchasing a Mobile Foam Unit. To achieve optimum results and operational
reliability, please read this manual carefully before setting the MFU into operation. In case of
questions or technical problems, please contact us.
This manual is an important part of the MFU. Please keep it well with the other supplied
documents, hold it available to users and pass it in case of sale. For additional information
regarding the engine, please refer to the manufacturer’s manual.
In the course of technical improvement, changes to the machine are maybe not included in
this manual yet. Such technical changes are expressly reserved.
No content of this manual shall be reproduced or forwarded to others without our written
permission. All technical specifications and drawings are subject of copyright.
1.1 Content of delivery
Autarkic high performance extinguishing system for jetting water and/or foam, consisting of
the following components:
self-supporting platform and frame
storage tank for foam concentrate
automatically controlled petrol engine
diaphragm pump with gear
push-button function control
semi-automatic hose reel
28 meters hose with turbo gun
Extended delivery (optional):
various water tanks
cable or wireless remote control
LED-floodlights
dust cover
versatile fastening rail system
floating suction filter with tubes

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NOTE
1.2 Responsibility of the operator
This manual refers to the intended use of the device and prevention of damage and risks.
Please keep it available for the operating personnel and read it thoroughly before initial
startup.
In addition, observe the national provisions of your country with regard to accident prevention
and environmental protection.
We assume no liability for injuries, damage or malfunctions, which arise because of defiance
of instructions in this manual.
1.3 Symbols and signal words
Please follow all instructions, hazard symbols and warnings in this manual in the interest of
safety for operators, environment, and device.
Symbol Meaning
Indication of possible dangerous situations. Disregard may result in
damage to the machine and its vicinity and hazard to the operator
and/or other persons.
ATTENTION
This symbol marks all information required for compliance with
policies, regulations and correct execution of works or maintenance
on the machine.
Regard to environmental hazards. Please observe local provisions
for protection of the environment.
Important general information and recommendations regarding
equipment, maintenance, use, etc.
DANGER

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2 Safety
The following chapter is a supplement. Please observe the already existing local accident
prevention regulations and laws of your country.
Basic principles:
Use the MFU only as intended and in perfect technical condition. Observe operating
instructions.
The MFU may only be operated by trained personnel.
Check the operational safety periodically and ensure it by maintenance. Repair any
defects or faults before use.
If any defect or malfunction occurs during operation, stop the MFU immediately and
relieve the whole system of pressure. Restore the technically perfect condition before
restart.
Be extremely cautious, when fighting fire near electrical installations. Set the jet gun
into spray mode and keep as much distance as possible to live parts.
Protect the unattended MFU against unauthorized use by removing the ignition key.
2.1 Acting in an emergency
If the running MFU causes a hazardous situation, immediately press the button
“EMERGENCY STOP” at the control panel. This will shut down the engine and all electrical
components. Actuate the jet gun after standstill to relieve any residual pressure.
DANGER !
See a detailed description of the emergency-stop function at
page 19, section 7.5
ATTENTION
Never unlock the EMERGENCY
STOP button, before the cause of
danger is eliminated!

