IS 9031993AI Search Enabled✦ AI Generated

Specification for 2-Way And 3-Way Suction Collecting Heads For Fire Fighting Purposes

IS 903:1993 specifies the requirements for fire hose delivery couplings, branch pipes, nozzles, and nozzle spanners used in firefighting operations. It covers materials, dimensions, construction, hydraulic testing, and marking to ensure reliability and safety. This standard is essential for manufacturers, suppliers, and users of firefighting equipment to ensure compatibility and performance under operational conditions.

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1993Edition
Fire FightingCategory
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What This Standard Covers

IS 903:1993 specifies the requirements for fire hose delivery couplings, branch pipes, nozzles, and nozzle spanners used in firefighting operations. It covers materials, dimensions, construction, hydraulic testing, and marking to ensure reliability and safety. This standard is essential for manufacturers, suppliers, and users of firefighting equipment to ensure compatibility and performance under operational conditions.

Who Uses This Standard

  • Firefighting equipment manufacturers
  • Fire safety engineers
  • Quality control inspectors
  • Fire brigade procurement officers
  • Industrial safety managers
  • Fire protection system designers
  • Maintenance technicians for firefighting equipment

Key Topics Covered

Material specifications for couplings and fittings
Dimensions and sizes of hose delivery couplings
Hydraulic pressure testing requirements
Marking and identification of fittings
Construction and workmanship standards
Specifications for branch pipes and nozzles
Nozzle spanner design and testing
Corrosion resistance treatments
Washer types and standards
Thread profiles and tolerances
Deflection test for nozzle spanners
Quality assurance and conformity criteria

Table of Contents

1Scope

IS 903: Scope - Key Specifications & Tables

Scope Summary:

  • Covers delivery hose couplings of two sizes: 63 mm and 70 mm.
  • Dimensions and tolerances are strictly defined (±0.5 mm where not specified).
  • Applies to fire-fighting hose couplings and related fittings.

Key Dimensions (Clause 2.5 & 5.3)

Size (mm)A (ø)B (ø)C (ø)D (ø)
636353 +0.00/-0.56353 +0.00/-0.5
707060 +0.00/-0.5*7060 +0.00/-0.5

*Note: For 70 mm size, B is reduced to 53 mm over 5 mm length at washer, then tapered smoothly.


Tolerances:

  • ±0.5 mm unless otherwise specified.

Hydraulic & Deflection Test Requirements (Clause 2.5 & 62.7)

Test TypeMin (mm)Max (mm)
Hydraulic Test120125
Deflection Test6262.7

Rounding Off (General Rule)

  • Follow IS 2:1960 for rounding numerical values.
  • Retain the same number of significant figures as the specified value.

Referenced Indian Standards (Annex A)

  • IS 291, 292, 304, 318, 617, 937, 1264 etc. for materials and coatings.
  • IS 2643 for pipe thread dimensions.
  • IS 1570 for wrought steels.

flowchart LR
    A[IS 903 Scope] --> B[Two Sizes: 63 & 70 mm]
    B --> C[Dimension Tolerances ±0.5 mm]
    B --> D[Hydraulic Test: 120-125 mm]
    B --> E[Deflection Test: 62-62.7 mm]
    A --> F[Material & Coating Standards]
2References

IS 903 - References: Key Specifications and Tables

Rounding Off (Clause None)

  • Follow IS 2:1960 for rounding numerical results.
  • Retain the same significant digits as specified values.

Dimensional Tolerances

  • Unless specified, tolerance = ±0.5 mm.
  • Important for hose couplings, nozzles, and fittings.

Hydraulic Test Requirements (Clause 2.5, Table 7.3)

  • Dimensions for Female Half Coupling (Size 63 & 70 mm):

    SizeA (ø)B (ø)C (ø)D (ø)
    636353 +0.00/-0.56353 +0.00/-0.5
    707060 +0.00/-0.5*7060 +0.00/-0.5

    *For size 70, B reduces to 53 mm over 5 mm length with smooth curve.

Parallel Threads (Clause 1.5)

  • Threads per IS 2643 (Part 1), G 1 3/4 standard.
  • Tolerance ±0.5 mm.

Referenced Indian Standards (Annex A)

  • Material specs: Naval brass rods (IS 291), Leaded brass ingots (IS 292), High tensile brass (IS 304), Aluminium alloys (IS 617), Stainless steel wire (IS 6528), etc.
  • Coating specs: Hard chromium (IS 1337), Zinc plating (IS 1573).

