There are two types of fire hydrants you can choose from: wet barrel and dry barrel
Cities have a variety of different characteristics that set them apart from one another. From size to population, each area has their own specific needs when it comes to their water systems. Fire hydrants are classified into two types that are completely different. Here is what you need to know so that you can pick the right fire hydrant system.
Wet Barrel Hydrants
This type of hydrant has a very sturdy design, so it can last for more than 100 years. Its mechanical parts are above ground. Because of this, there is a main valve attached to prevent any debris from entering the hydrant. Since the parts are on the outside, the outlet valves and nozzles are easy to access. They also work independently so that firefighters can add more discharge lines without any problems. The downside to having everything above-ground is that the parts are susceptible to being frosted over. Because of this, these fire hydrants are not well suited for cold climates, more often found in the southern parts of the U.S where it’s warmer.
Dry Barrel Hydrants
The water line for dry barrel fire hydrants sit underground and the main valve is at the hydrant’s base. When the valve is opened, the barrel fills up and water can be pumped through a hose that firefighters hook up to it. The barrel drains once the valve is closed so no water stays inside of the hydrant, preventing any possible freezing. While there is one universal wet barrel hydrant, there are three types of dry barrel hydrants.
Compression
All hydrants have a seat located at the base of it to help operate the valve’s movement. For this type, a vertical stem is used to open the main valve. It moves against a seat that is put at the base of the fire hydrant. The valve moves against the seat to close and away from it to open. This type utilizes pressure to operate the valve
Toggle
This style moves horizontally against or away from the seat. A vertical stem with two arms is rotated to move the actual valve, opening and closing it with a rotating movement, similar to how you would use your hands to twist something open.
Slide-Gate
This one is different from the other two because the stem is threaded rather than vertical. The main valve has a gate that moves up and down by the threading of the stem. The gate is pushed against the seat with a wedging mechanism to allow it to push the valve open.
Contact Advanced Fire Protection Systems Today
Advanced Fire Protection Systems is committed to providing all of our commercial and residential customers with effective and appropriate fire protection systems. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to meet all of your fire protection needs and keep your business running. We provide full-service design, construction, testing, and maintenance for all water-based fire protection systems. Let us use our years of experience to protect your residential or commercial property from fires. To get started with Advanced Fire Protection Systems today, contact us online or give us a call at 443-557-0321.