Large scale water supply operations involving fire hydrants require the ability to maximize a fire department pumper's access to the available water. This generally means taking in water from every available hydrant outlet nozzle and using LDH whenever possible. A typical set-up, called a "heavy water hook-up" in some areas of the country uses some type of "hydrant assist" valve on the main outlet nozzle and a ball (or gate) valve on the two auxiliary outlets (often 2-1/2")
When expecting large fire flow needs, take that extra minute or two to gain access to ALL hydrant outlets.
This 1,500 gpm pumper is now capable of flowing upwards of 2,250 gpm because each suction inlet is being fed by an LDH line. In addition, the access to the available water in the fire hydrant is maximized.
