Fire hydrants are essential fire protective devices that are installed in public, commercial as well as industrial settings to ensure safety. A fire hydrant operates by allowing quick access to the water utility's pressurised water system.

During a fire outbreak, the firefighters can remove a nozzle or two and fasten their hoses to the nozzles and turn on the valve to get the water flowing. Depending on the colour of fire hydrants and its type of nozzle, firefighters are able to learn about the available pressure and can make rapid decisions to control and stop the outbreak.

If you are interested to witness the best-in-class fire hydrant especially for Oil & Gas industries then visit this year’s ADIPEC 2022 where Dutco Tennant LLC will be exhibiting its range of products along with their top-rated fire hydrant. Starting from 31st October 2022, the event will be held in Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.

But before you go to the exhibition, here's a quick guide to learn about some basics of fire hydrants. Continue to read till the end to find out.

Overview

When it comes to fire hydrants, most of us are aware of the above-the-ground part but fire hydrants go several feet below the ground as well. For most purposes and intents, fire hydrants are available in two types - wet barrel fire hydrant and dry barrel fire hydrant. Additionally, there are also standpipes.

Each of them has varied structure and mechanism based on the surrounding conditions where they are installed. Dry barrel fire hydrants are mostly installed in areas where there is no concern of freezing.

Different Mechanism Types

Wet Barrel Fire Hydrants

These fire hydrants have a potential working lifespan of more than 100 years if maintained properly. Its longevity is also based on its manufacturer. Wet barrel hydrants are known to be an industry standard for locations where freezing is not an issue.

This is primarily due to the fact that all of the mechanical parts of wet barrel fire hydrants are above ground. This means that the water in the main which shall be supplied to the hydrant runs in close proximity to the surface and hence, making it susceptible to freezing.

Dry Barrel Fire Hydrants

There are three types of Dry barrel hydrants available and they are -  slide-gate, compression and toggle mechanisms. In a dry barrel hydrant, the water valve for the hydrant remains to be far under the ground in the base of the hydrant.

Since the entire water system goes below the frost line, there remains no water in the hydrant's system post its usage. This greatly brings down the risk of freezing and causing any frost damage to the hydrant.

A significant part of the maintenance cycle for this hydrant is to keep a check on whether there is any water in the hydrant's base or not. This is done typically with the help of a plumb line to look for moisture.

If there is moisture then it could be an indication that the drain valve of the hydrant is not properly working. leaving it unguarded to freeze.

To know more about fire hydrants and explore top-rated fire hydrant products, make sure to visit the Dutco Tennant LLC exhibit at the ADIPEC 2022.