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2.2 Intended use of the Machine
The MFU (mobile foam unit) is an autarkic high performance extinguishing system for fighting
fires of class A(solids) and B(liquids). It is not suitable to extinguish fires of class D (metal)
or F (fat/grease). Sucking water from external sources is intended solely for firefighting and
refilling of the water tank. Supply the water inlet with cold, clean and pressure-free water (see
chapter 6.1 –Operation conditions). Other liquids must not be used. For any consequences
resulting from other than the intended use, the user is solely responsible and liable.
2.3 Operating range and storage
The temperature range of supplied water is +5 °C to +45 °C. The MFU should be stored only
in horizontal position. The storage place must be free of frost and dust. For longer periods,
we recommend to drain fuel and water and to cover the MFU.
2.4 Disposal
The entire package of the MFU consists of recyclable materials. Qualified personnel should
properly carry out the disposal of used parts and consumables (waste oil, foam agent,
batteries, etc.). Please observe national provisions with regard to environmental protection.
2.5 Professional repair and maintenance
Repairs of high-pressure components (pump, safety valve, hoses and pipes), the gasoline
engine or the electrical system may be performed by qualified persons only.
All spare parts for high-pressure applications must have the appropriate accreditation. Use
only approved original spare parts for pump and engine.
For damage caused by improper and/or negligent operation, maintenance or repair, the
company HNE Technologie AG accepts no liability or claims for damages.
2.6 Residual hazards and protective measures
When using the MFU for firefighting, always wear adequate protective clothing against
heat, fire, water, falling debris and chemicals.
Always keep the highest possible safety distance to the fire.
Never target the compact water jet at persons or living animals. Breathing under a layer
of foam is impossible.
When set to full flow, a significant blowback occurs at the turbo gun. Take a firm stand
and hold the gun always with both hands.
Relieve the remaining pressure from the system after use by actuating the turbo gun.
Do not use or store the MFU in explosion/fire hazardous areas
Secure the MFU against unauthorized starting by removing the ignition key
Look for further storage information in the manual of the engine
manufacturer.
NOTE

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2.7 Electrical safety
The unit has a self-contained power supply (12 Volt DC) for the electrical control and the
on-board starter battery (alternator on the engine with external rectifier/charger).
REMEMBER:
Use only approved 12-volt car battery chargers to recharge the battery.
Charge the battery only with the ignition off. Do not overcharge.
Prolonged current draw at the socket with the engine not running can lead to an
exhausted Battery.
Replace blown fuses only with ones of same type and amperage.
All electrical components are water-protected. Nevertheless - avoid dirt, chemicals, splash
water and dampness around the device whenever possible.
Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery when working on the engine and/or the
electrical system.
DANGER !
Risk of short circuit or electric shock !
In case of damage to the electrical system: Never touch bare
wires or voltage leading components if the engine is running or
the ignition is active. Repair damaged cables as soon as
possible
Risk of electric shock !
In case of loose connectors or damaged insulation, the vicinity
of spark plugs and ignition cables can bear high voltage while
the engine is running
The 12V-socket at the rear panel is DIN 14690 compatible
and permanently active. It is useable to charge the battery or
for loads up to 140 Watts (maximum 12 Amp.)

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2.8 Emissions
The exhaust emissions of the engine meet the requirements of the European Community.
For more information, refer to the engine manual.
Never run the engine in closed or poorly ventilated areas –Risk of poisoning !
Stay away from exhaust gases, even with adequate ventilation.
Exhaust fumes are very hot and can cause fire and burns.
Do not store flammable or heat-sensitive objects in the immediate area of the exhaust.
IMPORTANT !
When changing the battery, follow these rules:
Work only with proper tools (open end wrench, size 10)
For disconnecting the terminals:
Remove negative pole first (black wire)
For reconnecting the terminals:
Attach positive pole first (red wire)
Isolate the positive terminal with the supplied plastic
cover
DANGER !
Engine exhaust contains poisonous carbon
monoxide. It can reach dangerous levels in the
absence of fresh air. Inhalation may cause
unconsciousness and death !

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3 Design and function
3.1 MFU Description
Specially designed for the requirements of first responders, the MFU is an autarkic, mobile
high-pressure extinguishing system for fighting fires of class A and B. It is equipped with 28
meters of hose on a semi-automatic reel, adjustable foam mixture and an attachable foam
thrower. Its outstanding performance and flexibility results from high working pressure,
variable flow rate and easy operating. The system allows quick adaptation of operation mode
and jet shape to any situation at the fire scene.
The MFU has a hard wearing high-pressure diaphragm pump, driven by a strong gasoline
engine. From a coupled tank, water is brought to working pressure (up to 50 bar) and blasted
with the jet-gun. With no connected tank or depleted reserves, water for extinguishing or
refilling can be sucked from an external source via the suction intake (C-coupling) at the
front.
At the control panel, either water, foam or idling mode is switchable by a simple push of a
button. Water goes at full throttle to the jet gun or at idle speed back to the bypass line. In
case of malfunction or reduced throughput, a safety valve protects the system from
overpressure. It directs any excess pump capacity back to the tank via the bypass line.
The addition of foam agent is switchable at any time. The concentration is setable at the front
panel.
Jet focus and throughput of the turbo gun are variable. When using the attachable foam
thrower, the foam consistency is adjustable as needed.
The machine may be combined with various tanks and mounted on any suitable vehicle or
trailer.
Available optional equipment:
Suitable water tanks in various sizes
Remote control (cable or wireless)
LED flood lights (lighting of MFU and surrounding)
Floating suction filter with C-coupling
Dust cover

