KNOW YOUR HOSE
If we are going to maximize the equipment we have... we have to understand its design and limits.
If we are going to function smoothly, with efficiency on the fire ground... we have to know our equipment.
If we are going to do our part to ensure every member goes home... we have to know our equipment.
Hose:
In Dallas, we carry four sizes of hose:
1 3/4" (with 1 1/2" threads)
2 1/2"
3" (with 2 1/2" threads)
5" (with 4" threads on the Stortz Adapter)
Of these different diameters, we carry a couple of different brands, ultimately affecting QUALITY and thus, the hose's performance. Here is what you need to know:
Key ECO 10 & National brand hose is some of the cheapest quality hose you can purchase. It is marketed as "lightweight" hose... which translates into two key things for us. 1) The inner liner (rubber) "swells," which increases our hose diameter closer to 1.88" vs. the marketed 1.75". This increases weight but reduces theoretical friction loss.
Key TRU ID brand hose is some of the highest quality hose you can purchase. It is called TRU ID because the Internal Diameter of the hose does not swell when charged. This has two effects. 1) higher theoretical friction loss and 2) lower weight when charged compared to the ECO-10. It MUST also be noted that TRU ID is far more kink-resistant due to its build quality than ECO 10.
Understanding Friction Loss
Having a basic understanding of friction loss is essential. In this video, we outline the basics that you need to know.
KEY ECO-10/ NATIONAL 8D Hose
At the end of the day, what you NEED TO KNOW is TWO friction loss numbers for each hose you carry ... and they are based on the volume (GPM) you are flowing PER 100' (note this not per section):
1 3/4"
@ 150 GPM = 35
@ 250 GPM = 100
2 1/2"
@ 300 GPM = 18
@ 600 GPM = 50
I (Greg) recommend looking exactly at what nozzles and hose setups we utilize in DFD:
@ 225 GPM = 10 (this is the flow and FL when utilizing our Super Booster with 2 1/2" reduced to 1 3/4".
@ 325 GPM = 20 (this is the flow and FL when utilizing a 1 1/4" smooth bore tip)
3"
@ 300 GPM = 10 (rounded up from the 6 psi that rick mentions in the video)
@500 GPM = 20
I (Greg) include the @ 500 number because this is what I target for our Blitz Fire.
@ 600 gpm = 30
5"
@ 1000 gpm = 5
@1500 gpm = 15
KEY TRU-ID Hose
1 3/4"
@ 160 GPM = 20
@ 185 GPM = 21
2 1/2"
@ 265 GPM = 7.5
@ 500 GPM = 25 (blitz fire operations
3" - We are still using National 8D or ECO-10 for our 3”, thus use the numbers above.
5" - We are still using Key 5” Supply Hose, thus use the numbers above.
🚨 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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