BRANCH AND NOZZLE

OBJECTIVE Learning Outcome 3 Describe Branch and Nozzle.

Assessment Criteria 3

3.1 3.2 3.3

State the purpose and types of branch. State the purpose and types of nozzle. State care and service testing of branch and nozzle.

REFERENCES a. Rescue Hand Book - Chapter 5.

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BRANCH AND NOZZLE

INTRODUCTION Branch pipe or branch as it is generally called is used at the delivery and of a line of hose. Branches may be divided into three principle classes. a. Those that yield the fire stream in the form of jet which cannot be controlled by the branch operator. b. Those that provide some form of control by shutting of the jet alterin gate shape of size or changing its character. c. Those which are use exclusive on hose reel hose.

Standard Branch Those are standard in every respect except length, are normally made of alloys of copper or aluminium and have at the inlet end a standard male instantaneous coupling. A washer usually of synthetic rubber or leather is used for making a watertight joint between nozzle and branch. BS 336 specifies a minimum length of 8 in for the body of the branch. Fig 5.1 (1) illustrates a standard type branch with an instantaneous male connection at the inlet end and a standard v tread at the nozzle end.

Non Standard Branch In outward appearance it is similar to the standard branch but it is fitted internally throughout its whole cylindrical tube of equal diameter throughout, held in position by three longitudinal guide vanes, it is claimed that this type of branch reduced turbulence effect and thus produces a more solid jet. One type of non-standard branch which is still used by some fire brigades is known as the streamform branch (Fig.5.1(2)).

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The Hand Controlled Branch The Branch can be adjusted so either a jet or spray or both can be obtained. This spray within certain limit be adjusted to any desired angle and be used as a protection against heat or smoke. While at the same time a solid jet is available with which to attack the hearts of fire.

Figure 5.3 : Hand Controlled Branch Hose reel Branches Hose have dual purposed function of providing either a straight jet or a spray which can be adjusted by the operator.

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Function Nozzle Use every end of the hose nozzle is to convert the pressure energy (pressure) to the speed (velocity) for effective jet. it is done by reducing the surface area of the nozzle. Speed of water leaving the nozzle will varies with the size of the nozzle. Type of Nozzle. a. Standard Nozzle. Nozzle to fit standard branch are normally made of alloys coppers or aluminum and has a standard connection with BS 336. The standard nozzle connection is a female 45 mm PSP thread (11 thread per in). The internal surface of the nozzle smooth and at the branch and is of the some internal diameter as the delivery orifice of the branch. The bore is shaped to give the best hydraulic condition and the nozzle is recessed slightly to protect the rim from damage.

Figure 5.6 : Standard Nozzle b. Hose Reel Nozzle. There is various types of hose reel nozzle and spray head in used by fire brigade. Hose reel nozzle either a 3/16 in of in jet orifice. Hose reel head are usually detachable and in some cases designed that may be used on the extension tube (Applicators). c. Small Nozzle. A variety of pattern of small nozzle are used on appliances on hand pump, stirrup pumps and portable fire extinguisher. They are designed to produce a jet and may not have a control cock. Care And Service Testing Of Branch And Nozzle Nozzle should be inspected on a regular basic, along with all of the equipment on a fire deparment vehicle. A nozzle should be checked after each use before being placed back on the apparatus. They should be kept clean and clear of debris. Debris inside the nozzle will affect the performance of the nozzle, possibly reducing flow. Dirt and grit can interfere with the valve operation and prevent opening and closing fully. A light grease on the valve ball will kept it operating smoothly. On fog nozzles, inspect the fingers on the face of the nozzle. Make sure all fingers are present and the finger ring can spin freely. Any missing fingers or failure of the ring to spin should be referred to a competent technician for repair.

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CONCLUSION By knowing this lesson will allow a fireman to fight adjust fire for fire fighting equipment with more effective.

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