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Installation, Testing, and Maintenance of Fire Hydrants: Field

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860 views85 pages

Installation, Testing, and Maintenance of Fire Hydrants: Field

Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Installation, Field Testing, and

Maintenance of Fire Hydrants

MANUAL OF WATER SUPPLY PRACTICES-M17, Fourth Edition

AWWA MANUAL M I 7

Fourth Edition

American Water Works


Association

Science and Technology


AWWA unites the entire water community by developing and distributing authoritative scientific and technological
knowledge. Through its members, AWWA develops industry standards for products and processes that advance public
health and safety. AWWA also provides quality improvement programs for water and wastewater utilities.

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
MANUAL OF WATER SUPPLY PRACTICES-M17, Fourth Edition
Installation, Field Testing, a n d M a i n t e n a n c e of Fire Hydrants

Copyright 0 1970, 1980, 1989, 2006 American Water Works Association

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any
means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording, or any information or retrieval system,
except in the form of brief excerpts or quotations for review purposes, without the written permission
of the publisher.

Disclaimer
The authors, contributors, editors, and publisher do not assume responsibility for the validity of the
content or any consequences of their use. In no event will AWWA be liable for direct, indirect, special,
incidental, or consequential damages arising out of the use of information presented in this book. In
particular, AWWA will not be responsible for any costs, including, but not limited to, those incurred a s
a result of lost revenue. In no event shall AWWA's liability exceed the amount paid for the purchase of
this book.

Project Managermechnical Editor: Melissa Christensen


Production: Claro Systems
Manuals Coordinator: Beth Behner

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data

Installation, field testing, and maintenance of fire hydrants.-- 4th ed.


p. cm. -- (AWWA manual ; M17)
"Prepared by the AWWA Standards Committee on Fire Hydrants''--Foreword.
Includes bibliographical references and index.
ISBN 1-58321-414-3
1. Hydrants. I. AWWA Standards Committee on Fire Hydrants. 11. Series.

TD491 .A49 no. M17 2006


[TH93651
628.1 s--dc22
[628.9'2521
2005058191

Printed in the United States of America


American Water Works Association
6666 West Quincy Avenue
Denver. CO 80235

ISBN 1-58321-414-3 Printed on recycled paper

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
Figures

1 Figure 1-1 Fire-plug arrangement with canvas cistern, 3


1 Figure 1-2 Ball hydrant, patented about 1849,3
1 Figure 1-3 Standpipe inserted directly into main socket, 3
1 Figure 1-4 Sluice-valve-type hydrant with two outlets, 3
2-1 Compression-type hydrant, opens against pressure, 6

2-2 Compression-type hydrant, opens with pressure, 7

2-3 Toggle hydrant, 8

2-4 Slide-gate hydrant, 9

2-5A Composite dry-barrel hydrant-upper barrel: compression packing gland type,


opens against pressure, 12
2 - 5 ~ Composite dry-barrel hydrant-upper barrel; compression O-ring seal type,
opens with pressure, 13
3-1 Composite wet-barrel hydrants, 19

4-1 Typical dry-barrel hydrant, 23

4-2 Typical wet-barrel hydrant installation, 24

4-3 Examples of hydrant restraints, 25

5-1 Master record, 36

5-2 Hydrant maintenance report, 37

5-3 Hydrant inspection report, 38

5-4 Flow test report, 39

5-5 Hydrant test, 40

6- 1 Pitot tube in position for flow reading, 42

6-2 Suggested flow-test locations, 43

6-3 Outlet nozzle coefficients, 44

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
Tables

4-1 Color scheme to indicate flow capacity, 27

6-1 Discharge for circular outlets, 2G-in. through 2l1/16-in.with outlet-nozzle


coefficient 0.90, 47

6-2 Discharge for circular outlets, 4g-in. through 411/6-in. with outlet-nozzle
coefficient 0.90,49

6-3 Equation and table for computing fire flow test results, 52

6-4 Table for pumper outlet coefficients, 53

vii
Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
Contents

Figures, v
Tables, vii
Foreword, ix

Acknowledgments, xi
Chapter 1 A Brief History of Fire Hydrants ... . .............. 1
Origins, 1
Iron Pipe and Permanent Access Points, 2
Development of Dry-Barrel Hydrants, 2
Recent Developments, 4

Chapter 2 Dry-Barrel Hydrants: Definitions and Preferred


Nomenclature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Types of Dry-Barrel Hydrants, 5
Special Hydrants, 7
Construction Terms for Dry-Barrel Hydrants, 10
Installation Terms for Dry-Barrel Hydrants, 10
Preferred Nomenclature for Dry-Barrel Hydrant Components, 11
Auxiliary Components for Dry-Barrel Hydrants, 16
Miscellaneous and Obsolete Hydrant Terms, 16

Chapter 3 Wet-Barrel Hydrants: Definitions and Preferred


Nomenclature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Wet-Barrel Hydrants, 17
Construction Terms for Wet-Barrel Hydrants, 17
Installation Terms for Wet-Barrel Hydrants, 18
Preferred Nomenclature for Wet-Barrel Hydrant Components, 18
Miscellaneous and Obsolete Hydrant Terms, 20

Chapter 4 Inspection, Installation, Testing, and Placing the Hydrant


in Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Inspection Prior to Installation, 21
Installation, 22
Testing, 27
Placing the Hydrant in Service, 28

Chapter 5 Maintenance . . . . . . . , . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Uses of Hydrants, 29
Special-Use Concerns, 29
Inspection, 30
Lubrication, 33
Repairs, 33
Record Keeping, 35

...
111

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
Chapter 6 Flow Tests . . . . . . . . . , . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Terms Used in Flow Testing, 41
Personnel and Equipment for Flow Tests, 42
Office Planning Prior to Field Testing, 43
Field Procedure for Flow Tests, 44
Cautions to Be Observed When Field Testing, 45
Dechlorination Regulations, 45
Warning About Rigid Diverters, 46
Determining Available Flow, 46

Appendix A Illustrated Guide to Dry-Barrel and Wet-Barrel Hydrant


Nomenclature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Bibliography, 118

Index, 119

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
AWWA MANUAL

Chapter 1
A Brief History
of Fire Hydrants

This chapter is based, in part, on an article that appeared in the September 1944 Journal
AWWA (36:9:928). The drawings in this chapter are also taken from that article.

ORIGINS
Before there were water distribution systems, water for fighting fires was available
only from natural sources, such as rivers, lakes, and ponds, or from cisterns or
barrels filled with water.
The first large water distribution systems were built during the seventeenth
century in cities such as London and Boston. Over the course of many years, as the
needs of growing populations became more sophisticated and complex, distribution
systems were improved. Pipe materials improved, portable standpipes and valves
were incorporated, and eventually, the forerunners of modern fire hydrants were used.
London’s first water distribution system was built sometime in the early
seventeenth century. In the United States, several water systems were built before or
about the time of the American Revolution. Boston’s water system was built around
1652, and others were built in the latter part of the eighteenth century. The earliest
water mains were made by boring out logs; the mains were then buried. When water
was needed for fighting fires, a hole was dug to expose the pipe, and a hole was bored
into the pipe wall. Water collected around the pipe and was conducted by buckets or
through a hose directly to the fire or to a pump. After use, the hole in the pipe was
plugged with a tapered piece of wood-hence the term fire plug, which has persisted
to this day. The location of the pipe hole was marked so that if it was needed again,
it could be found and removed quickly.

1
Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
2 FIREHYDRANTS

IRON PIPE A N D PERMANENT ACCESS POINTS


When cast-iron pipe replaced bored logs as water mains in the early part of the
nineteenth century, it became impractical to bore random holes in pipes to gain
access to water. Instead, fittings with openings, or tees, were installed a t intervals
along the pipe. Wooden plugs were still used to close the openings, but fire fighters no
longer had to dig to find them. An iron shield with a removable cover that extended
from the tee to the ground’s surface provided ready access to the plug. At first,
portable canvas tanks or cisterns were commonly used to collect the water that
spewed out when a plug was removed (Figure 1-1). Soon, however, portable
standpipes came into use. After removing the plug, one end of the standpipe was
inserted into the tee; a hose connected to the other end of the standpipe carried water
t o the pump.
Further development of this system in England resulted in a ball hydrant, in
which a ball in an iron chamber was attached to the water-main opening (Figure 1-2).
Water pressure held the ball against a seat; after the portable standpipe had been
attached, a rod could be used to force the ball down and open the valve. Later, this
hydrant was modified by replacing the ball with a spring-loaded valve element, which
would remain closed even if water pressure was negligible.
These hydrant designs were the forerunners of the most popular hydrant in
North America today: the dry-barrel compression hydrant. With the early style, a
portable standpipe was transported to the fire scene and attached to an accessible
main connection below the street surface (Figure 1-3).Early dry-barrel compression
hydrants were also commonly used in England and certain other countries.
Permanent connections in iron pipe led to other developments as well. One such
development consisted of a valve installed belowground, usually in a horizontal
branch of the water main. A rod for actuating the valve extended to just below the
ground surface, where it was accessible, and an elbow could be attached to the valve
outlet. In one version, the elbow terminated in a connection to which a portable
standpipe could be attached; in another, it terminated in a hose connection to permit
direct hookup of the hose.

DEVELOPMENT OF DRY-BARREL HYDRANTS


In North America, the use of plug-type hydrants and early modifications proved
troublesome because of the freezing temperatures to which they were exposed in
northern cities. To protect the hydrants from freezing temperatures, but still provide
easy access, the mains were buried relatively deeply with a pipe extending to the
ground surface. This allowed the valve to remain below the frost line but still
provided a n easy hose connection. To eliminate the need t o empty water remaining in
the standpipe after use, a drain hole was provided in the standpipe just above the
valve. The drain hole was usually controlled by a valve that could be closed when the
main valve was opened and vice versa (Figure 1-4).
Two types of dry-barrel hydrants were used during the mid-1800s: flush
hydrants, which had the operating mechanism and hose connections in a pit with a
cover plate; and post hydrants, which extended above grade. The post hydrant soon
became predominant. There were two reasons for this. The obvious reason is that
post hydrants were easier to find and to use, particularly in wintry, snowy climates.
However, another reason may well have been more persuasive. In the early days,
professional and volunteer fire-fighting brigades competed against each other.
(Initially, insurance companies paid professional fire fighters to protect insured
properties.) When a fire alarm sounded, one fireman from each group would race

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
HISTORY OF FIRE HYDRANTS 3

‘!
/ .

h 1.

Figure 1-1 Fire-plug arrangement


with canvas cistern

Figure 1-2 Ball hydrant, patented


about 1849

Figure 1-3 Standpipe inserted Figure 1-4 Sluice-valve-type


directly into main socket hydrant with two outlets

ahead of his company t o secure a hydrant for his brigade to the exclusion of its
rivals-and it was easier to sit on a post hydrant than to sprawl over the pit of a
flush hydrant.

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
4 FIREHYDRANTS

RECENT DEVELOPMENTS
When buckets or hand pumps were used to carry water from a hydrant to a fire,
hydrants did not need to be served by high pressure nor did they require very large
valve openings. The volume of water available to fight a fire was limited by the
capacity of the conveyance rather than the size of the valve opening. Because buckets
and hand pumps could carry only limited amounts of water, hydrants with relatively
small valve openings were usually more than adequate.
When steam-driven pumps became available, the flows from older hydrants
with small valve openings often proved inadequate, so hydrants with larger valve
openings came into use. Initially, a 4-in. (10.2-cm) diameter valve opening was
considered adequate, but eventually 5-in. (12.7-cm) and 6-in. (15.3-cm) sizes were
developed. Today, the vast majority of hydrants are connected to the main by 6-in.
(15.3-cm) pipe. Most main valves are 4% in. (11.4 cm) to 5l/4 in. (13.3 cm) in
diameter. Hydrants may include one or two outlets for connecting large-diameter
hose plus one or two outlets for 2V2-in. (6.4-cm) or 3-in. (7.6-m) hose.
Dry-barrel hydrants currently produced are post hydrants and are usually
furnished with drain valves that are automatically operated by the main-valve
mechanism. The lower barrels of these hydrants are in direct contact with the
ground. The most popular style of the dry-barrel hydrant is the traffic model, which
has both a breakable barrel and operating rod parts located a t the ground line. These
components are designed to break on impact, thereby protecting the remainder of the
hydrant from damage. The design permits quick and inexpensive repairs should the
hydrant be struck by a vehicle. Also, after impact the hydrant is designed to
automatically close, thereby preventing any leakage to pass the main valve seat.
Because of their popularity, traffic-model hydrants have become the unofficial
industry standard. Dry-barrel flush hydrants are generally used only in areas of
vehicular traffic, such as parking lots and roadways, airport runways and taxiways.
Where freezing temperatures are rare and never persistent, particularly in the
coastal areas of California and Hawaii, wet-barrel hydrants are often used. The wet-
barrel hydrant is designed so that the entire interior of the hydrant is pressurized a t
all times. It is equipped with one or more valved outlets above the ground to which
hoses can be connected. Some designs have auxiliary valves that close if the hydrant
is broken, thus preventing local flooding.
Several designs of tamperproof hydrants have been developed in recent years.
These have built-in or attached devices that discourage unauthorized use of the
hydrant by requiring the use of special equipment for the removal of outlet caps or
for operation of the valve-opening mechanism.

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
AWWA MANUAL
rn
Chapter 2

Dry-Barrel Hydrants:
Definitions and
Preferred Nomenclature

A fire hydrant is a valving device connected to a water main. Fire hoses can be
attached t o outlet nozzles on the hydrant. The hydrant discharges water a t a high
rate, primarily for fighting fires.

TYPES OF DRY-BARREL HYDRANTS


Dry-barrel hydrants get their name from the fact that water is drained or pumped
from the barrel when the hydrant is not in use. In a dry-barrel hydrant, a single
main valve is located in the base of the hydrant adjacent to the inlet connection. In
addition, the dry-barrel hydrant is equipped with an automatically operated drain
valve. When the main valve is closed, the drain valve automatically opens, draining
all water from the barrel of the hydrant. When the hydrant is opened, the drain valve
automatically closes. The main valve is located below the normal frost line to protect
the hydrant from freezing. This allows the dry-barrel hydrant to be used almost
anywhere, but it is especially suited to areas where freezing temperatures occur.
Three variations of dry-barrel hydrants include the following types.

Compression Type
In this type of hydrant, the main valve moves reciprocally on a vertical axis against
a seat located in the hydrant base. The valve moves against the seat t o close and
away from the seat to open. It is moved by a vertical stem; the stem moves up or
down when the operating nut is rotated. The valve may be located below the seat and
open against the pressure (Figure 2-1) or above the seat and open with the pressure
(Figure 2-2).

5
Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
6 FIREHYDRANTS

Base

Figure 2-1 Compression-type hydrant, opens against pressure

Toggle Type
In this type of hydrant, the main valve moves reciprocally on a horizontal axis
against or away from a vertical seat located in the base of the hydrant (Figure 2-3).
The main valve is moved using a vertical stem that has left-hand and right-hand
threads. Rotation of the stem causes the arms of the toggle mechanism to move the
main valve. The valve moves away from the seat to open and against the seat to close.
The main valve always opens with the pressure.

Slide-Gate Type
In this type of hydrant, the main valve consists of a gate that moves vertically by
means of a threaded stem. When the stem is rotated, it causes the internally
threaded gate to move. The gate is forced against the valve seat by a wedging
mechanism. The valve seat is installed in the base of the hydrant (Figure 2-4).

