What are the Fire hydrant types?

Fire hydrant types systems are one of the oldest fire-fighting solutions. However, they are still the most effective and widespread. A well-designed and properly planned fire hydrant system is the backbone of the entire fire fighting system. It consists of heavy underground and aboveground pipes with accessories. External valves and emergency exit valves are placed in strategic locations. These systems are pipes that allow water to flow from the main water network under the control of a valve for extinguishing fires. It is designed to fight large fires of all types. It is designed to operate even if part of the damaged building collapses.

System Components:

• Firefighting pumps and accessories
• Pipes
• Panels
• Downing valves
• Hoses
• Connections
• Hose reels
• Pipes and nozzles
• Fire brigade connections
• Wires and gauges
• Maintenance valves
• Operating information

A fire hydrant system installation consists of a network of pipes directly connected to the main water supply to provide water to all system outlets. It aims to provide water to fire brigades to fight the fire. Water is pumped to the fire engine, which in turn sprays water on the fire. In the event of a lack of reliable or sufficient water supply, pumps must be provided to increase the water pressure in the lines.

The fire pump station consists of an electrically operated pump and a diesel-powered standby pump. The pumps are automatically operated by pressure switches based on the network pressure in the fire extinguishing system. The pump outputs are connected to a common connection line.

The fire extinguishing line is always pressurized with water. In the event of a slight decrease in pressure within the system, if the pressure reaches a predetermined value, the pump will automatically operate to compensate for this difference. If one or more of the system valves are opened to combat the fire, the main pump will not be able to compensate for the loss of water, which will lead to a further decrease in pressure. When the falling pressure reaches the predetermined value of the main pump, the main pump will start automatically. In the event of a power failure, the diesel-powered standby pump will enter service.

The firefighter connects the fire hose to the valve and opens it to obtain water from the main water network. Most fire sprinkler systems are designed to allow a flow of at least 250 gallons (950 liters) of water per minute.

Fire hydrants should be installed in the following ways:

• Buildings.
• Parking lots.
• Roadsides.
• Mines.
• Factory.
• And many other places.

What are the Fire Hydrants Types systems?

There are two types of these systems: dry barrel fire sprinkler systems and wet barrel fire sprinkler systems. A wet barrel fire sprinkler system has a constant supply of water, while a dry barrel fire sprinkler system requires a valve to be opened to allow water to flow.

This system is designed to provide quick access to water in the event of a fire. Fire sprinkler systems are installed as stand-alone systems that operate like building systems, providing fire protection that firefighters can immediately access.

Wet barrel fire hydrant systems

There are different areas around the world with varying climates; some are very cold, some are mild, and some are very hot. In cold areas, water in pipes can freeze during the winter. Wet barrel hydrants are not suitable for cold areas, where they are at risk of freezing. These systems are suitable for areas where freezing is not a problem. If properly maintained, these hydrants can remain effective for over 100 years.

Dry barrel fire extinguishing valve systems

In these hydrants, water is stored in an underground tank. When needed, firefighters open the valve to tap into the water source. Since the ground temperature is higher than the earth’s surface, there is no risk of the stored underground water freezing.

When using these hydrants, firefighters open the valve at the top of the hydrant and connect the hoses. As a result, the valve for draining the water inside the hydrant opens, allowing water to flow through the pipes to extinguish the fire. There are three mechanisms used in dry barrel hydrants:

• Sliding gate.
• Pressure.
• Swing.

Difference between wet barrel and dry barrel fire extinguishing valve systems

Characteristics of the wet barrel system:

• Suitable for areas where freezing is not a risk.
• Water is above ground.
• Cheaper and easier to build.
• Easy to access and maintain.

Dry barrel system characteristics:

• Suitable for areas that are prone to freezing.
• Water is below ground to avoid freezing.
• More expensive and complex to install.
• Difficult to maintain.

Fire hydrant color coding

Fire hydrants are colored to be visible to firefighters. Some have specific meanings. Bright red or green indicate that they are available to firefighters. Sometimes, the colors indicate the amount of water available for use.

How a Fire Hydrant System Works

These systems have multiple valves and connection points. In an emergency, firefighters arrive quickly, remove the nozzles, and connect hoses to get water. Highly pressurized water is used to extinguish fires.