General
Q. How do I request free foam, sprinkler, dry chemical, or antifreeze kits?
A. Click here to order kits or go to the Order Kits button in the top navigational menu. You can also call 800-632-2304 or email lab@dyneusa.com.
Q. How much does testing cost?
A. Contact Dyne at 800-632-2304 or lab@dyneusa.com for current pricing.
Q. Do I have to pay for the testing kits?
A. Our standard foam, sprinkler, dry chemical, or antifreeze solution testing kits are free. We even pay shipping to and from via UPS Ground or US mail within the contiguous United States (limited free shipping to Alaska, Hawaii, and Canada, inquire for details).
Q. How do I send the kit back?
A. We include a UPS return label or you can send our kit box back U.S. Mail. We pay for ground shipping within the contiguous United States.
Q. How long does it take to receive my test results? Is there an expedited processing available?
A. We have a guaranteed five business day turnaround time. We also offer one business day rush processing service for an additional charge, please call ahead for this service. IMO samples rush service is 2-business days. Jobs over forty samples may require additional testing time.
Q. Do you have our previous test results on file?
A. We maintain records of all foam testing at Dyne. If you would like 24/7 access to all of your test results online, fill out the web access form.
Q. Can I receive my results via email? Mail?
A. We offer test reports via email or mail. When you fill out the return form, be sure to mark how the results should be sent to you. If you choose email, a PDF of the report will be sent. If you choose mail, tags for any samples that pass will be sent (please note there is only 1 tag per job for sprinklers.)
Q. What are Dyne’s hours of operation?
A. Monday-Thursday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm CST. Friday we are open 8:00 am – 3:00 pm CST.
Q. What types of payment are accepted for testing?
A. We take MasterCard, Visa, and American Express. If you would like to be billed, we do offer 30-day net terms. We suggest you submit a purchase order to be referenced on your invoice.
Q. How does my company get setup in order to start testing with Dyne Fire Protection Labs?
A. We have a simple new customer sign up process. Contact us at 1-800-632-2304 or via email at lab@dyneusa.com or start a chat during business hours for information on how we can help you get started. Click this new customer form link to complete the form we will need.
Q. What do we receive with our test reports?
A. You will receive a test report via email. By request, we also send laminated tank tags with all mailed copies of reports for passing samples (please note there is one tag per sprinkler job). Your reports are also available online, simply fill out a web access waiver form and we will get you set up to view all of your reports online.
Foam
Q. How many bottles are in each NFPA foam sample kit?
A. We offer a 4-bottle kit as well as a 2-bottle kit for NFPA testing. Please order the kit that best suits your needs to save on shipping costs.
Q. Why would the foam fail?
A. There are various reasons why foam may fail. See the article Why Fire-Fighting Foam Fails for details or call 1-800-632-2304 to speak to one of our analysts.
Q. How do I take a sample?
A. Proper sampling of foam is very important, see the article Tips on Proper Sampling for more information. We also have a video on how to prepare your samples to send to us for testing.
Q. What is Proportioning Testing?
A. Verifying that a firefighting foam system accurately proportions foam and water is critical to the system’s effectiveness in the event of a fire. Our Proportioning Testing article explains why you should consider proportioning testing. A proportioning sample requires a sample of concentrate as well as the proportioned sample. You may send sample of system water.
Q. How often are we required to test our foam?
A. NFPA 11 2021 Edition Section 13.2.6.1 - 13.2.6.2 states At least annually an inspection shall be made of foam concentrates and their tanks or storage for evidence of excessive sludging or deterioration. Samples of concentrates shall be sent to the manufacturer or qualified laboratory for quality condition testing. For more NFPA information, visit nfpa.org.
Q. How much sample (ml or ounces) is required for testing?
A. We require at least 8 ounces or 250 ml for NFPA testing. For IMO/USCG testing, we offer 500 ml kits (see IMO/USCG below).
Q. Should I also test the bladder water?
A. The National Fire Protection Association Standard 25, Inspection, Testing and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems recommends foam bladder tanks systems be inspected at least annually. Click on the following link to read more about Bladder Water Testing.