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
DRY-BARREL HYDRANTS 7

I I--_ _ _ _ - - - - - -Drain-Valve
_ -_-_- _ _ _ _ _ _ _ - - - - - - - - - -
_____-__

-- ----
__--
-

_ _ _ Stem
-
Rod

, Upper Valve
,I' Plate
I

, Main Valve
Drain
Valve '\,.
d r-

Figure 2-2 Compression-type hydrant, opens with pressure

SPECIAL HYDRANTS
FI us h Hydrants
Flush hydrants are designed and constructed for installation completely below the
ground line. They are installed in pits, which are usually furnished with removable
covers. They are intended for use in areas where post hydrants would interfere with
vehicle or aircraft movement.

Frost-Jacket Hydrants
Frost-jacket hydrants have a sheath, or frost jacket, attached to the base and
surrounding the lower barrel, extending up to the ground line. In this type of
hydrant, the barrel, nozzle section, and all other hydrant parts above the base can be
removed as a single unit.

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
8 FIREHYDRANTS

Stem Coupling
_.._._.._...___.__....-.-----

Lower Valve
Plate

Main Valve

- Valve Seat
Ring

Figure 2-3 Toggle hydrant

High-pressure Hydrants
High-pressure hydrants are designed and constructed for working pressures above
150 psig (1,034 kPa [gauge]). These hydrants are not within the scope of ANSI/
AWWA C502 or ANSIIAWWA C503* but are produced by several hydrant manufac-
turers. One design of high-pressure hydrant is the high-pressure pilot-valve hydrant.
Other high-pressure hydrants manufactured in the United States and Canada are
similar to standard hydrants but are strengthened in materials and design.

* A N S Y A W A C502, Dry-Barrel Fire Hydrants; A N S U A W A C503, Wet-Barrel Fire Hydrants.

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
DRY-BARREL HYDRANTS 9

5
II

Stem
e

Gate

Valve Seat
Ring

Main Valve

Drain Valve

. .-.
....
Drain Outlet

Figure 2-4 Slide-gate hydrant

High-Pressu re Pi lot-Valve Hydrants


These hydrants differ from other high-pressure hydrants in the design of the main
valve. There is a small valve, or pilot valve, in the center of the main valve. The pilot
valve opens before and in tandem with the main valve, equalizing pressure on both
sides of the main valve with a controlled volume of water. This reduces operating
torque in high-pressure applications, which makes the main valve easier to open. The
pilot valve also greatly reduces the potential of hydrant vibration or chatter.

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
10 FIREHYDRANTS

CONSTRUCTION TERMS FOR DRY-BARREL HYDRANTS


Direction to open: The direction in which the operating nut is rotated t o open
the hydrant: open left is counterclockwise when viewed from above, while open right
is clockwise.
Dry-top: A compression-type hydrant in which the operating mechanism a t the
top of the hydrant is sealed from the barrel so that water does not come into contact
with the mechanism during hydrant use.
Frost jacket or protection cover: A sheath that surrounds the barrel and
extends from the bottom of the hydrant to the ground line. It is not used in hydrants
currently produced.
Hose connection: An outlet to which 3-in. (7.6-cm) or smaller hose can be
connected.
Hose gate: A gate valve attached to the hydrant outlet (see item 16, Sec.
Preferred Nomenclature for Dry-Barrel Hydrant Components. ). The attachment may
be permanent or temporary.
NOTE: Only gate valves that require several turns of the operating handle to
open or close should be used as hose gates.
Main-valve opening: The inside diameter of the valve seat ring. Also referred
to as the valve opening.
No-drain hydrant: A dry-barrel hydrant that is not equipped with a drain
valve, or one in which the drain outlets have been plugged. Such hydrants are
generally used where the groundwater level may be above the level of the drain
outlets to protect against water freezing. No-drain hydrants must be pumped out or
otherwise emptied of water after each use.
Pipe connection: The inlet of the hydrant a t which connection is made to the
hydrant lead.
Post hydrant: Any hydrant that extends above the ground line, with the
pumper or hose connection above the ground line. (All hydrants are post hydrants,
except flush hydrants. See flush hydrants in Sec. Types of Dry-Barrel Hydrants.)
Pumper connection: An outlet to which a hose 3% in. (8.9 cm) or larger can be
connected.
Traffic model: A hydrant designed and constructed so that, if it is struck by a
vehicle, certain easily replaceable components will break and allow the upper portion
(above the ground line) to become detached from the lower portion (below the ground
line). The belowground section will remain intact and undamaged. They are designed
so that the main valve remains closed after impact to prevent interruption of the
water supply and minimize injury to persons and property.
Wet top: A compression-type hydrant in which the operating mechanism a t the
top of the hydrant is not sealed from the water when the hydrant is opened.

INSTALLATION TERMS FOR DRY-BARREL HYDRANTS


Auxiliary valve: A gate valve or other type of valve that is installed in the pipe
that connects the hydrant to the water main (that is, the hydrant lead). The auxiliary
valve can be closed to isolate the hydrant, It is also called the hydrant gate or
hydrant control valve.
Bury: The nominal vertical distance between the ground line and the bottom
of the pipe connected to the hydrant inlet, measured to the nearest 6-in. (15.2-cm)
increment.

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
DRY-BARREL HYDRANTS 11

Cover: The nominal vertical distance between the ground line and the top of
the pipe connected to the hydrant inlet, measured t o the nearest 6-in. (15.2-cm)
increment. (Use of this measurement is discouraged in favor of bury.)
Ground line: The nominal elevation to which the hydrant barrel is buried
during installation.
Hydrant gate: See auxiliary valve.
Hydrant lead: The pipe connecting the hydrant to the water main. The
hydrant lead is also called the branch or lateral.
Trench: See bury.

PREFERRED NOMENCLATURE FOR DRY-BARREL


HYDRANT COMPONENTS
The preferred nomenclature for dry-barrel hydrant components was determined by
the manufacturers' representatives on the AWWA Standards Committee on Fire
Hydrants. This preferred nomenclature was developed to clarify the names of
hydrant components for hydrant users. Figures 2-1 through 2-5 indicate the
preferred nomenclature for several types of dry-barrel hydrants.* It should be noted
that these figures are composites and do not represent a particular manufacturer's
product. The following list gives the preferred name for each part and a brief
description of each part. Components are listed in numerical order by reference
number. Because of differences in each hydrant brand, not all components are
identical or comparable by term. Some hydrants contain components that are unique
to that hydrant. Therefore, some hydrants have components for which there is no
preferred term.
Operating nut. An external hydrant part that is turned by a hydrant
wrench to rotate the stem nut or stem; it may be integral with the stem nut
or stem.
Weather shield. A part that forms a skirt above and surrounding the
opening in the hydrant top through which the stem, stem nut, or operating
nut protrudes. It may be integral with the operating nut. Also called
weather cap.
Stem nut. A part that is internally threaded and engages with threads on
the stem so that when the part is rotated, or when the stem is rotated and
the stem nut is stationary, the stem is raised or lowered to move the valve.
Also called operating n u t , operating stem nut, revolving nut.
Stem. A part of the operating mechanism that extends down to the main-
valve assembly and moves the main valve to close or open the hydrant. The
stem is often in two parts, particularly in a traffic model: the upper stem
and the lower stem. Also called upper rod, lower rod.

"Of course, all hydrants do not include the same components.The diversity of components and
the manufacturers' various names for each component, can make for confusion. Appendix A
consists of a series of drawings and parts lists for dry-barrel and wet-barrel hydrants produced
by several manufacturers. Most parts indicated on each drawing are given the part number and
name supplied by the manufacturer.

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
12 FIREHYDRANTS

Operating Nut
------..___
-------._______ --------Weather Shield

Caulked
Okurn, ,I

Nozzle Lead,',
Section
or
Upper
Barrel

__--
_ _ - _- - - Coupling
_ _ - - _- -
_-- Breakable Bolts
_ _ _ - -_- _ - -
_.._._.._._.------

__.--- _ _ _ _ _ - -Breakable
- Flange

Lower
Barrel
J
Figure 2 - 5 ~ Composite dry-barrel hydrant-upper barrel: compression packing gland type, opens
against pressure

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
DRY-BARREL HYDRANTS 13

............................................
Operating Nut

__________--------- ---------.-~-----_.____________ Weather Shield

Nozzle
Section
or
Upper I - _- _- - _
Barrel

I _ _ - _- _ _Frangible
- Stem

I _
__--
._----
_ - -
_ _ - - Coupling

'.---
_-- ______.________------ Breakable Bolts

_ _ _ - -_-_ _ _ - - - Breakable
- Flange

Barrel

Figure 2-58 Composite dry-barrel hydrant-upper barrel; compression O-ring seal type, opens
with pressure

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
14 FIRE HYDRANTS

Stop nut. A part that is permanently threaded or otherwise attached to


the stem and limits the vertical travel of the stem. Also called stem stop,
travel-stop nut.
Stuffing box. A cylindrical cavity that surrounds the stem and contains a
number of packing rings used to prevent leakage along the stem. The
stuffing box may be an individual component or a portion of another
component. Also called packing box.
Packing gland. A part that compresses packing rings in a stuffing box.
Also called packing pusher.
Gland bushing. A part that is used to line a gland.
Packing plate. A part that partitions the interior of the hydrant and
contains or supports a stuffing box or other means of sealing one
compartment from another. Also called seal plate, support ring.
Bonnet. A part that attaches to the top of the nozzle section and encloses
the support portions of the operating mechanism. It may be integral with
the nozzle section. Also called hydrant cap, cover.
Nozzle section. A part that extends upward from the barrel and contains
the outlet nozzles. It may be integral with the upper barrel. (When the
nozzle section is integral with the upper barrel, the part may be referred to
as the upper standpipe or upper barrel. This is not preferred nomenclature.)
Outlet nozzle. The outlet nozzle is secured in the nozzle section and has
an opening through which water can be discharged. The outlet nozzle is
threaded or otherwise formed to permit attachment of a fire-hose
connection. Also called nozzle, spud.
Hose outlet nozzle. An outlet nozzle that has an opening that is 3 in.
(7.6 cm) or smaller in diameter, and is suitable for attachment of a 3-in.
(7.6-cm) or smaller fire hose.
Pumper outlet nozzle. An outlet nozzle with a n opening at least 3l/2 in.
(8.9 cm) in diameter, suitable for attachment of 3%-in. (8.9-cm) or larger fire
hose. Also called steamer nozzle, steamer connection, pumper nozzle, or
pumper connection.
Outlet-nozzle cap. A cap that is attached to a n outlet nozzle and covers
the nozzle opening. The cap is furnished with a nut or other means to permit
the application of force adequate to firmly attach it to or remove it from the
outlet nozzle.
Hose gate. A valve that can be attached to a hose outlet nozzle or secured
to the nozzle section. The hose gate is furnished with hose threads or is
otherwise formed to permit attachment of a fire-hose coupling. The hose
gate is normally opened and closed by a rotating valve handle; the hose gate
is used to control the flow of water from the hydrant when the main valve is
open. (The main valve should never be used to control hydrant flow; such
use could damage the hydrant or hydrant installation.) Also called hose
value.

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
DRY-BARREL HYDRANTS 15

Stem coupling. A part that joins the portions of a two-part stem. Also
called rod coupling.
Frangible stem coupling. A stem coupling designed to break if it is
stressed severely, such as a vehicle striking the hydrant. Also called
breakable coupling, frangible valve-rod coupling.
a Upper barrel. A part that extends from the lower barrel at the ground
line to the nozzle section, enclosing the stem. It may be integral with the
nozzle section. Also called upper standpipe. (When the upper barrel is an
integral part of the nozzle section, then the term nozzle section would
incorporate the term upper barrel.)
Lower barrel. A part that extends from the base to the ground line,
enclosing the stem. The lower barrel conducts water from the base to the
upper portion of the hydrant. Also called standpipe.
Breakable barrel coupling. A coupling used to fasten the upper barrel
to the lower barrel. It is designed to break if stressed severely, such as
vehicle striking the hydrant. Also called frangible standpipe coupling.
Breakable flange. A part that bolts to a mating flange at a joint
between the hydrant upper and lower barrels, which is located immediately
above the ground line. It is designed to break if stressed severely, such
as a vehicle striking the hydrant. Also called breakaway flange, traffic
flange.
Breakable bolt. Bolts used to fasten the upper barrel to the lower barrel.
Breakable bolts are designed to break if stressed severely, such as a vehicle
striking the hydrant. Also called frangible bolt.
Main valve. A part made of rubber, leather, balata gum, or a similar
resilient material; the main valve is forced against a seat to form a
watertight seal when the hydrant is closed. Also called valve, valve rubber,
valve-ball rubber, valve seat, valve gasket, valve disc.
Upper valve plate. A support for the main valve, positioned above the
valve. The upper valve plate may also serve as the portion of the drain valve
that is moved when the stem rotates. It may also serve as the means to
prevent rotation of the valve, stem, and associated parts. Also called top
plate, upper valve washer, valve-ball top, valve top plate, valve plate,
hydrant-valve top.
Lower valve plate. A part that is positioned below the main valve and
clamps the main valve against the upper valve plate. Also called lower valve
washer, valve-ball bottom, lower cap nut, bottom plate.
Valve seat ring. A part threaded into and sealed to the hydrant base (or
associated part adjacent t o the base). The main valve is forced against the
valve seat ring to close the hydrant. Also called seat ring, valve seat.
Seat-ring insert. A part with internal threads that is secured and
sealed to the hydrant base. The internal threads engage with the external
threads on the valve seat ring. The seat-ring insert may also serve as a
partof the drain system. Also called drain ring, retainer ring, subseat,
insert ring.

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
16 FIRE HYDRANTS

Gate. A part that supports the main valve. It is moved, first horizontally
and then vertically, to open or close the main valve opening in a slide-gate
hydrant. Also called main gate.
Base. A part that provides a lateral connection to the hydrant lead and
directs the flow vertically upward into the lower barrel. Also called shoe,
bottom, boot, el bow.
Drain valve. A valve located at or adjacent to the valve seat ring. The
drain valve opens automatically when the main valve is closed; this allows
water to drain from the barrel into the ground. In like fashion, the drain
valve closes automatically when the main valve is opened. The mechanism
is usually designed so that, when the main valve is opened, the drain valve
closes completely after only one to five turns of the operating nut.
Drain outlet. The opening in the base (or adjacent part of the base)
through which water escapes to the ground when the drain valve is open.
Also called drain bushing, drip tubing, drain-hole liner, drain cup.

AUXILIARY COMPONENTS FOR DRY-BARREL HYDRANTS


In addition to standard hydrant components and equipment used in the construction
and installation of hydrants, the following auxiliary components are sometimes used.
Hydrant meters: Portable flowmeters that can be attached to a hose nozzle to
measure the flow rate or the total flow over a period of time.
Independently gated outlets: Independently gated outlets operate in the same
way as hose gates, but gated outlets are integral with the nozzle section instead of
screwed on to the nozzles. Dry-barrel hydrants with independently gated outlets are
available from some manufacturers.
Backflow-prevention devices: In some instances, local authorities may require a
means to prevent backflow from hydrants into the water system. Where groundwater
levels may be above the level of the hydrant lead, no-drain hydrants should be
specified and installed. Backflow preventers in the drain connection or the hydrant
lead are not considered practical. When hydrants are used to provide water to a tank
truck that is a nonpotable water source, such as a high-velocity sewer cleaner, a
backflow-prevention device consistent with the degree of hazard should be used.

MISCEL ,ANEOUS AND OBSOLETE HYDRANT TERMS


Higbee cut: The abrupt termination of the outermost thread on a threaded
outlet.
Steamer connection: A term formerly used for pumper connection. See pumper
connection in Sec. Construction Terms for Dry-Barrel Hydrants.