Summary Diagram: Hose Coupling Dimensions

graph LR
A[Size] --> B[A (ø)]
A --> C[B (ø)]
A --> D[C (ø)]
A --> E[D (ø)]
B -->|63 or 70| C
C -->|Tolerance ±0.5 mm| D

Use IS 2:1960 for rounding and IS 2643 for thread details. Tolerances are critical for interchangeability and performance.

3Workmanship and Finish

IS 903: Workmanship and Finish - Key Points

  • General Quality:

    • All fittings must exhibit good workmanship and finish.
    • Surfaces should be free from burrs, sharp edges, porosity, blowholes, scales, cracks, or other defects.
    • Forgings and castings must be sound and not repaired or filled to hide defects.
    • The water-way inside fittings must have a smooth finish.
  • Material Specifications:

    • Aluminium alloys used shall be die cast conforming to IS 617 (Designations 4225, 4450, or 4600).
    • Exposed aluminium surfaces must have an anodized finish.
    • Threaded aluminium parts coated with molybdenum-based grease.
    • Steel castings should conform to Grade 1 or 4 of IS 3444:1987 (corrosion-resistant alloy steel).
  • Dimensional Tolerances:

    • Unless otherwise specified, tolerance = ±0.5 mm.
    • Example dimensions for couplings (in mm):
Size (mm)A (ø)B (ø)C (ø)D (ø)
636353 +0 / -0.56353 +0 / -0.5
707060 +0 / -0.5*7060 +0 / -0.5

*Note: For size 70, B is reduced to 53 mm over 5 mm length at washer, then transitions smoothly.


Summary Diagram of Workmanship Requirements

flowchart TD
    A[Start: Manufacturing] --> B[Check Material Quality]
    B --> C{Forgings & Castings}
    C -->|Sound, No Defects| D[Proceed]
    C -->|Defects Present| E[Reject or Recast]
    D --> F[Surface Finish]
    F -->|Smooth, No Burrs| G[Apply Coatings/Anodizing]
    F -->|Rough/Defective| E
    G --> H[Final Inspection]
    H -->|Meets
4Marking and Criteria for Conformity

IS 903: Marking and Criteria for Conformity

Key Marking Requirements (Clause 4.1)

Each fitting shall be clearly and permanently marked with:

  • Manufacturer's name and trade-mark
  • Size (where applicable)
  • Year of manufacture

Additionally, fittings may carry the Standard Mark (Clause 4.1.1), which assures compliance with the standard under BIS supervision.


Criteria for Conformity

  • Test results should be rounded off as per IS 2:1960 maintaining the same significant figures as the specified values.
  • Continuous quality control and inspection are enforced by BIS for license holders using the Standard Mark.

Tolerances & Testing (Clause 62.7)

  • Dimensional tolerances where unspecified: ±0.5 mm
  • Example: Deflection test requirements (Table 8.4) specify minimum and maximum deflections in mm.

Summary Table: Marking Information

Marking ItemDescription
Manufacturer’s NameClear and permanent
Trade-markRegistered mark of manufacturer
SizeApplicable size of fitting
Year of ManufactureYear when produced
Standard MarkOptional, per BIS licensing rules

flowchart TD
    A[Fitting] --> B[Mark Manufacturer Name & Trade-mark]
    A --> C[Mark Size]
    A --> D[Mark Year of Manufacture]
    A --> E{Optional}
    E --> F[Standard Mark (BIS)]

For detailed specifications on materials, coatings, and dimensions, refer to the annexed IS standards listed in IS 903 Annex A.

5Delivery Hose Coupling

IS 903: Delivery Hose Coupling Key Specifications

1. Delivery Hose Coupling Components (Clause 5.1)

  • Consists of Male Half Coupling and Female Half Coupling assembled with a washer.
  • Refer to Fig. 1 & Fig. 2 for assembly details.

2. Dimensions & Tolerances (Clause 2.5)

  • All dimensions in mm.
  • General tolerance: ±0.5 mm where not specified.
  • Hydraulic test requirements per Table 7.3 (not fully provided here).

3. Female Half Coupling Dimensions (Fig. 2 & Table)

Size (mm)A (ø)B (ø)C (ø)D (ø)
636353 +0.00 / -0.56353 +0.00 / -0.5
707060 +0.00 / -0.57060 +0.00 / -0.5
  • Note: For size 70, dimension B reduces to 53 mm for 5 mm length near washer, tapering smoothly after serration.

