What type of fire hose fitting do you need for your job?
A reliable fire hose connection is critical when fighting fire. Understanding which fitting is appropriate for the job is the first step in selecting the correct fire hose connectors and adapters.
- Fire hose end connectors, commonly referred to as end connectors, are made from cast brass or extruded aluminum, which is then hard-coated. They are mechanically attached to the fire hose by utilizing a copper alloy expansion ring that traps the hose against the inside (bowl) of the coupling. This connector/coupling is then used to attach the discharge hose to the fire hydrant or other water source.
- Adapter fittings and couplers are used to change from one size or thread pattern to another, direction or include a swivel in a hose lay line. They are also made from brass, aluminum and occasionally composite plastic.
- Higbee thread fittings provide easy identification of the first thread and allow for the quick connection of one coupling to another, or to the water source eliminating cross threading.
- Storz fire hose couplings are often referred to as sexless. This adapter secures using interlocking hooks and flanges with a quarter turn of the coupling, and sometimes features a locking device.
- Cam and groove couplings, which are considered to be a “quick connect” style fire hose connector, are most prevalent in industrial applications. It is a straightforward and economical way of disconnecting and reconnecting discharge hoses.
Certain fire hose fittings and adapters work better in different applications. Contact us to determine which connector is best for your specific situation.
