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 ADDITIONAL IMPORTANT NOTICES AND DISCLAIMERS CONCERNING NFPA® STANDARDS

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 291-1

Copyright© 2021 National Fire Protection A~sociation®. All Rights Reserved.

Recommended Practice for

Water Flow Testing and Marking of Hydrants

2022 Edition

This edition of NFPA 291, Recommended Practice fm· Water Flow Testing and Mmking of Hydrants, was
prepared by the Technical Committee on Private Water Supply Piping Systems, released by the
Correlating Committee on Automatic Sprinkler Systems, and acted on by the NFPA membership
during the 2021 NFPA Technical Meeting held june 14-July 2. It was issued by the Standards Council
on August 26, 2021, with an effective date of September 15, 2021, and supersedes a ll previous
editions.
This edition ofNFPA 291 was approved as an American National Standard on September 15,
2021.

Origin and Development ofNFPA 291

The NFPA Committee on Public Water Supplies for Private Fire Protection presented the idea of
indicating the relative available fire service water supply from hydrants in its 1934 report. The
comm ittee felt then and feels now that such an indication is of substantial value to water and fire
deparunents. The following recommendations were initially adopted in 1935. The committee agreed
that tests of individual hydrants did not give as complete and satisfactory results as group testing but
expressed the opinion that tests of individual hydrants did have sufficient value to make the
following recommendations worthy of adoption. This \vas reconfirmed with minor editorial changes
in 1974.
The 1977 edition was completely rewritten and a chapter on the flow testing of hydrants was
added.
The 1982 edition wa~ reconfirmed by the committee.
The 1988 edition of the document noted sevet-al changes that clarified and reinforced certain
recommendations. Specific guidan ce was added on the correct method of using a pitot tube to gain
accurate test results.
The 1995 edition i.n corpot-ated several changes in an attempt to make the document more user-
friendly. Changes were also incorporated with regard to the layout of hydrant and \vater flow tests.
The 2002 edition clarified the recommendations for flow tests and \vas resu·uctured to comply
,.nth the Manual of Style for NFPA 1echnical Cmnmittee Documents.
The 2007 edition represented a reconfirmation of the 2002 edition, as there were no technical
changes.
The 2010 edition clarified the responsibility for marking of hydrants.
The 2013 edition ofNFPA 291 added language recommending frequencies for flushing and flow
testing of public hydrants in Section 4.13.
No technical revisions were made to the 2016 edition of NFPA 291 .
The 2019 edition ofNFPA 291 included the metric formula for discharge through c ircular
orifices, and the table on discharge through circular orifices \vas updated to provide measurable
velocity pressures in the metric system.
The 2022 edition ofNFPA 291 revises the purpose and application of this recommended practice
to better clarify its applicability. Definitions of the various hydrant types have been added, and the list
of equipment needed for field wot·k has been modified and expanded, describing the type of

NFPA and National Fire Protection Association are registered trademarks of the National Fire Protection Association, Quincy, Massachusetts 02169.
291-2 WATER FLOW TESTING AND MARKING OF HYDRANTS

pressure gauges to be used and adding various types of discharge devices. Finally, a new test method for evaluating the available
flow through a single hydt-ant has been added to Chaptet- 4.

2022 Edition
 COMMITIEE PERSONNEL 291-3

Correlating Committee on Automatic Sprinkler Systems

William E. Koffel, Chair
Koffe l Associates, Inc., MD [SE]

RolandA. Asp, National Fire Sprinkler Association, Inc., MD [M] Charles W. Ketner, National Automatic Sprinkler Fitters LU 669,
Rep. National Fire Sprinkler Association MD[L]
Jose R. Baz,JRB Associates Group Inc., FL [M] Rep. United A~sn. of J ourneymen & Apprentices of d1e
Rep. NFPA Latin American Section Plumbing & Pipe Fitting Industry
Kerry M. Bell, UL LLC, IL [RT] James D. Lake, Viking Corporation, Ml [M]
Tracey D. Bellamy, Telgian Corpot·ation, GA [U] JohnA.LeBlanc, FM Global, MA [I]
Rep. The Home Depot Kenneth W. Linder, Swiss Re, CT [I]
Chase A. Browning, Medford Fire Department, O R [E] David 0. Lowrey, City of Boulder Fire Rescue, CO [E ]
Steven W. Dellasanta, J ensen H ughes Associates, Inc., Rl [SE] Bryan Edwin Matthews, Liberty Mutual Group, NY [I]
John August Denhardt, American Fire Sprinkler Association Garner A. Palenske, Wiss Janney Elsmer Associates, Inc. (WJE), CA
(AFSA), TX [IM] [SE]
Rep. American Fire Sprinkler Association Lawrence Richard Phillips, US Deparrment of the Navy, VA [E]
Michae!J. Friedman, Friedman Consulting, Inc., MD [SE] Adam Seghi, Coda Risk Analysis, TX [I]
Alex Hoffman, Viking Fire Protection Inc., Canada [IM] Joseph Su, National Research Council of Canada, Canada [ RT]
Rep. Canadian Automatic Sprinkler Association
J. Michael Thompson, GH D/ The Protection Engineering Group,
Sultan M.Javeri, SC Engineering, France [IM] PC, VA [SE]

Alternates
Ralph E. Bless, Jr., Telgian Corporation, GA [U] Jeffrey M. Hugo, National Fire Sprinkler A~ociation, Inc., MI [M]
(Alt. to Tracey D. Bellamy) (Alt. to Roland A. Asp)
Bruce H. Clarke, American International Group, Inc. (AIG), SC [I] JackA. Medovich, Fire & Life Safety America, MD [IM]
(Alt. to Adam Seghi) (Alt. to John August Denhardt)
Russell P. Fleming, Northeast Fire Suppression Associates, LLC, NH Donato A. Pirro, Electro Sistemas De Panama, S.A., Panama [M]
[SE] (Alt. to Jose R. Baz)
(AIL to Michael j. Friedman) Jason W. R yckman , Canadian Automatic Sprinkler Association,
Scott T. Franson, The Viking Corporation, Ml [M] Canada [IM]
(Alt. toJ ames D. Lake) (Alt. to Alex Hoffman)
David B. Fuller, FM Approvals, Rl [I] Douglas Paul Stultz, US D epartment of the Navy, VA [E]
(AIL to J ohn A. Le Blanc) (Alt. tO Lawrence Richard Phillips)
J effrey E. Harper, J ENSEN H UGHES, IL [SE] Jeffrey J. Van Rhyn, Jr., Local669 J ATC, NV [L]
(Alt. to Steven W. De llasanta) (Alt. to Charles W. Ketner)
J eff Hebenstreit, UL LLC, LL [ RT]
(Alt. to Kerry M. Bell)

Nonvoting
James B. Biggins, TUV SUD America Inc./ Global Risk Consultants R ussell B. Leavitt, Te lgian Corporation, AZ [U]
Corporation, LL [SE] Rep. T C on Sprinkler System Discharge Criteria
Rep. TC on Hanging & Bracing of Watet~Based Systems JohnJ. Walsh, UAJ oint Apprenticeship Committee Local 669, MD
Christopher I. Deneff, FM Global, RI [I ] [SE]
Rep. TC on Hanging & Bracing of Water-Based Systems Rep. Uni ted A~sn. ofJ ourneymen & Apprentices of the
Raymond A. Grill, Arup, DC [SE] Plumbing & Pipe Fitting Industry
Rep. TC on Sprinkler System Installation Criteria (Member Emeritus)
Kenne th E. Isman, University of Maryland, MD [SE]
Rep. TC on Residential Sprinkler Systems

Chad Duffy, NFPA Staff Liaison

This list rejm:sents the membership at the time the Committee was balloted on the final text ofthis edition.
Since that t ime, changes in the membership ma)' have occun-ed. A key to classifications is found at the
back of the dowment.

NOTE: Membership on a committee shall not in and of i t~ elf constitute an endorsement of

the Association or any document developed by the committee on which the member serves.

Committee Scope: This Committee shall have overall responsibility for documents that
pertain to the criteria for me design and installation of automatic, open and foam-water
sprinkler systems including the character and adequacy of water supplies, and d1e selection
of sprinklers, pip ing, valves, and a ll materials and accessories. This Committee does not
cover d1e installation of tanks and rowers, nor the installation, maintenance, and use of

2022 Edition
291-4 WATER FLOW TESTING AND MARKING OF HYDRANTS

cemral station, proprietary, auxiliary, and local signaling systems for watchmen, fire alarm,
supervisory service, nor the design of fire department hose connections.