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
A ~ MANUAL
~ A

Chapter 5

Wet-Barrel Hydrants:
Definitions and
Preferred Nomenclature

WET-BARREL HYDRANTS
Wet-barrel hydrants are used in areas where freezing temperatures are rare and not
persistent. Unlike a dry-barrel hydrant, a wet-barrel hydrant does not have a main
valve. Instead, the barrel is full of water and pressurized as long as the lateral piping
to the hydrant is under pressure and the auxiliary valve ahead of the hydrant is
open. In other words, under normal operating conditions, the entire interior of the
hydrant is subjected to water pressure a t all times. Each outlet nozzle has an
independent valve that controls discharge from that particular outlet.

Special Hydrants
High-pressure hydrants. High-pressure hydrants are designed and con-
structed for working pressure above 150 psig (1,034 kPa [gauge]).These hydrants are
not within the scope of ANSIIAWWA C502 or ANSIIAWWA C503, but they are
produced by several hydrant manufacturers and used by several utilities. One design
of a high-pressure hydrant designed by a utility is illustrated in the appendix. This
design uses a special angle globe valve.

CONSTRUCTION TERMS FOR WET-BARREL HYDRANTS


Direction to open: The direction in which the operating nut is rotated to open
the valve on a given outlet: open left is counterclockwise when viewed facing the
operating nut, while open right is clockwise.

17
Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
18 FIRE HYDRANTS

Hose connection: An outlet to which 3-in. (7.6-cm) or smaller hose can be


connected.
Hose gate: A gate valve attached t o a hydrant outlet. The attachment may be
permanent or temporary. Temporary attachments are made with threaded outlets.
NOTE: Only gate valves that require several turns of the operating handle to
open or close should be used as hose gates.
Valve opening: The inside diameter of the valve seat ring.
Pipe connection: The inlet of the hydrant where the connection is made to the
hydrant lead.
Post hydrant: Any hydrant that extends above the ground line with the
pumper or hose connection above the ground line. (All hydrants are post hydrants,
except flush hydrants. See flush hydrants in Sec. Types of Dry-Barrel Hydrants.)
Pumper conneetion: An outlet to which hose 3% in. (8.9 cm) or larger can be
connected.

INSTALLATION TERMS FOR WET-BARREL HYDRANTS


Auxiliary valve: A gate valve or other type of valve that is installed in the pipe
that connects the hydrant to the water main (that is, the hydrant lead). The auxiliary
valve can be closed to isolate the hydrant. It is also called the hydrant gate.
Bury: The nominal vertical distance between the ground line and the bottom
of the pipe connected to the hydrant inlet, measured to the nearest 6-in. (15.2-cm)
increment.
Cover: The nominal vertical distance between the ground line and the top of
the pipe connected to the hydrant inlet, measured to the nearest 6-in. (15.2-cm)
increment. (Use of this term is discouraged in favor of the word bury.)
Ground line: The nominal elevation to which the hydrant barrel is to be buried
during installation.
Hydrant gate: See auxiliary valve.
Hydrant lead: The pipe connecting the hydrant to the water main. The
hydrant lead is also called the branch or lateral.
Trench: See bury.

PREFERRED NOMENCLATURE FOR WET-BARREL


HYDRANT COMPONENTS
The preferred nomenclature for wet-barrel hydrant components was determined by
the manufacturers’ representatives on the AWWA Standards Committee on Fire
Hydrants. This preferred nomenclature was developed in order to clarify the names
of hydrant components for hydrant users. Figure 3-1 indicates the preferred
nomenclature for three types of wet-barrel hydrants.* It should be noted that these
diagrams are composites and do not represent a particular manufacturer’s product.
The following list gives the preferred name for each part and a brief description of
each part. Because of differences in each hydrant brand, not all components are

*Of course, all hydrants do not include the same components. The diversity of components,
and the manufacturers’ various names for each component, can make for confusion. Appendix A
consists of a series of drawings and parts lists for wet-barrel and dry-barrel hydrants produced
by several manufacturers. For most parts indicated on each drawing are given the part number
and name supplied by the manufacturer.

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
WET-BARREL HYDRANTS 19

Two-piece Hydrants One-piece Hydrant

Figure 3-1 Composite wet-barrel hydrants

identical or comparable by term. Some hydrants may have unique components for
which no preferred term has been assigned.
Top section. The aboveground portion of the hydrant, constructed as a
single piece or as a two-piece unit.
Body. The aboveground section of a one-piece hydrant. Also called body
head.
Hydrant head. The upper portion of the top section of a two-piece
hydrant. This portion contains valve mechanisms and outlet valves. Also
called body head, top section.
Barrel. The lower portion of the top section of a two-piece hydrant. Also
called spool, lower body.
Bury section. The belowground section of the hydrant, constructed either
of a single piece (lower bury ell) or two pieces (lower bury ell and riser).
Stem. The part that extends to the outside of the hydrant top section and
is rotated with a hydrant wrench to move the valve washer away from or
toward the valve seat. Also called valve stem.
Valve carrier. A part that supports the valve washer from the pressure
side. The valve carrier is supported by and fits on the stem. Also called
carrier, disc holder.

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
20 FIREHYDRANTS

Valve washer. A part made of rubber, leather, or similar resilient


material that is forced against the valve seat to form a watertight seal
when the valve is closed. Also called valve rubber, disc, valve insert.
Valve-washer retainer. A part, carried by the stem, that is in front of the
valve washer and is used to retain the valve washer against the valve
carrier. Also called retainer.
Retaining nut. A threaded hexagonal nut used to secure the parts of the
valve assembly together on the stem and to prevent the valve assembly
from becoming loose. The retaining nut may contain slots for insertion of a
cotter pin or similar device. Also called disc retaining nut, nut, slotted nut.
Stuffing box. A cylindrical cavity that surrounds the stem and contains a
number of packing rings or O-rings used t o prevent leakage along the
stem.The stuffing box may be an individual component or a portion of
another component. Also called stem sleeve, insert, stem guide.
Stem bushing. An internally threaded, stationary part that engages the
threads on the stem so that when the stem is rotated, the valve assembly
is moved to close or open the hydrant.
Hose outlet nozzle. An outlet nozzle that has a n opening smaller than
3% in. (8.9 cm) in diameter and is suitable for attachment of a fire hose.
This connection is commonly 2l/2 in. (6.4cm). The inside of the hose outlet
nozzle is machined to form a seating surface for the valve washer. Also
called hose valve nozzle, seat, outlet.
Pumper outlet nozzle. An outlet nozzle with a n opening a t least 3 % in.
(8.9 cm) in diameter, suitable for attachment of a 3 h i n . (8.9-cm) or larger
fire hose. The inside is machined to form a seating surface for the valve
washer. Also called outlet, seat.
Outlet-nozzle cap. A part that is attached to an outlet nozzle and covers
the nozzle opening. The cap is furnished with a nut or other means to
permit the application of force to firmly attach it to or remove it from the
nozzle. Also called pro-cap, hose cup.
Lower bury ell. A part that connects the top section or riser of a wet-
barrel hydrant to the hydrant lead.
Valve seat. A part that is secured and sealed to the nozzle. The valve
washer is forced in order to close the hydrant. The valve seat may be
integral with the outlet nozzle. Also called seat ring.
Riser. A section of pipe used to vertically extend a lower bury ell. Also
called midsection, standpipe.

MISCELLANEOUS AND OBSOLETE HYDRANT TERMS


Higbee cut: The abrupt termination of the outermost thread on a threaded
outlet.
Steamer connection: A term formerly used for pumper connection. See pumper
connection in Sec. Construction Terms for Wet-Barrel Hydrants.

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
AWWA MANUAL

Chapter 4

Inspection, Installation,
Testing, and Placing the
Hydrant in Service

The fire hydrant is one of the most important parts of a water distribution system but
is often one of the most ignored. Hydrants stand idle for long periods of time and are
subject to the effects of weather and the elements and are vulnerable to damage, but
they are expected t o work well in emergencies. To ensure that hydrants will operate
correctly when they are needed, the proper procedures must be followed when they
are inspected, installed, tested, and maintained.

INSPECTION PRIOR TO INSTALLATION


Hydrants should be inspected a t the time of delivery to verify compliance with
specifications and to check for damage during shipment. Specifications to be checked
during the initial inspection include the size and shape of the operating nut and its
direction to open, depth of bury, size and type of inlet connection, size of the main
valve (for a dry-barrel hydrant) or valve washer (for a wet-barrel hydrant), outlet
nozzle sizes and configuration, and thread style.
The hydrant should be cycled to full open and full closed positions to ensure that
no internal damage or breakage has occurred during shipment and handling. All
external bolts should be checked for tightness.
Shortly after delivery, hydrants should be pressure and leak tested on a
statistically sampled basis. It is not uncommon for outlet nozzles and pressure
bolting t o loosen as a result of handling during shipping and storage. Loose nozzles
or pressure bolting may cause leakage during a pressure test. Tightening the flange
bolting, the caulking of leaded-in nozzles, and the tightening of threaded-in nozzles

21
Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
22 FIREHYDRANTS

will prevent or eliminate minor leaks. In most cases, tightening is all that is needed
to achieve a satisfactory pressure test.
After inspection, the hydrant valve should be closed and the outlet-nozzle caps
replaced to prevent the entry of foreign matter. Hydrants should be stored with the
inlets facing down. Whenever possible, hydrants in storage should be protected from
the effects of weather and the elements.
Hydrants should be reinspected just before installation.

INSTALLATION
Following proper procedures ensures correct installation and should result in a lower
maintenance cost. Refer to ANSI/AWWA C600, Standard for Installation of Ductile-
Iron Water Mains and Their Appurtenances, for a detailed description of proper
installation and testing methods. Typical hydrant installations are illustrated in
Figures 4-1 and 4-2. The following recommendations are in accordance with ANSI/
A W A (3600:
1. Connect fire hydrants only to water mains adequately sized to handle fire
flows.
2. Install hydrants as plumb as possible.
3. Locate fire hydrants in accordance with the applicable fire code, the
requirements of the local fire authority, or the applicable municipal design
standard.
4. Unless otherwise required by Item 3, ensure hydrants are installed away
from the curb far enough to avoid damage from or to vehicles as they turn.
The recommended setback is 2-ft (0.6-m) minimum from the face of the
curb to the point on the hydrant nearest to the curb.
5. The pumper outlet nozzle should face the street to enable a quick
connection to the fire pumper.
6. Make sure that the outlet nozzles are high enough (at least 18 in. [46 cml)
above the ground line to allow for attachment of hoses and operation of the
hydrant wrench. There should be no obstructions that prevent or retard
hydrant operation or hinder removal of outlet-nozzle caps.
7. Always install an auxiliary valve between the hydrant and the supply
main to permit isolation of the hydrant for maintenance purposes.
8. Provide thrust restraint for the auxiliary valve so that the hydrant may be
removed without shutting down the main.
9. Remove foreign matter from the hydrant lead before installing the
auxiliary valve and hydrant.
10. Locate the auxiliary valve as close to the main as possible.
11. In setting a hydrant use a firm footing, such as stone slabs or a concrete
base on firm ground, to prevent settling and strain on the hydrant lead
joints.
12. Provide for thrust restraint of the hydrant by strapping, blocking, or using
a restraining type of joint. See Figure 4-3 for examples of restraints.

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
INSPECTION, INSTALLATION, TESTING 23

Concrete collar for protection of traffic-


model hydrants in sandy soil or for
hydrants connected to PVC mains

1 Thrust B!ock

Hydrant Lead

Spool/Retaining Lock Rings

Figure 4-1 Typical dry-barrel hydrant

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
24 FIREHYDRANTS

Thrust Block

I- 4 Lower BUW EII


-\
3-1

Thrust

Thrust Block !

3lock

es and Rods

NOTE:Joint-restraining gaskets or glands may


be used in place of yokes and rods.

Figure 4-2 Typical wet-barrel hydrant installation

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
INSPECTION, INSTALLATION, TESTING 25

To Hydrant

Without Anchor Pipc

Figure 4-3 Examples of hydrant restraints

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
26 FIRE HYDRANTS

13. When pouring thrust blocks for dry-barrel hydrants with drains, exercise
care not to plug or block the drain holes.
14. Install traffic hydrants with extra care to ensure that there is adequate
soil resistance to avoid transmitting shock to the hydrant’s lower barrel
and hydrant inlet. In loose or poor load-bearing soil, it is suggested that a
concrete collar, about 6-in. (150-mm) thick, with a diameter of 2 ft (0.6 m),
be installed around the hydrant lower barrel a t or near the ground line.
When installing hydrants on a PVC main, the concrete coIlar is of extra
importance. In areas of substantial frost penetration, expansion-joint
material should be placed between the hydrant and the collar.
15. When installing hydrants on PVC mains, the hydrant lead should be made
of the same material as the main. This will help t o protect the main from
damage if the hydrant is hit during a traffic accident. (If the breakable
portion of the hydrant fails to function properly, the hydrant lead could be
broken. If the hydrant lead was ductile cast iron and the main line was
PVC, the main could be damaged.)
16. Provide for drainage from dry-barrel hydrants. One acceptable method is
to excavate the area around the hydrant base, then place about ‘13 yd3
(0.25 m3) of clean stone to a level 6 in. (150 mm) above the drain outlets.
The stone should extend a t least 1ft (0.3 m) on all sides of the hydrant. To
keep the drainage pit from clogging, the stone should be covered with 8-mil
(0.2-mm) polyethylene or similar waterproof material before backfilling.
This practice permits ready hydrant drainage after use.
17. When a hydrant is installed in an area with a high water table, it may be
necessary to plug the drain outlets.
18. Hydrants with plugged drain outlets must be marked as such and pumped
dry after each use to protect them from freezing.
19. Do not connect hydrant drains to a sanitary sewer or storm sewer,
20. In rural areas where no curb exists, use large setbacks or other means to
protect hydrants from traffic, always ensuring that the hydrant is
accessible to fire-fighting equipment.
21. The adoption of a color scheme to indicate flow capacity is optional.
However, if such a scheme is used, the uniform color-coding system shown
in Table 4-1 is recommended. According to this system, hydrant tops and
caps are painted to indicate the hydrant’s expected flow rate. This color
scheme is consistent with NFPA* 291, Recommended Practice for Fire Flow
Testing and Marking of Hydrants.
22. Hydrants must be highly visible and unobstructed a t all times. Therefore,
whether or not a color code is used, hydrants should be painted with colors
that are easily visible both day and night.
23. Hydrants installed as part of new main construction can be disinfected by
opening and closing the main valve during the disinfection of the main.
The hydrant should be flushed after disinfection of the main valve t o
remove the high concentration of chlorine solution.

*National Fire Protection Association, 1Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02 169-7471.

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
INSPECTION, INSTALLATION, TESTING 27

Table 4-1 Color scheme to indicate flow capacity

Flow

gpm at 20 p i g * (Llsec at 140 kPa)* Color


greater than 1,500 (60) Light blue
1,000-1,499 (60) Green
500-999 (30-60) Orange
less than 500 (30) Red
*This is the calculated flow at a calculated residual of 20 psi (140 kPa) and with the actual residual on
an adjacent nonflowing hydrant being 40 psi (280 kPa) or greater. When the actual observed residual on the
adjacent nonflowing hydrant is less than 40 psi (280 kPa), the color scheme should be based on one half of
the observed flow. An alternative scheme for color coding may be related to the size of the water main
supplying the hydrant.

