What is the maximum flow rate defined for Class C Hydrants according to NFPA standards?

The maximum flow rate defined for Class C hydrants, as specified in the NFPA standards, is 500 gallons per minute (gpm), which translates to approximately 1,900 liters per minute (L/min). Class C hydrants are designed for use in areas with less fire protection need compared to higher-class hydrants, making this flow rate appropriate for situations where smaller amounts of water are sufficient for fire suppression. These classifications help ensure that fire departments can effectively deploy resources according to the specific requirements of different areas, allowing for efficient management of water supply for firefighting operations. The flow rate for Class C hydrants reflects the balance between ensuring adequate response capabilities while acknowledging that not all locations will require higher capacities that are found in other classes.