2022 Edition
 COMMITIEE PERSONNEL 291-5

Technical Committee on Private Water Supply Piping Systems

Robert G. Caputo, Chail·
Fire & Life Safety America , AZ [IM]

RolandA. Asp, National Fire Sprinkler Association , Inc., MD [M] Michael Larsen , Annvay Inc., MI [U]
Rep. National Fire Sprinkler Association Leslie " Chip" L. Lindley, II, Lindley Fire Protection Company Inc.,
James B. Biggins, TUV SUD America Inc./ Global Risk Consultants CA[IM]
Corporation, IL [SE] James M. Maddry, J ames M. Maddry, P.E., GA [SE]
Dominic Bosco, Shambaugh & Son, NV [IM] Bob D. Morgan, Fort Worth Fire Departme nt, TX [E]
Rep. Illinois Fire P revention Association Jason R. Olliges, Sprinkler Fitters Local 268, MO [L]
Marinus Both, API Group Inc., MA [IM] Rep. Uni ted Assn. ofJ ourneymen & Apprentices of the
Rep. National Fire Sprinkler Association Plumbing & Pipe Fitting Industry
Flora F. Chen, Hayward Fire Department, California, CA [E] Shawn C. Olson , C lackamas County Fire District # I, OR [E]
Stephen A. Clark, Jr., Allianz, GA [I] john H. Pecot, J ohnson Controls, TX [M]
j effry T. Dudley, National Aeronautics & Space Adminisu·ation, Rep. J ohnson Controls
Kennedy Space Center (NASA), FL [U ] Dion Powell, Liberty Mutual , I.L [ I]
Byron E. Ellis, Entergy Corporation, LA [U] Martin Ramos, Environme ntal Systems Design, Inc., LL [SE]
Rep. Edison Electric Institute
James R. Richardson, Lisle Woodridge Fire District, I L [E]
Brandon W. Frakes, AXA XL/ Giobal Asset Protection Services,
Daniel Sanchez, City of Los Angeles, CA [E]
LLC, NC [I]
P eter T. Schwab, Wayne Automatic Fire Sprinklers, Inc., FL [IM]
Robert M. Gagnon, Gagnon Engineering, MD [SE]
Austin L. Smith, Consolid ated Nuclear Security, LLC, Y-12, TN [U]
LaMar Hayward, 3-D Fire Protection , Inc., lD [1M]
Kenneth W. Wagoner, Parsley Consulting Engineers, CA [SE]
J eff Hebenstreit, UL LLC, IL [RT]
Byron Weisz, Cen-Cal Fire System s, Inc., CA [1M]
Kevin J . Kelly, Victaulic, PA [M]
Rep. An1e rican Fire Sprinkler Association
Rep. National Fire Sprinkler Association
Alan R. Laguna, Merit Sprinkler Company, Inc. , LA [1M]

Alternates

Mark A. Bowman, Global Asset Protection Services, LLC, OH [I] Thomas William Noble, American Fire Sprinkler Association, TX
(Alt. to Brandon W. Frakes) [1M]
Christopher D Fulkerson, Local 669 Jatc, IN [L] (Alt. to Byron Weisz)
(Alt. to J ason R. Olliges) William O verton, Consolidated Nuclear Security, LLC, Y-12 , TN [U]
Williamj. Gotto, T UV SUD America Inc./ Global Risk Consultants (Alt. tO Austin L. Smith)
Corporation, NJ [SE] Ryan Lee P eterson , Wayne Automatic Fire Sprinklers, Inc., FL [IM]
(Alt. to J ames B. Biggins) (Alt. to Peter T. Schwab)
Andrew C. Higgins, AJiianz, NC [I] Steven P. Rasch , J ohnson Controls, OK [M]
(Alt. to Stephe n A. C lark, J r.) (Alt. to John H. Pecot)
Conor J. Kauffman, Kauffman Company, TX [1M] William Scott Roberts, Quick Response Fire Protection, NJ [M]
(Alt. to Marin us Both) (Alt. tO Ro land A. Asp)
Larry Keeping, PLC Fire Safety Solutions, Canada [SE] Craig M Vesely, Alliant Energy, WI [U]
(Voting Alt.) (Alt. to Byron E. Ellis)
Kevin D. Maughan, Victaulic/Giobe Fire, Ml [M] James. A Zimmerman, J ENSEN HUGHES, IL [SE]
(Alt. to Kevin.J. Kelly) (Voting Alt.)
Michael G. McCormick, U L LLC, IL [RT]
(Alt. to J eff Hebensn-eit)

Nonvoting
Frans Alferink, Wavin Overseas, Nethe rlands [U ]

Chad Duffy, NFPA Staff Liaison

This list 1'ffpresents the m£mbership at the time the Committee was balloted on thefinalwxt ofthis etlition.
Since that time, changes in tit£ '»t£mbershif1 may have occun-ed. A ky to classifications is found at the
back of tit£ document.

NOTE: Membership on a committee shall not in and of itself constitute an endorsement of

the Association o r any document d eveloped by the committee on which t he me mbe r serves.

Committee Scope: This Committee sh a ll have the primary responsibili ty for documents o n
private piping systems supplying water fo r fire protection and for hyd rants, hose houses, and
valves. The Committee is also responsible for documents on fire flow testing and marking of
hydrants.

2022 Edition
291-6 WATER FLOW TESTING AND MARKING OF HYDRANTS

Contents

Chapter I Administration ............ ............................... . 291-7 4.5 Layout of Test and Procedure to Evaluate the
1.1 Scope .......... ............... .......................................... . 291-7 Avai lable Flow Through a Fire Hydrant............ . 291- 9
1.2 Purpose . .......... ..... .......... ...................................... 291-7 4.6 Equipment. ......................................................... . 291- 9
1.3 Application . ........ ......................... ........................ . 291-7 4.7 Test Procedure.... .................... ..... .................... ... . 291- 9
1.4 Units............................................................... ..... . 291-7 4.8 Pi tot Readings..... .................... ..... .................... ... . 291- 10
4.9 Determination of Discharge....... ............... ........ . 291- 10
Chapter 2 Referenced Publications ...... ..................... . 291-7 4.10 Use of Pumper Outlets....................................... . 291- 10
2.1 General ............................................... ................. . 291-7 4.11 Determination of Discharge Without a Pitot. ... . 291- 10
2.2 NFPA Pub lications. (Reserved) ......................... . 291-7 4.12 Calculation Results ............................................. . 291- 11
2.3 Other Publications.............................................. 291-7 4.13 Data Sheet. ..................................... ..................... . 291- 11
2.4 References for Extracts in Recommendations 4.14 System Corrections ............................................. . 291- 11
Sections............................................................... . 291-7 4.15 Public H ydrant Testing and Flushing ................ . 291- 11
Chapter 3 Definitions .............................. ............... ..... . 291- 7 Chapter 5 Marking of Hydrants .............................. ... . 291- 18
3.1 General. .......................... .......... ..... ...................... . 291- 7 5.1 Classification of H ydrants.................................. . 291- 18
3.2 NFPA Official Definitions . .................. ............... . 291- 7 5.2 Marking of Hydrants . .................. ....................... . 291- 18
3.3 General Definitions............ .......... ..... ................. . 291- 8
3.4 Hydrant Definitions.......... .................... .......... ..... 291- 8 Annex A Explanatory Material ................................. . 291- 18

Chapter 4 Flow Testing ........................ ....................... . 291- 8 Annex B Informational References ......................... . 291- 20
4.1 Water Flow Testing Purposes............... .............. . 291- 8
4.2 Rating Pressure ................................................... . 291- 8 Index 291- 21
4.3 Procedure............................................................ . 291- 8
4.4 L"lyout of Test and Procedure to Determine the
Available Water Supply in a Water Main ........... . 291- 8

