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Calculating Friction Loss: Standard: NFPA 1002, Standard On Fire Apparatus Driver/Operator Professional
Calculating Friction Loss: Standard: NFPA 1002, Standard On Fire Apparatus Driver/Operator Professional
Indication: The Driver Operator needs to be able to calculate friction loss in fire hose in
order to produce an effective fire stream.
Procedure: In the field, we calculate friction loss in 3” hose by using the “Q2” method, and
friction loss in 2½” hose by the “2Q2”. Friction loss in 1¾” hose is calculated by memorization.
Friction Loss
Friction loss is pressure used to overcome resistance while
forcing water through fire hose, pipes, and appliances. To
calculate the friction loss, it is necessary to know the
following:
Appliance Loss
Friction loss in small appliances (double males, double
females, reducers, wyes, and siamese) is negligible, and
therefore, will not be calculated. Add 25 psi for friction
loss for the deck gun when mounted on the engine
(Freightliners only) and 15 psi when used as a ground
monitor.