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IS 910:1980 is the Indian Standard (BIS) for combined key for hydrant, hydrant cover and lower valve. This standard lays down the requirements regarding materials, shape, dimensions, and workmanship of the combined key used for operating underground fire hydrants, opening their covers, and operating the lower valves. Engineers and procurement teams use this specification to ensure standardization, compatibility, and durability of hydrant keys for fire protection networks.
Specification for Combined Key For Hydrant, Hydrant Cover And Lower Valve
! Always verify the compatibility of the square key head with the installed underground hydrant valve spindles on site to ensure there is no slipping during an emergency.
! The tool must be properly coated with anti-corrosive paint or galvanized as per the standard to ensure longevity, as it is frequently exposed to water.
DIN 3223-1:2014-06DIN (Deutsches Institut für Normung), Germany
HighCurrent
Keys for underground hydrants - Part 1: Key A
Specifies materials, dimensions, and tests for a T-handle key used to operate underground hydrants and valves.
BS PD 201115:2008BSI (British Standards Institution), United Kingdom
HighCurrent
Hydrant key and bar
Defines the requirements for a key and a separate bar used for operating and accessing underground fire hydrants.
BS 750:2012BSI (British Standards Institution), United Kingdom
MediumCurrent
Specification for underground fire hydrants and surface box frames and covers
Specifies the hydrant itself, including the dimensions of the operating cap that the key must fit, but not the key tool.
Key Differences
≠The IS 910 standard specifies a single 'combined' tool with integrated square and triangular sockets plus a chisel end. In contrast, some international practices, like those described in BS PD 201115, utilize a separate 'key' for operation and a 'bar' for prying open the cover.
≠Operating nut shapes and sizes differ. North American hydrants (per AWWA standards) typically use a pentagonal nut, making the IS 910 key with its square and triangular sockets incompatible. European standards like DIN 3223-1 also specify different socket dimensions (e.g., 32 mm triangle vs. 27 mm in IS 910).
≠Testing methodologies vary. IS 910 prescribes a 'Hammering Test' where the key is dropped from a height of 2 meters. In contrast, DIN 3223-1 specifies a functional torque test (e.g., 250 Nm) to ensure the key can handle operational forces without deformation.
≠The specified overall length of the key differs. IS 910 mandates a length of 750 mm, whereas DIN 3223-1 specifies a longer key at 900 mm, reflecting potential differences in hydrant installation depths.
Key Similarities
≈The fundamental purpose is identical: to provide a long-reach, manual T-handle tool for firefighters or waterworks personnel to operate underground hydrants and valves from the surface level.
≈The primary material of construction is consistently a high-strength, tough grade of cast iron (Malleable or Spheroidal/Ductile) to withstand the high torque and rough handling associated with emergency and maintenance operations.
≈All related standards specify a tool with a T-handle design. This ergonomic feature is universal as it provides the necessary leverage for a single or two-person operation to open and close potentially stiff valves.
Parameter Comparison
Parameter
IS Value
International
Source
Primary Material
Malleable Cast Iron (IS 2108) or Spheroidal Graphite Cast Iron (IS 1865)
Malleable cast iron (EN-GJMB-350-10 according to DIN EN 1562) or Steel
DIN 3223-1:2014-06
Overall Length
750 mm
900 mm
DIN 3223-1:2014-06
Tool Configuration
Combined key with hydrant socket, valve socket, and chisel end
Separate 'Key' for operation and 'Bar' for lifting cover
BS PD 201115:2008
Triangular Socket (Valve) Side Length
27 mm
32 mm (for valves DN 25 to DN 32)
DIN 3223-1:2014-06
Performance Test
Hammering Test (dropped from 2 m height)
Torque Test (must withstand 250 Nm)
DIN 3223-1:2014-06
Square Socket (Hydrant Cap) Size
28 mm (across flats)
32 mm (across flats, for standard cap)
BS 750:2012
⚠ Verify details from original standards before use
Key Values0
No quick reference values available for this code yet.