2022 Edition
 DEFINITIONS 291-7

NFPA291 Table 1.4 SI Units and Conversion Factors

Recommended Practice for Unit Name Unit Symbol Conversion Factor

Liter L l gal = 3.785 L
Water Flow Testing and Marking of Hydrants Liter per m inute (L/min)/m 2 l gpm ft2 =
per square (40.746 L/ min) / m 2
2022 Edition meter
Cubic decimeter dm 3 l gal = 3.785 dm 3
IMPORTANT NOTE: This NFPA c/Qcument is made available for Pascal Pa l psi = 6894.757 Pa
use subject to important notices and legal disclnimers. These notices Bar bar l psi = 0.0689 bar
and disclaimers appear in all publications containing this document Bar bar l bar= 105 Pa
and may be found under the heading "Important Notices and Note: For additional co nversions and in formation, see ASTM SilO,
Disclaimers Concerning NFPA Standards. " They can also be viewed J.EL"E/ASTM SI 10 A nwrican National Slandan:t for Metric Practice, 2016.
at www. nJPa.org!disclaimers or obtained on request from NFPA.
UPDATES, ALERTS, AND FUTURE EDITIONS: New editions of 1.4.1 If a value for measurement as g iven in th is recomme n-
NFPA codes, standards, recommended practices, and guides (i.e.,
ded practice is followed b y an equivalent va lu e in other units,
NFPA Standards) are released on scheduled revision cycles. This the fit·st value stated is to b e regarded as the recommendation.
edition may be superseded by a later one, or it may be amended A g iven equivalent value m ig h t be approximate.
outside of its scheduled revision cycle through the issuance of Tenta-
tive Interim Amendments (TIAs). An o.!Jicial NFPA Standard at any
point in time consists of the current edition of the document, together Chapter 2 Referenced Publications
with all TIAs and Errata in effect. To verify that this c/Qcument is the
current edition or to determine if it has been amended by TIAs or 2.1 General. The documents or portions thereof listed in this
Errata, please consult the National Fire Codes® Subscription Service chapter at·e refet·enced within this recommended practice and
or the "List of NFPA Codes & Standards" at www. nfpa.org!docinfo. shall be considered part of th e recommendations of this docu-
In addition to TIAs and Errata, the chJcument infonnation pages also ment.
include the option to sign up for alerts for individual c/Qcuments and
to be involved in the development ofthe next edition.
2.2 NFPA Publications. (Reserved)
NOTICE: An asterisk (*) following the number or letter 2.3 Other Publications.
designating a paragraph indicates that explanatory material on
the paragraph can be found in Annex A. 2.3.1 ASTM Publications. ASTM International, 100 Ba rr
A reference in brackets r l following a section or paragraph Harbor Drive, P.O. Box C700, West Con shohocken, PA
indicates material that h as been extracted from another NFPA 19428-2959 .
document. Extracted text may be edited for consiste ncy and
ASTM SilO, WFF/ASTM SilO American National Standanl for
style and may include the revision of internal paragraph refer- Metric Practice, 2016.
ences and othet· references as appmpriate. Requests for inte r-
pretations or revisions of extracted text shall be sen t to the 2.3.2 Other Publications.
technical committee responsible for the source document.
Information on refet·enced and extracted publications can Merriam-Webster's Colkgiate Dictionary, 11th edition, Merria m-
be found in C hapter 2 and Annex B. Webster, Inc ., Springfield, MA, 2003.
2.4 References for Extracts in Recommendations Sections.
Chapter I Administration NFPA l , Fin! Code, 2021 edition.
NFPA 24, Standard for the Installation of Private Fire Service
1.1 * Scope. The scope of this document is water flow testing Mains and Their Appurtenances, 2022 editio n.
and marking of hydrants. NFPA 1141, Standard for Fin! Protection Infrastructure fm· Land
1.2* Purpose. This document provides recommended practi- Development in Wildland, Rw-al, and Suburban An~as, 2017 edition.
ces to test and determine the available water supply for fire
protection systems and fire flow purposes and the marking of Chapter 3 Definitions
hydrant~ .

1.3* Application. The application of this document is the flow 3.1 General. The definitions contained in this c hapter apply
testing and marking of both public and private fire hydrants. to the terms used in this recommended practice. Where terms
at·e not defined in this ch a pter o r 'vi thin a nothe t· c ha pter, th ey
1.4 Units. Metric units of measurement in this recommended should be defined using their o rdinarily accepted m eanings
practice are in accordance with the modernized metric system within the context in which they are u sed. Merriam-Webster's
known as the International System of Units (SI) . Two units Collegiate Dictionary, 11th edition, is the source for the ordina-
(liter and bar), outside of but recognized by SI, are commonly rily accepted meaning .
used in international fire protection. These uni ts are listed in
Table 1.4 with conversion factot·s. 3.2 NFPA Official Definitions.
3.2.1* Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). An organization,
office, or individual responsible for enforcing the requiremen ts
of a code or standard, or for approving equipment, materials,
an installation, or a procedure.

2022 Edition
291-8 WATER FLOW TESTING AND MARKING OF HYDRANTS

3.2.2* Listed. Equipment, materials, or services included in a would be available from a fire hydrant for firefighting purpo-
list published by an 01-ganization that is acceptable to the ses, 01- the status of the water supply distribution system for fire
authority having jurisdiction and concerned with evaluation of protection systems or for fire fight ing purposes.
products or services, that maintains periodic inspection of
production of listed equipment or materials or periodic evalua- 4.2 Rating Pressure.
tion of services, and whose listing states that either the equip- 4.2.1 For the purpose ofunifonn marking of fire hydrants, the
ment, material, or service meets appropriate designated ratings should be based on the flow available at the hydrant at a
standards or has been tested and found suitable for a specified residual pressure of 20 psi (1.4 bar) .
purpose.
4.2.2 It is generally recommended that a minimum t-esidual
3.2.3 Should. Indicates a recommendation or that which is pressure of 20 psi (1.4 bar) should be maintained at hydran ts
advised but not required. when delivering the fire flow. Fire department pumpers can be
3.3 General Definitions. operated where hydrant pressures are less, but with difficulty.
4.2.3 A primary concern should be the ability to maintain
3.3.1 Fire Flow. Th e flow rate of a water supply, measured at
20 psi (1.4 bar) residual pressure, that is available fm fire fight- sufficient residual pressure to prevent developing a negative
ing. [ I , 2021] pressure at any point in the su-eet mains, wh ich could result in
the collapse of the mains or other water system components or
3.3.2 Rated Capacity. The flow available from a hydrant at the back-siphonage of polluted water from some other intercon-
designated residual pressure (rated pressure), either measured nected source.
or calculated.
4.2.4 It should be noted that the use of residual pressures of
3.3.3 Residual Pressure. The pressure that exists in the disu-i- less than 20 psi (1.4 bar) is not permitted by many state hea lth
bution system, measured at the residual hydt·ant at the time the departments.
flow readings are taken at the flow hydrants.
4.3 Procedure.
3.3.4 Static Pressure. The pressure that exists at a given point
under normal distribution system conditions measured at the 4.3.1* Tests should be conducted during periods of peak
residual hydrant wid1 no hydrants flowing. demand, based on knowledge of the water supply and engi-
neeringjudgment.
3.4 Hydrant Definitions.
4.3.2 The procedure consists of discharging water at a meas-
3.4.1 * Dry Barrel H ydrant (Frostproof Hydrant). A type of ured t-ate of flow fi-om the system at a given location and
hydrant with the main control valve below the frost line observing the corresponding pressure drop in the mains.
between the footpiece and the barrel. (24, 20221
4.3.3* Th e fire hydrant and the area around the fire hydrant
3.4.2 Fire Hydrant. A valved connection on a water supply should be visually inspected fot- safety concerns priot- to
system having one or more outlets and that is used to supply conducting the flow test.
hose and fire department pumpers with water. [ 1141, 2017]
4.4* Layout of Test and Procedure to De termine the Available
3.4.3 Flow H ydrant. Th e hydrant that is used for the flow and Water Supply in a Water Main.
flow measurement of water during a flow test. [24, 2022]
4.4.1 After the location where the test is to be run has been
3.4.4 Flush H ydrant (Below Ground Hydrant) . A type of determined, a group of test hydran ts in the vicini ty is selected.
hydrant that is installed below the ground level that is intended
for use in congested urban areas or aircraft movement areas. 4.4.2 Once se lected, due considet-ation should be given to
potential interference with traffic flow patterns, damage to
3.4.5 Private Frre H ydrant. A valved connection on a water surroundings (e.g., roadways, sidewalks, landscapes, vehicles,
supply system having one or more outlets that is used to supply and pedesu-ians), and potential flooding problems both local
hose and fire department pumpers with water on private prop- and remote from the test site.
erty. (24, 2022]
4.4.3 One hydrant, designated the residual h ydrant, is chosen
3.4.6 Public H ydrant. A valved connection on a water supply to be the hydrant where tl1e normal static pressure will be
system having one or more outlets that is used to supply hose observed with the other hydran ts in the group closed, and
and fire department pumpers with water. [24, 2022] where the residual pressure will be observed with the other
hydrants flowing.
3.4.7 Residual H ydrant. The hydrant that is used for measur-
ing static and residual pressures during a flow test. (24, 2022] 4.4.4 Th is hydrant is chosen so it will be located between tl1e
hydrant to be flowed and the large mains that constitute the
3.4.8* Wet Barrel Hydrant. A type of hydrant that is intended immediate sources of water supply in the area. In Figure 4.4.4,
for use where there is no danger of freezing weather and where test layouts are indicated showing me residual hydrant designa-
each outlet is provided with a valve and an outlet. [24, 2022] ted witl1 the letter Rand hydrants to be flowed with the letter F.
4.4.5 The number of hydrants to be used in any test depends
Chapter 4 Flow Testing upon the su-ength of the distribution system in the vicin ity of
the test location .
4.1 Water Flow Testing Purposes.
4.4.6 To obtain satisfactory test results of theoretical calcula-
4.1.1 Water flow tests are conducted to determine tl1e availa- t ion of expected flows or rated capacities, sufficient d ischarge
ble water supply for fire protection purposes, the flow that should be ach ieved to cause a drop in pressure at the residual

2022 Edition
 FL OW TESTING 291-9

(1) A special hydrant cap tapped with a hole into which is

fitted a shon length of!.<, in . (6 mm) nipple provided with

-
a "T " connection for a pressure gauge and a petcock at
the end for relieving air pressure
(2) A single 100 psi (6.9 bar) or 200 psi (13.8 bar) bourdon