24. Hydrants installed on an existing main should be disinfected before


installation. This may be accomplished by spraying a solution of 300 mg/L
chlorine into the hydrant inlet and through the outlet-nozzle openings. The
chlorine solution should be flushed from the hydrant immediately after
installation.
25. Foreign material may have been left in newly laid lines or hydrant leads.
This material can damage valves and valve seats and also affect the
results of pressure tests. If this is a concern, after backfilling and before
disinfecting the main, remove the valve and valve seat from the hydrant.
Then flush the main through the hydrant using the auxiliary valve to
control the flow of water from the line. See Sec. Dechlorination Regulations
in Chapter 6.

TESTING
ANSI/AWWA C502 permits dry-barrel hydrants with unplugged drain outlets to have
an allowable leakage of 5 fluid oz/min (0.25 mUsec) through the drain valve.
Therefore, the main valve should not be opened at the same time that the water main
is tested. The auxiliary valve should be closed during water-main tests (see ANSI/
AWWA C600). However, if it is possible t o temporarily plug the drain outlets, the
hydrant and main may be tested at the same time.
After the hydrant is installed and, when possible, before backfilling (and after
pressure testing the water main), the hydrant should be tested as follows.

Pressure Test at Main Pressure


1. Remove the highest outlet-nozzle cap and open the hydrant valve a few
turns. Allow water to reach the bottom of the outlet nozzle. (If the hydrant
is furnished with a tapped-plug air vent, it is not necessary to remove the
nozzle cap. Just open the air vent.)
2. Replace the outlet-nozzle cap and leave it loose to permit all air to escape,
or close the tapped-plug air vent.
3. After all air has escaped, tighten the outlet-nozzle cap.
4. Open the hydrant completely. (Opening the hydrant fully before all the air
has escaped will compress the air and cause a safety hazard.)

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
28 FIREHYDRANTS

5. Check for leakage a t flanges, outlet nozzles, and the packing or O-rings
around the stem.
6 . If leakage is noted, repair or replace the faulty components or the entire
hydrant.
7. Repeat the test until results are satisfactory.

Pressure Test at Pressures Above Main Pressure


1. Connect a pressure-test pump to one of the hydrant’s outlet nozzles.
2. Open the highest outlet-nozzle cap. Open the hydrant valve a few turns.
Allow the hydrant to fill until water is a t the bottom of the outlet nozzle.
3. After all air has escaped, tighten the outlet-nozzle cap.
4. Open the hydrant completely.
5. Close the auxiliary valve.
6. Pump up to test pressure (usually 150 psi 11,034kPa1).
7. Check for leakage a t flanges, outlet nozzles, and the packing or O-rings
around the stem.
8. Repair or replace hydrant, if necessary.
9. Repeat the test until results are satisfactory.
10. Open the auxiliary valve.

Drainage Test for Dry-Barrel Hydrants


1. Following the pressure test, close the hydrant main valve.
2. Remove one outlet-nozzle cap and place the palm of one hand over the
outlet-nozzle opening.
3. Drainage should be sufficiently rapid to create a noticeable suction
4. If the hydrant fails the drainage test, partially open the hydrant with the
outlet-nozzle caps on to create a pressure that will clear the drain valve. If
this fails, the drain-valve assembly should be removed and inspected. If
the drain valve is clear, the problem may be that the drain outlet is
plugged from outside the hydrant. Repair will require digging down
around the outside of the hydrant and clearing the drain outlet.

PLACING THE HYDRANT IN SERVICE


The following steps are recommended for placing a hydrant in service.
1. After testing and backfilling, the hydrant should be flushed and tested to
ensure that it is bacteriologically safe before it is put into service.
2. Tighten the outlet-nozzle caps. Back them off slightly so they will not be
excessively tight, but tight enough to prevent their removal by hand.
3. Clean the hydrant exterior to remove dirt accumulated during installation.
If necessary for protection or appearance, the exposed portion of the hydrant
should be painted with one or more coats of the utility’s standard paint.

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
AWWA MANUAL
Im
Chapter 5

Maintenance

To ensure that a hydrant will work correctly when it is needed, a periodic testing and
maintenance program must be followed. Although hydrants are operated by members
of the fire department, it is generally the water utility’s responsibility t o maintain
them in working order.
In many small communities, especially where the water purveyor is not the
same political entity as the fire department, agreements have been made with the
individual fire departments to maintain and test fire hydrants. While this practice is
worthwhile, i t should be remembered that unless there is a verifiable agreement, the
owner of the hydrant retains the responsibility for maintenance and inspection of the
hydrant.

USES OF HYDRANTS
The primary purpose of a fire hydrant is fire suppression. However, hydrants also
serve other useful functions. For example, hydrants provide a method of testing the
distribution system’s flow capabilities. They also provide a means for flushing the
system mains, for street cleaning and sewer cleaning, for street and building
construction, and for recreation.
While each of these functions might be of great importance to certain
individuals or groups, the primary purpose-fire suppression-is paramount.
Hydrant owners have a moral obligation to see that adequate fire flow can be
delivered from every hydrant under their jurisdiction. If adequate flow cannot be
delivered by a particular hydrant, that hydrant is not fulfilling the primary purpose.
If that is the case, the hydrant should be removed. A hydrant signifies to the public
that water for fighting fires is available.

SPECIAL-USE CONCERNS
When the main valve of a dry-barrel hydrant is left partially open, substantial
amounts of water may leak through the drain valves. Depending on the volume of
leakage and the soil in which the hydrant is located, the results can be relatively
minor or catastrophic. For example, a hydrant with the main valve left partially open

29
Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
30 FIRE HYDRANTS

located in easily saturated soil will fail to drain properly after main valve closure.
Excessive leakage through the drain can undermine a hydrant located in soil that is
easily washed away.
When in use, the main valve of a dry-barrel hydrant should always be
completely opened to ensure that the drain valve is closed. Instructions to this effect
should be given to all persons authorized to use the hydrants, including fire fighters,
contractors, street cleaners, and summer playground supervisors. (An isolation valve
should be connected to the hose nozzle each time the hydrant is used for purposes
other than fire fighting. This allows the user to control the flow without moving the
main valve.)
When hydrants are repeatedly used as a water source during new construction,
the owner must consider ways to protect the hydrant, protect the water from
contamination through backflow, and also control consumption. Adequate protection
and control can be achieved through installation of a hose gate on the outlet nozzle,
a hydrant meter, and a n acceptable backflow-prevention device. When the hydrant is
in use, the main valve must be left in the fully open position. Users should be
instructed to control flow through the hose gate on the outlet nozzle instead of
operating the main valve.
The use of hydrants to fill street sweepers, sewer-flushing trucks, and sewer
high-velocity cleaners requires special attention. The connection of a hose from the
hydrant to the truck, even through a check valve, is considered a cross-connection
and therefore hazardous. Hydrant owners may require each truck to have a n
acceptable in-line backflow-prevention-device connection. Another solution is to
identify watering points that can be protected by backflow-prevention devices, such
as reduced-pressure devices (RPDs) and/or air gaps.
In all communities, hydrants are occasionally used by unauthorized individuals.
When unauthorized use of hydrants becomes a problem, special control techniques
may be required. Common control techniques involve legal action and penalties
against the offenders and the installation of special operating nuts and nozzle caps
that can be operated only with special wrenches. The special operating nut and
wrench designs make it difficult t o remove outlet-nozzle caps or to operate the
hydrant with standard tools.
Occasionally, a hydrant is installed where vehicular traffic inflicts repeated
damage to the hydrant. Under such a condition, it is best to move the hydrant.
However, if that is not possible, the hydrant may be protected by installing a barrier
of vertical pipes or steel rods approximately 3 ft (1 m) from the hydrant.

INSPECTION
All hydrants should be inspected regularly, a t least once a year, to ensure their
satisfactory operation. In freezing climates, dry-barrel hydrants may require two
inspections per year. A common technique is to perform one inspection in the fall and
another in the spring. In severe freezing conditions, periodic winter inspections may
also be required. Winter inspections are especially important for dry-barrel hydrants
that are installed in areas with high groundwater levels (whether or not the drain
outlet is plugged).
It is advisable to inspect all types of hydrants after each use. Dry-barrel
hydrants with permanently plugged drains must be pumped out after each use and
inspected. During freezing conditions, after-use inspections are especially important
for dry-barrel hydrants.

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
MAINTENANCE 31

To reduce labor, inspection crews should be equipped to repair all hydrants at


the time of inspection. However, some jurisdictions prefer t o have hydrants inspected
by one person and repaired by a follow-up crew.

Dry-Barrel Hydrant Inspection Procedure


1. Check the hydrant’s appearance. Remove obstructions around it. If paint is
needed, either paint the hydrant or schedule it for painting. Check t o see
whether the hydrant needs to be raised or lowered because of a change in
the ground-surface grade. If adjustments are needed, schedule the work.
2. On traffic-model hydrants, check the breakaway device for damage.
3. Remove one outlet-nozzle cap and use a listening device to check for main-
valve leakage.
4. Check for the presence of water or ice in the hydrant barrel, by use of a
plumb bob or other suitable means.
5. Attach a section of fire hose or other deflector to protect the street, traffic,
and private property from water expelled at high velocity. (See warning
about rigid diverters in Sec. Dechlorination Regulations in Chapter 6.)
6 . Open the hydrant and flush t o remove foreign material from the interior
and lead.
7. Close the hydrant. Remove the deflector and check the operation of the
drain valve by placing the palm of one hand over the outlet nozzle.
Drainage should be sufficiently rapid t o create noticeable suction. For no-
drain hydrants, pump the water from the barrel.
8. Using a listening device, check the main valve for leakage.
9. Replace the outlet-nozzle cap. Leave it loose enough to allow air t o escape.
10. Open the hydrant only a few turns. Allow air to vent from the outlet-
nozzle cap.
11. Tighten the outlet-nozzle cap.
12. Open the hydrant fully. Check for ease of operation. Certain water
conditions may cause hard-water buildup on the stem threads of toggle and
slide-gate hydrants and on the threads of wet-top hydrants. Opening and
closing the hydrant repeatedly usually removes this buildup. If the
hydrant has no threads in the water, but operates with difficulty, check the
lubrication before proceeding with the inspection. Other problems that
may make operation difficult are stuck packing and bent stems.
13. With the hydrant fully open, check for leakage at flanges, around outlet
nozzles, at packing or seals, and around the operating stem. Repair as
needed.
14. Partially close the hydrant so the drains open and water flows through
under pressure for about 10 sec, flushing the drain outlets.
15. Close the hydrant completely. Back off the operating nut enough to take
pressure off of the thrust bearing or packing.

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
32 FIREHYDRANTS

16. Remove all outlet-nozzle caps, clean the threads, check the condition of the
gaskets, and lubricate the threads. (Graphite powder in oil works well, as
do several of the never-seize compounds.) Check the ease of operation of
each cap.
17. Check outlet-nozzle-cap chains or cables for free action on each cap. If the
chains or cables bind, open the loop around the cap until they move freely.
This will keep the chains or cables from kinking when the cap is removed
during an emergency.
18. Replace the caps. Tighten them, and then back off slightly so they will not
be excessively tight. Leave them tight enough to prevent their removal by
hand.
19. Check the lubrication of operating-nut threads. Lubricate per the manufac-
turer’s recommendations.
20. Locate and exercise the auxiliary valve. Leave it in the open position.
21. If the hydrant is inoperable, tag it with a clearly visible mark and notify
the fire department. This may save fire fighters valuable time in an
emergency. Schedule the hydrant for repair.

Wet-Barrel Hydrant Inspection Procedure


1. Check the hydrant’s appearance. Remove obstructions around it. If paint is
needed, either paint the hydrant or schedule it for painting. Check to see
whether the hydrant needs to be raised because of a change in the ground-
surface grade. If adjustments are needed, schedule the work.
2. Remove outlet-nozzle caps and check for valve-washer leakage.
3. Install a test outlet-nozzle cap.
4. Open each valve and test for ease of operation. If stem action is tight,
open and close several times until opening and closing actions are smooth
and free.
5. Clean the cap and nozzle threads. Inspect and replace damaged cap
gaskets. Lubricate the nozzle threads. (Graphite powder in oil works well,
as do several of the never-seize compounds.)
6. Check the outlet-nozzle-cap chains and cables for free action on each cap.
If the chains or cables bind, open the loop around the cap until they move
freely. This will keep the chains or cables from kinking when the cap is
removed during a n emergency.
7. Replace the caps. Tighten them, and then back off slightly so they will
not be excessively tight. Leave them tight enough to prevent their removal
by hand.
8. Locate and exercise the auxiliary valve. Leave it in the open position.
9. If the hydrant is inoperable, tag it with a clearly visible mark and notify
the fire department. This may save fire fighters valuable time in an
emergency. Schedule the hydrant for repair.

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
MAINTENANCE 33

LUBRlCATlON
For detailed information on how to lubricate a particular hydrant, contact the
hydrant’s manufacturer. The following general guidelines should be used in
conjunction with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
1. Determine if the hydrant uses oil or grease on the operating threads. If the
threads are exposed to water, the grease should not be water soluble.
2. To lubricate the threads on toggle-type hydrants, the entire operating
mechanism must be removed.
3. In climates where moisture in the air will freeze the outlet-nozzle caps and
operating nut, a common solution is to coat the threads and nut with
antifreeze. The antifreeze should be made of a nontoxic, noncorrosive
compound that is approved by the drinking water authority that has
jurisdiction over potable water. NOTE: Placing antifreeze into the barrel
section of the hydrant is not recommended.

REPAIRS
Any condition that cannot be repaired easily during routine inspection should be
recorded in the inspection report. The problem should be reported to repair crews for
action. Leakage, broken parts, bad operation, corrosion, and other major defects
should be repaired as soon as possible after the defect is reported. If repairs are to be
performed in the field, the repair crew should take a full complement of repair parts
to the job site.
NOTE:Before any repair takes place, the fire department must be notified of
the outage.
To obtain the exact procedure for disassembly and repair of a specific hydrant,
refer to the manufacturer’s maintenance manual. The following information is to be
used as a general guideline. If it appears to conflict with the manufacturer’s
recommendations, the manufacturer’s recommendations should be followed.
1. Close the auxiliary valve ahead of the hydrant or use another means to cut
off flow and pressure to the hydrant. CAUTION:
Before proceeding, open the
hydrant main valve a few turns to make certain pressure to the hydrant
has been cut off.
2. Disassemble the hydrant in accordance with the manufacturer’s recom-
mendations.
3. Replace damaged parts and parts that show wear, corrosion, or signs of
incipient failure. Always replace all gaskets, packing, and seals.
4. Reassemble the hydrant and open the auxiliary valve (or otherwise
pressurize the hydrant). Test the main valve for leakage.
5. Vent the air from the hydrant and put the entire hydrant under pressure.
Check for leakage, ease of operation, and drainage.
6. Always record the repair and operating condition of the hydrant after
completion of the repairs. Notify the fire department after completion of
the repair.

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
34 FIREHYDRANTS

Specific Repairs
Packing replacement. Braided or woven packing around the stem will wear
out in time. Old, worn-out packing can be the source of leakage and can make it
difficult to open and close the hydrant. The following guidelines may be helpful for
replacing packing material.
1. Select the proper packing. In the past, the most common packing material
used was asbestos graphite. Today, it is recommended that asbestos-based
packing not be installed. Instead, use some form of synthetic packing
material. Manufacturers of packing material and the manufacturer of the
hydrant can provide guidelines on packing-material selection.
2. Locate and remove the packing gland.
3. Using a packing hook, remove all of the old packing. Never place new
packing over the old.
4. Remove old material and dried-on grease from the packing gland, stuffing
box, and operating nut.
5. Determine the size of the packing. Packing is square and is manufactured
in various cross-sectional sizes in Vi6-in. (1.6-mm) increments. For control
of leakage, the packing must be the correct size.
6. Wrap the packing around the operating nut and mark the exact length.
7. Remove the packing and cut to length along the mark.
8. Place the packing into the stuffing box, one ring at a time, seating each
ring with a wooden block. The joints of the packing must be staggered a t
90" intervals.
9. Replace the packing gland and tighten until it is finger tight.
10. Place the hydrant under pressure.
11. Adjust the packing gland until there is only a small amount of leakage
(a trickle of water, not a stream) around the shaft.

