duck foot bend, also known as a duckfoot bend or duckfoot bend pipe, is a type of fitting used in piping systems. Its primary purposes are:

1. Direction Change: It allows for a change in the direction of the pipeline, typically by 90 degrees. This is particularly useful in confined spaces where a smooth transition is needed.

2. Space Optimization: By changing the direction of the pipe within a compact area, it helps in optimizing space in complex piping systems.

3. Flow Management: It helps in managing the flow of liquids or gases within the pipeline, ensuring smooth and efficient transportation.

4. Ease of Installation: It simplifies the installation process in scenarios where direct connections are difficult or impossible due to space constraints or design requirements.

5. Structural Support: Provides support and stability to the piping system, reducing stress on other components and joints.

Duck foot bends are commonly used in various industries, including water supply, wastewater management, industrial fluid transportation and especially popular in conjunction with hydrants because hydrants require water from underground and horizontal pipes to be changed to vertical water in order to use it, and a duckfoot bend does this in a number of ways:

Change of direction: A duckfoot bend efficiently changes horizontal flowing water to vertical flowing water, allowing it to be sent directly to the hydrant to meet the special requirements of a fire protection system for water flow direction.

Secure connection: The design of a duckfoot bend ensures a secure connection to a hydrant, avoiding loose or leaking connections due to changes in pressure, and ensuring system safety and reliability. A duckfoot bend also supports a hydrant, eliminating the need for extraneous structural supports like the one shown in Figure 2.

Pressure management: Using a duckfoot bend allows water pressure to be managed effectively to ensure adequate water pressure is available to meet the needs of a hydrant after changing direction, ensuring an adequate water supply for firefighting in emergency situations.

Durability: Duckfoot bends are typically made of durable materials that can withstand high pressure and harsh use environments, ensuring long-term, stable operation of a fire protection system.

Ease of maintenance: The structural design of a duckfoot bend makes it easy to maintain and inspect, ensuring quick repairs or replacements can be made when needed, reducing system downtime and improving overall operational efficiency.

In summary, a duckfoot bend plays a critical role in a fire protection system, ensuring that a hydrant can effectively get vertical water flow from a horizontal piping system to meet its intended use.