IR
1
F1
-
pressure gauge with 1 psi (0.07 bar) graduations fixed
onto the hydrant cap [ If the static pressure on the system
is greater than 100 psi (6.9 bar), the 200 psi (13.8 bar)
gauge will be required.]
One flow hydrant O ne or two flow hydrants
(3) A pitot tube and a 100 psi (6.9 bar) bourdon pressure
gauge with 1 psi (0.07 bar) graduations, fm each h ydrant
R to be flowed simultaneously

]' r ]' (4) A sufficient number of hydrant wrenches to operate the

hydrants simultaneously

- t- - t -
F3-
One to three flow hydrants One to four flow hydrants
F4
(5)* Playpipes, stream straighteners, or other specially
designed flow test outlets with known coefficients of
discharge
4.6.2 It is preferred to use playpipes or stream straighteners or
other specially designed flow test outlets with known coeffi-
Arrows indicate direction of flow: R- residual hydrant; F- flow hydrant c ients of discharge when testing hydrants due to mot·e su·eam-
lined flows and more accurate pi tot readings.
FIGURE 4.4.4 Suggested Test Layout for Hydrants.
4.6.3 All pressure gauges should be calibrated at least every
12 months, or more frequently depending on use.
hydrant of at least 10 percent. In water supply system s where
additional municipal pumps increase the flow and pressure as 4.6.4 When more than one hydrant is flowed, it is desirable
additional test hydrants are opened, it might be necessary to and could be necessary to facil itate communications between
declare an artificial drop in the static pressure of 10 percent to team members.
create a theoretical water supply curve. 4.7 Test Procedure.
4.4.7 vVhen conducting a flow test for the purpose of fit·e
4.7.1 In a typical test, the 100 psi (6.9 bar) or 200 psi (14 bar)
protection system design, the flow and pressure results should
gauge is attached to one of the 2~ in. (65 mm) outlets of the
be adequate for the total demand of the system .
residual hydrant using the special cap.
4.4.8 If the mains are small and the system weak, only one or
4.7.2 The cock on the gauge piping is opened, and the
two hydrants need to be flowed.
hydrant valve is opened full.
4.4.9 If the mains are large and the system strong, it might be
4.7.3 As soon as the a ir is exhausted from the barrel, the cock
necessary to flow as many as seven or e ight hydrants.
is closed.
4.5* Layout of Test and Procedure to Evaluate the Available
4.7.4 A reading (static pressure) is taken when the needle
Flow Through a Fire Hydrant.
comes to rest.
4.5.1 When the purpose of a flow test is to determine the avail-
4.7.5 At a given signal, each of the other hydrants is opened in
able flow through an individual fire hydrant only, the static and
succession, with discharge taking place directly from the open
residual pressures should be taken at a single hydrant. The flow
hydrant butts.
hydrant is also used as the static/ residual hydrant.
4.7.6 H ydrants should be opened one at a time.
4.5.2 A pressure gauge (or other pressure measuring device)
should be located on one of the 2\12 in. (65 mm) hydrant 4.7.7 With all hydrants flowing, water should be allowed to
outlets [see 4. 6.1 (5 )]. flow for a sufficient time to clear all debris and fore ign substan-
ces from the stream(s) .
4.5.3 A closed control valve connected to a discharge
nozzle(s) for the purpose of rate of flow measurement should 4.7.8 At that time, a signal is given to the people at the
be located on one of the other hydrant outlets. h ydrants to read the pitot pressure of the streams simultane-
ously while the residual pt·essure is be ing read.
4.5.4 The test procedures in Section 4.7 for venting ait· and
taking static/ residual readings and Section 4.8 for taking pitot 4.7.9 The final magnitude of the pressme drop can be
readings should be followed. controlled by the number of hydrants used and the number of
outl ets opened on each.
4.5.5 The control valve on another hydrant outlet should be
opened. vVhen the rate of flow stabi hzes, rate of flow and resid- 4. 7.10 After the readings have been taken, hydrants should be
ual pressure measurements are taken and recorded. shut clown slowly, one at a time, to prevent undue surges in the
system.
4.6 Equipment.
4.6.1 The equipment necessary for field work can consist of
the following:

2022 Edition
291-10 WATER FLOW TESTING AND l'vlARKING OF HYDRANTS

4.8 Pitot Readings.

4.8.1 vVhen measuring discharge from open hydrant butts, it
is always preferable from the standpoint of accuracy to use 2~
in. (65 mm) outlets rather than pumper outlets.
4.8.2 In practically all cases, the 2 ~ in . (65 mm) outlets are
filled across the entire cross-section dm-ing flow, while in the
case of the larger outlets there is very frequently a void near the
bottom. Outlet smooth Outlet square Outlet square and
and rounded and sharp projecting into barrel
4.8.3 vVhen measming the pi tot pressme of a stream of practi- (coef. 0.90) (coef. 0.80) (coef. 0.70)
cally uniform velocity, the orifice in the pi tot tube is held down-
stream approximately one-half the diameter of the hydrant FIGURE 4.9.1 Three General Types of H ydrant Outlets and
outlet or nozzle opening, and in the center- of the stream. (See Their Coefficients of Discharge.
Figure 4.8.3.)
4.8.4 The center line of the orifice should be at right angles to
the plane of the face of the hydrant outlet. [4.9.3a]

4.8.5 The air chamber on the pitot tube should be kept eleva-
Q = 29.84cd2 JP
ted .
where:
4.8.6 Pitot readings of less than 10 psi (0.7 bar) should be Q = flow (gpm)
avoided, if possible. c = coefficient of discharge (see Fzgm·e 4. 9.1)
d = diameter of the outlet (in. )
4.8.7 Opening additional hydrant outlets will aid in conu-ol-
p = pi tot pressure (velocity head) (psi)
ling the pi tot reading.
4.8.8 With dry barrel hydrants, the hydrant valve should be
[4.9.3b]
wide open to minimize problems with underground drain
valves. ~ = 0.666cd 2
..JP::
4.8.9 With wet barrel h ydrants, the valve for the flov.ring outlet
where:
should be wide open to give a more streamlined flow and a
more accurate pitot reading.
Q,1 = flow (L/ min)
c = coefficient of discharge (see Figure 4.9.1)
4.9 Determination of Discharge. d = diameter of the outlet (mm)
PM = pitot pressure (velocity head) (bar)
4.9.1 At the hydrants used for flow during the test, the
discharges from the open butts are determined from measure- 4.10 Use of Pumper Outlets.
ments of the diameter of the outlets flowed, the pitot pressure
(velocity head) of the streams as indicated by the pitot gauge 4.10.1 If it is necessary to use a pumper outlet, and flow tubes
readings, and the coefficie nt of the outlet being flowed as (stream straighteners) are not available, the best results are
determined from Figure 4.9 .1. obtained with the pitot pressure (velocity head) maintained
between 5 psi and 10 psi (0.34 bar and 0.7 bar).
4.9.2 If flow tubes (su-eam straighteners) are being utilized, a
coefficient of 0.95 is suggested unless the coefficient of the 4.10.2 For pumper outlets, the approximate d ischarge can be
tube is kno\vt1 . computed from Equatio ns 4.9.3a and 4.9.3b using the pitot
pressme (velocity head) at the center of the stream and multi-
4.9.3 The formula used to compute the discharge, Q, in gpm plying the result by one of tl1e coefficients in Table 4.10.2,
(L/ min) fi·om these measurements is as shown in Equations depending upon tl1e pi tot pressure (velocity head) .
4.9.3a and 4.9 .3b.
4.10.3 These coefficients are applied in addition to the coeffi-
cient in Equations 4.9.3a and 4.9.3b and are for average-type
hydrants.

~/Water stream 4.11 Determination of Discharge Wiiliout a Pitot.

4.11.1 If a pitot tube is not available for use to measure the
V~-rr---._J L _ ___.-----.;.1/Pitot orifice hydrant discharge, a gauge of sufficient pressure range, tapped
into a hydrant cap can be used wh en the flow is thr-ough a
hydrant outlet or a nozzle attached to a hydrant outlet.
Air-release cock Blade§-h tv.o 4.11.2 The hydrant cap with gauge attached is placed on one
~ ~Hydrant outl~t or outlet, and the flow is a llowed to take place through the other
nozzle opemng
outlet at the same elevation .
~ 4.11.3 The readings obtained from a gauge so located, and
FIGURE 4.8.3 Pitot Tube Position. the readings obtained from a gauge on a pi tot tube h e ld in the
stream, are approximately the same.

