What is the primary consequence of water flowing through hoses and pipes?

The primary consequence of water flowing through hoses and pipes is friction loss. This phenomenon occurs as water moves through the interior surfaces of the hoses and pipes, encountering resistance due to the roughness of the materials and the length of the piping system. The longer and narrower the hose or pipe, the greater the friction loss, which can significantly impact the water pressure and flow rate delivered to the nozzle during firefighting operations.

Understanding friction loss is critical for fire apparatus operators because it helps them calculate the amount of pressure needed at the pump to ensure that adequate water reaches the firefighters at the scene. Operators often refer to friction loss charts or formulas to determine the necessary adjustments to maintain effective pressure in firefighting operations. This concept is central to ensuring efficient water delivery when combating fires, as it directly affects the effectiveness of operations conducted by the firefighting team.