Wheeled Extinguisher
medium
6 models total
A wheeled extinguisher is a large-capacity, trolley-mounted extinguisher for hazards too big for a handheld unit, typically 50-150 kg of agent, moved to the fire on its own wheels rather than fixed in place or carried by one person.
Read more — Wheeled Extinguisher explained ▾
What sets a wheeled extinguisher apart
A handheld portable extinguisher holds a few kilograms of agent and is meant to be grabbed and used within seconds by one person. A wheeled extinguisher is a different class of equipment entirely: a cylinder of 50 kg or more, sometimes well over 100 kg, mounted on a two-wheel trolley with its own hose reel, meant to be pushed to a fire that a handheld unit cannot handle — a large deck fire, an engine room bilge fire, or a hazard at a fixed high-risk location such as a paint locker or a bunker station. It sits between the handheld extinguisher and a fixed system: faster to bring into action than rigging a fire hose from the main, with far more agent and throw range than anything one person can carry. Because of its size, positioning matters as much as capacity — a wheeled unit stowed where it cannot be manoeuvred to the hazard in time is no better than none at all.
Main components
- Cylinder — pressure vessel holding the extinguishing agent, dry powder, CO2 or foam depending on the hazard it protects
- Trolley and wheels — frame built to move the loaded unit over deck plating and coamings without tipping
- Hose and nozzle — longer hose than a handheld unit, reeled, with a control valve at the nozzle so discharge can be stopped and restarted
- Pressure gauge or indicator — shows charge state at a glance, critical given how rarely these units are actually discharged
- Propellant — either stored pressure or a separate CO2 cartridge, depending on agent type
Selection and sizing
- Agent type matched to the hazard class at the location it protects — dry powder for flammable liquid and electrical hazards, foam for flammable liquid spill fires, CO2 where a clean, non-conductive agent is needed
- Agent quantity against the fire risk assessment for that location, not a blanket figure for the whole ship
- Discharge time and throw range needed to keep the operator at a safe distance from the hazard it is meant to cover
- Trolley mobility over the actual deck surfaces and thresholds between the stowage position and the protected area
Regulations and class
SOLAS Chapter II-2 and the associated Fire Safety Systems Code set requirements for portable and wheeled fire-fighting appliances, including where wheeled extinguishers are mandated (engine rooms above a certain size, near bunker stations, in paint stores) and their minimum agent quantities. Class and flag state surveys check that units are in date, correctly charged, and stowed at their approved location rather than moved elsewhere for convenience.
Typical faults
| Fault | Cause | Consequence |
|---|---|---|
| Low or lost pressure charge | Slow leakage past valve seals over years without use | Unit fails to discharge or discharges weakly when actually needed |
| Caked dry powder agent | Moisture ingress into the cylinder over time | Powder fails to fluidise and discharge cleanly through the hose |
| Seized or damaged wheels | Corrosion or physical damage from cargo operations nearby | Unit cannot be moved quickly to the fire location |
| Unit stowed away from its designated position | Moved temporarily during maintenance work and not returned | Delay finding the unit, or the protected hazard left effectively uncovered |
What to look for in a supplier
- Agent and cylinder approval matching the flag state and class requirements for the specific hazard location
- A hose and nozzle assembly rated for the full charge pressure with a shut-off at the nozzle
- Servicing and refill support reachable from the ship's actual trading ports, since wheeled units need specialist recharge equipment
- Trolley construction suited to the deck conditions where the unit will actually be stowed and moved
Check the pressure gauge and inspect for caking on the routine rounds, not only at the annual service — a wheeled extinguisher that has sat untouched for years is exactly the one most likely to fail silently.
3 manufacturers · 6 models
Gloria
2
Gloria Wheeled DCP 50kg W50
50 kg DCP
· Fire Suppression / Detection
· Wheeled dry‑chemical fire extinguisher
Agent
DCP
Weight (kg)
50
Type
wheeled
Solas
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Loss of extinguishing medium, pressure or water supply reduces available firefighting capacity
- Valve, hose, nozzle, release or pump faults prevent correct discharge
- Corrosion, seal deterioration or mechanical damage causes leakage or unreliable operation
- Detection, alarm, fan-stop or shutdown interlock faults create an incomplete or unsafe release sequence
- Blocked nozzles, hoses or distribution piping reduce delivery to the fire area
Service: Inspect storage or pumps, valves, hoses, nozzles, piping, release controls, alarms and shutdown interfaces according to the system type. Verify accessibility, seals, markings and protected-space arrangements. Functional tests must follow the approved safety procedure without unintended discharge. Refer to manufacturer, class and statutory documentation for the exact figure for pressure, quantity and acceptance criteria.