2022 Edition
 FLOW TESTI NG 291-11

Table 4.10.2 Pumper Outlet Coefficients Q;.· = total flow measured during test
h, = pt-essure drop to desired residual pressure
Pitot Pressure h1 = pressure drop measured during test
(Velocity Head)
4.12.1.3 In Equation 4.12.1.2, any units of discharge or pres-
psi bar Coefficient sure drop can be used as long as the same units are used fat-
each value of the same variable .
2 0.14 0.97
3 0.21 0 .92 4.12.1.4 In other words, if Qx is expressed in gpm, Q;.- must be
4 0.28 0.89 in gpm, and if h, is expressed in psi, h1 must be expressed in psi .
5 0.35 0.86
6 0.41 0.84 4.12.1.5 These are the units that are normally used in apply-
ing Equation 4.12.1.2 to fire flow test computations.
7 and over 0.48 and over 0.83
4. 13 Data Sheet.
4.12 Calculation Results. 4.13.1 The data secured during the testing of hydrants for
unifOt-m marking can be valuable for other pw-poses.
4.12.1 The discharge in gpm (L/ min) for each outlet flowed
is obtained from Table 4.12.l(a) and Table 4.12.1(b) or by the 4.13.2 \<\Tith this in mind, it is suggested that the form shown
use of Equations 4.9.3a and 4.9.3b. in Figure 4.13.2 be used to record information that is taken .
4.12.1.1 If more than one outlet is used, the discharges from 4.13.3 The back of the fm-m should include a location sketch.
all are added to obtain the total discharge.
4.13.4 Result~ of the flow test should be indicated on a
4.12.1.2 The formula that is generally used to compute the hydraulic graph, such as the one shown in Figure 4.1 3.4.
available flow in the desired test location (either the under-
ground main or static/ t-esidual hydrant, depending on the 4.13.5 When the tests are complete , the forms should be filed
test), the specified residual pressure, or for any desired pres- for future reference by interested parties.
sure drop is Equation 4.12.1.2: 4.14* System Corrections.
4. 14.1 Flow test result5 show the strength of the distribution
[4.12.1.2] system at the time a nd date of the testing. It does not necessa-
rily indicate the degree of adequacy of the entire water works
system. If the testing does not occur during a period of peak
demand, then the flow test results might not provide an accu-
rate representation of the water available during those peak
where: periods.
Qx = flow predicted at desired residual pressure
4.15 Public H ydrant Testing and Flushing.
4.15.1 * Public fire hydrants should b e flow tested at least
every 5 years to verifY capacity and marking of the hydrant.
4.15.2 Public fire hydrants should be flushed at least a nnua lly
to verifY operation, address repairs, and verity reliabili ty.

2022 Edition
291-12 WATER FLOW TESTING AND l'vlARKI NG OF H YDRANT S

Table 4.12.1 (a) Theoretical Discharge Through Circular Orifices (U.S. Gallons of Water per Minute)

Orifice Size
Pi tot
(in.)
Pressure
(psi) Feet 1.75 2 2.25 2.375 2.5 2.625 2.75 3 3.25 3.5 3.75 4 4.5
1 2.31 91 119 151 168 187 206 226 269 315 366 420 477 604
2 4.61 129 169 214 238 264 291 319 380 446 517 593 675 855
3 6.92 158 207 262 292 323 356 391 465 546 633 727 827 1047
4 9.23 183 239 302 337 373 411 451 537 630 731 839 955 1209
5 11.54 204 267 338 376 417 460 505 601 705 817 938 1068 1351
6 13.84 224 292 370 412 457 504 553 658 772 895 1028 1169 1480
7 16.15 242 316 400 445 493 544 597 711 834 967 1110 1263 1599
8 18.46 258 338 427 476 528 582 638 760 891 1034 1187 1350 1709
9 20.76 274 358 453 505 560 617 677 806 946 1097 1259 1432 1813
10 23.07 289 377 478 532 590 650 714 849 997 1156 1327 1510 1911
11 25.38 303 396 501 558 619 682 748 891 1045 1212 1392 1583 2004
12 27.68 317 413 523 583 646 71 2 782 930 1092 1266 1454 1654 2093
13 29.99 329 430 545 607 672 741 814 968 1136 1318 1513 1721 2179
14 32.30 342 447 565 630 698 769 844 1005 1179 1368 1570 1786 2261
15 34.61 354 462 585 652 722 796 874 1040 1221 1416 1625 1849 2340
16 36.91 366 477 604 673 746 822 903 1074 1261 1462 1679 1910 2417
17 39.22 377 492 623 694 769 848 930 1107 1300 1507 1730 1969 2491
18 41.53 388 506 641 714 791 872 957 1139 1337 1551 1780 2026 2564
19 43.83 398 520 658 734 813 896 984 1171 1374 1593 1829 2081 2634
20 46.14 409 534 676 753 834 920 1009 1201 1410 1635 1877 2135 2702
22 50.75 429 560 709 789 875 964 1058 1260 1478 1715 1968 2239 2834
24 55.37 448 585 740 825 914 1007 1106 1316 1544 1791 2056 2339 2960
26 59.98 466 609 770 858 951 1048 1151 1369 1607 1864 2140 2434 3081
28 64.60 484 632 799 891 987 1088 1194 1421 1668 1934 2220 2526 3197
30 69.21 501 654 827 922 1022 1126 1236 1471 1726 2002 2298 2615 3310
32 73.82 517 675 855 952 1055 11 63 1277 1519 1783 2068 2374 2701 3418
34 78.44 533 696 881 981 1087 1199 1316 1566 1838 2131 2447 2784 3523
36 83.05 548 716 906 1010 1119 1234 1354 1611 1891 2193 2518 2865 3626
38 87.67 563 736 931 1038 1150 1268 1391 1656 1943 2253 2587 2943 3725
40 92.28 578 755 955 1065 1180 1300 1427 1699 1993 2312 2654 3020 3822
42 96.89 592 774 979 1091 1209 1333 1462 1740 2043 2369 2719 3094 3916
44 101.51 606 792 1002 111 6 1237 1364 1497 1781 2091 2425 2783 3167 4008
46 106.1 2 620 810 1025 1142 126.5 1395 1531 1821 2138 2479 2846 3238 4098
48 11 0.74 633 827 1047 1166 1292 142.5 1.563 1861 2184 2.533 2907 3308 4186
so 11.5.3.5 646 844 1068 1190 1319 14.54 1596 1899 2229 2.58.5 2967 3376 4273
.52 119.96 6.59 861 1089 1214 1345 1483 1627 1937 2273 2636 3026 3443 4357
54 124..58 672 877 1110 1237 1370 1.511 1658 1974 2316 2686 3084 3508 4440
56 129.19 684 893 1130 1260 1396 1.539 1689 2010 2359 2735 3140 3573 4.522
58 133.81 696 909 1150 1282 1420 1.566 1719 204.5 2400 2784 3196 3636 4602
60 138.42 708 925 1170 1304 1445 1.593 1748 2080 2441 2831 32.50 3698 4681
62 143.03 720 940 1189 1325 1469 1619 1777 2115 2482 2878 3304 3759 4758
64 147.65 731 955 1209 1347 1492 1645 1805 2148 2521 2924 33.57 3820 4834
66 152.26 742 970 1227 1367 1515 1670 1833 2182 2561 2970 3409 3879 4909
68 156.88 7.54 984 1246 1388 1538 1696 1861 2215 2599 3014 3460 3937 4983
70 161.49 765 999 1264 1408 1560 1720 1888 2247 2637 3058 3511 3995 5056
72 166.10 77.5 1013 1282 1428 1.583 174.5 191.5 2279 2674 3102 3.561 4051 .5127
74 170.72 786 1027 1300 1448 1604 1769 1941 2310 2711 3144 3610 4107 .5198
76 175.33 797 1041 131 7 1467 1626 1793 1967 2341 2748 3187 36.58 4162 .5268
78 179.9.5 807 10.54 1334 1487 1647 1816 1993 2372 2784 3228 3706 4217 .5337
80 184..56 817 1068 13.51 1.50.5 1668 1839 2018 2402 2819 3269 3753 4270 .540.5
82 189.17 828 1081 1368 1524 1689 1862 2043 2432 2854 3310 3800 4323 5472
84 193.79 838 1094 138.5 1543 1709 1885 2068 2461 2889 3350 3846 4376 5.538
86 198.40 847 1107 1401 1.561 1730 1907 2093 2491 2923 3390 3891 4428 5604
88 203.02 857 1120 1417 1.579 1750 1929 2117 2519 2957 3429 3936 4479 5668
(continues)

