What is the main characteristic of 'hard suction' hoses?

The main characteristic of hard suction hoses is that they are rigid and designed to withstand vacuum pressure. This design allows them to be effectively used for drafting water from static sources, such as ponds or rivers. Hard suction hoses are built to handle the negative pressure that occurs when water is drawn into the pump, which helps to prevent collapse or damage to the hose.

The rigidity of hard suction hoses also ensures that they maintain a consistent shape, which is crucial for effective water flow. While other types of hoses may be flexible and lightweight, hard suction hoses prioritize durability and the ability to handle the demands of fire suppression operations, particularly in situations where water must be drawn from a non-pressurized source. Additionally, while some hoses can be color-coded for identification, this is not a defining feature of hard suction hoses specifically.