What type of valves are found on hydrants?

Fire hydrants commonly utilize gate valves for their operation. A gate valve is specifically designed to allow for a straight, unobstructed flow of water when fully opened, minimizing turbulence and friction losses. This is crucial during fire emergencies when a swift, efficient flow of water is required. The design of the gate valve, with its ability to completely open or close, makes it ideal for hydrant applications where full flow and reliability are essential.

While other types of valves, such as ball valves and butterfly valves, serve important functions in different contexts, they are not typically used in fire hydrants. Check valves, on the other hand, are employed in systems to prevent backflow but do not facilitate the necessary flow control required when drawing water from a hydrant. Therefore, the use of gate valves in hydrants aligns with their operational requirements and effectiveness in fire suppression scenarios.