2022 Edition
 FLOW TESTING 291-13

Table 4.12.l(a) Continued

Orifice Size
Pitot
(in.)
Pressure
(psi) Feet 1.75 2 2.25 2.375 2.5 2.625 2.75 3 3.25 3.5 3.75 4 4.5
90 207.63 867 1132 1433 1597 1769 1951 2141 2548 2990 3468 3981 4529 5733
92 212.24 877 11 45 1449 1614 1789 1972 2165 2576 3023 3506 4025 4579 5796
94 216.86 886 11 57 1465 1632 1808 1994 2188 2604 3056 3544 4068 4629 5859
96 221.47 895 11 69 1480 1649 1827 2015 2211 2631 3088 3582 4111 4678 5921
98 226.09 905 1182 1495 1666 1846 2035 2234 2659 3120 3619 4154 4726 5982
100 230.70 914 1194 1511 1683 1865 2056 2257 2686 3152 3655 4196 4774 6043
102 235.31 923 1205 1526 1700 1884 2077 2279 2712 3183 3692 4238 4822 6103
104 239.93 932 1217 1541 171 6 1902 2097 2301 2739 3214 3728 4279 4869 6162
106 244.54 941 1229 1555 1733 1920 2117 2323 2765 3245 3763 4320 4916 6221
108 249.16 950 1240 1570 1749 1938 2137 2345 2791 3275 3799 4361 4962 6280
110 253.77 958 1252 1584 1765 1956 2157 2367 2817 3306 3834 4401 5007 6338
112 258.38 967 1263 1599 1781 1974 2176 2388 2842 3336 3869 4441 5053 639.5
114 263.00 976 1274 1613 1797 1991 2195 2409 2867 3365 3903 4480 5098 6452
116 267.61 984 1286 1627 1813 2009 2215 2430 2892 3395 3937 4519 5142 6508
118 272.23 993 1297 1641 1828 2026 2234 2451 2917 3424 3971 4558 5186 6564
120 276.84 1001 1308 1655 1844 2043 2252 2472 2942 3453 4004 4597 5230 6619
122 281.45 1009 1318 1669 1859 2060 2271 2493 2966 3481 4038 4635 5273 6674
124 286.07 1018 1329 1682 1874 2077 2290 2513 2991 3510 4070 4673 5317 6729
126 290.68 1026 1340 1696 1889 2093 2308 2533 3015 3538 4103 4710 5359 6783
128 295.30 1034 1350 1709 1904 2110 2326 2553 3038 3566 4136 4748 5402 6836
130 299.91 1042 1361 1722 1919 2126 2344 2573 3062 3594 4168 4784 5444 6890
132 304.52 1050 1371 1736 1934 2143 2362 2593 3086 3621 4200 4821 5485 6942
134 309.14 1058 1382 1749 1948 2159 2380 2612 3109 3649 4231 4858 5527 6995
136 313.75 1066 1392 1762 1963 2175 2398 2632 3132 3676 4263 4894 5568 7047
Notes:

(1) This table is computed from the formula Q = 29.84cd' .JP ,with c = 1.00. The theoretical discharge of seawater, as from fireboat nozzles, can be

fi:nmd by using the formula Q = 29.84cd

2
,JP .
(2) Appropriate coefficient should be applied where it is read from hydrant outleL Where more accurate results are required, a coefficient
appropriate on tl1e particular nozzle must be selected and applied to the figures of tl1e table. The discharge from circular openings of sizes ot.l1er than
tl1ose in the table can readily be computed by applying t.l1e principle tl1atquantity discharged under a given head varies as the square of the diameter
of t.l1e opening.

2022 Edition
291-14 WATER FLOW TESTING AND l'vlARKI NG OF H YDRANT S

Table 4.12.1 (b) Theoretical Discharge Through Circular Orifices (Liters of Water per Minute)

Orifice Size
Pitot Pi tot
(mm)
Pressure Pressure Meters
(kPa) (bar) (m) 44.5 50.8 57.2 60. 3 63.5 66.7 69.9 76.2 82.6 88.9 95.3 101.6 114.3
5 0.05 0.51 295 384 487 541 600 663 728 86.5 1016 1177 1353 1537 1946
10 0.10 1.02 417 544 689 766 849 937 1029 1223 1437 1664 1913 21 74 2751
15 0.1 5 1.53 511 666 844 938 1040 1148 1260 1498 1760 2039 2343 2663 3370
20 0.20 2.04 590 769 974 1083 1201 1325 1455 1729 2032 2354 2705 3075 3891
25 0.25 2.55 659 859 1090 1211 1343 1481 1627 1934 2272 2632 3024 3437 4350
30 0.30 3.06 722 941 1194 1326 1471 1623 1782 2118 2489 2883 3313 3765 4766
35 0.35 3.57 780 1017 1289 1433 1589 1753 1925 2288 2688 311 4 3578 4067 5148
40 0.40 4.08 834 1087 1378 1532 1698 1874 2058 2446 2874 3329 3826 4348 5503
45 0.45 4.59 885 1153 1462 1624 1801 1988 2183 2594 3048 3531 4058 4612 5837
50 0.50 5.1 0 933 1215 1541 1712 1899 2095 2301 2734 3213 3722 4277 4861 6153
55 0.55 5.61 978 1275 1616 1796 1992 2197 2413 2868 3370 3904 4486 5099 6453
60 0.60 6.12 1022 1331 1688 1876 2080 2295 2521 2995 3520 4077 4685 5325 6740
65 0.65 6.63 1063 1386 1757 1952 2165 2389 2624 3118 3663 4244 4877 5543 7015
70 0.70 7.14 1103 1438 1823 2026 2247 2479 2723 3235 3802 4404 5061 5752 7280
75 0.75 7.65 1142 1488 1887 2097 2326 2566 2818 3349 3935 4558 5238 5954 7535
80 0.80 8.16 1180 1537 1949 2166 2402 2650 2911 3459 4064 4708 5410 6149 7782
85 0.85 8.67 1216 1585 2009 2233 2476 2732 3000 3565 4189 4853 5577 6338 8022
90 0.90 9.18 1251 1631 2067 2297 2548 2811 3087 3669 4311 4993 5738 6522 8254
95 0.95 9.69 1285 1675 2124 2360 2617 2888 3172 3769 4429 5130 5896 6701 8481
100 1.00 10.20 1319 1719 2179 2422 2685 2963 3254 3867 4544 5264 6049 6875 8701
105 1.05 10.71 1351 1761 2233 2481 2752 3036 3334 3963 4656 5394 6198 7045 8916
110 1.10 11.22 1383 1803 2285 2540 2817 3108 3413 4056 4766 5520 6344 7210 9126
115 1.15 11.73 1414 1843 2337 2597 2880 3177 3490 4147 4873 5645 6486 7372 9331
120 1.20 12.24 1445 1883 2387 2653 2942 3246 3565 4236 4978 5766 6626 7531 9531
125 1.25 12.75 1475 1922 2436 2707 3002 3313 3638 4324 5080 5885 6763 7686 9728
130 1.30 13.26 1504 1960 2484 2761 3062 3378 3710 4409 5181 6001 6897 7839 9921
140 1.40 14.28 1560 2034 2578 2865 3178 3506 3850 4576 5376 6228 7157 8134 10295
150 1.50 15.30 1615 2105 2669 2966 3289 3629 3985 4736 5565 6446 7408 8420 10656
160 1.60 16.32 1668 2174 2756 3063 3397 3748 4116 4892 5748 6658 7651 8696 11006
170 1.70 17.34 1720 2241 2841 3157 3501 3863 4243 5042 5925 6863 7887 8964 11345
180 1.80 18.36 1769 2306 2923 3249 3603 3975 4366 5188 6096 7062 8115 9224 11 674
190 1.90 19.38 1818 2369 3004 3338 3702 4084 448.5 5330 6263 7255 8338 9476 11 993
200 2.00 20.40 1865 2431 3082 3425 3798 4190 4602 5469 6426 7444 8554 9722 1230.5
210 2.10 21.42 1911 2491 3158 3509 3892 4294 4716 5604 6585 7628 8765 9963 12609
220 2.20 22.44 1956 2549 3232 3592 3983 4395 4827 5736 6740 7807 8972 10197 12906
230 2.30 23.46 2000 2607 3305 3673 4073 4494 4935 5865 6891 7983 9173 10426 13196
240 2.40 24.48 2043 2663 3376 3752 4160 4590 5041 5991 7039 8154 9371 10650 13479
250 2.50 25.50 2085 2718 3445 3829 4246 4685 5145 6114 7185 8322 9564 10870 13757
260 2.60 26.52 2127 2771 3514 3905 4330 4778 5247 6235 7327 8487 9753 11085 14030
270 2.70 27.54 2167 2824 3581 3979 4413 4869 5347 6354 7466 8649 9939 11296 14297
285 2.85 29.07 2226 2902 3679 4088 4534 5002 5494 6528 7671 8886 10211 11606 14689
300 3.00 30.60 2284 2977 3774 4194 4651 5132 5636 6698 7870 911 7 10477 11908 15070
315 3.1 5 32.1 3 2341 3050 3867 4298 4766 5259 5775 6863 8065 9342 10735 12202 15443
330 3.30 33.66 2396 3122 3958 4399 4878 5382 5911 7025 8255 9562 10988 12489 15806
345 3.45 35.1 9 2450 3192 4047 4498 4988 5503 6044 7183 8440 9777 11 235 12769 16161
360 3.60 36.72 2502 3261 4134 4595 5095 5622 6174 7337 8622 9987 11477 13044 16.509
375 3.75 38.25 2554 3328 4220 4689 5200 5738 6302 7489 8799 10193 11713 13313 16849
390 3.90 39.78 2605 3394 4303 4782 5303 5851 6426 7637 8974 10395 11945 13577 17183
40.5 4.05 41.31 2654 3459 4385 4873 5404 5963 6549 7782 9145 10593 12173 13835 17510
420 4.20 42.84 2703 3522 4466 4963 5504 6072 6669 7925 9312 10787 12396 14089 17832
435 4.35 44.37 2751 3585 4545 5051 5601 6180 6787 8065 9477 10978 12616 14339 18147
450 4.50 45.90 2798 3646 4622 5137 5697 6285 6903 8203 9639 11 166 12831 14584 18458
465 4.65 47.43 2844 3706 4699 5222 5791 6389 7017 8339 9799 11350 13043 14825 18763
480 4.80 48.96 2889 3765 4774 5306 5884 6492 7129 8472 9955 11532 13252 15062 19063
(continues)