Traffic-Model Damage
When traffic-model hydrants become damaged, follow the repair procedure listed
below. To execute timely repair, an inventory of parts for traffic-model hydrants
should be kept on hand. Extra gaskets, lubricant, O-rings, and bolts should be kept
on hand.
1. Notify the fire department of the outage. This should be done as soon as
the damage is discovered.
2. Protect the area with proper traffic and pedestrian control. If the hydrant
cannot be immediately repaired, the broken and loose components should
be removed from the site and the hole covered to keep pedestrians from
stepping in it.
3. Repair following the manufacturer's recommended procedure.

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
MAINTENANCE 35

Adjusting hydrant height. When the height of a hydrant must be changed


because of a change in the street grade, it is important to first notify the fire
department. Proper care must be taken to control traffic and pedestrians. Each
hydrant manufacturer has a specific procedure that should be followed in changing
the height.

RECORD KEEPING
To carry out a meaningful inspection and maintenance program, it is essential to
record the location, make, type, size, and date of installation for each hydrant. Other
information also may be recorded, depending on the nature of the recordkeeping
system used.
When a hydrant is inspected, the record should indicate the inspection date and
the condition of the hydrant. If repair work is necessary, the nature of the work
should be indicated. When repair work is completed, the nature of the repairs, date,
and other relevant information should be recorded. Other information, such as
testing, pumping, ease of operation, direction of open, and number of turns to open,
is also important and should be carefully recorded. This data may be kept in hard
copy or transferred to a data base on a microcomputer. It is suggested the format of
these records be altered to meet individual needs.
Samples of record and survey sheets are shown in Figures 5-1 through 5-5.
Some type of basic “master” record is necessary to give background information on
hydrant type and installation (see Figure 5-1). This information will make it much
easier to determine parts inventory and training requirements. This record is also
useful in comparing hydrants to determine which styles, nozzle thread sizes, and
operating nuts are the most common in the system.
The center section of the master-record form allows for the accumulation of
information concerning the frequency of inspections and repairs. This data is
important to the Insurance Services Office and can help in determining the frequency
of maintenance on a particular hydrant. A particular hydrant or type of hydrant that
continues to develop the same repair problem can be systematically removed from
the system. Without this type of information, it would be difficult to determine that a
particular type of problem is recurring.
The diagram a t the bottom of the form should give as much detail as possible
about fitting types, branch line lengths, and valve locations. This information is
helpful for repair and maintenance.
The hydrant-maintenance and hydrant-inspection report forms (Figures 5-2 and
5-3) are used during routine hydrant inspections in conjunction with the procedures
described in the sections on Inspection, Lubrication, and Repairs. The hydrant-
maintenance-report form is used when hydrants are repaired during routine
inspections. The hydrant-inspection-report form is used when the inspection crew
makes only minor repairs. All major repairs are written on a work-order form and are
performed by a repair crew.
The flow-test-report form and the hydrant-test form (Figures 5-4 and 5-5) are
used in conjunction with the flow test procedure described in chapter 6. The flow-test-
report form is used to record the results of a single flow test; the hydrant-test form is
a historical record of one hydrant. The historical record is extremely useful in
determining distribution-system changes that affect fire flows.

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
36 FIREHYDRANTS

FIRE HYDRANT MASTER RECORD

Manufacturer Date Hydrant No

Type MVO Inlet

Bury Hose Outlet-Nozzle Size Thread Type

Pumper Outlet-Nozzle Size Thread Type

Installed by Date W/O N o cost

Operating Nut Turns to Open

Location Line Static Pressure

Date Inspected Tested Repaired cost Remarks

Avenue Property Line

~~ ~~~

Water Main-SizelType

x
2
c
0
c
c
.-l
n
[I

Figure 5-1 Master record

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
MAINTENANCE 37

HYDRANT MAINTENANCE REPORT

Water Utility Hydrant No

Location

Caps Missing Replaced Greased

Chains Missing Replaced Freed

Paint 0K Repainted

Oper Nut 0K Greased Replaced

Nozzles 0K Caulked Replaced

Valve 8 Seat 0K Replaced

Packing 0K Tightened Replaced

Drainage 0K Corrected

Flushed Minutes Nozzle Open

Pressure Static Residual Flow gpm

Branch Valve Condition

Any Other Defects

Inspected BY

Defects Corrected BY

Figure 5-2 Hydrant maintenance report

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
38 FIRE HYDRANTS

HYDRANT INSPECTION REPORT


J

Hyd No

Location

Nozzle

v)
2 Initial
3
v ) '
v)

2 Resld
a
Pitot

Flow gpm

Time
Flushed
min

Water
Used
ga'

Paint

Chains

Caps

Stems

Pack tng

0-Ring

T o p Nut

Valve

Valve Seat

Cond
of
Water

Remarks

BY Date
1
Figure 5-3 Hydrant inspection report

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
MAINTENANCE 39

FLOW T E S T REPORT

Location Date

Test Made by Time M

Representative of

Witness

State Purpose of Test

Consumption Rate During Test

If Pumps Affect Test. Indicate Pumps Operating

Ai A2 A3
Flow Hydrants

Size Nozzle

Pitot Reading Total g p m

Static 8 PSI Residual 8 PSI

Projected Results at 20 psi Residual gpm. o r a t psi Residual QPm

Remarks

Locaf/on Map Show line sizes and distance to next cross connected line Show valves and
hydrant branch size Indicate N o r t h Show flowing hydrants-label A i . A 2 . A3 Show location of
Static and Residual-label 8

Indicate 8 Hydrant Sprinkler Other ( i d e n t i f y )

Figure 5-4 Flow test report

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
40 FIRE HYDRANTS

HYDRANT TEST

Manufacturer No.

l a t e . time Nozzle -Pressure Flow Flow Time


Water
Used
Size Stat. Pitot QPm 20 ps/ min
Res. gal

Figure 5-5 Hydrant test report

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
AWWA MANUAL
lm
Chapter 6
Flow Tests

Fire-flow tests are conducted to determine pressure and flow-producing capabilities


a t any location within the distribution system. The primary function of fire-flow tests
is to determine how much water is available for fighting fires, but the tests also serve
as a means of determining the general condition of the distribution system. Heavily
tuberculated water mains or those with heavy wall deposits can reduce flow-carrying
capacities of pipe; this reduced capacity can be detected using a flow test. Flow tests
can also help detect closed valves in the system. The results of flow tests are used
extensively by insurance underwriters as a factor in setting rates for insurance
premiums; they are also used by designers of fire-sprinkler systems, and by the fire
department service to determine the rate of water flow available for the fire fighting
a t various locations within the distribution system.
It is good practice to conduct flow tests on all parts of the distribution system
approximately every 10 years (or whenever needed) to identify the service areas
affected by significant changes in the distribution system.
An accurate record, filed systematically so it is readily available, should be kept
of each flow test. See Figure 5-4 for a suggested flow-test report form.

TERMS USED IN FLOW TESTING


Flow hydrant: The hydrant or hydrants a t which flow is measured.
Pitot pressure: The pressure reading obtained on the Pitot gauge during a
flow test.
Pitot tu.be: An instrument that is used to measure the flow of water discharged
from a hydrant outlet (orifice) by measuring and converting flow velocity head into a
pressure-head reading on a gauge (see Figure 6-1).
Residual pressure: The pressure that exists in the distribution system,
measured a t the residual hydrant a t the time the flow readings are taken at the flow
hydrants.
Static pressure: The pressure that exists a t a given point under normal
distribution-system flow conditions.

41
Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
42 FIREHMFUNTS

Pressure Gauge
Pitot Opening % in Dia. (or smal1er)Tube

Air-Release Cock

Figure 6-1 Pitot t u b e in position for flow reading

PERSONNEL AND EQUIPMENT FOR FLOW TESTS


The following list includes the required personnel and equipment needed to conduct
a flow test. Equipment should be in good working order and be available a t the time
of the test.
1. For each flow hydrant, one Pitot tube with a pressure gauge capable of
reading from 0 to 60 psi (420 kPa).
2. One outlet-nozzle cap that will fit the outlet nozzle of the residual hydrant.
The outlet-nozzle cap is equipped with a pressure gauge capable of reading
from 0 up to 25 psi (175 kPa) greater than the pressure expected in the
residual hydrant.
3. A ruler to measure the inside diameter of the outlet nozzle of each flow
hydrant.
4. One hydrant wrench to operate the residual hydrant and one to operate
each of the hydrants a t which the flow will be measured.
5. One discharge diffuser to absorb the energy from the hydrant flow s o that
it is contained, where necessary, to avoid property damage or to minimize
the effect on traffic.*
6. One person to read the gauge on the residual hydrant and one person to
read the gauge on the Pitot tube for each of the flow hydrants.
7. Clipboards and sheets for recording data a t each hydrant.

*See warnings about rigid diverters, Sec. Dechlorination Regulations.

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
FLOWTESTS 43

8. For wet-barrel hydrants, it may be necessary to install a specially designed


nozzle to minimize turbulence caused by the discharge valve.
NOTE: The Pitot tube and the pressure gauges are delicate instruments and
must be treated accordingly. Gauges should be checked for accuracy a t reasonable
intervals to ensure that the flow tests will be accurate.

OFFICE PLANNING PRIOR TO FIELD TESTING


1. Review distribution-system maps and determine which hydrants will be
used to measure flow and which will be used to measure the static and
residual pressures (see Figure 6-2). All hydrants should be at approximate-
ly the same elevation. Otherwise, test results may have to be corrected for
elevation.
2. Review previous tests to estimate the flow and pressures that can be
expected.
3. Select a day for testing when system consumption will be normal and
weather predictions indicate that conditions will be reasonable. The
operating division should be notified as t o the time and location of the tests
so necessary adjustments to the system can be made. Investigate traffic
patterns, as the tests may affect traffic flow.

+
rn F1

One Flow Hydrant


R

One or Two Flow Hydrants

~~

One to Three Flow Hydrants One to Four Flow Hydrants

Arrows indicate direction of flow: R-residual hydrant; F-flow hydrant

Figure 6-2 Suggested flow-test locations

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
44 FIREHYDRANTS

FIELD PROCEDURE FOR FLOW TESTS


1. Make provisions for minimizing interruptions to traffic and for adequate
drainage of water.
2. Locate the residual hydrant and do the following:
a. Flush the residual hydrant to eliminate sediment that may damage
the gauge.
b. Install the outlet-nozzle cap equipped with the pressure gauge on a
hydrant nozzle.
c. Open the main valve slowly until the air is vented. Close the vent and
open the main valve fully.
d. Read the gauge. This is the static pressure reading.
3. Locate the flow hydrant(s) and do the following:
a. Measure and record the inside diameter (ID) of the outlet nozzle from
which the flow is measured. The inside diameter (ID) measurement is
taken to the nearest l/i6 in. (0.159 cm).
b. Determine the discharge. At the hydrants used for flow during the
test, the discharges from the open butts are determined from
measurements of the diameter of the outlets flowed, the velocity
pressures of the streams as indicated by the Pitot gauge readings,
and the coefficient of the discharge outlet being flowed as determined
from Figure 6-3. If flow tubes o r stream strengtheners are utilized,
a coefficient of 0.95 is suggested unless the coefficient of the tube
is known.
The formula used to compute the discharge. Q in gpm from those
measurements is:

Q = 29.83cd2fi

Where:
c = the coefficient of the discharge
d = the diameter of the outlet, in in.
P = Pitot gauge pressure, in psi

A B C

Figure 6-3 Outlet nozzle coefficients

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
FLOWTESTS 45

4. Conduct the flow test as follows:


a. Station one observer a t the residual hydrant and one observer a t each
flow hydrant.
b. Open each flow hydrant slowly until it is fully open. Open one
hydrant a t a time to avoid a pressure surge.
c. When the pressure a t the residual hydrant is stabilized, the observer
signals the persons stationed a t the flow hydrants to take the
readings. The readings for residual pressure and the Pitot-tube
readings of each flow hydrant must be taken simultaneously. The air
should be exhausted from the flowing hydrant before the reading is
taken. For an accurate reading, hold the Pitot tube in the center of
the nozzle, with the axis of the Pitot tube opening parallel to the
direction of flow. The Pitot tube should be held away from the end of
the nozzle a t a distance of about half the nozzle diameter (see
Figure 6-1).
d. Record the residual reading and the Pitot-gauge reading a t each flow
hydrant. Then close the flow hydrants one a t a time.
For reasonably accurate test results, the pressure drop between the static and
the residual pressures should be a t least 10 psi (70 kPa). If the distribution system is
strong (as it should be near a supply main) and the pressure drop is less than 10 psi
(70 kPa), an additional flow hydrant should be added to the test.
It is best for observers to calculate the flow in the field so that if the results
appear in error, the test can be repeated immediately.

CAUTIONS T O BE OBSERVED WHEN FIELD TESTING


Opening a hydrant rapidly can cause a negative pressure fluctuation. Therefore,
hydrants should be opened slowly until fully opened. Closing the hydrants is more
critical, and it must be done very slowly until after the flow has diminished to about
20 percent of full flow. Closing a hydrant rapidly causes a pressure surge, or water
hammer; this could cause a weakened main to fail.
Hydrants should be opened and closed one a t a time to minimize the effect on
the distribution system. Dry-barrel hydrants must be opened fully because the drain-
valve mechanism operates with the main valve. A partially opened hydrant could
force water through the drain outlets under pressure, eroding the thrust support
from behind the hydrant. After the test, the hydrant barrel should be drained before
tightening the outlet-nozzle cap-a tight outlet-nozzle cap could prevent proper
drainage and possibly cause ice blockage in either the upper or lower barrels.
Gauge measurements should be taken only when the water is running clear
because sediment could damage the instruments.*

DECHLORINATION REGULATIONS
The US and Canada regulatory agencies have established criteria to protect receiving
streams and other bodies of water from substances toxic to aquatic life. Chlorine and
chlorine compounds used to disinfect distribution systems are among these

*'Seewarnings about rigid diverters, Sec. Dechlorination Regulations.

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
46 FIREHYDRANTS

substances. Many states and provinces have established regulations that require
dechlorination of chlorinated water from fire hydrants that discharge t o a body of
water. The applicable regulatory agencies should be consulted to determine
dechlorination practices needed to conform to local regulations.
Dechlorination information is available in the following: ANSIJAWWA C65 1,
Standard for Disinfecting Water Mains; ANSIIAWWA C652, Standard for Disinfecting
Water Storage Facilities; ASNIJAWWA C653, Standard for Disinfection of Water
Treatment Plants; ANSIJAWA C654, Standard for Disinfection of Wells; and
Guidance Manual for Disposal of Chlorinated Water, AwwaRF.

