The typical hole size on a hose test gate valve is what size?

• A. 1/4 inch
• B. 1/2 inch
• C. 3/4 inch
• D. 1 inch

Answer: (A)

During hydrostatic hose testing, the gate valve used for the test includes a fixed small orifice to create a controlled bleed. A quarter-inch hole is standard because it limits flow to a safe, predictable rate, allowing the pump to pressurize the hose to the required test pressure while keeping the discharge manageable and the test safe. If the hole were larger, the flow would be excessive, making it hard to maintain the intended test pressure, wasting water, and increasing risk if a weakness in the hose shows up. A smaller orifice would slow the test too much and make leaks hard to observe. So the quarter-inch hole provides a balanced, consistent testing condition.