Fire Hose Basics
As the most utilized piece of fire equipment in the industry, fire hoses are designed in various types and sizes, each one for a specific and important purpose.
With all the jobs that they do, fire hoses have to be made with the highest standards for flexibility, performance, and durability. They must be able to withstand dangerous conditions, and be flexible enough to maneuver through tough situations. Their smooth interior lining allows water to be transferred with minimum loss of pressure.
Types of Fire Hoses
There are four main categories of fire hoses that are used in fire fighting operations: the intake hose, attack hose, supply line, and extinguisher. As far as the basics go, here's what you should know about the different types of fire hoses:
1. Intake Hose
The intake hose is designed to connect the fire department's pumper to a portable pump or other water source. There are two types of intake hoses: the hard suction hose, and the soft sleeve hose. The hard suction hose works to draft water from below the pump, which prevents collapsing under vacuum conditions. The soft sleeve hose transfers water between the fire engine and the water source; whether it be a hydrant, tanker, another engine, or a body of water.
2. Attack Hose
When it comes to combating fires and having direct control over extinguishing them, attack hoses come into play. The 1" Booster Line is the most lightweight attack hose and can be handled by 1 firefighter. It is usually used for rubbish, brush, and wash-downs. The 1 3/4" line is typically used for residential and vehicle fires, and needs 2-3 fire fighters to operate it. Lastly, the 2 1/2" line, which operates at 200-300gpm, is the most powerful attack hose that is used to combat commercial building and exterior fires. This hose takes 3-4 firefighters to operate, and is especially difficult to use in tight spaces.
3. Supply Line
A supply line is used to supply a fire engine with water from another source. Supply lines are needed when the fire requires more water than the booster tank can hold, and the booster tank needs to be replenished from a continuous water supply. Supply lines move large volumes of water at a low pressure, and they are made to be 3"-6" in diameter.
4. Extinguisher Line
The extinguisher line is used to transport extinguishing agents (liquid, gas, or powder) from the container where they are held to the nozzle where they are released. They can be used on large extinguisher units that are stationary, wheeled, or mounted on a vehicle. There are two different types of extinguisher lines: conventional and high-pressure. Conventional extinguisher lines can withstand pressures up to 400psi, while high-pressure lines can withstand up to 1250psi.
Feld Fire Sells Fire Hoses & More!
For more information about fire hoses, be sure to call Feld Fire at 1 (800) 568 2403. We sell several different types of fire hoses, as well as hose storage units, reels, accessories, and adapters. Our company is very knowledgeable about fire equipment, and we would be glad to help you in any way we can.