What pressure and flow are 1½" hose stations designed for?

The design standard for 1½" hose stations revolves around achieving sufficient flow and pressure to effectively meet firefighting demands. Typically, a 1½" hose is utilized in applications where a moderate volume of water is necessary to combat fires, and 50 gallons per minute (gpm) is considered the standard flow rate that balances event risk management with appropriate pressure requirements.

Choosing 50 gpm acknowledges the needs of most fire scenarios while ensuring the hose is manageable and can deliver an effective firefighting stream. This flow rate is practical for personnel operating the hose, allowing them to effectively maneuver and direct the stream.

The correct flow rate reflects industry practices and standards established by fire safety codes, which recognize the need for adequate pressure at a practical flow rate to ensure operational efficiency in emergency situations. Thus, while higher flow rates might provide increased water volume, 50 gpm is optimal for the specific capabilities of 1½" hoses, supporting effective fire suppression while still being operable for firefighters in real-life scenarios.