What is the primary difference between a Type A and Type B water tender?

Type A (IS 948) has a 2000L water tank capacity, whereas Type B (IS 950) has a 4500L water tank capacity.

What is the required performance of the main fire pump?

The centrifugal fire pump must deliver an output of 2250 liters per minute at a pressure of 0.7 MPa (7 kg/cm²).

How many personnel should the crew cabin accommodate?

The vehicle cabin must be designed to safely seat the driver, an officer, and up to 4 to 5 additional crew members (typically a 6-man crew).

What are the stability and road performance requirements?

The fully loaded appliance must accelerate from 0 to 64 km/h in 45 seconds, achieve a max speed of 72 km/h, and safely negotiate a minimum turning circle.

IS 950

: 2012

Functional Requirements for Water Tender, Type B for Fire Brigade Use

CurrentSpecializedSpecificationFire Safety · Fire Fighting

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This standard prescribes the functional requirements, materials, design, and construction specifications for Type B Water Tenders used by fire brigades. It is utilized by fire safety engineers, manufacturers, and municipal procurement officers to ensure fire fighting vehicles meet the necessary operational capacities, pump performance, and safety metrics.

Functional Requirements for Water Tender, Type B for Fire Brigade Use

Quick Reference Values

Water Tank Capacity4500 litres minimum

Pump Normal Output2250 l/min at 0.7 MPa (7 kgf/cm²)

Deep Lift Drafting CapacityAble to lift water from 7.0 m depth within 30 seconds

Acceleration Requirement0 to 64 km/h in 45 seconds (fully laden)

Maximum Speed72 km/h on level road

Crew Cabin CapacityDriver/Officer + 5 Crew Members (Total 6)

Ground ClearanceNot less than 260 mm

Practical Notes

Type B water tenders are primarily distinguished by their larger 4500L water tank, making them suitable for areas with scarce water supply (compared to Type A's 2000L).

Always verify that the commercial chassis's Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) limits are not exceeded when fully loaded with the 4500L of water, crew, and all stowed equipment.

Baffles must be correctly designed and installed inside the water tank to prevent dangerous water surging during transit, which can affect vehicle stability.