4. Male Half Coupling & Nozzle Spanner

  • Male half coupling details per Fig. 2.
  • Nozzle spanner size: 8 (Clause 2B).

Summary Diagram of Coupling Assembly

graph LR
  FH[Female Half Coupling]
  Washer[Washer]
  MH[Male Half Coupling]

  FH --> Washer --> MH

For detailed hydraulic test pressures and other fittings, refer to Table 7.3 and full IS 903 document.

6Branch Pipe

IS 903: Branch Pipe Key Specifications & Formulas

  • Shape & Dimensions:
    As per Clause 6.2, branch pipe shape and dimensions must conform exactly to Fig. 3 of IS 903. (Refer IS 903 Fig. 3 for detailed geometry.)

  • Hydraulic Pressure Test:

    • Pressure = 2.1 MN/mm² (21 kgf/cm²)
    • Duration = 2.5 minutes
    • No leakage or sweating allowed (Clause 2.1).
  • Washers for Branch Pipe:
    Use washers conforming to Type B of IS 937:1981 (Clause 5.2).


Typical Hydraulic Pressure Test Formula

[ P = \frac{F}{A} ]

Where:

  • (P) = Test pressure (2.1 MN/mm²)
  • (F) = Force applied
  • (A) = Cross-sectional area of the branch pipe

Summary Table

ParameterValue/Specification
Test Pressure2.1 MN/mm² (21 kgf/cm²)
Test Duration2.5 minutes
Washer TypeType B (IS 937:1981)
DimensionsAs per Fig. 3 (IS 903)

flowchart LR
    A[Branch Pipe] --> B{Shape & Dimensions}
    B --> C[Fig. 3 (IS 903)]
    A --> D[Hydraulic Test]
    D --> E[Pressure: 2.1 MN/mm²]
    D --> F[Duration: 2.5 min]
    D --> G[No Leakage/Sweating]
    A --> H[Washer]
    H --> I[Type B (IS 937:1981)]

For precise dimensions and detailed drawings, always refer to Fig. 3 of IS 903 directly.

7Nozzles

IS 903 Nozzles – Key Specifications & Tables


1. Nozzle Sizes (Clause 7.2)

  • Permissible diameters: 6, 12, 15, 20, 25, 30 mm
  • Dimensions as per Fig. 4 (not shown here)
  • Tolerance: ±0.5 mm (where not specified)

2. Hydraulic Pressure Test (Clause 2.1 & 2.5)

  • Test pressure: 2.1 MN/mm² (21 kgf/cm²)
  • Duration: 2.5 minutes
  • Acceptance: No leakage or sweating allowed

3. Coupling Dimensions (Clause 2.5, Table 7.3)

Size (mm)A (ø)B (ø)C (ø)D (ø)
636353 +0/-0.56353 +0/-0.5
707060 +0/-0.57060 +0/-0.5
  • Note: For ø70, B reduces to 53 mm over 5 mm length at washer, tapering smoothly.

4. Nozzle Spanner (Clause 8.1)

  • Material: Steel Grade 35C4 or 40C8 as per IS 1570 (Part 2/Sec 1):1979

graph LR
A[Nozzle Sizes] --> B[6,12,15,20,25,30 mm]
B --> C[Dimension Fig.4]
D[Hydraulic Test] --> E[2.1 MN/mm² for 2.5 min]
E --> F[No leakage allowed]
G[Coupling Dimensions] --> H[Table 7.3]
H --> I[Size 63 & 70 mm details]
J[Nozzle Spanner] --> K[Grade 35C4 or 40C8 Steel]

For detailed dimensional drawings, refer to Fig. 4 and Table 7.3 in IS 903.

8Nozzle Spanner

IS 903 - Nozzle Spanner Key Points


Material Specification (Clause 8.1)

  • Steel Grade: 35C4 or 40C8 as per IS 1570 (Part 2/Sec 1):1979

Nozzle Sizes (Clause 7.2)

  • Standard nozzle sizes: 6, 12, 15, 20, 25, 30 mm
  • Dimensions conform to Fig. 4 (not provided here)

Dimensional Tolerances (Clause 2.5)

  • General tolerance: ±0.5 mm where not specified

Deflection Test (Clause 8.4)

  • Spanner fitted on hexagon bar of correct size
  • Apply 35 kg weight at 17 cm from centerline (horizontal handle)
  • No permanent deflection or damage allowed

Additional Notes

  • Parallel threads as per G 13/4 of IS 2643 (Part 1)
  • All dimensions in millimeters

Summary Table: Nozzle Sizes and Test Load

ParameterValue
Nozzle Sizes6, 12, 15, 20, 25, 30 mm
Spanner MaterialSteel Grade 35C4 / 40C8
Test Load35 kg
Load Application Distance17 cm
Tolerance±0.5 mm

flowchart LR
    A[Nozzle Spanner] --> B[Material: Steel 35C4/40C8]
    A --> C[Nozzle Sizes: 6-30 mm]
    A --> D[Deflection Test]
    D --> E[Apply 35 kg at 17 cm]
    E --> F[No permanent deflection]

For detailed dimensions, refer to Fig. 4 of IS 903 and IS 1570 for steel grades.

Annex AList of Referred Indian Standards

IS 903 - List of Referred Indian Standards (Annex A)

This annex provides key Indian Standards referenced in IS 903 related to materials and specifications for fire fighting equipment:

IS No.Title
291 : 1989Naval brass rods and sections for machining
292 : 1983Leaded brass ingots and castings
304 : 1981High tensile brass ingots and castings
318 : 1981Tin bronze ingots and castings
617 : 1975Aluminium and aluminium alloys ingots and castings
937 : 1981Washers for water fittings for fire fighting
1264 : 1989Brass gravity die castings
1337 : 1980Electroplated hard chromium coatings on iron/steel
1570 (Part 2/Sec 1) : 1979Schedules for wrought carbon steels
1573 : 1986Electroplated zinc coatings on iron/steel
2643 (Part 1) : 1975Dimensions for pipe threads for fastening
6528 : 1972Stainless steel wire
6529 : 1972Stainless steel blooms, billets, slabs for forging
7608 : 1987Phosphor bronze wire for general engineering

Additional Notes:

  • All dimensions in mm.
  • Tolerance ±5 mm unless specified.
  • These standards cover material specifications, coatings, dimensions, and mechanical properties critical for fire fighting equipment manufacturing and testing.

This list ensures compatibility and quality compliance across components used in fire safety systems.

Annex BForeword

IS 903 - Foreword: Key Points, Tables & Specifications

Foreword Overview:

  • IS 903 relates to specifications for fire fighting equipment components.
  • It references multiple Indian Standards (IS) for materials and coatings.
  • The standard includes dimensional tolerances, test requirements, and committee composition.

Important Specifications & Tables:

1. Dimensional Tolerances

  • Unless otherwise specified, tolerance = ±0.5 mm.
  • Applies to all critical dimensions in couplings, nozzles, and spanners.

2. Coupling Dimensions (Clause 2.5, Table 7.3)

Size (mm)A (ø)B (ø)C (ø)D (ø)
636353 +0/-0.56353 +0/-0.5
707060 +0/-0.5 (reduced to 53 mm for 5 mm length near washer)7060 +0/-0.5

Key Notes:

  • Final test results must be rounded per IS 2:1960 rules.
  • Hydraulic and deflection test requirements are specified (e.g., Clause 62.7).
  • Nozzle spanner and cam tooth details are dimensioned precisely for compatibility.

Committee Composition:

  • Includes representatives from Ministry of Home Affairs, Railways, Defence, Fire Services, and industry experts ensuring comprehensive standardization.

flowchart LR
    A[IS 903 Standard] --> B[Material Specs (Brass, Steel, Aluminium)]
    A --> C[Dimensional Tolerances ±0.5 mm]
    A --> D[Coupling Dimensions Table]
    A --> E[Test Requirements (Hydraulic, Deflection)]
    A --> F[Committee for Fire Fighting Equipment]

Summary: IS 903 sets strict dimensional, material, and test criteria for fire fighting couplings and accessories, ensuring interchangeability and reliability. Use the tables and tolerances for precise manufacturing and testing.

Popular Questions About IS 903

?What materials are specified for manufacturing fire hose delivery couplings under IS 903?

Materials for Fire Hose Delivery Couplings as per IS 903 (1993) and Amendments:

  • Metallic Materials:

    • Corrosion Resistant Alloy Steel: Grade 1 or 4 of IS 3444:1987 (replacing earlier designations).
    • Stainless Steel: Designation 04Cr17Ni12Mo2 of IS 6529:1972 (for stainless steel couplings, branch pipes, and nozzles).
    • Phosphor Bronze Wire: For springs in copper alloy couplings, conforming to IS 7608:1987.
    • Stainless Steel Wire: For springs in aluminium alloy, zinc alloy, and stainless steel couplings, conforming to IS 6528:1972.
    • Other Steel Grades: As per IS 617:1975 designations 4225, 4450, or 4600 (for certain components).
  • General Requirements:

    • Forgings and castings must be sound, free from defects, and have smooth water-ways.
    • No repairs to hide casting defects are allowed.

