What type of nozzle delivers a protective sheet of water on an exposure?

The water curtain nozzle is specifically designed to create a protective sheet of water that can shield an exposure from heat and flames during a firefighting operation. This type of nozzle produces a continuous, thin curtain of water that can effectively block radiant heat, thereby helping to control and protect areas adjacent to a fire. The nozzle’s ability to establish a barrier means it can be vital for safeguarding structures or other resources at risk from nearby fire.

In comparison, other nozzles may not provide the same level of protection. For example, wide spray nozzles create a broader, less concentrated spray pattern that can soak an area but may not effectively shield against intense heat. Fine mist nozzles emit small droplets aimed at cooling hot surfaces but lack the mass flow necessary to create a protective curtain. Splash nozzles generally refer to designs that may not focus on producing a directed protective flow, making them less effective for shielding exposures from heat.