WARNING ABOUT RIGID DIVERTERS


Never use a rigid diverter when flushing or flow testing wet- or dry-barrel fire
hydrants. A rigid diverter consists of a pipe screwed onto the outlet nozzle. The
diverter extends to a desired length, then bends a t an angle of up to 90" t o change the
direction of the water before discharging the full flow into the atmosphere.
The discharge generates a potentially dangerous thrust. This thrust is
magnified by the distance from the outlet nozzle to the bend in the diverter. Because
of leverage, the discharge through the diverter can generate a very high torque on
the hydrant. A rigid diverter several feet long can produce many hundreds of foot-
pounds of torque on the fire hydrant, which may damage the hydrant and the
connections leading to the hydrant. Maximum danger exists when the rigid diverter
is installed so that the line pressure creates sufficient torque to unscrew any portion
of the top section of a wet-barrel hydrant from the bury section or unscrew the lower
barrel of a frost-jacket hydrant from the base.
To prevent bodily injury, property damage, or damage to the fire hydrant and its
supporting structures, use only a diffuser or a flexible hose (properly restrained a t
the point of discharge) for flushing or flow testing.

DETERMINING AVAILABLE FLOW


The standard condition for determining the flow available in a system is a t a residual
pressure of 20 psi (140 kPa). Obviously, it is not reasonable to obtain this exact
residual during the field flow test. The flow, as measured under field conditions, is
converted by calculation to determine the flow available a t a residual pressure of
20psi (140 kPa) or other residual pressure. Tables 6-1 and 6-2 can be used to
simplify the calculations. It is important to note that when converting to a desired
residual pressure, the flow represents the flow available in the distribution system
a t that location; this figure generally exceeds the flow available a t the hydrants
used in the test.*

*The tabIes and equations given in this section use US customary units. Where metric data
is available, the data should be converted to US customary units before performing any calcula-
tions. Conversion factors required include: 1 mm = 0.039 in.; 1kPa = 0.145 psi; and (to convert
the result to metric) 1 gpm = 0.063 Usec.

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
FLOWTESTS 47

Table 6-1 Discharge for circular outlets, 2'h-in. through 2"/16-in. with outlet-nozzle
coefficient 0.90

Outlet Diameter, in.

psi gpm
70 70 80 80 80 90 90 100
100 100 110 110 120 120 130 140
120 120 130 140 150 150 160 170
140 140 150 160 170 180 180 190
150 160 170 180 190 200 210 220
170 180 190 200 2 10 220 230 240
180 190 200 2 10 220 230 240 260
190 200 210 230 240 250 260 270
200 220 230 240 250 260 280 290
220 230 240 250 270 280 290 310
230 240 250 260 280 290 310 320
240 250 260 280 290 3 10 320 340
250 260 270 290 300 320 330 350
250 270 280 300 3 10 330 350 360
260 280 290 310 330 340 360 380
270 290 300 320 340 350 370 390
280 300 3 10 330 350 360 380 400
290 300 320 340 360 370 390 410
300 3 10 330 350 370 380 400 420
300 320 340 360 380 390 4 10 430
3 10 330 350 370 390 400 420 440
320 340 350 370 390 4 10 430 450
330 340 360 380 400 420 440 460
330 350 370 390 410 430 450 470
340 360 380 400 420 440 460 480
350 370 390 410 430 450 470 490
350 370 390 410 440 460 480 500
360 380 400 420 440 470 490 510
370 390 410 430 450 480 500 520
370 390 410 440 460 480 510 530
380 400 420 440 470 490 510 540
380 410 430 450 480 500 520 550
390 410 440 460 480 5 10 530 560
400 420 440 460 490 5 10 540 560
400 420 450 470 500 520 550 570
410 430 450 480 500 530 550 580
4 10 440 460 480 5 10 540 560 590
420 440 470 490 520 540 570 600
420 450 470 500 520 550 580 600
430 450 480 500 530 560 580 610
440 460 480 510 540 570 590 620
440 470 490 520 540 570 600 630
450 470 500 520 550 580 6 10 640
NOTE: Flows are to the nearest 10 gpm. Table continued next page.
*Outlet pressure measured by Pitot-tube gauge

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
48 FIREHYDRANTS

Table 6-1 Discharge for circular outlets, 2'h-in. t h r o u g h 2"/16-in. with outlet-nozzle
coefficient 0.90 (continued)

Outlet Diameter, in.

Outlet 2 '14 2511~ 2% Z7/16 2 'I2 21


' 16 Z5/6 211/16
Pressure,*
psi gPm
11 450 480 500 530 560 590 610 640
'14 460 480 510 530 560 590 620 650
'I2 460 490 510 540 570 600 630 660
3/4 470 490 520 550 580 600 630 660
12 470 500 520 550 580 6 10 640 670
'12 480 5 10 540 560 590 620 650 690
13 490 520 550 570 6 10 640 670 700
'12 500 530 560 590 620 650 680 710
14 510 540 570 600 630 660 690 730
112 520 550 580 610 640 670 700 740
15 530 560 590 620 650 680 720 750
'I2 540 570 600 630 660 700 730 760
16 540 570 610 640 670 7 10 740 780
'I2 550 580 620 650 680 720 750 790
17 560 590 620 660 690 730 760 800
112 570 600 630 670 700 740 770 810
18 580 610 640 680 710 750 780 820
112 590 620 650 690 720 760 800 830
19 590 630 660 700 730 770 810 840
112 600 640 670 700 740 780 820 860
20 610 640 680 710 750 790 830 870
21 620 660 690 730 770 810 850 890
22 640 670 7 10 750 790 830 870 910
23 650 690 730 770 8 10 850 890 930
24 670 700 740 780 820 860 910 950
25 680 720 760 800 840 880 920 970
26 690 730 770 810 860 900 940 990
27 7 10 750 790 830 870 920 960 1,010
28 720 760 800 840 890 930 980 1,020
29 730 770 820 860 910 950 1,000 1,040
30 750 790 830 870 920 970 1,010 1,060
31 760 800 840 890 940 980 1,030 1,080
32 770 810 860 900 950 1,000 1,050 1,100
33 780 830 870 920 970 1,010 1,060 1,110
34 790 840 880 930 980 1,030 1,080 1,130
35 810 850 900 940 990 1,040 1,090 1,140
36 820 860 910 960 1,010 1,060 1,110 1,160

NOTE: Flows are to the nearest 10 gpm.


*Outlet pressure measured by Pitot-tube gauge.

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
FLOWTESTS 49

Table 6-2 Discharge for circular outlets, 4'/4-in. through 4"/16-in. with outlet-nozzle
coefficient 0.90

Outlet Diameter, in.

Outlet 41
'4 45/16 431s 47/16 4 '12 41
' 16 45/S 411/16
Pressure,"
psi gpm
240 250 260 260 270 280 290 300
340 350 360 370 390 400 410 420
420 430 450 460 470 490 500 5 10
490 500 520 530 550 560 570 590
540 560 590 590 610 630 640 660
600 610 630 650 670 690 700 720
640 660 680 700 720 740 760 780
690 7 10 730 750 770 790 810 840
730 750 770 800 820 840 860 890
770 790 8 10 840 860 890 910 940
810 830 850 880 900 930 950 980
840 870 890 920 940 970 1,000 1,020
880 900 930 960 980 1,010 1,040 1,060
910 940 970 990 1,020 1,050 1,070 1,100
940 970 1,000 1,030 1,050 1,080 1,110 1,140
970 1,000 1,030 1,060 1,090 1,120 1,150 1,180
1,000 1,030 1,060 1,090 1,120 1,150 1,180 1,220
1,030 1,060 1,090 1,120 1,160 1,190 1,220 1,250
1,060 1,090 1,120 1,150 1,190 1,220 1,250 1,290
1,090 1,120 1,150 1,180 1,220 1,250 1,280 1,320
1,110 1,150 1,180 1,210 1,250 1,280 1,320 1,350
1,140 1,180 1,210 1,240 1,280 1,310 1,350 1,390
1,170 1,200 1,240 1,270 1,310 1,340 1,380 1,420
1,190 1,230 1,260 1,300 1,330 1,370 1,410 1,450
1,220 1,250 1,290 1,320 1,360 1,400 1,440 1,480
1,240 1,280 1,310 1,350 1,390 1,430 1,470 1,510
1,260 1,300 1,340 1,380 1,420 1,450 1,490 1,540
1,290 1,330 1,360 1,400 1,440 1,480 1,520 1,560
1,310 1,350 1,390 1,430 1,470 1,510 1,550 1,590
1,330 1,370 1,410 1,450 1,490 1,530 1,570 1,620
1,350 1,390 1,430 1,480 1,520 1,560 1,600 1,640
1,380 1,420 1,460 1,500 1,540 1,580 1,620 1,670
1,400 1,440 1,480 1,520 1,570 1,610 1,650 1,700
1,420 1,460 1,500 1,540 1,590 1,630 1,680 1,720
1,440 1,480 1,520 1,570 1,610 1,650 1,700 1,750
1,460 1,500 1,540 1,590 1,630 1,680 1,720 1,770
1,480 1,520 1,570 1,610 1,660 1,700 1,750 1,800
1,500 1,540 1,590 1,630 1,680 1,720 1,770 1,820
1,520 1,560 1,610 1,650 1,700 1,750 1,790 1,840
1,540 1,580 1,630 1,670 1,720 1,770 1,820 1,870
1,560 1,600 1,650 1,700 1,740 1,790 1,840 1,890
1,580 1,620 1,670 1,720 1,760 1,810 1,860 1,910
1,590 1,640 1,690 1,740 1,790 1,830 1,880 1,940

NOTE: Flows are to the nearest 10 gpm. Table continued next page.
"Outlet pressure measured by Pitot-tube gauge.

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
50 FIREHYDRANTS

Table 6-2 Discharge for circular outlets, 4'/4-in. through 4"/1~-in.with outlet-nozzle
coefficient 0.90 (continued)

Outlet Diameter, in.

11 1,610 1,660 1,710 1,760 1,810 1,860 1,910 1,960


1/4 1,630 1,680 1,730 1,780 1,830 1,880 1,930 1,980
112 1,650 1,700 1,750 1,800 1,850 1,900 1,950 2,000
3/4 1,670 1,720 1,760 1,820 1,870 1,920 1,970 2,020
12 1,690 1,730 1,780 1,840 1,890 1,940 1,990 2,050
112 1,720 1,770 1,820 1,870 1,930 1,980 2,030 2,090
13 1,750 1,800 1,850 1,910 1,970 2,020 2,070 2,130
112 1,790 1,840 1,890 1,950 2,000 2,060 2,110 2,170
14 1,820 1,870 1,930 1,980 2,040 2,090 2,150 2,210
112 1,850 1,910 1,960 2,020 2,080 2,130 2,190 2,250
15 1,880 1,940 1,990 2,050 2,110 2,170 2,230 2,290
112 1,910 1,970 2,030 2,090 2,150 2,220 2,260 2,330
16 1,940 2,000 2,060 2,120 2,180 2,240 2,300 2,360
112 1,970 2,030 2,090 2,150 2,210 2,270 2,330 2,400
17 2,000 2,060 2,120 2,180 2,250 2,310 2,370 2,440
'I2 2,030 2,090 2,150 2,220 2,280 2,340 2,400 2,470
18 2,060 2,120 2,180 2,250 2,310 2,370 2,440 2,510
'12 2,090 2,150 2,210 2,280 2,350 2,410 2,470 2,540
19 2,120 2,180 2,240 2,310 2,380 2,440 2,510 2,580
'12 2,140 2,210 2,270 2,340 2,410 2,470 2,540 2,610
20 2,170 2,240 2,300 2,370 2,440 2,500 2,570 2,640
21 2,220 2,290 2,360 2,430 2,500 2,560 2,630 2,710
22 2,280 2,350 2,420 2,490 2,560 2,620 2,700 2,770
23 2,330 2,400 2,470 2,540 2,610 2,680 2,760 2,830
24 2,380 2,450 2,520 2,600 2,670 2,740 2,820 2,890
25 2,430 2,500 2,580 2,650 2,720 2,800 2,870 2,950
26 2,480 2,550 2,630 2,700 2,780 2,850 2,930 3,010
27 2,530 2,600 2,680 2,750 2,830 2,910 2,990 3,070
28 2,580 2,650 2,730 2,800 2,880 2,960 3,040 3,130
29 2,620 2,700 2,770 2,850 2,940 3,020 3,090 3,180
30 2,670 2,740 2,820 2,900 2,990 3,070 3,150 3,240
31 2,710 2,790 2,870 2,950 3,030 3,120 3,200 3,290
32 2,750 2,830 2,920 3,000 3,080 3,170 3,250 3,340
33 2,790 2,880 2,960 3,040 3,130 3,220 3,300 3,390
34 2,830 2,920 3,000 3,090 3,170 3,260 3,350 3,440
35 2,870 2,960 3,040 3,140 3,220 3,310 3,400 3,490
36 2,910 3,000 3,080 3,180 3,270 3,360 3,450 3,540

NOTE:Flows are to the nearest 10 gpm.


*Outlet pressure measured by Pitot-tube gauge.

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
FLOWTESTS 51

The calculations for converting flow as measured in a field test to flow available
a t a residual pressure of 20 psi (140 kPa) are as follows:
1. With the outlet-nozzle ID and the Pitot-tube gauge reading, use Table 6-1
to determine the flow.
Example:
Outlet-nozzle ID = 2l/2 in.
Pitot-tube gauge reading = 27 psi
Outlet-nozzle coefficient = 0.9 (see Figure 6-3).
From Table 6-1: Flow from the hydrant = 870 gpm. (Flows are listed to the
nearest 10 gpm.)
2. Table 6-1 assumes an outlet-nozzle coefficient of 0.9. Use Eq 6-1 to
calculate the adjusted flow for hydrants with a flow coefficient of less than
0.9 (see Figure 6-3). Generally, this is necessary only for older hydrants.

actual nozzle coefficient


Qi= Q m x 0.9

Where:
Qf = the actual flow, in gpm
Qnt = the flow shown in Tables 6-1 and 6-2, in gpm

Example:
Outlet-nozzle ID = 2l12 in.
Pitot-gauge reading = 27 psi
Outlet-nozzle coefficient = 0.8

Qf = 870 gpm x 0.8/0.9 = 773

The adjusted flow is 770 gpm.


3. Summarize the flow from each of the flowing hydrants.
Example:
Hydrant 1 = 770 gpm
Hydrant 2 = 940 gpm
Total flow = 770 + 940 = 1,710 gpm
4. Calculate the total flow available a t a predetermined residual pressure.
This predetermined pressure is that measured a t the residual hydrant
during the field test.

Q,. = Qf *
h,?.54

Where:
Q,. = the flow available a t the desirable residual pressure,
in gpm
Qf = the sum of the flows from all hydrants (from step Z),
in gpin

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
52 FIREHYDRANTS

h,.the difference in pressure between the static pressure


=
measured a t the residual hydrant and the desired
residual pressure, in lb/in.2
hf = the difference between the static pressure and the
residual pressure measured a t the residual hydrant,
in lb/in.2
NOTE: Table 6-3 is used to convert h,. and hf to h,?.54 and hfo.54.