Spare Parts: Carry approved valves, seals, hoses, nozzles, release components, pump service parts, alarms, fuses and manufacturer-supported extinguisher or system service items.
Strengths
- High extinguishing capacity (50 kg) suitable for large area fires
- Mobility on wheels allows quick positioning in confined or spread‑out spaces
- SOLAS compliant, meeting international safety standards
- Integrated discharge hose provides directed application without additional equipment
- Robust steel frame typical of German‑engineered marine safety gear
Weaknesses
- Heavy unit (50 kg) requires handling equipment for repositioning
- Wheel bearings prone to corrosion in salty environments, requiring regular inspection
- Dry powder can cake in high humidity, affecting flow rate
- Hose material may deteriorate over time and needs periodic replacement
- Limited effectiveness on Class D metal fires or deep‑seated fuel spills
Typical Vessels:
TankerBulk CarrierContainer ShipRo‑Ro VesselPassenger FerryOffshore Supply Vessel
Certifications:
SOLAS
Decision Guide: Choose if you need a high‑capacity, mobile extinguisher for engine rooms, machinery spaces or large cargo compartments where rapid repositioning is critical. Avoid if vessel space is limited, the operating environment is extremely humid (risk of powder caking), or the fire risk profile requires agents other than dry chemical (e.g., metal fires).
Use Cases: Portable and fixed firefighting on machinery, cargo, accommodation and deck areas.
Gloria Wheeled CO2 30kg K30
30 kg CO2
· Fire Suppression / Detection
· CO2 wheeled fire extinguisher
Agent
CO2
Weight (kg)
30
Type
wheeled
Solas
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Loss of extinguishing medium, pressure or water supply reduces available firefighting capacity
- Valve, hose, nozzle, release or pump faults prevent correct discharge
- Corrosion, seal deterioration or mechanical damage causes leakage or unreliable operation
- Detection, alarm, fan-stop or shutdown interlock faults create an incomplete or unsafe release sequence
- Blocked nozzles, hoses or distribution piping reduce delivery to the fire area
Service: Inspect storage or pumps, valves, hoses, nozzles, piping, release controls, alarms and shutdown interfaces according to the system type. Verify accessibility, seals, markings and protected-space arrangements. Functional tests must follow the approved safety procedure without unintended discharge. Refer to manufacturer, class and statutory documentation for the exact figure for pressure, quantity and acceptance criteria.
Spare Parts: Carry approved valves, seals, hoses, nozzles, release components, pump service parts, alarms, fuses and manufacturer-supported extinguisher or system service items.
Strengths
- Wheeled chassis allows one‑person transport to large engine‑room fires
- 30 kg CO₂ charge provides high extinguishing capacity for Class B electrical fires
- SOLAS‑approved and meets IMO requirements for marine fire protection
- Long hydrostatic test interval (10 years) reduces maintenance downtime
- Low residue discharge minimizes damage to equipment after use
Weaknesses
- Valve can freeze in very low ambient temperatures, limiting effectiveness
- Wheel components are prone to corrosion in salty marine environments if not regularly maintained
- Hose material may develop cracks over time, requiring periodic inspection
- CO₂ is ineffective on Class A (solid) fires, restricting use to specific fire classes
- Weight and size make it unsuitable for confined spaces where handheld units are needed
Typical Vessels:
TankerBulk carrierContainer shipOffshore supply vesselPassenger ferry
Certifications:
SOLAS
Decision Guide: Choose if you need a high‑capacity, easily moved CO₂ extinguisher for engine rooms or machinery spaces on vessels where SOLAS compliance is mandatory and long test intervals are valued. Avoid if the vessel operates in consistently low temperatures, has limited maintenance capability for wheel corrosion, or requires extinguishers effective against Class A fires.
Use Cases: Portable and fixed firefighting on machinery, cargo, accommodation and deck areas.
Kidde
2
Kidde Wheeled DCP 50kg
50 kg DCP
· Fire Suppression / Detection
· Dry chemical powder (DCP) wheeled extinguisher
Agent
DCP
Weight (kg)
50
Type
wheeled
Solas
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Loss of extinguishing medium, pressure or water supply reduces available firefighting capacity
- Valve, hose, nozzle, release or pump faults prevent correct discharge
- Corrosion, seal deterioration or mechanical damage causes leakage or unreliable operation
- Detection, alarm, fan-stop or shutdown interlock faults create an incomplete or unsafe release sequence
- Blocked nozzles, hoses or distribution piping reduce delivery to the fire area
Service: Inspect storage or pumps, valves, hoses, nozzles, piping, release controls, alarms and shutdown interfaces according to the system type. Verify accessibility, seals, markings and protected-space arrangements. Functional tests must follow the approved safety procedure without unintended discharge. Refer to manufacturer, class and statutory documentation for the exact figure for pressure, quantity and acceptance criteria.
