Abstract: A communications hub for a hydrant can include a plug comprising a non-metallic material and configured to be sealably received within a plug bore defined in a flange of a bonnet of the hydrant, the flange separating an interior cavity of the hydrant from a bonnet cavity of the hydrant; a PCB; at least one battery in electrical communication with the PCB; and an antenna configured for wireless communication with a sensing device located within the interior cavity of the hydrant and in electrical communication with the PCB, the antenna able to receive a wireless signal from the sensing device.

Abstract: Apparatuses for a hydrant, as well as associated methods for installing the same, may be directed to a threaded stem for actuating a hydrant outlet valve at a first end of the stem. An attachment nut may define a bore for supporting the stem in the hydrant. The attachment nut defines a cavity configured to receive water from a barrel of the hydrant. The attachment nut also defines a water access passage extending through an outer wall of the attachment nut to the cavity. The apparatus also includes a sensor in fluid communication with the cavity to obtain sensor data for the water in the barrel.

Abstract: A communications hub for a hydrant can include a plug comprising a non-metallic material and configured to be sealably received within a plug bore defined in a flange of a bonnet of the hydrant, the flange separating an interior cavity of the hydrant from a bonnet cavity of the hydrant; a PCB; at least one battery in electrical communication with the PCB; and an antenna configured for wireless communication with a sensing device located within the interior cavity of the hydrant and in electrical communication with the PCB, the antenna able to receive a wireless signal from the sensing device.

Abstract: Apparatuses for a hydrant, as well as associated methods for installing the same, may be directed to a threaded stem for actuating a hydrant outlet valve at a first end of the stem. An attachment nut may define a bore for supporting the stem in the hydrant. The attachment nut defines a cavity configured to receive water from a barrel of the hydrant. The attachment nut also defines a water access passage extending through an outer wall of the attachment nut to the cavity. The apparatus also includes a sensor in fluid communication with the cavity to obtain sensor data for the water in the barrel.

Abstract: A hanger assembly and method of hanging conduits in buildings is described which protects the structure of the building from damage during a seismic event. The hanger assembly includes a frangible element which is calibrated to break when subjected to some higher than normal tensile load resulting from rapid acceleration of the conduit. Thus, for example, in the event of an earthquake, the hanger will fail before damage is done to the concrete to which the anchor is attached.

Abstract: A hydrant comprising: an operating stem comprising a threaded distal end extending from the hydrant; an operating nut comprising a first end facing the hydrant, an opposed second end, and a central bore defined in the operating nut and extending from the first end to the second end, the operating nut positioned on the operating stem such that a portion of the stem is positioned in the central bore and the threaded distal end of the stem extends beyond the second end of the operating nut; a snap ring positioned on the stem, the snap ring configured to prevent the operating nut from being removed from the operating stem without removing the snap ring; and a tightening nut rotatably secured to the stem, the tightening nut comprising internal threads configured to matingly engage the threaded distal end of the stem.

Abstract: A stem coupling for a hydrant includes: an upper portion defining an upper portion length from a center of a plurality of break-away features defined in the stem coupling to a first end of the stem coupling; and a lower portion defining an lower portion length from the center of the plurality of break-away features defined in the stem coupling to a second end of the stem coupling distal from the first end of the stem coupling, the lower portion length equaling at least two times the upper portion length.

Abstract: A hydrant includes an operating stem defining a threaded distal end extending from the hydrant; an operating nut defining a first end facing the hydrant, an opposed second end, and a central bore defined in the operating nut and extending from the first end to the second end, the operating nut positioned on the operating stem such that a portion of the stem is positioned in the central bore and the threaded distal end of the stem extends beyond the second end of the operating nut; and a nut comprising a frustoconical portion configured to be rotatably secured to the distal end of the stem.