Q. Should I take a top and a bottom sample?
A. If the sample being taken is a foam concentrate sample, keep in mind that these tanks contain a large volume of foam that may not be uniform throughout. The tank should be sampled from two different areas, the top and the bottom for example, to help ensure that the foam is acceptable throughout. Click on the following link to read Tips on Proper Sampling.
Q. What type of tests are performed on a standard foam concentrate?
A. Go to the Foam Testing Explanation article for information on performance and physical tests performed on foam at Dyne.
Q. What is the best way to package and return the full sample bottles in the kit box?
A. View the video: Preparing Your Foam Samples for Dyne. Please fill the sample bottles to the fill line. Be sure to tighten the caps securely as they can loosen in transit. Tape the caps shut (electrical tape works great). Place the full bottles in the plastic bag and seal the bag. Make sure to include the return form outside of the plastic bag and remember to include a PO or credit card (do not send a check). If you tape the outside of the box shut, that helps too.
Remember to return the kits using the enclosed UPS return label or via the U.S. postal service. If you use the UPS label, be sure to keep the tracking number in order to be able to follow the package to Dyne. UPS Ground generally takes 3-5 days within the U.S.
Q. What do I do if my foam sample fails? Can I talk to someone at Dyne?
A. Call Dyne at 800-632-2304 to discuss your test results with an analyst. We also have a video and published an article on Why Firefighting Foam Fails.
Q. I have some bottles, what can I fill out and return with my samples?
A. Click here to download the foam sample return form.
Q. Who can I contact for maintenance on the tank or new foam?
A. View our list of foam manufacturers.
Q. What temperature range should the foam be stored?
A. For the purposes of test uniformity, a liquid concentrate is to be categorized according to the minimum storage temperature at which it may be inducted or proportioned in acceptable concentrations. Minimum storage temperatures are to be minus 20°F (minus 28.9°C), 0°F (minus 17.8°C), 20°F (minus 6.7°C), or 35°F (1.7°C).
UL Statement: Liquid concentrates may be stored in the original shipping containers or in pressure-proportioning tanks. Liquid concentrates are not intended to be stored at temperatures lower than those for which they have been certified or above 120°F. They should be stored in locations free of excessive moisture to avoid external corrosion of containers and other equipment. For more specific information, reference the foam manufacturer.
Q. I see IMO/USCG on the return form. What is IMO/USCG testing?
A. Filling out the paperwork for a sample of firefighting foam to send into Dyne for testing can be confusing if you are unfamiliar with some of the language or testing methods used in the firefighting foam business. IMO and NFPA have similar standards for firefighting foam testing except IMO stipulates a slightly more rigorous analysis. IMO stands for International Maritime Organization and USCG is the United States Coast Guard. Factors to consider when making this decision are detailed in the article NFPA or IMO Foam Testing – Which is Right for You.
Q. How many bottles are in each IMO/USCG foam sample kit?
A. We offer a 1-500 ml bottle kit as well as a 2-500 ml bottle kit for IMO/USCG testing. Please order the kit that best suits your needs to save on shipping costs.
Fire Sprinkler Testing
Q. What type of sprinklers does Dyne test?
A. We test all types of sprinklers including standard, dry, and quick-response.
Q: How do I order the free standard sprinkler sample kits?
A: All kits can be ordered online, over the phone at 800-632-2304, by email, or by using the chat window.
Q: What do the free standard sprinkler kits contain?
A: Foam packing material, sprinkler return form*, and a return UPS label (contiguous U.S. customers only). *The online return form preferred and available by going to Services>Fire Sprinkler Testing>Sprinkler Return form.
Q. Do dry sprinklers need to be tested?
A. Yes dry sprinklers are also required to be tested. In fact, dry sprinklers have been shown to be more likely to fail sooner in the field and as a result, they must be either replaced or tested every 20 years (previous versions 15 years) and every 10 years after that.
Q. What if my sprinklers do not fit in the Dyne sprinkler kit box?
A. The Dyne sprinkler kit sample box is designed to accommodate only standard sized sprinklers. Some sprinklers, including dry sprinklers, will not fit in our standard kit. We do offer dry sprinkler kits. A small dry kit fits up to 20" and the large fits up to 42". Click the chat window or contact us at lab@dyneusa.com or 800-632-2304 for current pricing. You may also pack dry sprinklers in your own box.
