When calculating friction loss for 5" hose, what is the loss rate per 100' section when flowing 1000 GPM?

Friction loss in fire hose is an important calculation for fireground operations, as it affects the pressure available at the nozzle and ultimately impacts the flow of water. For a 5-inch hose, established formulas provide the friction loss values based on the flow rate in gallons per minute (GPM).

When flowing 1000 GPM through a 5-inch hose, the friction loss is recognized to be approximately 5 psi per 100 feet of hose. This value is derived from empirical data and established guidelines that indicate how much pressure can be expected to decrease due to friction as water flows through the hose over a distance.

This means that for every 100 feet of 5-inch hose when flowing at a rate of 1000 GPM, one can anticipate a loss of around 5 psi, which is critical for ensuring that adequate pressure reaches the nozzle and is sufficient for effective firefighting operations.

Understanding this friction loss is essential for fire engineers and operators, as it helps them plan hose layouts and pump pressures effectively, ensuring they maintain desired pressure levels at the point of discharge.