Spare Parts: Carry approved valves, seals, hoses, nozzles, release components, pump service parts, alarms, fuses and manufacturer-supported extinguisher or system service items.
Strengths
- High extinguishing capacity (50 kg) suitable for large‑area fires
- Wheeled chassis enables one‑person maneuvering on deck and in confined engine spaces
- SOLAS‑approved, meeting international safety standards for marine vessels
- Long service interval (annual inspection plus 5‑year major overhaul)
- Robust steel construction with a dedicated discharge hose
Weaknesses
- Heavy overall mass despite wheels; may be difficult to lift onto small workboats or lifeboats
- Wheel and axle corrosion is a known failure mode in salty environments
- Powder can cake if stored in high humidity, reducing flow performance
- Hose material may deteriorate over time, requiring replacement
- Potential nitrogen propellant leaks if seals are not inspected regularly
Typical Vessels:
TankerBulk CarrierContainer ShipRo‑Ro VesselOffshore Supply VesselPassenger Ship (engine room area)
Certifications:
SOLAS
Decision Guide: Choose if you need a high‑capacity, mobile extinguisher for engine rooms or open decks on large vessels and can accommodate regular corrosion checks. Avoid if vessel weight limits are strict, space for wheeled units is limited, or the operating environment is extremely humid without adequate maintenance.
Use Cases: Portable and fixed firefighting on machinery, cargo, accommodation and deck areas.
Kidde Wheeled CO2 45kg
45 kg CO2
· Fire Suppression / Detection
· CO2 wheeled fire extinguisher
Agent
CO2
Weight (kg)
45
Type
wheeled
Solas
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Loss of extinguishing medium, pressure or water supply reduces available firefighting capacity
- Valve, hose, nozzle, release or pump faults prevent correct discharge
- Corrosion, seal deterioration or mechanical damage causes leakage or unreliable operation
- Detection, alarm, fan-stop or shutdown interlock faults create an incomplete or unsafe release sequence
- Blocked nozzles, hoses or distribution piping reduce delivery to the fire area
Service: Inspect storage or pumps, valves, hoses, nozzles, piping, release controls, alarms and shutdown interfaces according to the system type. Verify accessibility, seals, markings and protected-space arrangements. Functional tests must follow the approved safety procedure without unintended discharge. Refer to manufacturer, class and statutory documentation for the exact figure for pressure, quantity and acceptance criteria.
Spare Parts: Carry approved valves, seals, hoses, nozzles, release components, pump service parts, alarms, fuses and manufacturer-supported extinguisher or system service items.
Strengths
- High discharge capacity (45 kg) suitable for large engine‑room fires
- Wheeled chassis allows one‑person handling despite heavy weight
- Clean agent leaves no residue, protecting equipment and electronics
- SOLAS approved for machinery space protection on all vessel classes
- 10‑year hydrostatic test interval reduces maintenance frequency
Weaknesses
- CO2 is ineffective on Class A (solid) fires; may need supplemental extinguishers
- Risk of valve freeze in very low ambient temperatures
- Wheel axle and frame prone to corrosion in salty marine environments
- Hose can develop cracks after repeated pressure cycles
- Asphyxiation hazard requires trained personnel and proper ventilation
Typical Vessels:
Bulk CarrierContainer ShipTankerGeneral Cargo VesselOffshore Supply VesselPassenger Ferry
Certifications:
SOLAS
Decision Guide: Choose if you need a high‑capacity, mobile CO2 unit for engine‑room or other machinery spaces where rapid gas discharge and residue‑free suppression are critical. Avoid if the vessel operates in very cold climates (valve freeze risk) or if Class A fire protection is required without additional agents.
Use Cases: Portable and fixed firefighting on machinery, cargo, accommodation and deck areas.
Minimax Marine
2
Minimax Wheeled DCP 50kg
50 kg DCP
· Fire Suppression / Detection
· Dry chemical powder (DCP) wheeled extinguisher
Agent
DCP
Weight (kg)
50
Type
wheeled
Solas
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Loss of extinguishing medium, pressure or water supply reduces available firefighting capacity
- Valve, hose, nozzle, release or pump faults prevent correct discharge
- Corrosion, seal deterioration or mechanical damage causes leakage or unreliable operation
- Detection, alarm, fan-stop or shutdown interlock faults create an incomplete or unsafe release sequence
- Blocked nozzles, hoses or distribution piping reduce delivery to the fire area
Service: Inspect storage or pumps, valves, hoses, nozzles, piping, release controls, alarms and shutdown interfaces according to the system type. Verify accessibility, seals, markings and protected-space arrangements. Functional tests must follow the approved safety procedure without unintended discharge. Refer to manufacturer, class and statutory documentation for the exact figure for pressure, quantity and acceptance criteria.