Abstract: A fire hydrant includes an upper barrel, which further includes a body and at least one outlet. The body has a longitude, a longitudinal axis, a first portion, and a second portion, the first portion forming a first length of the longitude, the second portion forming a second length of the longitude, the first portion coupled to the second portion, the body having at least one wall defining an internal cavity. The first portion has a first dimension spanning the cavity perpendicular to the longitudinal axis between opposing points on the at least one wall. The second portion has a second dimension spanning the cavity perpendicular to the longitudinal axis between opposing points on the at least one wall. The first dimension is greater than the second dimension.

Abstract: A sacrificial mechanical link for linking a first mechanical element to a second mechanical element includes: a sacrificial element having a first end and a second end; and a first mechanical element removably connected to the first end of the sacrificial element. A method of using a sacrificial mechanical link includes: coupling a first mechanical element to a second mechanical element with a sacrificial element; and applying a force to a one of the first mechanical element and the second mechanical element to cause deformation of the sacrificial element.

Abstract: A system for applying a tensile load to a component includes a failsafe structure, a principal part of which is configured to act in compression during application of the load to the component, but which includes a mechanical fuse configured to act in tension during application of the load to the component. The mechanical fuse being configured to fracture upon the application of a predetermined tensile force thereto.

Abstract: A dual plate backflow and breakaway check valve designed to mount above grade. The dual plate check valve includes a barrel assembly having an upper portion, a lower portion and an annular groove. An upper dual valve includes an upper front plate and an upper back plate. A lower dual valve includes a lower front plate and a lower back plate. A lower valve keeper bar moves up from between a plurality of lower valve stay tabs upon breakage of the annular groove thereby allowing the lower front plate and the lower back plate to rotate about a lower valve pin and closing the lower dual valve upon a lower barrel bevel and simultaneously allowing the upper front plate and the upper back plate to rotate about an upper valve pin and closing upon an upper barrel bevel.

Abstract: Breaker straps, preferably made of steel, include holes that line up with the holes in breaker rings, to keep the breaker rings in place on a fire hydrant. A collision kit includes breaker straps, the breaker rings, a coupling, and coupling pins.

Abstract: A remotely controlled hydrant system which may be quickly and efficiently connected to or disconnected from a hydrant to allow remote control of the hydrant by a remote controller such as a mobile phone. The remotely controlled hydrant system generally includes a frame which may be removably connected to a hydrant, such as a frost-free hydrant commonly used in agriculture. A pair of mount supports are removably secured against the shaft of the hydrant, such as via first and second connectors. An actuator is connected between the frame and the hydrant such that movement of the actuator in a first direction activates the hydrant and movement of the actuator in a second direction deactivates the hydrant. A control unit is adapted to receive activation or deactivation signals from a remote controller and direct operation of the actuator.

Abstract: A method of draining a standpipe includes moving a valve control device toward a closed position sufficient to uncover at least one drain hole before the valve control device achieves a fully closed position, the at least one drain hole being disposed in a slot of a saturation ring and draining a contents of the standpipe through a drain route to an external portion of the standpipe, the drain route is defined by the drain hole in the valve seat ring, drain ports in the drain ring, outlet notches and a drain channel in the saturation ring. The drain hole is radially offset from each of the drain ports in the drain ring and each of the drain ports are radially offset from each of the outlet notches in the saturation ring. A valve control device is also disclosed.

Abstract: A fire hydrant break off valve includes an offset pivot and a lateral trigger captured between a fire hydrant and fire hydrant break off riser. When a collision breaks the break off bolts holding the fire hydrant to the hydrant break off riser, the lateral trigger is released and the valve rotates to a closed position. Force of water attempting to escape rotates the valve around the offset pivot. The edge of the valve is tapered and after rotating, the valve is pushed against a matching seat to close the valve. The match of the tapered valve against the tapered seat stops or nearly stops all flow of water from the broken hydrant.

Abstract: A valve assembly is described herein that includes a valve plate and a main valve contacting the valve plate, the main valve having an internal rigid structure and an outer shell, the internal rigid structure having a top surface, a bottom surface, and a side surface.