Q: How do I order/purchase the dry sprinkler kits?
A: Two sizes are available: Small fits up to 20" and large up to 42". Each kit fits one sprinkler with piping attached. If you order online via the order kits button, we will contact you for payment. We also take orders via phone at 800-632-2304 or email.
Q: How do I send standard sprinklers if I do not have a Dyne sample kit?
A: You are not required to use a Dyne sample kit to submit sprinklers. If you have your own boxes, you can access the online sprinkler return form under the Services tab of the website. Go To Services>Fire Sprinkler Testing> Sprinkler Return Form. We do provide labeling bands in our kits, but we also have a downloadable PDF that you can use to make tags under Resources>Dyne PDF Documents. We recommend the sprinklers are labeled to match the sprinkler return form.
Q: Do I have to order the Dyne dry sprinkler sample kits if I have dry pendants to send, or can I use my own boxes?
A: You are not required to purchase the dry sprinkler kits. We offer them as a convenient way for you to pack up dry sprinklers. Dry kits do not include shipping back to Dyne.
Q: How should I mark or label each sprinkler?
A: We provide sprinkler tags in our kits, but we also have a downloadable PDF under Resources>Dyne PDF Documents that you can use to make tags. We recommend the sprinklers are labeled to match the sprinkler return form (ie #1 office, #2 garage, #3 warehouse, #4 lab).
Q: How much does testing cost?
A: Contact us at 800-632-2304 or lab@dyneusa.com for current pricing.
Q: Do you send the sprinklers back to me after testing?
A: The test is destructive, the sprinklers are not sent back after testing.
Q: Do you take pictures of the sprinklers? How do I access the pictures of the sprinklers?
A: We take a picture of the top, bottom, and both sides of the sprinkler before testing. We also take a picture of the waterway post testing. There is a link in the results email to view the sprinkler pictures that is active for 90-days.
Q: What will my report show following testing?
A: We have a sample test report on our website as well as a testing explanation.
Q: How long does it take to receive my test results? Is there expedited or rush service?
A: We have a 5-business day turn-around time. We also offer 1-business day rush processing service for an additional charge, please call ahead for this service.
Q: Can I access my reports online?
A: Yes, you will need to register online by clicking on the Log In button and fill out and submit a Web Access Waiver form. Once the form is completed, we will link your results with your registration and send you instructions on how to access your reports.
Q: Will I receive anything to hang on the system?
A: We offer Dyne Sprinkler Test Tags for each job (not each sprinkler). Be sure to mark on your sprinkler return form that you would like to receive one following testing (for passing results only) by checking the Mail box under the "Send Results Via" section.
Q: How many sprinklers must be removed from a system for testing?
A: NFPA 25 2023 Edition states "A representative sample of sprinklers for testing in accordance with 5.3.1.1 shall consist of either a minimum of four sprinklers or 1 percent of the number of sprinklers per sample area, whichever is greater.
Q: Should I put all of the sprinklers in one job if they are from different systems or environments?
A: If even one sprinkler fails in a job, the report summary lists the entire group as a fail. You may want to choose to separate your jobs by environment for us by using a separate sprinkler return form (either online or paper) for each environment. Be sure to have a unique job name (or add additional information such as Building A -Riser 1, Building A -Riser 2, etc). For more examples, visit www.dyneusa.com/fire-sprinkler-testing.
Q: Can sprinklers that have been painted be tested?
A: NFPA 25 allows only factory painted sprinklers, so any sprinklers that have been painted must be replaced.
Q: Do you have a chart of what & when to test sprinklers?
A: On our website go to Services>Fire Sprinkler Testing and click on What & When to Test.
Q: Do you have any articles or videos on sprinkler testing?
A: Yes, we have both articles and videos on various sprinkler topics. Click the links to for topics like loading, corrosion, paint or to view a video of our testing in action.
Q: What Standards do you using for testing sprinklers?
A: Procedure based on FM, ISO, and UL oven thermal sensitivity tests. Testing fulfills NFPA 25 2023 Edition 5.3.1.1.