Spare Parts: Carry approved valves, seals, hoses, nozzles, release components, pump service parts, alarms, fuses and manufacturer-supported extinguisher or system service items.
Strengths
- High extinguishing agent load (50 kg) enables long discharge time for large area fires
- Wheeled chassis allows one‑person maneuvering and placement in confined spaces
- SOLAS‑approved and meets EN 3‑7 standards, ensuring regulatory compliance
- German engineering provides robust construction and reliable valve operation
- Simple maintenance regime (annual inspection + 5‑year service) reduces downtime
Weaknesses
- Heavy and bulky compared with handheld extinguishers; requires dedicated storage space
- Powder residue creates extensive cleanup after discharge, unsuitable for sensitive equipment areas
- Wheel/axle corrosion can impair mobility if not regularly inspected
- Nitrogen pressure loss may render the unit inoperable between service intervals
- Limited effectiveness on Class D metal fires; not a substitute for specialized agents
Typical Vessels:
TankerBulk CarrierContainer ShipRo‑Ro VesselPassenger FerryOffshore Supply VesselCruise Ship
Certifications:
SOLASEN 3‑7
Decision Guide: Choose if you need a high‑capacity, mobile extinguisher for engine rooms, cargo holds or deck fire zones where rapid, sustained discharge is critical and space permits a wheeled unit. Avoid if vessel layout limits storage space, powder cleanup is unacceptable, or the primary fire risk calls for CO₂, foam or water mist systems.
Use Cases: Portable and fixed firefighting on machinery, cargo, accommodation and deck areas.
Minimax Wheeled CO2 45kg
45 kg CO2
· Fire Suppression / Detection
· Carbon dioxide wheeled extinguishing system
Agent
CO2
Weight (kg)
45
Type
wheeled
Solas
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Loss of extinguishing medium, pressure or water supply reduces available firefighting capacity
- Valve, hose, nozzle, release or pump faults prevent correct discharge
- Corrosion, seal deterioration or mechanical damage causes leakage or unreliable operation
- Detection, alarm, fan-stop or shutdown interlock faults create an incomplete or unsafe release sequence
- Blocked nozzles, hoses or distribution piping reduce delivery to the fire area
Service: Inspect storage or pumps, valves, hoses, nozzles, piping, release controls, alarms and shutdown interfaces according to the system type. Verify accessibility, seals, markings and protected-space arrangements. Functional tests must follow the approved safety procedure without unintended discharge. Refer to manufacturer, class and statutory documentation for the exact figure for pressure, quantity and acceptance criteria.
Spare Parts: Carry approved valves, seals, hoses, nozzles, release components, pump service parts, alarms, fuses and manufacturer-supported extinguisher or system service items.
Strengths
- High discharge capacity (45 kg CO₂) allows quick suppression of large Class B/C fires.
- Wheeled chassis makes the heavy unit easily maneuverable on deck or in confined machinery spaces.
- CO₂ leaves no residue, protecting sensitive electrical and electronic equipment.
- SOLAS‑approved and meets EN 3‑7 standards for marine CO₂ extinguishers.
- Long service interval – 10‑year hydrostatic test reduces maintenance downtime.
Weaknesses
- Ineffective on Class A (solid) fires unless the area is pre‑wet, limiting universal applicability.
- Heavy and bulky despite wheels; requires dedicated storage space and handling equipment.
- Discharge creates an asphyxiating atmosphere – must be used only in sealed compartments with proper evacuation procedures.
- Wheel bearing seizure has been reported as a recurring failure mode, requiring periodic inspection.
- Hose deterioration over time can reduce flow rate if not replaced according to schedule.
Typical Vessels:
TankerBulk CarrierContainer ShipCruise VesselOffshore Supply VesselLNG/LPG Carrier
Certifications:
SOLASEN 3‑7 (CO₂ fire extinguisher)DNV Class Approval
Decision Guide: Choose if you need a high‑capacity, low‑residue CO₂ system for engine rooms or other machinery spaces where electrical fires are the primary risk and you have space for a wheeled unit. Avoid if your vessel primarily requires Class A fire protection, has limited deck/storage area, or crew training on CO₂ hazards is insufficient.
Use Cases: Portable and fixed firefighting on machinery, cargo, accommodation and deck areas.