2022 Edition
 FLOW TESTING 291-15

Table 4. 12. 1(b) Continued

Orifice Size
Pitot Pi tot
(mm)
Pressure Pressure Meters
(kPa) (bar) (m) 44.5 50.8 57.2 60.3 63.5 66.7 69.9 76.2 82.6 88.9 95.3 101.6 114.3
495 4.95 50.49 2934 3824 4848 5388 5975 6592 7240 8604 10110 11711 13457 15296 19358
510 5.10 52.02 2978 3881 4921 5469 6065 6691 7349 8733 10262 11887 13660 15526 19650
525 5.25 53.55 3022 3938 4993 5549 6153 6789 7456 8861 10412 12060 13859 15752 19936
540 5.40 55.08 3065 3994 5064 5627 6240 688.5 7562 8986 10559 12231 14056 15976 20219
555 5.55 56.61 3107 4049 5133 5705 6327 6980 7666 9110 10705 12400 14250 16196 20498
570 5.70 58.1 4 3149 4103 5202 5782 6411 7074 7769 9233 10849 12567 14441 16413 20773
585 5.85 59.67 3190 4157 5270 5857 6495 7166 7871 9353 10990 12731 14630 16628 21045
600 6.00 61.20 3231 4210 5338 5932 6578 7258 7971 9472 11130 12893 14816 16840 21313
615 6.1 5 62.73 3271 4262 5404 6005 6660 7348 8070 9590 11269 13053 15000 17049 21578
630 6.30 64.26 3310 4314 5469 6078 6740 7437 8168 9706 11405 1321 1 15182 17256 21839
645 6.45 65.79 3349 4365 5534 6150 6820 7525 8264 9821 11540 13368 15362 17460 22098
660 6.60 67.32 3388 4415 5598 6221 6899 7612 8360 9935 11674 13522 15.539 17662 22353
675 6.75 68.85 3426 4465 5661 6292 6977 7698 8454 10047 11806 13675 15715 17861 22606
690 6.90 70.38 3464 4515 5724 6361 70.54 7783 8548 101 58 11936 13826 15889 18059 22856
705 7.05 71.91 3502 4563 5786 6430 7130 7867 8640 10268 12065 13976 16060 18254 23103
720 7.20 73.44 3539 4612 5847 6498 7206 7950 8732 10376 12193 14124 16230 18447 23347
735 7.35 74.97 3576 4660 5908 6565 7281 8033 8822 10484 12319 14270 16398 18638 23589
750 7.50 76.50 3612 4707 5968 6632 7354 8114 8912 10590 12444 14415 16565 18827 23829
765 7.65 78.03 3648 4754 6027 6698 7428 8195 9000 10696 12568 14558 16730 19015 24066
780 7.80 79.56 3683 4800 6086 6763 7500 8275 9088 10800 12691 14700 16893 19200 24300
795 7.95 81.09 3719 4846 6144 6828 7572 8354 9175 10904 12812 14841 17055 19384 24533
810 8.10 82.62 3754 4892 6202 6892 7643 8433 9261 11006 12932 14980 17215 19566 24763
825 8.25 84.15 3788 4937 6259 6956 7713 8510 9347 11107 13052 15118 17373 19746 24992
840 8.40 85.68 3822 4981 6315 7019 7783 8587 9431 11208 13170 15255 17531 19925 25218
855 8.55 87.21 3856 5026 6372 7081 7852 8664 9515 11308 13287 15391 17687 20102 25442
870 8.70 88.74 3890 5069 6427 7143 7921 8739 9598 11406 13403 15525 17841 20278 25664
885 8.85 90.27 3923 5113 6482 7204 7989 8814 9681 11504 13518 15658 17994 20452 25884
900 9.00 91.80 3957 5156 6.537 7265 80.56 8889 9762 11601 13632 1.5791 18146 20624 26103
915 9.15 93.33 3989 5199 6.591 732.5 8123 8963 9843 11698 13745 15922 18297 20796 26319
930 9.30 94.86 4022 5241 6645 738.5 8190 9036 9924 11 793 13857 16052 18446 20965 26534
945 9.45 96.39 40.54 .5283 6699 7444 82.55 9108 10003 11888 13969 16181 18.594 21134 26747
Notes:

(1) This table is computed from the formula Q"' = 0.0666cd' .JP:, with c ~ 1.00. The theoretical discharge ofseawatet; as from fireboat nozzles, can
be found by using the formula QM = 0.065cd' .JP:.
(2) Appropriate coefficient should be applied where it is read ft·om the hydrant outlet. Where more accurate results are required, a coefficient
appropriate on d1e particular nozzle must be selected and applied to d1e figures of d1e table. The discharge from circular openings of sizes other than
mose in d1e table can readily be computed by applying me principle mat quantity discharged under a given head varies as me square of the diameter
of d1e opening.

2022 Edition
291-16 WATER FLOW TESTING AND l'vlARKI NG OF H YDRANT S

WATER FLOW TEST REPORT [i.)

NFPA®
!est by: ______________________________
Location: -----------------------------------
Address: Date: _______________________________
Tlme: _______________________________

SYSTEM DATA
Size of main: - - - - - - - - - - Dead end:---------- Looped: - - - - - -

Comments: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
TEST DATA
Location of test h ydrants: Residu al hydrants:

Flow hydrant A:

F low hydrant B :
Static pressure·

Test No. of Orifice Residual Pi tot

Size Orifice Pressure Pressure Flow Comments
No. Outlets (ln.) Coeff. (US gpm)
(psi g) (pslg)
1
2

Projected results@ 20 psi: - - - - - - - -

Sketch of test configuration

© 2021 National Fire Protection Association

FIGURE 4.13.2 Sample Report of a Hydrant Flow Test.

2022 Edition
 FLOW T EST I NG 291-17

150

140

130

120
Water Flow Test

Project:
Location:
m
NFPA®
110

Test by:
100 Dale: Time:

90

§, 80
~
"'"'
!"
7
a..
60

50

40

30

20

10

100 200 300 400 500 600 700 8 00 900 1000

Flow (gpm) N 1 85

Multiply Scale by - - - -

FIGURE 4.13.4 Sample Graph Sheet.

2022 Edition
291-18 WATER FLOW TESTING AND l'vlARKING OF HYDRANTS

Chapter 5 Marlcing of Hydrants Annex A Explanatory Material

Annex A is not a pm·t of the 1·ecommendations of this NFPA document
5.1 Classification of Hydrants. H ydrants should be classified
but is included for informational pwposes only. This annex contains
in accordance with their rated capacities rat 20 psi ( 1.4 bar) explanat01)' material, numbered to corresfJond with the applicable text
residual pressure or other designated value] shown in Table paragraphs.
5.1.
A.l.1 T he scope of this document does n ot include the flow
5.2 Marking of Hydrants. testing or marking of dry fire hydrants.
5.2.1 Public Hydrants. A.l.2 T his document deals with water flow testing on munici-
5.2.1.1 All barrels are to be chrome yellow except in cases pal mains or private water service mains utilizing fire hydrants
where another color has already been adopted. fot· purposes such as determining water supplies for sprinkler
system design or to confirm fire flow rates for firefighting
5.2.1.2 The tops and nozzle caps should be painted with the purposes. Other water flow testing, such as for fire pump instal-
capacity-indicating color scheme shown in Table 5.1 to provide lations or for standpipe systems, can be conducted utilizing
simplicity and consistency with colors used in signal work for much of the information provided herein.
safety, danger, and intermediate condition.
A.l.3 The application includes fi re hydrants owned by a
5.2.1.3 For rapid identification at night, it is recommended public utility and hydrants owned pt·ivately.
that the capacity colors be of a reflective-type paint.
A.3.2.1 Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). The phrase
5.2.1.4 Hydrants rated at less than 20 psi (1.4 bar) should "authority having jurisdiction," or its acronym AHJ, is used in
have the rated pressure stenciled in black on the hydrant top. NFPA documents in a broad manner, sin ce jurisdictions and
5.2.1.5 In addition to the painted top and nozzle caps, it can approval agencies vary, as do their responsibilities. '!\There
be advantageous to stencil the rated capacity of high-volume public safety is primary, the authority having jurisdiction may
be a federal, state, local, or other t·egional depanment or ind i-
hydrants on the top .
vidual such as a fire chief; fire marshal; chief of a fire preven-
5.2.1.6 The classification and marking of hydrants provided tion bureau, labor department, or health department; building
fot· in this chapter anticipate determination based on individ- official; electrical inspector; or od1e1·s having statutory author-
ual flow test. ity. For insurance purposes, an insurance inspection depart-
ment, rating bureau, or other insurance company
5.2.1.7 Where a group of hydrants can be used at the time of a representative may be the authority having jurisdiction. In
fire, some special marking designating group-flow capacity many circumstances, the property owner or his or her designa-
could be desirable .
ted agent assumes the role of the authority having jurisdiction;
5.2.2 Permanently Inoperative Hydrants. Fire hydrants that at government installations, the commanding officer or depart-
are permanently inoperative or unusable should be removed. mental official may be the authority having jurisdiction.

