Auto flow branches

[CFS_Firey]

What are peoples opinions on branches that have automatic flow control compared with ones that have manual flow control?
I personally like the ability to choose my flow rate, and conserve water if needed, or ramp the flowrate up for mopping up...  I can also see benefit in having the right flowrate for the the supplied pressure though....

Has anyone had experience with both types?

[Firefrog]

This is like asking who do you prefer Liberal or Labour You will find passionate people in both camps.

My personal view is automatics are fine when running them at the optimum pressure normally 700kpa or higher.

For most work I find a manual branch to be versatile and adaptable. I find automatics problematic and awkward at low pump pressure.
My prefered manual is an Akron!

[Toast]

Yep, manual Akrons all the way.

[PF_]

whats an automatic flow branch, only heard and seen the akron types

[Mike]

Definately Akrons (manual)....

[Firefrog]

whats an automatic flow branch, only heard and seen the akron types

An Auto has a spring system that is meant to automatically adjust the volume of water flowing from the branch based on pump pressure. A common brand name is TFT or Task Force Tip.

A manual branch allows the operator to select the required flow rate (volume of water) and still acheive the desired branch performance in terms of pattern and effectiveness.

[rescue5271]

akron or protek is the way to go,auto flow use too much water.....

[TillerMan]

Automatic's are generally only good on pumpers with high pressure pumps. manual types are better on grass fire trucks where you need to conserve water.

[rescue5271]

You can now by branches with built in torch,they look good...

[Toast]

You can now by branches with built in torch,they look good...

You can buy hose covers with fluro lights in them...

[medevac]

you can buy condoms that glow in the dark too

[Toast]

New guide line procedures ahoy!

[oz fire]

Automatics are generally only good on pumpers with high pressure pumps. manual types are better on grass fire trucks where you need to conserve water.

Manual flow are excellent on pumpers - especially if you are contemplating gas cooling for a structural fire or dragging a HP line with lay flat for grassies.

Manual gives you the options, autos give you laziness!

Was a huge TFT fan until we took on Akron's and Protecs - now converted to manual flow branches and reaping the rewards 

[SA Firey]

you can buy condoms that glow in the dark too

 

LMAO