Fire nozzles connect to the end of fire hoses and control the flow and direction of water. They come in a variety of sizes, styles, materials, and types to best meet different needs. Choosing the right one is important to ensure firefighters have the best tools for the job at hand. The right nozzles can help them reach the seat of the fire and quickly extinguish it or cool down the area to make it safe for forcible entry and other activities.
Nozzles are made of metal or plastic, with brass being the strongest option. The nozzles use threads to attach to the hose, and they must be compatible to ensure a tight connection. Nozzles with threads that match the hose’s are more likely to stay in place and withstand high pressure and temperatures. The material also influences the durability and longevity of the nozzle, with metal nozzles being more durable than plastic ones.
NFPA 1964 divides fire nozzles into four major categories: basic, constant pattern, constant pressure, and constant/select gallonage. These categories are based on whether or not the nozzles have variable settings for pattern, pressure, and gallonage. Basic nozzles have an adjustable spray pattern with a rated discharge at the specified pattern setting and nozzle pressure. These nozzles may have the ability to change from straight stream to fog and can adjust the flow rate.
When selecting a nozzle, it is helpful to try several out and get a feel for them before buying. It is particularly important to hold a nozzle in the hand and grab it to see how it feels. A nozzle with a comfortable grip will be easier to handle for long periods of time. fire hose nozzles