Abstract: A water hydrant flushing device is disclosed. The device handles a flow of water from a water hydrant as it is being flushed, and allows the flushing to take place in a safer manner without destroying surrounding landscaping or other objects. The device comprises a chute that is open on both ends, and an opening on one end that is removably connected to a diffuser by means of a securing mechanism.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an elevating fire hydrant assembly in which an elevating pipe automatically projects from the ground by means of water pressure when a fire hydrant is to be used, and the speed for lowering the elevating pipe projecting from the ground after use is adjustable.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a hydrant for selectively supplying water and air under pressure to a snow making apparatus having multiple water nozzles with corresponding water supply conduits and at least one air nozzle with a corresponding air supply conduit. The water hydrant includes a hydrant housing having a water inlet and an air inlet for respectively supplying water and air under pressure to respective water and air chambers within the housing from respective water and air sources. A valve operating shaft is mounted for axial rotation in the housing and spaced water and air valve seats are respectively mounted in the water and air chambers.

Abstract: A freeze resistant sanitary hydrant is provided that employs a reservoir for storage of fluid under the frost line or in an area not prone to freezing. To evacuate this reservoir, a venturi is provided that is able to function in hydrant systems that employ a vacuum breaker.

Abstract: An improved fire department connection (FDC) having an accessible debris filter box interposed vertically in the line to permit the removal of undesired introduced solids to prevent the solids from clogging the sprinkler system which is in fluid communication with the base of the FDC. The box has a permanent filter, or removable filter media or a combination of the two types of filters, all accessible via a front removable plate thereon. The debris filter box may also be interposed vertically in other fluid flow systems that are subject to the introduction of undesired solids.

Abstract: A hydrant backflow prevention system comprises a backflow prevention valve, operably coupleable to a hydrant to restrict passage of materials through the hydrant into a water supply feeding the hydrant. The backflow prevention valve is installable fluidly inline with the water supply at a location below which an upper dry barrel of the hydrant is coupled to a water delivery system. The backflow restriction valve is operable to substantially restrict backflow into the water supply when in a closed position, and allow flow of water through the hydrant when in the open position.

Abstract: This patent discloses a support structure for a yard hydrant. The support structure may include a casing, a cap, a cap clamp, a first spacer, a second spacer, and a second spacer clamp. The casing may have a first end and a second end, where the first end includes a first cutout and a second cutout that may fit about a supply line for the yard hydrant. The cap may around a riser pipe of the yard hydrant and the cap clamp may secure the cap to the second end of the casing. The first spacer and second spacer of the support both may fit within the casing and fit about a nipple of the yard hydrant. The first spacer may be supported by a joint in the supply line and the second spacer may be supported by a second spacer clamp fixed about the nipple.

Abstract: Improvements in present day fire hydrants are presented. The improvement relates to a fire hydrant where the above ground structure is essentially removed and is replaced with an adaptable connection. The connection uses the same mounting hole pattern as used in the above ground hydrant. In operation, the adaptable connection is protected by a hinged cover that is opened to provide access to the adaptable connection. The adaptable connection includes a bayonet type connection where a portable fire hydrant is secured and rotated to start the flow of water. The adapter includes an electronic communication device that transmits real-time information on connection and flow characteristics. The adaptable fire connection eliminates the appearance of the fire hydrant, the potential of a vehicle hitting a fire hydrant and the material cost associated with above ground fire hydrants.

Abstract: The claimed universal polymeric molded fire hydrant is lightweight, weather resistant and will meet the UL, FM, NFPA and AWWA standards established for conventional metallic hydrants. Polymeric fire hydrants will also exceed standard performance expectations by eliminating rusting, binding, cracking and the associated need for periodic painting and lubrication. This polymeric fire hydrant costs less to produce than traditional metallic models providing significant costs savings to commercial and residential developers as well as municipalities. The inherent light weight nature of the units will reduce manpower and heavy equipment required to install it. This hydrant can be manufactured to resemble all existing traditional hydrant designs and performance specifications and will allow for future design modifications as future performance specifications and designs evolve.

Abstract: Wet barrel fire hydrants which feature additional structure for reducing the potential that those with ill intent can foul municipal water supplies by introducing toxins or other materials into fire hydrants. Various embodiments include valves which close off portions of the hydrant or water conduit otherwise available for receipt of toxic or other materials when the fire hydrant nozzle cap is unscrewed and open and/or a pump is connected to the nozzle. Such valves preferably open automatically when water is flowing from the water supply through the nozzle, but close off portions of the barrel when the nozzle is open and water is not flowing through the nozzle.

Abstract: The present invention provides a fluid flow prevention apparatus for a wet barrel fire hydrant which is simple and inexpensive to install and effectively cuts off water flow while reducing water hammer. The fluid flow apparatus includes an in-line or non-hinged valve member for closing a flow passageway connected to the hydrant that is operably movable from an open to closed position upon damage to the hydrant. An adjustable damping member controls the rate of closing of the valve member to reduce the effects of water hammer.

Abstract: Improvements in present day fire hydrants are presented. The improvement relates to a fire hydrant where the above ground structure is essentially removed and is replaced with an adaptable connection. The connection uses the same mounting hole pattern as used in the above ground hydrant. In operation, the adaptable connection is protected by a hinged cover that is opened to provide access to the adaptable connection. The adaptable connection includes a bayonet type connection where a portable fire hydrant is secured and rotated to start the flow of water. The adaptable fire connection eliminates the appearance of the fire hydrant, the potential of a vehicle hitting a fire hydrant and the material cost associated with above ground fire hydrants.

Abstract: A freezeless hot and cold outdoor hydrant having a hot water inlet and a cold water inlet and a single water outlet elbow. The hydrant has a hydrant body including a mix cavity chamber. The single water outlet is swivel mounted to an end of said hydrant body such the hydrant can be mounted in a vertical orientation with the hot and cold water inlets above the outlet or the hydrant can be mounted in a horizontal orientation with the outlet swiveled approximately 90 degrees and with the hot and cold water inlets horizontally oriented beside the outlet. Two horizontal orientations are possible, depending upon the swivel angle of the outlet elbow. One horizontal orientation has the hot water operator on the left side of the hydrant and the other horizontal orientation has the hot water operator on the right side of the hydrant.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and devices for providing a fire hydrant actuator rod with additional structure for allowing air to reach the area of a fire hydrant below a secondary valve. Various embodiments include an actuator rod with openings and hollow portions and configured to provide air from the area of a hydrant above the secondary valve to the area of a hydrant below a secondary valve. In some embodiments of the present invention, a check valve is provided with the actuator rod that is adapted to prevent the flow of fluid in at least one direction.

Abstract: A yard hydrant having a valve body with a drain port and a check valve mounted adjacent to the drain port to allow water to flow from the hydrant through the drain port to the ground and prevent ground water from flowing into the hydrant through the drain port and contaminating the water source.

Abstract: The present invention provides a fluid flow prevention apparatus for a wet barrel fire hydrant which is simple and inexpensive to install and effectively cuts off water flow while reducing water hammer. The fluid flow apparatus includes an in-line valve member for closing a flow passageway connected to the hydrant that is operably movable from an open to closed position upon damage to the hydrant. An adjustable damping member controls the rate of closing of the valve member to reduce the effects of water hammer.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a hydrant system that is projected over the ground while being buried in the underground. The hydrant system comprises a sluice valve connected to a water-guide tube within a manhole M, the sluice valve having a first openings/shutting shaft disposed therein; a female cylinder having a drain valve that is opened when the sluice valve is locked and that is locked when the sluice valve is opened, and a bracket having a through-hole; a male cylinder having a piston for opening/shutting the bottom of the male cylinder as a piston rod is rotated in the forward or reverse direction; a rod for limiting a projection range of the male cylinder protruded against the female cylinder; a manhole cover having a sub hole through which the male cylinder passes; a second opening/shutting shaft for rotating the first opening/shutting shaft; and a universal joint, which connects the first opening/shutting and the second opening/shutting shaft.

