Flange Fire Hydrant – Complete Guide by Fortis Forge
Introduction
In any firefighting system, rapid water access is essential. Fire hydrants serve as critical connection points for firefighters to tap into the water supply. Among the various types, flange fire hydrants are widely used for their secure, bolted connection to underground pipelines.
At Fortis Forge, we specialize in manufacturing UL Listed and FM Approved flange fire hydrants, designed for NFPA 24 compliance and tested for dependable performance under extreme conditions.
1. What Is a Flange Fire Hydrant?
A flange fire hydrant is a type of hydrant where the base or inlet is equipped with a flanged connection. This allows the hydrant to be bolted directly to a mating flange on the water supply line.
Key features:
Bolted connection for stability
Compatible with standard flange sizes and pressure ratings
Easy to install and maintain
2. Why Choose Flanged Connections for Fire Hydrants?
Strength & Stability: Flanges provide a rigid, leak-proof joint that withstands high water pressures.
Ease of Maintenance: Hydrants can be removed without disturbing the main water line.
Standardization: Matches widely accepted flange standards (ANSI/ASME, DIN, BS).
Durability: Resistant to vibration and heavy water surge during firefighting.
3. Types of Flange Fire Hydrants
a. Wet Barrel Flange Hydrant
Contains water in the barrel at all times.
Common in warm climates.
b. Dry Barrel Flange Hydrant
Barrel remains dry until activated.
Ideal for cold climates to prevent freezing.
c. Pillar Type Flange Hydrant
Vertical, above-ground hydrant for quick hose connection.
d. Underground Flange Hydrant
Concealed installation, often used in high-traffic areas.
4. Components of a Flange Fire Hydrant
Flange Base: Bolted connection point to underground pipe.
Barrel: Vertical body containing valve mechanisms.
Outlet Nozzles: For hose attachment (commonly 2½” or 4½”).
Operating Nut/Cap: Used to open and close the hydrant.
Sealing System: Prevents leakage under pressure.
5. Materials Used in Fortis Forge Flange Fire Hydrants
Ductile Iron: Excellent strength and impact resistance.
Carbon Steel: Used in flange components for added durability.
Brass/Bronze: Corrosion-resistant parts for water contact areas.
Stainless Steel: For critical sealing and fastener components.
6. Standards & Certifications
Fortis Forge flange fire hydrants meet:
NFPA 24 – Standard for installation of private fire service mains
UL Listed – Tested for performance and safety
FM Approved – Insurance industry approval
AWWA C502 / C503 – Hydrant manufacturing standards
ANSI/ASME B16.5 – Flange dimensions and pressure ratings
7. Sizes & Pressure Ratings
Flange Sizes: DN65 to DN150 (2½” to 6”)
Outlet Sizes: 2½” and 4½” standard
Pressure Ratings: PN16, PN25, Class 125, Class 150
Operating Pressure: Up to 20 bar (290 psi)
8. Manufacturing Process at Fortis Forge
Material Inspection: Only certified raw materials used.
Casting & Forging: Hydrant body and flange formed with precision.
Machining: Flange faces and bolt holes finished to exact standards.
Coating: Epoxy or fusion-bonded coatings for corrosion resistance.
Assembly: Hydrant internal components fitted and tested.
Quality Testing: Hydrostatic, torque, and flow tests conducted.
9. Applications of Flange Fire Hydrants
Municipal Water Networks: Street-side firefighting access.
Industrial Complexes: Oil refineries, factories, warehouses.
Ports & Harbors: Fire safety for ships and docks.
Airports: Quick response for aircraft-related fires.
Large Commercial Buildings: Integrated fire water supply.
10. Advantages of Fortis Forge Flange Fire Hydrants
UL/FM Certified Quality
Custom Flange Configurations Available
High Flow Capacity for rapid firefighting
Durable Coatings for long service life
Easy Maintenance with bolt-on design
11. Installation Guidelines
Ensure flange face is clean and aligned.
Use appropriate gasket for sealing.
Tighten bolts in a star pattern for even compression.
Test hydrant for leaks before commissioning.
12. Maintenance Tips
Operate hydrant periodically to ensure function.
Inspect gaskets and bolts annually.
Flush hydrant to remove debris.
Re-coat or paint if surface wear is detected.
13. FAQs
Q: Can flange fire hydrants be installed underground?
A: Yes, with proper valve access, but pillar type is more common above ground.
Q: Are Fortis Forge hydrants compatible with all pipe materials?
A: Yes, as long as the flange standards match.
Q: Do you offer hydrants for high-pressure systems?
A: Yes, up to PN25 / Class 150 ratings.
Conclusion
Flange fire hydrants are a reliable, robust, and standardized solution for delivering water quickly during emergencies. Fortis Forge offers premium-grade hydrants engineered to meet international safety standards, ensuring maximum reliability in firefighting operations.
With UL/FM certifications, corrosion-resistant materials, and precision manufacturing, our flange fire hydrants provide long-term safety and performance for municipal, industrial, and commercial fire protection systems.