Fire Hose Flow Rate Calculator Explained
Understanding fire hose flow rate is crucial for effective firefighting. The flow rate, typically measured in gallons per minute (GPM) or liters per minute (LPM), indicates how much water a hose can deliver. This calculation is vital for selecting the right nozzle, pump, and hose size to ensure adequate water supply to extinguish fires quickly and safely.
Several factors influence the flow rate, primarily the nozzle's discharge coefficient and the pressure at the nozzle. The formula commonly used is based on fluid dynamics principles. By inputting the known parameters, firefighters and fire engineers can accurately predict or verify the expected water flow.
The key components in this calculation are:
- Nozzle Pressure (PSI): The pressure of the water as it exits the nozzle. This is a primary driver of flow rate.
- Nozzle Coefficient (C): A factor that accounts for the nozzle's design and efficiency in discharging water. Different nozzle types and designs have different coefficients. A higher coefficient generally means a more efficient nozzle.
Using this calculator can help in:
- Determining the appropriate nozzle pressure required for a desired flow rate.
- Verifying the actual flow rate achieved with a given nozzle and pressure.
- Ensuring that water supply systems are adequately designed for firefighting operations.
Fire Hose Flow Rate Calculator
Enter the following values to calculate the flow rate: