©Copyright Task Force Tips LLC 2016-2019
LIS-040 April 8, 2019 Rev02
8
9.0 COLOR CODED VALVE HANDLE AND PISTOL GRIP
The TFT Vortex with integrated detent valve is supplied with black valve handle covers and pistol grips. For an additional fee,
handle covers and pistol grips are available from TFT in various colors for those departments wishing to color code the nozzle to the
discharge controls. A colored handle cover set will be sent upon receipt of the warranty card and color selection form by TFT. Your
department’s name can also be engraved on the covers (see color selection form for more information).
Handle covers are replaceable by removing the four screws that hold the handle covers in place. Use a 3/32” allen wrench when
replacing screws. Pistol grip is replaceable by following TFT instruction sheet LTT-108.
For standardization NFPA 1901-2009 (A.16.9.1) recommends the following color code scheme:
Preconnect #1 or Front Bumper Jump Line
Preconnect #2
Preconnect #3 or discharge #1
Preconnect #4 or discharge #2
Discharge #3
Discharge #4
Discharge #5
Foam Lines
Booster Reels
Orange
Red
Yellow
White
Blue
Black
Green
Red w/ White border (Red/White)
Gray
Other Colors Available:
•
Pink
•
Tan
•
Purple
7.0 USE OF NOZZLES
Many factors contribute to the extinguishment of a fire. Among the most
important is delivering water at a flow rate sufficient to absorb heat faster
than it is being generated. The flow rate depends largely on the pump
discharge pressure and hose friction loss. It can be calculated using a
hydraulic equation such as:
PDP = NP + FL + DL + EL
PDP = Pump discharge pressure in PSI
NP = Nozzle pressure in PSI
FL = Hose friction loss in PSI
DL = Device loss in PSI
EL = Elevation loss in PSI
This manual is not intended to act as a training guide for safe fireground tactics and operations.
8.0 APPROVALS
Vortex 1.5” and 2.5” NH threaded nozzles meet the requirements of NFPA 1962 (2013) and NFPA 1964 (2008).
WARNING
There are a wide variety of foam concentrates. Each user is responsible for verifying that any foam
concentrate chosen to be used with this unit has been tested to assure that the foam obtained is
suitable for the purpose intended.
WARNING
Use of compressed air foam (CAF) with hand held nozzles can cause sudden surges in nozzle
reaction force resulting in risk of injury or death from loss of footing or hose whipping. Be
prepared for sudden changes in nozzle reaction caused by:
• Slug loading (Loss of foam concentrate sends slugs of air and water into the nozzle)
• Sudden release of built-up pressure in the hose when opening a nozzle
6.0 USE WITH FOAM
The VORTEX with appropriate nozzle and aspiration nozzle may be used with foam solutions. Refer to fire service training for the
proper use of foam.
WARNING
For Class B fires, lack of foam or interruption in the foam stream can cause a break in the foam
blanket and greatly increase the risk of injury or death.
Assure that:
• Application rate is sufficient (see NFPA 11 or foam manufacturer’s recommendations)
• Enough concentrate is on hand to complete task (see NFPA for minimum duration time
requirements)
• Foam logistics have been carefully planned.
Allow for such things as:
• Storage of foam in a location not exposed to the hazard it protects
• Personnel, equipment, and technique to deliver foam at a rapid enough rate
• Removal of empty foam containers
• Clear path to deliver foam, as hoses, other equipment, and vehicles are deployed
WARNING
Improper use of foam can result in injury or damage to the environment. Follow foam manufacturer’s
instructions and fire service training to avoid:
• Using wrong type of foam on a fire, i.e. Class A foam on a Class B fire
• Plunging foam into pools of burning liquid fuels
• Causing environmental damage
• Directing stream at personnel