5.2.3 Temporarily Inoperative H ydrants. Fire hydrants that A.3.2.2 Listed. The means for identifying Listed equipment
are temporarily inoperative or unusable should be wrapped or may vary for each organization concerned with product evalua-
othetwise provided with temporary indication of their condi- tion; som e organizations do not recognize equipment as listed
tion . unless it is also labeled. The authority having jurisdiction
should utilize the system employed by the listing ot·ganization
5.2.4 Flush Hydrants. Location markers for flush hydrants to identifY a listed product.
should carry the same background color as stated above for
class indication, with such other data stenciled d1ereon as A.3.4.1 Dry Barrel Hydrant (Frostproof Hydrant). See Figure
deemed necessary. A3.4.1 .

5.2.5 Private Hydrants. A.3.4.8 Wet Barrel H ydrant. See Figure A.3.4.8.

5.2.5.1 Marking on private hydrants within private enclosures A.4.3.1 It is not intended that tests only be conducted during
is to be at the owner's discretion. periods of peak demand. Whet·e the water d istribution system is
subject to variable seasonal demands such as drough t, future
5.2.5.2 "When private hydrants are located on public streets, demand~ on the water su pply syste m due to growth and devel-
they should be painted red or some other color to d istinguish opment of the region, irrigation demands, and so forth, tests
them from public hydrants. should be conducted whenever possible . When using the
results of water supply test data to determine the adequacy of
the water supply for any purpose, relevant factors should be
considered.
Table 5.1 Classification and Marlcing of Hydrants
A.4.3.3 Some safety items that should be considered as part of
Hydrant H ydrant a vi5ual inspection prior to conducting a flow test include the
following:
H ydrant Capacity Capacity
Classification Color Scheme (gpm) (L/ min) (1) Visual damage to the fire h ydrant
(2) Excessive corrosion on flange bolts of the fire h ydran t
AA Light blue >1500 >5700 (3) Indications the fire hydrant could be under pressure
A Green 1000-1499 380-5699 ( 4) I ndications of water leaks on the hydrant and in the
B Orange 500-999 1900-3799 surrounding ground
C Red <500 <1900

2022 Edition
 ANNEX A 291-19

Operating nut

Compressio~
valve (one for Hydrant caps
each outlet)
Operating Hydrant outlet
nut -....,..rr"'-""'=i'77:771
Seat washer
Valve carrier ~~~~~~f;_;j::._ retainer
Seat washer Chain

Cross section showing operating

valve arrangement (typical)

FIGURE A.3.4.8 Wet Barrel H ydrant. [ 25:Figure A.3.3.13.5]

If the pressure at the pump station drops during the test, it is

an indication that the distribution system is capable of deliver-
ing more than the pumps can deliver at their normal operati ng
pressure.
Valve leather
It is necessary to use a value for the drop in pressure for the
test that is equal to the actual dmp obtained in the field during
Strapping tl1e test, minus the drop in d ischarge pressure a t the pumping
lugs station.
If suffi cient pumping capacity is available at tl1e station and
the discharge pressw·e could be maintained by operating addi-
FIGURE A.3.4.1 Dry Barrel Hydrant. [25:Figure A.3.3.13.1] tional pumps, the water system as a whole could d e liver tl1e
computed quantity.
If, however, additional pumping uni ts are not availa ble, the
(5) The terrain around the fire hydrant for awareness of disu-ibution syste m would be capable of delivering the compu-
hazards such as standing watet~ ice, traffic, and elevation ted quantity, but the \vater system as a whole would be limited
changes by the pumping capacity.
A.4.4 This procedure should be used to evaluate the available The portion of the pressure drop for which a correction can
water supply at a given location for use in designing fire protec- be made for tests on systems with storage is generally estimated
tion systems. The recommended procedures for determining upon the bas is of a study of a ll the tests made a nd the pressure
the available flow of a h ydrant and for the purpose of marking drops observed on the recording gauge at the station for each.
that hydrant are in Section 4.5.
The corrections can vary from very substantial portions of
A.4.5 This procedure should b e used to evaluate the available the observed pressure drops for tests near the pumping station
\vater flow at a give n fire hydrant. The recommended proce- to zero for tests remote from the station .
dures for determining the available water supply for the design
of a fire spt·inkler system or other fire pmtection are in A.4.15.1 When flow test data a re needed, su ch data should not
Section 4.4. b e more than 5 years old sin ce conditions in the piping and
syste m demands can change. It is not the inte n t of 4.15.1 to
A.4.6.1(5) Discharge can be measured directly from hydrant require routine 5-year testing of each h ydrant if there is no
butts, but results are generally more accurate when specially immediate need for flow test data or if test data less than 5
designed flow test outlets are used . years old are available from an adjacent hydrant on the same
grid.
A.4.14 Consider a system supplied by pumps at one location
and having no elevated storage.

2022 Edition
291-20 WATER FLOW TESTING AND l'vlARKING OF HYDRANTS

Annex B Informational References B. I. I NFPA Publications. (Reserved)

B.l Referenced Publications. The documents or portions B.l.2 Other Publications. (Reserved)
thereof listed in this annex are referenced within the informa- B.2 Informational References. (Reserved)
tional sections of this recommended practice and are not part
of the recommendations of this document unless also listed in B.3 References for Extracts in Informational Sections.
Chapter 2 for other reasons. NFPA 25, StandaTd j01· the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance
ojWate1~Based Fin;
Protection Systems, 2020 edition.

2022 Edition
 LNDEX 291-21

Index
Copyright© 2021 Na tional Fire Protection Association . All Rig hts Reserved.

The copyright in th is index is separate and d istinct from the copyrig ht in the docume n t that it indexes. The Licensing provi-
sions set fo rth for the docume nt are not applicable to this index. This index may not be reproduced in wh ole or in part by any
means withou t the express wTitten permission of NFPA.

-A- -1-
Administration, Chap. I Informational Re ferences, Annex B
Application, 1.3, A.l.3
Purpose, 1.2, A.1.2 -lr
Scope, l.l, A. l.l Listed
Units, 1.4 Definition, 3.2.2, A.3.2.2
Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ )
-M-
Definition, 3.2.1, A.3.2.1
Marking of H ydrants, Chap. 5
-D- Classification of Hydrants, 5.1
Definitions, Chap. 3 Marking of Hydrants, 5.2
Dry Barrel H ydrant (Frostproof H ydrant) Flush Hydrants, 5.2 .4
Definition, 3.4.1, A.3.4.1 Permanently Inoperative Hydrants, 5.2.2
P rivate Hydrants, 5.2.5
-E- Public H ydrants, 5 .2.1
Explanatory Material, Annex A Temporarily Inoperative H ydrants, 5.2.3

-F- -P-
Fire Flow Private Fire Hydrant
Definition, 3.3.1 Definition, 3.4.5
Fire Hydrant Public H ydrant
Definition, 3.4.2 Defin ition, 3.4.6
Flow H ydrant
-R-
Definition, 3.4.3
Flow Testing, Chap. 4 Rated Capacity
Calcu lation Results, 4.12 Definition, 3.3.2
Data Sheet, 4.13 Referenced Publications, Chap. 2
Determination of Discharge, 4.9 Residual H ydrant
Determination of Discharge Without a P itot, 4.11 Definition, 3.4.7
Equipment, 4.6 Residual Pressure
Layo ut of Test and P rocedure to Evaluate the Available Flow Definition, 3.3.3
Through a Fire H ydrant, 4.5, A.4.5
L'lyout of Testand Procedure to Determine the Available Water .S-
Supply in a Water Main , 4.4, A.4.4 Should
Pi tot Readings, 4.8 Definition, 3.2.3
Procedure, 4.3 Static Pressure
Public Hydrant Testing and Flushing, 4.15 Definition, 3.3.4
Rating Pressure, 4.2
System Corrections, 4.14, A.4.14 -W-
Test Procedure, 4.7 Wet Barrel H ydrant
Use of Pumper Outlets, 4.10 Definition, 3.4.8, A.3.4.8
Water Flow Testing Purposes, 4.1
Flush H ydrant (Below Ground H ydrant)
Definition, 3.4.4

2022 Edition