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3.2 Front (covers removed)
1
Control panel with emergency stop button
2
Hour counter and pressure gauge
3
Adjustable foam proportioner
4
Foam agent tank
5
Adjustable turbo gun
6
Fire hose on automatic reel
7
Attachment points / universal mounting rails
8
Diaphragm pump with gear
9
Standard C-coupling for suction hose
10
Gasoline engine / fuel tank
11
Solenoid valves for water/foam function
12
Pressure valve for pulsation damper
12
11
10
9
8
7
6
5
4
12
3
2
1

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3.3 Back cover
1
Plug for floating switch (Tank level control)
2
12 Volt-Power plug (DIN 14690)
3
Connector for Remote control
4
Exhaust pipe
5
Connection for water tank (C-coupling)
6
Tank or suction mode switchover
7
Connection for Tank reflux (bypass)
8
Connection to suction port on front (C-coupling)
9
Drain cock of foam agent tank
10
Water filter
8
6
5
4
12
3
2
1
9
7
10

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4 Delivery, unpacking, transportation
The following sections provide information for unpacking and safe movement of the machine.
4.1 Shipping
The MFU is secured and shipped in a wooden protection crate. Please check the condition of
packaging and content upon delivery. Contact us immediately in case of transport damage.
4.2 Unpacking
We only use recyclable material for packaging the MFU. Dispose of it in accordance with
applicable national environmental regulations.
4.3 Moving and transport
The MFU has no suspension points. For moving, we recommend to set the machine with the
supplied mounting rails on a wooden pallet. When lifting, use an appropriate crane with hitch
for pallets, a suitable forklift or a pallet truck.
The unit comes without fuel and chemicals. Please fill in
the appropriate fluids before operation. Refer to the
specifications for fuel in the engine manual
ATTENTION
ATTENTION
The MFU is fixed to the wooden pallet on universal
mounting rails. Unscrew these rails without damaging;
they are required later for installation.

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5 Water and operation conditions
5.1 Water supply
The suction inlet requires cold and clean water, free of suspended matter.
Preferably, fill the tank with clean tap water. Dirt, germs or algae may affect the function of
the solenoid valves or the ability of the foaming agent.
To prevent germs and algae, you may add an algaecide concentrate in appropriate dosage
to the water tank.
Suction from external water sources (pond, pool, river, etc.) with floating filter only.
Range of water temperature: + 3 to 38 ° Celsius, maximum suction lift: app. 2.5 meters.
5.2 When mounted stationary…
Observe the following criteria regarding the place of installation:
Ventilation of engine exhausts and fresh air supply must always be ensured.
The air-cooled engine radiates a significant amount of heat when running.
Ambient temperature should stay between +3 to +45° C. Keep the temperature rise of longer
operating times in mind.
The place of installation has to be dry, frost-safe and free of dust.
The unit must be leveled with 5 cm minimum distance to the ground.
The system should be easily accessible from all directions for maintenance and cleaning.
No heat-sensitive objects in the immediate vicinity of the exhaust system.
No flammable gases or liquids may be stored in the same room.
5.3 When mounted on vehicles…
The same criteria as above (5.2) apply. Pay additional attention to the following points:
Do not park the vehicle in frost-prone places or for long periods in blazing sun.
Keep as much distance as possible from the water tank to the device.
The MFU should be operated in horizontal position. Place the vehicle on level ground
wherever possible.
ATTENTION
The unit must be kept absolutely free of frost. At temperatures
below + 3° Celsius, water-filled areas of the system are at risk
of frost damage.
Suck pressure-free water only. When using a pressurized
hydrant, refill the water tank directly.

