Foundation's Report Evaluates 2.5-Inch Connections' Actual Flow

The Technical Committee for NFPA 14 added the requirement for one 2.5-inch inlet per every 250 gallons per minute (gpm) in 2007, "but this requirement lacks supporting scientific documentation, so there was a need to conduct flow testing to determine the amount of water that is possible to flow into an FDC inlet," according to NFPA.

  • Jan 19, 2016

A new report from NFPA's Fire Protection Research Foundation provides information, based on full-scale flow testing, of 2.5-inch fire department connections (FDCs), which are required on all standpipe systems according to NFPA 14, Standard for the Installation of Standpipe and Hose Systems, and for sprinkler systems according to NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems.

An FDC is defined as "a connection through which the fire department can supplemental water into the sprinkler system, standpipe, or other system, furnishing water for fire extinguishment to supplement existing water supplies."

The Technical Committee for NFPA 14 added the requirement for one 2.5-inch inlet per every 250 gallons per minute (gpm) in 2007, "but this requirement lacks supporting scientific documentation, so there was a need to conduct flow testing to determine the amount of water that is possible to flow into an FDC inlet," according to NFPA, and thus the testing was conducted and the results published.

Titled "Fire Department Connection (FDC) Inlet Flow Assessment," it is authored by Y. Pock Utiskul, Ph.D., Neil P. Wu, P.E., and Elizabeth Keller, all with Exponent, Inc. The goal of the research project was to provide a technical basis to the NFPA 14 Technical Committee for a possible change to the standard.

Product Showcase

  • SECUPRO MARTEGO

    FOR HIGHEST DEMANDS. A cutting tool in which function and design go hand in hand. Meet the SECUPRO MARTEGO, our prize-winning squeeze-grip safety knife with fully automatic retractable blade for safety. • Ergonomically friendly trigger mechanism to engage the blade • Durable body made of aluminum • Safer alternative to fixed blade utility knives for general cutting tasks • 9 mm Cutting depth • Easy, tool free blade change Dimensions: L 6.10" L x 0.71" W x 1.91" H Weight: 3.70 oz Cutting Depth: 9 mm Read More

  • Kestrel 5400 Heat Stress Tracker WBGT Monitoring for Workplace Safety

    Ensure safety with the Kestrel® 5400 Heat Stress Tracker, the go-to choice for safety professionals and endorsed by the Heat Safety & Performance Coalition. This robust, waterless WBGT meter is ideal for both indoor and outdoor environments, offering advanced monitoring and data logging essential for OSHA compliance. It features pre-programmed ACGIH guidelines and alert settings to quickly signal critical conditions. Integrated with the cloud-based Ambient Weather Network, the 5400 allows managers to view, track, and log job site conditions remotely, ensuring constant awareness of potential hazards. Its capability for real-time mobile alerts and remote data access promotes proactive safety management and workplace protection, solidifying its role as a crucial tool in industrial hygiene. Read More

  • NoiseCHEK Personal Noise Dosimeter

    SKC NoiseCHEK is the easiest-to-use dosimeter available! Designed specifically for OEHS professionals, SKC NoiseCHEK offers the easiest operation and accurate noise measurements. Everything you need is right in your palm. Pair Bluetooth models to your mobile devices and monitor workers remotely with the SmartWave dB app without interrupting workflow. Careful design features like a locking windscreen, sturdy clip, large front-lit display, bright status LEDs, and more make NoiseCHEK the top choice in noise dosimeters. Demo NoiseCHEK at AIHA Connect Booth 1003. Read More

Featured

Most   Popular

Artificial Intelligence