🔍 Key Concepts

• Purpose of a strainer in a fire main system • Where debris is most likely to enter the fire main piping • Effect of strainer location on pump protection and system reliability

💭 Think About

• If the goal is to keep sand, rust, and debris from damaging equipment, would you want the strainer before or after the pump? • Think about where seawater (or outside water) first enters the system—at what point in the flow path is it most critical to remove debris? • Which location would make it easiest and safest to open and clean a strainer while still keeping the rest of the system ready for use?

✅ Before You Answer

• Trace the flow: sea chest/sea suction → valve → pump → piping → hydrants → hoses/nozzles • Ask: which option best protects the pump itself from debris? • Consider maintenance: which spot allows a strainer to be cleaned quickly without disturbing every downstream component?