Table 6-3 Equation and table for computing fire flow test results

Where:
QR = flow available a t desired residual pressure
QF = flow during test
h, = pressure drop to desired residual pressure
hf = pressure drop during test

Values of h to the 0.54 Power

1 1.00 26 5.81 51 8.36 76 10.37 101 12.09 126 13.62 151 15.02
2 1.45 27 5.93 52 8,44 77 10.44 102 12.15 127 13.68 152 15.07
3 1.81 28 6.05 53 8.53 78 10.51 103 12.22 128 13.74 153 15.13
4 2.11 29 6.16 54 8.62 79 10.59 104 12.28 129 13.80 154 15.18
5 2.39 30 6.28 55 8.71 80 10.66 105 12.34 130 13.85 155 15.23
6 2.63 31 6.39 56 8.79 81 10.73 106 12.41 131 13.91 156 15.29
7 2.86 32 6.50 57 8.88 82 10.80 107 12.47 132 13.97 157 15.34
8 3.07 33 6.61 58 8.96 83 10.87 108 12.53 133 14.02 158 15.39
9 3.28 34 6.71 59 9.04 84 10.94 109 12.60 134 14.08 159 15.44
10 3.47 35 6.82 60 9.12 85 11.01 110 12.66 135 14.14 160 15.50
11 3.65 36 6.93 61 9.21 86 11.08 111 12.72 136 14.19 161 15.55
12 3.83 37 7.03 62 9.29 87 11.15 112 12.78 137 14.25 162 15.60
13 4.00 38 7.13 63 9.37 88 11.22 113 12.84 138 14.31 163 15.65
14 4.16 39 7.23 64 9.45 89 11.29 114 12.90 139 14.36 164 15.70
15 4.32 40 7.33 65 9.53 90 11.36 115 12.96 140 14.42 165 15.76
16 4.47 41 7.43 66 9.61 91 11.43 116 13.03 141 14.47 166 15.81
17 4.62 42 7.53 67 9.69 92 11.49 117 13.09 142 14.53 167 15.86
18 4.76 43 7.62 68 9.76 93 11.56 118 13.15 143 14.58 168 15.91
19 4.90 44 7.72 69 9.84 94 11.63 119 13.21 144 14.64 169 15.96
20 5.04 45 7.81 70 9.92 95 11.69 120 13.27 145 14.69 170 16.01
21 5.18 46 7.91 71 9.99 96 11.76 121 13.33 146 14.75 171 16.06
22 5.31 47 8.00 72 10.07 97 11.83 122 13.39 147 14.80 172 16.11
23 5.44 48 8.09 73 10.14 98 11.89 123 13.44 148 14.86 173 16.16
24 5.56 49 8.18 74 10.22 99 11.96 124 13.50 149 14.91 174 16.21
25 5.69 50 8.27 75 10.29 100 12.02 125 13.56 150 14.97 175 16.26
NOTE: Method of use: Insert in the equation the values of hp54and hfo.54determined from the table, and the value of
QF,and solve the equation for QR.

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
FLOWTESTS 53

Example:
Static pressure = 68 psi
Residual pressure = 43 psi
Total field flow = 1,710 gpm
Desired residual pressure = 20 psi

480.54
Q R = 1,710gpm

These calculations show that 2,430 gpm is available at the hydrant tested
a t a residual pressure of 20 psi.

Stable Pressure
Determining the flow available is performed with the assumption that the system
pressure a t the water-supply source will remain relatively constant during the test.
If the source pressure changes significantly during the test, a corresponding notation
should be made on the test record and should be considered in evaluating the flow-
test data. For additional information review Recommend Practice for Fire Flow
Testing and Marking of Fire Hydrants, NFPA Standard 291.

Use of Pumper Outlets


When it is necessary to use a pumper outlet and flow tubes (stream strengtheners)
are not available, the best results are obtained with the velocity pressure maintained
between 5 and 10 psi (34 and 70 kPa). For pumper outlets, the approximate discharge
can be computed from the equation using the pitot gauge pressure a t the center of
the stream and multiplying the result by one of the coefficients in Table 6-4,
depending on the pressure. These coefficients are applied in addition to the coefficient
in equation 6-1 and are for average type hydrants.

Table 6-4 Table for pumper outlet coefficients

Pressure, psi Coefficient


0.97
0.92
0.89
0.86
0.84
0.83
NOTE: National Board of Fire Underwriters developed these pumper outlet coefficients.

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
AWWA MANUAL
rn
Appendix A
Illustrated Guide to
Dry-Barrel and Wet-Barrel
Hydrant Nomenclature

Appendix A contains drawings of many dry-barrel and wet-barrel fire hydrants


currently available or in use. Accompanying each drawing is a parts list that gives
the part names and numbers used by the manufacturer.
Each manufacturer supplies a variety of hydrants, but because of limited space
not all models or manufacturers may be included. For more information on a specific
hydrant, the manufacturer should be contacted.
The inclusion of any manufacturer or hydrant in this appendix is not to be
construed as a recommendation by A W A or the A W A Standard Committee on
Fire Hydrants; nor is the failure to include any manufacturer or hydrant to be
construed as a comment on the quality or usability of units not included.
Finally, because of differences in each make of hydrant, not all components are
identical or comparable by term. Therefore, some hydrants have components for
which there is no preferred term.

55
Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
56 FIREHYDRANTS

Dry-Barrel S Wet-Barrel Hydrants Included in App. A, Alphabetically by Manufacturer

Manufacturer and Modelb)

American AVK Company:


Series 24: 2470, 2490 (wet-barrel)
Series 2700 (dry-barrel)
Series 2780 (dry-barrel)

American Flow Control:


American Darling B62B-5 (dry-barrel)
American Darling B84B-5 (dry-barrel)
American Darling M73T-5 (dry-barrel)

Clow Valve Company:


Medallion (dry-barrel)
850 (wet-barrel)
860 (wet-barrel)
950 (wet-barrel)
2050 (wet-barrel)
2060 (wet-barrel)

East Jordan Iron Works, Inc.:


WaterMaster@5-BR (dry-barrel)
WaterMaster@5BR250 (dry-barrel)

James Jones Company:


344HP (wet-barrel)
5380 (wet-barrel)
J3700+ (wet-barrel)
53761 (wet-barrel)
54040 (wet-barrel)
54060 (wet-barrel)

Kennedy Valve:
Guardian K81-A (dry-barrel)

M&H Valve:
Style 129 (dry-barrel)

Table continued next page.

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
APPENDIX A: ILLUSTRATED GUIDE TO HYDRANT NOMENCLATURE 57

Dry-Barrel 8. Wet-Barrel Hydrants Included in App. A, Alphabetically by Manufacturer (continued)

Manufacturer and Model(s)

Mueller Group:
A4 15 (dry-barrel)
IMP-PRT2 (dry-barrel)
S-CENTPT (dry-barrel)
STND-PRT (dry-barrel)

US Pipe & Foundry Company:


MetroflowT”‘M03 (dry-barrel)
Metropolitan’”‘ 250 M-94 (dry-barrel)
“S”Series (dry-barrel)

Waterous Company:
WB67-250 (drybarrel)

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
58 FIREHYDRANTS

Model: 2470,2490
Manufacturer: American AVK Company
Classification: Wet-barrel hydrant

Part
Number Part Name Preferred Term
19 Hose Nozzle Cap Outlet Nozzle Cap
22 Hose Nozzle 0-Ring
23 Nozzle Retaining Screw
24 Chain Set
25 Pumper Nozzle 0-Ring
28 Pumper Nozzle Cap Outlet Nozzle Cap
31 Nozzle Section Washer
101 Nozzle Section Hydrant Head
102 2.5 in. Valve Stem Stem
103 2.5 in. Valve Carrier Valve Carrier
104 Valve Carrier 0-Ring
105 2.5 in. Valve Disc Valve Washer
106 2.5 in. Valve Retainer Valve Washer Retainer
107 Slotted Nut Retaining Nut
108 Cotter Pin
109 Outer Stem Nut 0-Ring
110 Stem Nut Stuffing Box
111 Inner Stem Nut 0-Ring
112 Dummy Nut
113 Dummy Nut Retaining Bolt
114 Stem Nut Retaining Screw
115 Hose Nozzle Cap Gasket
116 Hose Nozzle Hose Outlet Nozzle
117 4 in.4.5 in.Valve Stem Stem
iia 4 in.-4.5 in.Valve Disc Valve Washer
119 4 in.-4.5 in.Valve Retainer Valve Washer Retainer
120 Pumper Cap Gasket
121 4 in.4.5 in.Valve Carrier Valve Carrier
122 Nozzle Section Bolt
123 Wet Barrel Flange 0-Ring
124 Break Ring
125 Nozzle Section Nut
126 Pumper Nozzle Pumper Outlet Nozzle
127 Wet Barrel Flange Section

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
APPENDIX A: ILLUSTRATED GUIDE TO HYDRANT NOMENCLATURE
N
..

59
Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
60 FIREHYDRANTS

Model: 2700
Manufacturer:American AVK Company
Classification:Dry-barrel hydrant
Compression-open against pressure
Dry top
Traffic model

Part
Number: Part Name Preferred Term
1 Weathershield Bolt
2 Weathershield Weathershield
3 Lock Plate Screw
4 Lock Plate
5 Inner Thrust Nut 0-Ring
6 Thrust Nut
7 Outer Thrust Nut 0-Ring
8 Anti-Friction Washer
9 Lubrication Hole Seal
10 Operating Nut Operating Nut
11 Stop Nut Stop Nut
15 Stem Seal 0-Rings
16 Upper Stem Rod Stem
17 Barrel Gasket
19 Hose Nozzle Cap Outlet Nozzle Cap
20 Hose Nozzle Hose Outlet Nozzle
21 Hose Nozzle Cap Gasket
22 Hose Nozzle 0-Ring
23 Nozzle Retaining Screw
24 Chain Set
25 Pumper Nozzle 0-Ring
26 Pumper Nozzle Pumper Outlet Nozzle
27 Pumper Nozzle Gasket
28 Pumper Nozzle Cap Outlet Nozzle Cap
29 Nozzle Section Nozzle Section
30 Nozzle Section Bolt
31 Nozzle Section Washer
32 Lock Ring
33 Breakable Flange Breakable Flange
34 Nozzle Section Nut
35 Upper Barrel Upper Barrel
36 Coupler Pin
37 Breakable Stem Rod Coupling Frangible Stem Coupling
38 Spring Pin
39 Spider
40 Spider Bolt
41 Lower Stem Rod Stem
46 Standpipe Flange
49 Lower Barrel Lower Barrel
50 Lower Barrel 0-Ring
51 Valve Seat 0-Ring
53 Valve Seat 0-Ring
54 Drain Ring Seat Ring Insert
55 Brass Plug
56 Brass Fitting Drain Outlet
57 Main Valve Flange
58 Stop Pin
60 Main Valve Retaining Pin
61 Main Valve Disc Main Valve
62 Base Gasket
64 Stud Bolt
67 Base Base
71 Modern Nozzle Section Bolt
75 Zerk Fitting

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
APPENDIX A ILLUSTRATED GUIDE TO HYDRANT NOMENCLATURE 61

American AVK Company: Series 2700

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
62 FIREHYDRANTS

Model: 2780
Manufacturer:American AVK Company
Classification:Dry-barrel hydrant
Compression-open against pressure
Dry top
Traffic model
~ ~~~~ ~~

Part
Number: Part Name Preferred Term
1 Weathershield Bolt
2 Weathershield Weathershield
3 Lock-Plate Screw
4 Lock Plate
5 Inner Thrust Nut 0-Ring
6 Thrust Nut
7 Outer Thrust Nut 0-Ring
8 Antifriction Washer
9 Lubrication Hole Seal
10 Operating Nut Operating Nut
11 Stop Nut Stop Nut
14 Bonnet Bonnet
15 Stem Seal 0-Rings
16 Upper Stem Rod Stem
17 Barrel Gasket
19 Hose Nozzle Cap Outlet Nozzle Cap
20 Hose Nozzle Hose Outlet Nozzle
21 Hose Nozzle Cap Gasket
22 Hose Nozzle 0-Ring
23 Nozzle Retaining Screw
24 Chain Set
25 Pumper Nozzle 0-Ring
26 Pumper Nozzle Pumper Outlet Nozzle
27 Pumper Nozzle Gasket
28 Pumper Nozzle Cap Outlet Nozzle Cap
29 Nozzle Section Nozzle Section
30 Nozzle Section Bolt
31 Nozzle Section Washer
32 Lock Ring
33 Breakable Flange Breakable Flange
34 Nozzle Section Nut
36 Coupler Pin
37 Breakable Stem Rod Coupling Frangible Stem Coupling
38 Spring Pin
39 Spider
40 Spider Bolt
41 Lower Stem Rod Stem
46 Standpipe Flange
49 Lower Barrel Lower Barrel
50 Lower Barrel 0-Ring
51 Valve Seat 0-Ring
53 Valve Seat 0-Ring
54 Drain Ring Seat Ring Insert
55 Brass Plug
56 Brass Fitting Drain Outlet
57 Main Valve Flange
58 Stop Pin
60 Main Valve Retaining Pin
61 Main Valve Disc Main Valve
62 Base Gasket
64 Stud Bolt
67 Base Base
75 Zerk Fitting

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
APPENDIX A: ILLUSTRATED GUIDE TO HYDRANT NOMENCLATURE 63

American AVK Company: Series 2780

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
64 FIREHYDRANTS

Model: American Darling B62B-5


Manufacturer: American Flow Control
Classification: Dry-barrel hydrant
Compression-open against pressure
Dry top
Traffic model

Part
Number Part Name Preferred Term
62-1 Operating Nut Operating Nut
62-2-1 Cover 0-Ring
62-2-2 Housing 0-Ring
62-4-4 Thrust Washer
62-5-3 Pipe Plug
62-7-7 Weather Cover Bonnet
62-9 Housing Cover Packing Gland
62-11-2 Cover Cap Screws
62-13 Cover Gasket
62-14 Housing Gasket
62-15 Housing Stuffing Box, Packing Plate
62-16 Housing Bolts & Nuts
62-18-60 Upper Barrel Nozzle Section
62-19-SR Lower Barrel Lower Barrel
62-20-60 Hose Nozzle Hose Outlet Nozzle
62-20-61 Hose Nozzle Seal
62-20-62 Hose Nozzle Retainer
62-21 Hose Caps Outlet-Nozzle Cap
62-22 Hose Cap Gaskets
62-23-1 Hose Cap Chain With S-Hook
62-23-18 Pumper Cap Chain With S-Hook
62-25-60 Pumper Nozzle Pumper Outlet Nozzle
62-25-61 Pumper Nozzle Seal
62-25-62 Pumper Nozzle Retainer
62-26 Pumper Cap Outlet-Nozzle Cap
62-27 Pumper Cap Gasket
62-29-14 Snap Rings
62-29-15 Breakable Flange Breakable Barrel Coupling
62-29-16 Base Flange
62-29-30 Rod Coupling Frangible Stem Coupling
62-29-31 Coupling & Cotter Pins
62-30-03 Hydrant Spring
62-30-04 Spring Plate
62-30-06 Travel Stop Nut Stop Nut
62-30-07 Spring Plate Pin
62-30-11 Upper Rod Stem
62-30-12 Lower Rod Stem
62-31 Drain Lever Drain Valve
62-35-OR Hydrant Seat Valve-seat Ring
62-36-2 Seat 0-Ring Outside
62-36-3 Seat 0-Ring Inside
62-37-OR Drain Ring Seat-Ring Insert
62-38 Drain Ring Gasket
62-38-1 Barrel Gasket
62-38-6 Base Gasket
62-39 Base Bolts & Nuts
62-39-9 Barrel Bolts & Nuts
62-40 Valve Top Upper Valve Plate
62-41 Hydrant Valve Main Valve
62-42 Valve Bottom Lower Valve Plate
62-46-5 Mechanical Joint Base Base
62-144 Weather Shield
62-145 Rod Sleeve
62-146 Sleeve 0-Rings

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
APPENDIX A: ILLUSTRATED GUIDE TO HYDRANT NOMENCLATURE 65

American Flow Control: American Darling B62B-5

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
66 FIREHYDRANTS

Model: American Darling B84B-5


Manufacturer: American Flow Control
Classification: Dry-barrel hydrant
Compression-open against pressure
Dry top
Traffic model

