Final answer:
To support a hydrant, urban water supply systems prefer using elevated water storage tanks, which utilize gravity to maintain water pressure, or booster pumps as needed. These components work together to ensure consistent water pressure and flow for firefighting services during peak times and various topographies.
Step-by-step explanation:
To support a hydrant system, especially during peak water usage times, urban areas generally rely on sophisticated water supply systems with various components that ensure adequate water pressure and flow rate. One preferred and common system utilizes elevated water storage tanks, often known as water tower tanks. These tanks take advantage of gravity to create pressure that can be exerted in all directions including to hydrants. The water is pumped into these tanks from water treatment plants, and the elevation provides the pressure needed. During periods of high demand, the gravity-fed system ensures a consistent water pressure without the need for additional pumping.
On the other hand, water pumps are also crucial for maintaining water supply and pressure in situations where gravity alone cannot provide the necessary flow. Booster pumps, for example, are used to increase the pressure of water as it travels through the pipes, ensuring that it can reach all areas, including hydrants, at an appropriate pressure level. These pumps are typically used in flat areas where the elevation cannot be used to generate pressure, or to enhance the pressure in hilly or high-rise building areas where gravity may not be sufficient. Both water tower tanks and booster pumps are vital components of an advanced water supply system that ensures firefighters have the water supply needed when dealing with emergencies.