What is the minimum diameter of a branch line connecting a fire hydrant to a main?

The minimum diameter of a branch line connecting a fire hydrant to a main is critical for ensuring adequate water flow and pressure during firefighting operations. A branch line with at least a 6-inch diameter is designed to provide sufficient water supply, as it allows for higher flow rates needed in emergencies. This size accommodates highway standards and hydraulic requirements, ensuring that the hydrant can discharge the necessary volume of water quickly.

Hydrants often need to deliver a considerable amount of water rapidly to combat fires effectively, and a 6-inch diameter allows for a sufficient cross-sectional area to achieve this. Smaller diameters might restrict flow, leading to insufficient water delivery in critical situations, which could compromise firefighting efforts.

Understanding the requirements for hydrant connections is essential for proper fire safety management and community preparedness. Thus, the requirement for at least a 6-inch diameter branch line reflects established best practices in fire protection infrastructure.