scope:

This standard pertains to the various types and classes of wet-barrel fire hydrants for use in fire-protection service in areas where the climate is mild and freezing temperatures do not occur. A wet-barrel hydrant has one or more valve openings above the ground line and, under normal operating conditions, the entire interior of the hydrant is subjected to water pressure at all times. Each outlet nozzle has an independent, compression-type valve (i.e., working with or against the pressure) that controls discharge from that particular outlet.

Exceptions. This standard does not pertain to dry-barrel fire hydrants. (For such hydrants, see ANSI/AWWA C502.) References to the setting of hydrants are not included in ANSI/AWWA C503. For installation information, see ANSI/AWWA C600 and AWWA Manual M17.

Hydrants of steel-pipe risers and angle-valve construction are not covered in this standard.

Purpose

The purpose of this standard is to provide purchasers, manufacturers, and suppliers with the minimum requirements for wet-barrel fire hydrants for fireprotection service, including materials, design, inspection, testing, marking, and shipping requirements. Fire hydrants designed and constructed to the requirements of this standard are intended for fire protection service only. They are not designed or intended as a conveyance of potable water.