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6 Installation and initial start-up
For maximum efficiency, we strongly recommend the combination of the MFU with a water
tank of greatest possible volume. This allows further the connection of the back-flow line
(bypass) with the tank. Any excess pump capacity not jetted from the gun is thereby directed
back to the tank. This extends the durability of the water supply significantly, if the gun is set
to reduced flow.
6.1 Mounting
ATTENTION
Please also note the information sheet, which is enclosed in the crate at delivery.
Put cardboard or wood between frame and lifting forks to avoid
paint damage. Raise the forks to the same height as the frame of
the MFU and move the machine carefully.
Vibrations can loosen the attachment points of rails and MFU
over time. Check the tightness of all mounting screws periodically.
We recommend the use of silicon grease on the gaskets of
the couplings to avoid leaks and facilitate opening
Connect the water tank via a hose with
C-couplings at both ends. Avoid leaks
to prevent water loss and reduced
performance due to air bubbles.
Connect the bypass line via the
supplied extension hose to the tank.
Use a wrench size 36.
Four sliding nuts are located at the bottom corners of the frame.
Matching mounting rails are screwed to the wooden pallet for safe
shipping. Remove the left, right and front cover of the machine to
get access to these fastening screws. Loosen the screws by one or
two turns. The MFU is moveable now; push it carefully onto the
forks of a pallet truck or fork lifter. Remove the rails from the pallet
and screw-fasten them at the unit's place of installation. Please pay
special attention to stability and exact spacing between the rails.
Size
36
Hook
wrench

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6.2 Initial start up
Pleas carry out the following preparations after complete and correct installation:
1. Fill the fuel tank (10) and check the engine oil level according to the instructions of
the engine manufacturer.
2. Check the oil levels of pump (page 31, section 11.6.1) and gear (page 33, section
11.6.4).
3. Check the pressure of the pulsation damper at its valve (12) and adjust if necessary.
(see page 32, section 11.6.3). Correct pressure = 7,0 bar / 102 PSI
4. Turn the ball valve lever (6) into tank position. When using the floating filter, turn the
lever (6) into external position. Bring the filter to water and connect the hose with the
suction intake (9) of the MFU (see page 22, section 7.9 and 7.10).
5. Connect the battery. The MFU is shipped with disconnected ground terminal. Use a
proper wrench (size 10). CAUTION: HIGH POWER VOLTAGE !
6. Fill the water tank (when equipped) with clean water.
7. Fill the foam agent tank (4) with proper concentrate (see page 20, section 7.7).
8. Turn on the ignition and start the engine (see page 18, section 7.3).

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7 Operating
Operating the MFU is simple and easy. After starting the engine, the function mode is
selectable by a single push of a button. The engine features:
start automatic (automatic choke)
electromechanical power control (no throttle)
automatic fuel valve (no gasoline cock)
complete self-monitoring (shutdown in case of overheating or lack of oil)
Before and after start and stop, the engine does not require any further operation
7.1 Control panel overview
1)
1) EMERGENCY STOP button (unlocking by turning clockwise)
2) Fault lamp / override button: indicates low water or pressed EMERGENCY STOP
3) Start button: starts the engine. NOTE: must be pressed together with "Override" (2)
4) Ignition lock (image without key)
5) Standby: bypass function at idle speed
6) Water function: jetting water at full power
7) Foam function: jetting foam at full power
8) Fill function: water tank refilling / firefighting with external water source
6
5
2
1
3
4
7
8