Abstract: Fire hydrants which feature additional structure for reducing the potential that those with ill intent can foul municipal water supplies by introducing toxins or other materials into fire hydrants. Various embodiments include valves which close off portions of the hydrant otherwise available for receipt of toxic or other materials when the fire hydrant nozzle cap is unscrewed and open. Such valves preferably open, manually or automatically, when water is flowing from the water supply through the nozzle, a condition which renders it difficult at best to introduce toxins through the hydrant into a water supply, but close off portions of the barrel when the nozzle is open and water is not flowing through the nozzle.

Abstract: The present invention provides a fluid flow prevention apparatus for a wet barrel fire hydrant which is simple and inexpensive to install and effectively cuts off water flow while reducing water hammer. The fluid flow apparatus includes an in-line valve member for closing a flow passageway connected to the hydrant that is operably movable from an open to closed position upon damage to the hydrant. An adjustable damping member controls the rate of closing of the valve member to reduce the effects of water hammer.

Abstract: An improved outdoor hydrant-type water faucet comprised of a water control connector at the top section of a hydrant-type standpipe equipped with a water control connector adjustment fixture and a downwardly extending coupling rod at the bottom section of the hydrant-type standpipe, and a water input valve that opens and closes to vary flow volume. The feature of the present invention is that the hydrant-type standpipe bottom section consists of a wide-mouth sleeve section that provides for the installation therein of a higher specification water input valve having a greater flow volume rating, thereby achieving an increase in water output volume and a reduction in blockage, effectively relieving ice formation and consequent water obstruction due to low temperature outdoors.

Abstract: A reflective warning and locating collar for fire hydrants, pylons or support posts to improve their visibility and identity, the collar having a support member defined by a flexible extruded web having flanges along the longitudinal edges to define a channel slot for receipt of an elongate flexible reflective member in web form slidably receivable within the channel, the ends of the reflective member and support member having a plurality of alignable apertures for receipt of a fastening member.

Abstract: A system for providing access to a fire hydrant. The system includes an actuator extension having a first end and a second end spaced from the first end. The first end is configured to be mounted on an exterior location on the fire hydrant, so that the first end is operatively engaged with a valve actuator of the fire hydrant, the valve actuator being selectively rotatable to cause a valve of the fire hydrant to open and close. The second end is spaced from the first end and is configured to facilitate application of an externally-applied force and transmission of such force to the first end of the actuator extension.

Abstract: Fire hydrants which feature additional structure for reducing the potential that those with ill intent can foul municipal water supplies by introducing toxins or other materials into fire hydrants. Various embodiments include valves which close off portions of the hydrant otherwise available for receipt of toxic or other materials when the fire hydrant nozzle cap is unscrewed and open. Such valves preferably open, manually or automatically, when water is flowing from the water supply through the nozzle, a condition which renders it difficult at best to introduce toxins through the hydrant into a water supply, but close off portions of the barrel when the nozzle is open and water is not flowing through the nozzle.

Abstract: A detection and signaling apparatus is mountable in a fire hydrant to detect a parameter, such as unauthorized movement of a discharge nozzle cap relative to the fire hydrant. A housing carrying a sensor, such as a motion detector, is mounted inside of the cap. The sensor has an output connected to a transmitter. Movement of the cap relative to the fire hydrant activates the motion detector which generates an output signal causing the transmitter to remotely transmit a tamper detection signal and, also, a fire hydrant location identification code. A pressure sensor can also be coupled to the transmitter to sense water supply main pressure and water flow through the fire hydrant.

Abstract: A survey monument comprises a conventional water hydrant with survey indicia or markings attached thereto. The survey indicia can be carried for example on a plate mounted on a flange bolt or attached to the operating nut of the hydrant. These survey monuments can be expanded upon and/or maintained in co-ordination with the expansion and maintenance of a municipality's water supply system. The hydrants can also be utilized in connection with any geographical information system to provide known reference points. The hydrants can also be utlized in connection with GPS devices to assist in localizing, initializing and calibrating the same.