Part
Number Part Name Preferred Term
84-1 Operating Nut Operating Nut
84-2-1 Cover 0-Ring
84-2-2 Housing 0-Ring
84-4-4 Thrust Washer
84-5-3 Pipe Plug
84-7-7 Weather Cover Bonnet
84-9 Housing Cover Packing Gland
84-11-2 Cover Cap Screws
84-13 Cover Gasket
84-14 Housing Gasket
84-15 Housing Stuffing Box, Packing Plate
84-16 Housing Bolts & Nuts
84-18-60 Upper Barrel Nozzle Section
84-19-SR Lower Barrel Lower Barrel
84-20-60 Hose Nozzle Hose Outlet Nozzle
84-20-61 Hose Nozzle Seal
84-20-62 Hose Nozzle Retainer
84-2 1 Hose Caps Outlet-Nozzle Cap
84-22 Hose Cap Gaskets
84-23-1 Hose Cap Chain With S-Hook
84-23-18 Pumper Cap Chain With S-Hook
84-25-60 Pumper Nozzle Pumper Outlet Nozzle
84-25-61 Pumper Nozzle Seal
84-25-62 Pumper Nozzle Retainer
84-26 Pumper Cap Outlet-Nozzle Cap
84-27 Pumper Cap Gasket
84-29-13 Barrel Flanges
84-29-14 Snap Rings
84-29-30 Rod Coupling Frangible Stem Coupling
84-29-31 Coupling & Cotter Pins
84-29-45 Breakable Flange Breakable Barrel Coupling
84-30-03 Hydrant Spring
84-30-04 Spring Plate
84-30-06 Travel Stop Nut Stop Nut
84-30-07 Spring Plate Pin
84-30-11 Upper Rod Stem
84-30-12 Lower Rod Stem
84-31 Drain Lever Drain Valve
84-35-02 Hydrant Seat Valve-Seat Ring
84-36-1 Seat 0-Rings
84-37 Drain Ring Seat-Ring Insert
84-38 Drain Ring Gaskets
84-38-1 Barrel Gasket
84-39 Base Bolts & Nuts
84-39-9 Barrel Bolts & Nuts
84-40 Valve Top Upper Valve Plate
84-40-4 Valve Top Cotter Pin
84-4 1 Hydrant Valve Main Valve
84-42 Valve Bottom Lower Valve Plate
84-46-5 Mechanical Joint Base Base
84-144 Weather Shield
84-145 Rod Sleeve
84-146 Sleeve 0-Rings

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
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Next Page

68 FIREHYDRANTS

Model: American Darling M73T-5


Manufacturer: American Flow Control
Classification:Dry-barrel hydrant
Compression-open against pressure
Dry top
Traffic model

Part
Number Part Name Preferred Term
73-1 Operating Nut Operating Nut
73-2-1 Cover 0-Ring
73-2-2 Housing 0-Ring
73-4-4 Thrust Washer
73-5-3 Pipe Plug
73-7-7 Weather Cover Bonnet
73-9 Housing Cover Packing Gland
73-11-2 Cover Cap Screws
73-13 Cover Gasket
73-14 Housing Gasket
73-15 Housing Stuffing Box, Packing Plate
73-16 Housing Bolts & Nuts
73-18-60 Upper Barrel Nozzle Section
73-19-SR Lower Barrel Lower Barrel
73-20-60 Hose Nozzle Hose Outlet Nozzle
73-20-61 Hose Nozzle Seal
73-20-62 Hose Nozzle Retainer
73-21 Hose Caps Outlet-nozzle Cap
73-22 Hose Cap Gaskets
73-23-1 Hose Cap Chain With S-Hook
73-23-18 Pumper Cap Chain With S-Hook
73-25-60 Pumper Nozzle Pumper Outlet Nozzle
73-25-61 Pumper Nozzle Seal
73-25-62 Pumper Nozzle Retainer
73-26 Pumper Cap Outlet-nozzle Cap
73-27 Pumper Cap Gasket
73-29-13 Barrel Flanges
73-29-14 Snap Rings
73-29-30 Rod Coupling Frangible Stem Coupling
73-29-31 Coupling & Cotter Pins
73-29-45 Breakable Flange Breakable Barrel Coupling
73-30-03 Hydrant Spring
73-30-04 Spring Plate
73-30-06 Travel Stop Nut Stop Nut
73-30-07 Spring Plate Pin
73-30-11 Upper Rod Stem
73-30-12 Lower Rod Stem
73-31 Drain Lever Drain Valve
73-35-02 Hydrant Seat Valve-Seat Ring
73-36-1 Seat 0-Rings
73-37 Drain Ring Seat-Ring Insert
73-38 Drain Ring Gaskets
73-38-1 Barrel Gasket
73-39 Base Bolts & Nuts
73-39-9 Barrel Bolts & Nuts
73-40 Valve Top Upper Valve Plate
73-40-4 Valve Top Cotter Pin
73-41 Hydrant Valve Main Valve
73-42 Valve Bottom Lower Valve Plate
73-46-5 Mechanical Joint Base Base
73-144 Weather Shield
73-145 Rod Sleeve
73-146 Sleeve 0-Rings

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
118 FIRE HYDRANTS

Bibliography
Fire Flow Tests: Discharge Tables for Circu- Standard for Wet-Barrel Fire Hydrants.
lar Outlets Friction Losses in Pipes. A W A Standard C503. AWWA, Denver,
1981. NFPA, Quincy, Mass. Colo.
Form and Procedures for Fire Flow Tests. Standard for Installation of Ductile-Iron
1976. Joul: AWWA, 68:5:264. Water Mains and Their Appurtenances.
Guidance Manual for Disposal of Chlorinated A W A Standard C600. A W A , Denver,
Water. 2001. AwwaRF, Denver, Colo. Colo.
Recommended Practice for Fire Flow Testing Supply Testing for Fire Department and
and Marketing of Hydrants. 2002. Insurance. Amer. Insurance Assn. New
NFPA Standard 291. NFPA, Quincy, York, N.Y.
Mass. Sweitzer, R.J. 1958. Basic Water Works
Simplified Water Supply Testing. 6 t h Ed. Manual. Amer. Concrete Pressure Pipe
1982. Alliance of Amer. Insurers, Assn., Vienna, Va.
Schaumberg, Ill. Water Transmission and Distribution. Prin-
Standard for Dry-Barrel Fire Hydrants. ciples and Practices of Water Supply
A W A Standard C502. A W A , Denver, Operations, Third Edition. 2004.
Colo. A W A , Denver, Colo.

Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
INDEX
NOTE: f. indicates a figure; n. indicates note; t. indicates a table.

Index Terms Links

American AVK Company 56


Series 24 (2470, 2490) 58 59f.
Series 2700 60 61f.
Series 2780 62 63f.
American Flow Control 56
American Darling B62B-5 64 65f.
American Darling B84B-5 66 67f.
American Darling M73T-5 68 69f.
ANSI/AWWA C502 8 8n.
ANSI/AWWA C503 8 8n.
ANSI/AWWA C600 22
ANSI/AWWA C651–C654 46
Auxiliary valve 10 18 22

Backflow-prevention devices 16
Ball hydrants 2 3f.
Barrel 19 19f.
Base 16
Body 19 19f.
head 19
Bonnet 12f. 13f. 14
Boot 16
Bottom 16
plate 15
Breakable barrel coupling 15
Breakable bolt 12f. 13f. 15
Breakable coupling 15
Breakable flange 12f. 13f. 15
Breakaway flange 15

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Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
Index Terms Links

Bury
defined 10 18
section 19 19f.

Carrier 19
Clow Valve Company 56
Medallion 70 71f.
Model 850 72 73f.
Model 860 74 75f.
Model 950 76 77f.
Model 2050 78 79f.
Model 2060 80 81f.
Color scheme to indicate flow capacity 26 27t.
Compression-type hydrants 5 6f. 7f.
Cover 11 14 18

Direction to open 10 17
Disc 20
holder 19
retaining nut 20
Disinfection 26
Drain
bushing 16
cup 16
outlet 16 26
ring 15
valve 16
Drainage tests (dry-barrel hydrants) 28
Drain-hole liner 16
Drip tubing 16
Dry-barrel hydrants 5
auxiliary components 16
basis for name 5
component nomenclature 11 12f. 13f.
compression type 5 6f. 7f.
construction terminology 10
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Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
Index Terms Links

Dry-barrel hydrants (Cont.)


drainage 26
drainage tests 28
early 2 3f.
flush type 2 4 7
frost-jacket type 7
high-pressure pilot-valve type 9
high-pressure type 8
inspection 30
installation 23f.
installation terminology 10
with large valve openings 4
post type 2 4 10
slide-gate type 6 9f.
standard (ANSI/AWWA C502) 8 8n.
toggle type 6 8f.
traffic model 4 10 34
and valves 2 3f.
See also American AVK Company,
American Flow Control, Clow Valve
Company, East Jordan Iron Works,
James Jones Company, Kennedy
Valve, M&H Valve, Mueller Group,
US Pipe & Foundry Company,
Waterous Company for specific models
Dry-top hydrants 10

East Jordan Iron Works 56


WaterMaster 5-BR 82 83f.
WaterMaster 5BR250 84 85f.
Elbow 16

Fire hydrants
defined 5
history 1
placement from curb 22
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Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
Index Terms Links

Fire hydrants (Cont.)


predecessors in early distribution systems 1
tamperproof 4
See also Ball hydrants, Compression-type
hydrants, Dry-barrel hydrants, Dry-
top hydrants, Flow hydrants, Flush
hydrants, Frost-jacket hydrants,
High-pressure hydrants, High-
pressure pilot-valve hydrants, Inspec-
tion, Installation, No-drain hydrants,
Placing in service, Post hydrants,
Slide-gate hydrants, Testing, Toggle
hydrants, Traffic model, Wet-barrel
hydrants, Wet-top hydrants
Fire plugs 1 2
and cisterns 2 3f.
Flow hydrants 41
Flow tests 41
avoiding rigid diverters 46
cautions 45
dechlorination of discharge water 45
determining available flow 46 47t. 49t. 52t.
equipment 42
field procedure 44 44f.
pre-planning 43 43f.
and pumper outlets 53 53t.
report 35 39f.
and stable pressure 53
terminology 41
Flush hydrants 2 4 7
Frangible bolt 15
Frangible standpipe coupling 15
Frangible stem coupling 12f. 13f. 15
Frangible valve-rod coupling 15
Frost jacket, defined 10
Frost-jacket hydrants 7

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Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
Index Terms Links

Gate 16
Gland bushing 14
Ground line 11 18 19f.

Higbee cut 16 20
High-pressure hydrants 8 17
High-pressure pilot-valve hydrants 9
Hose
cap 20
connection 10 18
gate 10 14 18
outlet nozzles 12f. 13f. 14 20
valve 14
valve nozzle 20
Hydrant cap 14
Hydrant control valve 10
Hydrant gate 10 11 18
Hydrant head 19 19f.
Hydrant lead 11 18 26
Hydrant meters 16
Hydrant-valve top 15

Independently gated outlets 16


Insert 20
ring 15
Inspection
as part of maintenance 30
pre-installation 21
Installation 22
dry-barrel hydrants 23f.
recommendations 22
standard (ANSI/AWWA C600) 22
wet-barrel hydrants 24f.

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Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
Index Terms Links

James Jones Company 56


Model 4060 96 97f.
Model J344HP 86 87f.
Model J380 88 89f.
Model J3700+ 90 91f.
Model J3761 92 93f.
Model J4040 94 95f.

Kennedy Valve 56
Guardian K81-A 98 99f.

Leak testing 21 27
Lower barrel 12f. 13f. 15
Lower body 19
Lower bury ell 19f. 20
Lower cap nut 15
Lower rod 11
Lower valve plate 15
Lower valve washer 15

M&H Valve 56
Style 129 100 101f.
Main gate 16
Main valve 15
opening 10
Maintenance 29
and adequate fire flow 29
adjusting hydrant height 35
inspection (dry-barrel hydrants) 30 35 38f.
inspection (wet-barrel hydrants) 30 32 35 38f.
lubrication 33
master record 35 36f.

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Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
Index Terms Links

Maintenance (Cont.)
packing replacement 34
record keeping 35 36f.
repairs 33
report form 35 37f.
and special or unauthorized uses 29
traffic-model repair 34
Midsection 20
Mueller Group 57
A415 102 103f.
IMP-PRT2 104 105f.
S-CENTPT 106 107f.
STND-PRT 108 109f.

NFPA 291 26
No-drain hydrants 10
Nozzle 14
Nozzle section 12f. 13f. 14 15
Nut 20

Operating nut 11 12f. 13f. 19f.


Operating stem nut 11
Outlet 20
Outlet nozzles 12f. 13f. 14 22
caps 12f. 13f. 14 20
coefficients 44 44f.

Packing box 14
Packing gland 12f. 14
Packing plate 12f. 14
Packing pusher 14
Packing replacement 34
Pipe connection 10 18
Pitot pressure 41

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Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
Index Terms Links

Pitot tubes 41 42f.


Placing in service 28
Post hydrants 2 4 18
defined 10
Pressure tests 21
at main pressure 27
at pressures above main pressure 28
Pro-cap 20
Protection cover 10
Pumper
connection 10 14 16 18 20
nozzle 14
outlet nozzles 12f. 13f. 14 20 22
outlet nozzles and flow tests 53 53t.

Residual pressure 41
Retainer 20
ring 15
Retaining nut 19f. 20
Revolving nut 11
Riser 19f. 20
Rod coupling 15

Seal plate 14
Seat 20
ring 15 20
ring insert 15
Shoe 16
Slide-gate hydrants 6 9f.
Slotted nut 20
Spool 19
Spud 14
Standards 8 8n. 11 18 22 26
46
Standpipes 2 3f. 15 20
Static pressure 41
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Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
Index Terms Links

Steamer
connection 14 16 20
nozzle 14
Stem 11 12f. 19 19f.
bushing 20
coupling 15
guide 20
nut 11
sleeve 20
stop 14
Stop nut 14
Stuffing box 12f. 14 19f. 20
Subseat 15
Support ring 14

Testing
hydrant test report 35 40f.
See also Drainage tests (dry-barrel
hydrants), Flow tests, Leak testing,
Pressure tests
Thrust restraint 22 25f. 26
Toggle hydrants 6 8f.
Top plate 15
Top section 19 19f.
Traffic flange 15
Traffic model 4
defined 10
repair 34
Travel-stop nut 14
Trench 11 18

Upper barrel 12f. 13f. 14 15


Upper rod 11
Upper standpipe 14 15

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Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
Index Terms Links

Upper valve
plate 15
washer 15
US Pipe & Foundry Company 57
Metroflow M03 110 111f.
Metropolitan 250 M-94 112 113f.
“S” Series 114 115f.

Valve 15
carrier 19 19f.
disc 15
gasket 15
insert 20
opening 18
plate 15
rubber 15 20
seat 15 20
seat ring 15
stem 19
top plate 15
washer 19f. 20
washer retainer 19f. 20
Valve ball
bottom 15
rubber 15
top 15

Waterous Company 57
Model WB67–250 116 117f.
Weather shield (cap) 11 12f. 13f.
Wet-barrel hydrants 4 17
See also American AVK Company, Clow
Valve Company, James Jones
Company for specific models
component terminology 18 19f.
construction terminology 17
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Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved
Index Terms Links

Wet-barrel hydrants (Cont.)


high-pressure type 17
inspection 30 32
installation terminology 18
installation 24f.
standard (ANSI/AWWA C503) 8 8n.
Wet-top hydrants 10

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Copyright (C) 2006 American Water Works Association All Rights Reserved

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