Q. Have sprinklers ever been recalled?
A. The largest recall occurred back in 2001 and it involved a large number of sprinklers utilizing o-ring seals. Many of the manufacturers of these recalled sprinklers offered a free replacement but only for a specific time period which has since expired. If a recalled sprinkler is sent to Dyne for testing, the sprinkler will be put through the testing process and will receive a response time result.
It is the responsibility of the property owner or designated representative to correct deficiencies or impairments according to NFPA 25 4.1.5. This includes identifying and replacing or remedying any recalled products. Dyne Fire Protection Labs does not identify recalled products or ensure required action is taken.
Antifreeze
Q. I have a foam testing kit, can I use the same bottles for antifreeze testing?
A. Yes, Dyne sample bottles are used for both foam and antifreeze testing. We have a separate paper or fillable form for each. The foam form is in the kit box and the antifreeze form can be found online.
Q. Should I test my Antifreeze before winter?
A. Yes, If a premix antifreeze solution is being used, it must be tested annually, before the onset of freezing weather. Read the article Antifreeze Testing Before Winter for more information.
Dry Chemical
Q: How do I order the free dry chemical sample kits?
A: Kits can be ordered through our website, over the phone at 800-632-2304, by email lab@dyneusa.com, or by using the chat window.
Q: How do I send dry chemical samples if I do not have a Dyne sample kit?
A: You are not required to use a Dyne sample kit to submit samples, but we do recommend our moisture-proof containers. If you have your own boxes, you can access the return form under the Resources tab of the website. Go to Resources>Dyne PDF Documents to download our forms. We recommend the samples are labeled to match the return form.
Q: What is included in the free dry chemical sample kit?
A: A 60 mL moisture-proof sample container, foam packing material, a sample return form, and a return UPS label (contiguous U.S. only).
Q: How many bottles are in each kit? What type of kits are available?
A: Click on Order Kits to see a description and picture our kit. We offer one type of dry chemical kit which includes 1- 60 mL moisture-proof sample container.
Q: How should I mark on label each sample?
A: The sample containers provided in our kits have a place on the label to indicate the date the sample was taken and the job name.
Q: How do I send the kit to Dyne for testing?
A: Our dry chemical kits have a preprinted USPS return stamp on them and also include a return UPS label (contiguous U.S. only). The kits need to be dropped off at either a post office or UPS location, unless you have a daily pickup.
Q: What types of payment are accepted for testing?
A: We take MasterCard, Visa, and American Express. In order to be setup to use purchase orders for billing, please contact us.
Q: How much does dry chemical testing cost?
A: Contact us at 800-632-2304 or lab@dyneusa.com for current pricing.
Q: How long does it take to receive my test results? Is there an expedited or rush service?
A: We have a 5-business day turn-around time. If you need to utilize our rush 1-business day testing, please contact us for pricing.
Q: What will my report show following testing?
A: We have a sample test report on our website as well as a testing explanation.
Q: Can I access my reports online? Do you have our previous test results on file?
A: Yes, you will need to register online by clicking on the Log In button and fill out a Web Access Waiver form. Once the form is completed, we will link your results with your registration and send you instructions on how to access your reports.
Q: How often should I test my dry chemicals?
A: NFPA 10 Portable Fire Extinguishers 2022 Ed. 7.8.3.4.2 requires that dry chemical be thoroughly checked before it can be re-used, This includes checking for proper type and contamination.
NFPA 17 for Dry Chemical Extinguishing Systems 2021 Ed. 11.3.1 requires examination of dry chemical at least twice a year and after any system activation for a non-pressurized system. Section 11.3.1.2 requires examination of dry chemical in pressurized systems to be done at least every six years.
IMO 1432 31/5/2012 requires that for fixed dry chemical systems, a dry chemical sample is tested for moisture content every two years.
Q: How much sample (ml or ounces) is required for testing?
A: Our dry chemical kit contains a 60 ml moisture-proof sample container. Please make sure your sample fills the container to ensure testing can be completed properly. If you are not using a Dyne kit, please send a sample that is equal to or greater than 60 ml.
Q: What type of dry chemical does Dyne test?
A: We test all types of dry chemical (ABC, BC/Regular, Purple K, etc.)