Abstract: A survey monument comprises a conventional water hydrant with survey indicia or markings attached thereto. The survey indicia can be carried for example on a plate mounted on a flange bolt or attached to the operating nut of the hydrant. These survey monuments can be expanded upon and/or maintained in co-ordination with the expansion and maintenance of a municipality's water supply system. The hydrants can also be utilized in connection with any geographical information system to provide known reference points. The hydrants can also be utlized in connection with GPS devices to assist in localizing, initializing and calibrating the same.

Abstract: Fire hydrants are protected from freezing by including potassium formate, preferably at least 10% by weight, in the water enclosed in them during nonuse.

Abstract: For use with a city water system having a plurality of street water mains interconnected by branch water mains and having hydrants connected to the branch water mains, a city water flushing and sludge prevention method consisting the steps of: inserting a sludge-prevention control valve into a branch water main between two street water mains and closer to one of the two street water mains; the sludge-prevention control valve in the closed position preventing water from flowing through the branch water main from the closer street water main during a flushing operations, whereby all water flows through the branch water main from the more distant street water main and thereby flushes the portion of the branch water main between the sludge-prevention control valve and the more distant street water main; and an optional control mechanism adapted to close and open the sludge-prevention control valve. The control mechanism can utilize any power source such as electric, pneumatic, hydraulic, etc.

Abstract: For use with a city water system having a plurality of street water mains interconnected by branch water mains and having hydrants connected to the branch water mains, a city water flushing and sludge prevention apparatus consisting of: a sludge-prevention control valve insertable into a branch water main between two street water mains and closer to one of the two street water mains; the sludge-prevention control valve in the closed position preventing water from flowing through the branch water main from the closer street water main during a flushing operation, whereby all water flows through the branch water main from the more distant street water main and thereby flushes the portion of the branch water main between the sludge-prevention control valve and the more distant street water main; and a control mechanism adapted to close and open the sludge-prevention control valve.

Abstract: An improved portable fire hydrant that can operate a water main valve disposed within a water main to produce water for fighting a fire by rotating a valve stem coupled to the water main valve includes an extension through which water can flow when the fire hydrant is coupled to the water main. The portable fire hydrant may also include a sealing mechanism disposed on the extension that seals the portable fire hydrant to the water main. A valve operator may also be coupled to the portable fire hydrant and attached to a valve rod that extends down through the extension of the portable fire hydrant. Disposed on the end of the valve rod may be a coupling mechanism for coupling the valve operator to the water main valve. When the portable fire hydrant is attached to the water main, the valve operator of the portable fire hydrant is coupled to the water main valve so that manipulation of the valve operator will cause the water main valve to reposition.

Abstract: Water saver fire hydrants save water by delivering their initial flow from a pilot valve to a collection of holes in the gasket faces of their hose and pumper outlet nozzles. These holes are normally closed off by the gaskets in caps and hoses, and the water that flows from those holes in the absence of those caps or hoses activates a mechanism inside the hydrant that either blocks attempts to obtain full flow from the hydrant or powers a hydraulic motor that closes the hydrant valves.

Abstract: A kit for the emergency shutoff of a fire hydrant after the hydrant stem has failed and a cap of the hydrant nozzle has been removed so that a jet of water is escaping from the hydrant. The kit comprises a two-part increaser and a shutoff valve. The two parts of the increaser are brought together from opposing sides of the water jet and fastened to the hydrant nozzle. The increaser has a flange that mates with the flange on the shutoff valve. The bottom of the flange of the valve is bolted to the top of the flange of the increaser until secure but not tight. Then the shutoff valve is dropped so that it rotates into position, momentarily intersecting the jet of water. Once in place, the shutoff valve is tightened and the water shut off by closing the valve.