Summary Table

ComponentMaterial Specification
Hose Delivery CouplingsGrade 1 or 4, IS 3444:1987 (Corrosion resistant alloy steel)
Stainless Steel Parts04Cr17Ni12Mo2, IS 6529:1972
Springs (Copper Alloy)Phosphor bronze wire, IS 7608:1987
Springs (Al, Zn, SS)Stainless steel wire, IS 6528:1972

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Note: Always refer to the latest amendments of IS 903 for updates.

?What are the required hydraulic test pressures for couplings, branch pipes, and nozzles?

Hydraulic Test Pressures as per IS 903:

  • Couplings:

    • Test pressure = 21 MN/m² (21 kgf/cm²)
    • Duration = 2.5 minutes
    • Acceptance: No leakage or sweating
  • Branch Pipes:

    • Test pressure = 2.1 MN/m² (21 kgf/cm²)
    • Duration = 2.5 minutes
    • Acceptance: No leakage or sweating
  • Nozzles:

    • While the exact pressure isn't explicitly stated in the provided clauses, typically nozzles are tested at the same pressure as branch pipes or couplings depending on their application, often 21 kgf/cm² for 2.5 minutes.

Summary Table:

ComponentTest Pressure (MN/m²)Test Pressure (kgf/cm²)Duration (min)Acceptance Criteria
Couplings21212.5No leakage or sweating
Branch Pipes2.1212.5No leakage or sweating
Nozzles~2.1*~21*2.5*No leakage or sweating

*Typical values based on branch pipe testing; verify with specific nozzle requirements.


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Ensure strict adherence to these pressures to maintain integrity and safety as per IS 903 standards.

?How are the dimensions and sizes of couplings and nozzles standardized in this code?

IS 903: Standardization of Couplings and Nozzles Dimensions

  • Nozzle Sizes: As per Clause 7.2, nozzle sizes are standardized to 6, 12, 15, 20, 25, and 30 mm.
  • Dimensional Tolerances: Unless otherwise specified, all dimensions have a tolerance of ±0.5 mm (Clause 2.5).
  • Coupling Dimensions:
    • Female half coupling sizes include 63 mm and 70 mm diameters with detailed dimensions A, B, C, D specified (see Fig. 2).
    • For example, for size 63:
      • A = 63 mm (Ø)
      • B = 53 +0.00/-0.5 mm (Ø)
      • C = 63 mm (Ø)
      • D = 53 +0.0/-0.5 mm (Ø)
    • For size 70, B is reduced to 53 mm for 5 mm length at washer, tapering smoothly after serrated length.
  • Material and Finish: Couplings and nozzles must be free from defects, burrs, and have smooth water-ways (Clause 3).
  • Reference Figures: Dimensions conform to Fig. 2 (couplings) and Fig. 4 (nozzles) in IS 903.
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This ensures interchangeability and reliable performance in firefighting operations.

?What marking information must be present on fittings according to IS 903?

According to IS 903 (1993), Clause 4.1, each fire hose fitting must be separately, clearly, and permanently marked with:

  • Manufacturer's name and trade-mark
  • Size (where applicable)
  • Year of manufacture

Additionally, Clause 4.1.1 permits marking the fitting with the Standard Mark of BIS, indicating compliance with the standard under BIS supervision.

Summary of Marking Requirements:

Marking ItemRequirement
Manufacturer's NameMandatory, clear and permanent
Trade-markMandatory, clear and permanent
SizeApplicable fittings only
Year of ManufactureMandatory, clear and permanent
Standard Mark (optional)Indicates BIS certification

This ensures traceability, quality assurance, and compliance with BIS regulations for fire hose fittings.

?What corrosion resistance treatments are recommended for nozzle spanners?

According to IS 903, Clause 8.3, the recommended corrosion resistance treatments for nozzle spanners are:

  • Chromium plating as per IS 1337:1980
  • Zinc plating as per IS 1573:1986

These treatments provide effective anti-corrosive protection for steel nozzle spanners (made from Grade 35C4 or 40C8 steel per Clause 8.1).

Summary:

Treatment TypeIS Code ReferencePurpose
Chromium platingIS 1337:1980Anti-corrosive finish
Zinc platingIS 1573:1986Anti-corrosive finish

This ensures durability and resistance against rust in service environments.

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