PUMPING TO THE DECK GUN
Defensive or Offensive... or Both?
The Deck Gun is more than a defensive tool in our toolbox. Yes, it is often utilized in defensive operations, but it can also be used in an offensive strategy.
As a Defensive tool, the Deck Gun can push 1250 GPM via the TFT Master Stream 1250 Automatic Nozzle. Utilizing the 2" from our stacked tip smooth bore, you can easily push 1000 gallons with significantly less pressure at the tip.
Further, the Deck Gun is a great resource for protecting exposures. Utilizing the TFT Automatic referenced above, the fog option not only cools the structure but also helps protect the integrity of the structure itself (vs. the smooth bore).
As an offensive weapon, the Deck Gun is your "one" in the "one-two-punch" of a Transitional Attack. This allows us to slow the rate of heat/fire expansion while your hand lines are positioned for an aggressive push.
Speaking of Nozzles:
When it comes to the Deck Gun, we (DFD) have two nozzle options:
TFT Automatic Fog Nozzle
100 psi Operating Pressure
150-1,250 GPM Flow Range
Stacked Tip Smooth Bore
Most Engines will have four diameters to choose from within the stacked tip. I (Greg) personally feel two are really all you need:
1 3/8" Tip @ 80 psi = ~500 GPM
2" Tip @ 80 psi = ~1,000 GPM
Two Pipes, One Nozzle
If you were to lower the panel and look at the maze of piping behind your gauges, you would quickly notice that the electronic option to charge your Deck Gun and the lever option are not the same pipe. In fact, there is a fundamental lesson to be learned from this:
The lever has a 2 1/2 pipe coming off the discharge manifold.
The electronic option has a 4" pipe coming off the discharge manifold.
Why? Great question! It is because one is plumbed into the "foam branch" of your manifold, while the other is not. You will only be able to get foam from the 2 1/2" pipe controlled by the lever… and NOT the electronic option. Both end up at the same nozzle but produce different results.
It must be pointed out that the 4" supply pipe (controlled by the electronic gauge) is far better suited at pushing that higher GPM (over 600). The trade-off is you won't be able to push foam through that line.
🚨 DISCLAIMER: Dallas Fire-Rescue does not endorse or promote these videos. The information herein is my best understanding of the material covered and the subsequent views expressed are my own and not necessarily those DFR. These videos are strictly for educational purposes only. It is critical that you follow your department's MOP/SOP, and talk with your Station Officer (and crew) before implementing anything you see here on The Roll Steady.
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PUMP SCHOOL W/ RICK BREWER
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