Flange Hydrant – Complete Guide by Fortis Forge
Introduction
In modern fire protection systems, speed, reliability, and durability are essential. A flange hydrant is a key component that provides a secure, leak-proof connection between the fire hydrant and the underground water supply.
At Fortis Forge, we manufacture and supply UL Listed and FM Approved flange hydrants that comply with NFPA 24 and other international fire safety standards. Our hydrants are engineered for high flow performance, easy maintenance, and long service life in municipal, industrial, and commercial firefighting systems.
1. What Is a Flange Hydrant?
A flange hydrant is a fire hydrant designed with a flanged base connection. The flange allows the hydrant to be bolted directly to a mating flange on the underground fire water main.
Main characteristics:
Sturdy bolted connection
Leak-proof sealing with gaskets
Compatibility with standard flange sizes and ratings
Easy removal for repair or replacement
2. Why Flanged Connections Are Preferred in Hydrants
Strong Mechanical Joint: Withstands water hammer and high flow pressures.
Ease of Installation: Simple bolting process with no threading or welding.
Maintenance-Friendly: Hydrant can be removed without disturbing the pipeline.
Standardization: Matches ANSI/ASME B16.5 or equivalent flange dimensions.
Long Service Life: Robust design resists vibration, corrosion, and physical impacts.
3. Types of Flange Hydrants
a. Wet Barrel Flange Hydrant
Always charged with water.
Common in warm climates.
b. Dry Barrel Flange Hydrant
Barrel is dry until hydrant is opened.
Prevents freezing in cold climates.
c. Pillar Type Flange Hydrant
Above-ground installation for fast access.
d. Underground Flange Hydrant
Hidden installation with access covers, often used in heavy traffic areas.
4. Main Components of a Flange Hydrant
Flange Base: Bolted to underground pipeline flange.
Hydrant Barrel: Vertical body housing the operating mechanism.
Outlet Nozzles: Hose connection points (usually 2½” and/or 4½”).
Operating Nut/Stem: Opens and closes hydrant valve.
Sealing & Drainage Systems: Prevent leakage and remove residual water.
5. Materials Used in Fortis Forge Flange Hydrants
Ductile Iron: Main body for strength and impact resistance.
Carbon Steel: For flange sections, providing robust bolting support.
Brass/Bronze: Corrosion-resistant water contact parts.
Stainless Steel: High-strength sealing and fastening components.
6. Compliance & Standards
Our flange hydrants are designed and tested to:
NFPA 24 – Private fire service mains and hydrants
UL Listed – Independent verification of safety & performance
FM Approved – Insurance-grade quality approval
AWWA C502 / C503 – Hydrant construction standards
ANSI/ASME B16.5 – Flange dimensions and ratings
7. Sizes, Ratings & Outlet Configurations
Flange Inlet Sizes: 2½” to 6” (DN65 to DN150)
Outlet Sizes: 2½” single/double, 4½” steamer outlet
Pressure Ratings: PN16, PN25, Class 125, Class 150
Flow Capacity: Up to 2500 L/min or more depending on model
8. Manufacturing Process at Fortis Forge
Raw Material Selection – Certified materials for reliability.
Casting/Forging – Precision shaping of body and flange.
Machining – Flange faces, bolt holes, and internal threads finished accurately.
Coating – Epoxy powder coating or fusion bonded epoxy for corrosion resistance.
Assembly – Nozzles, stems, valves installed to spec.
Testing – Hydrostatic, flow, and torque testing.
9. Applications of Flange Hydrants
Municipal Streets & Public Areas – Quick access for firefighting crews.
Industrial Zones – Factories, refineries, chemical plants.
Ports & Docks – Marine firefighting support.
Airports – Emergency firefighting for runways and hangars.
Commercial Complexes – Integrated into private fire networks.
10. Advantages of Fortis Forge Flange Hydrants
UL/FM Approved reliability
Customizable flange sizes and outlet configurations
High corrosion resistance for harsh environments
Easy maintenance bolt-on design
High flow performance for fast firefighting response
11. Installation Best Practices
Ensure pipe flange and hydrant flange match dimensions and rating.
Use high-quality gaskets for leak-proof sealing.
Tighten flange bolts evenly in a cross-pattern.
Perform a flow test after installation.
12. Maintenance Guidelines
Operate hydrant periodically to confirm function.
Flush hydrant to remove sediment.
Inspect and replace worn gaskets or seals.
Apply protective paint/coating to exposed parts.
13. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the difference between a flange hydrant and a threaded hydrant?
A: Flange hydrants use a bolted flange connection, while threaded hydrants connect via screw threads. Flanges are stronger and easier to maintain.
Q: Can flange hydrants be customized?
A: Yes, Fortis Forge offers various flange sizes, outlet types, and coatings.
Q: Are your flange hydrants suitable for saltwater use?
A: Yes, with corrosion-resistant coatings and materials.
Conclusion
A flange hydrant is a vital element in fire safety infrastructure, offering secure, durable, and easy-to-maintain connections to firefighting water supplies.
At Fortis Forge, we produce world-class flange hydrants that meet the toughest global safety standards, ensuring unmatched reliability in critical firefighting operations. With customizable options, superior materials, and precision engineering, our flange hydrants deliver long-lasting protection for municipalities, industries, and commercial complexes worldwide.