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7.2 Water level control
The pump is protected against dry running by water level control in the intake tract. Any main
function is only activatable with sufficient water supply. If the intake tract is empty, the system
automatically shuts down the engine and the red Override button (2) is flashing.
The flashing vanishes, after the tank is refilled with enough water. You may then start the
engine again.
To start the MFU without water, press the flashing Override-Button (2) and START (3)
together. With the cranking of the starter, the pump will imbibe new water. Release "START"
as soon as the engine is running, but keep "Override" pressed until the flashing vanishes.
This happens as soon water fills the intake tract and may take a few seconds.
7.3 Starting the MFU
The emergency stop button has to be in unlocked position and the intake sensor must
report sufficient water level.
1. Turn the ignition switch (4) into position ON. The green STANDBY-button (5) lights up.
2. Press Override (2) and START (3) together - as soon as the engine is running, release it.
ATTENTION
If the engine will not start, do not push the button for longer than
10 seconds. Allow the starter to cool down before trying again.
We strongly recommend warming up the engine after starting for about two
minutes in STANDBY-mode. If possible, start the engine first in preparation of a
firefight.
NOTE
To refill the tank from external source by using the function FILL, see
page 22, chapter 7.10.
The time until the intake tract fills with water, depends on the length of
the suction line and the height difference of the water level.
NOTE
To prevent accidental actuation, the START-button (3) is linked with
the Override-button (2). To start the engine, press both buttons
simultaneously.
DANGER
NEVER engage the electric starter when the engine is already running!

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7.4 Deactivating the MFU
1. Press STANDBY (5) if another function is still active. The button lights up and the
engine switches to idle speed.
2. Turn the ignition switch (4) left. The engine stops, the whole system is inactive.
3. Actuate the jet gun to relieve residual pressure.
7.5 Emergency shutdown
In case of a dangerous situation caused by the
running MFU, immediately push the button
EMERGENCY STOP (1) on the control panel. The
adjacent red fault indicator lights up. The engine
shuts down, the fuel line is closed, the ignition and
electrical control is inactive and the bypass valve
opens. After standstill, actuate the jet gun to relief
residual pressure. To make the MFU ready for restart,
turn the EMERGENCY STOP button (1) clockwise.
Before shutting off, we strongly recommend cooling down the engine at idling
speed for about two minutes.
The exhaust and its surroundings are very hot for some time after
switching off the engine –burning hazard !
DANGER
DANGER
Never unlock the EMERGENCY STOP button before the
cause of danger is eliminated !
REMEMBER !
The EMERGENCY STOP button is an exclusive safety device for
dangerous situations. For regular shutdown use the ignition switch only !

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7.6 Hose reel
To unroll the hose, take the jet gun from its holder and pull the hose as needed (up to 28
meters) from the reel. The hose reel locks itself at standstill and unlocks again by a short
pull. It has an automatic recoil spring, which greatly helps rolling up the hose again.
7.7 Foam agent - tank and dosage
Check the foam agent tank for
cleanliness before each filling. In
case of sediment on the bottom or
when changing to alternative
extinguishing agent, the tank
should be rinsed. To do this, open
the cap on top and the drain cock
at the back of the MFU. You can
rinse the tank with a water hose.
Close the drain cock after cleaning and fill the tank by using a
funnel. Fill the container with foam concentrate only to the extent
that it does not overflow during expansion due to heat. The filling
level is visible at the transparent front panel; the capacity is app.
20 liters. At last, close the cap again. The amount of foam
concentration is steplessly adjustable up to 6 % at the knob of the
right console.
ATTENTION
We recommend cleaning the hose during reeling up.
When rolling up the hose, pay attention to crossing-free
and gapless layering.
Drain cock (closed)
Foam agent tank cap
ATTENTION
Extinguishing agent is polluting and hazardous to health ! Washed
out chemicals should not come in touch with the vehicle and must
not flow into soil or sewer system. Use a suitable container and
dispose of the chemical in an environmentally friendly way !
When rolling up the hose, pay attention to crossing-free and
gapless layering.
ATTENTION
When dealing with extinguishing agent always wear goggles
and gloves. The chemicals can cause skin irritation or
allergies. Rinse immediately with plenty of clean water after
contact with eyes or mouth.
Be careful, not to spill extinguishing agent. Wash affected
surfaces and components of MFU and vehicle as soon as
possible with water.