Types of Fire Hose
There are four main categories of fire hoses used in fire fighting operations: inlet hose, assault hose, supply line and fire fighting. As far as the basics go, here's what you should know about the different types of fire hoses:
Retrieval Hose
The inlet hose is designed to connect a fire fighting pumper to a portable pump or other water source. There are two types of intake hose: hard suction hose, and soft sleeve hose. The hard suction hose serves to drain water from under the pump, which prevents collapse in a vacuum. Soft sleeve hose transfers water between the fire extinguisher and the water source; whether it is a hydrant, tanker, other engine, or a body of water.
2. Hose Attack
When it comes to putting out fires and having direct control over how to put them out, the attack hose comes into play. The 1 "Reinforcement line is the lightest attack hose and can be handled by 1 firefighter. Typically used for garbage, brush, and washing. The 1 3/4" line is typically used for residential and vehicle fires, and requires 2-3 firefighters to operate it. Lastly, the 2 1/2 "line, operating at 200-300gpm, is the most powerful attack hose used to combat commercial and exterior building fires. It requires 3-4 firefighters to operate, and is extremely difficult to use in tight spaces. .
3. Supply Line
The supply line is used to supply water from other sources to the fire department. A supply line is needed when a fire requires more water than the booster tank can hold, and the booster tank needs to be refilled from a continuous supply of water. The supply line transfers large volumes of water at low pressure, and is made 3 "-6" in diameter.
4. Fire Extinguisher
Fire lines are used to transport extinguishing materials (liquid, gas, or powder) from the container they are held in to the nozzle where they are released. They can be used on large, stationary, wheeled, or vehicle-mounted large extinguishing units. There are two types of fire lines: conventional and high pressure. Conventional fire lines can withstand pressures up to 400psi, while high pressure lines can withstand up to 1250psi.
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