What are the couplings made of on 1 3/4" hose?

The couplings on 1 3/4" hose are typically made of aluminum. Aluminum is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and provides good mechanical strength, making it an ideal material for fire hose couplings. The choice of aluminum also facilitates ease of handling, especially during emergency situations when rapid deployment of equipment is crucial. Additionally, aluminum couplings are more durable compared to plastic options and will withstand the rigors of firefighting operations better than other materials.

While pyrolite is a material used in some hose types, especially for insulation or protection, it is not commonly used for couplings due to its specific properties that do not align with the requirements for coupling materials. Brass, while traditionally used in many firefighting applications for its durability and resistance to corrosion, is generally heavier than aluminum. Plastic couplings, while lightweight, may not provide the same level of strength and durability as aluminum, making them less suitable for high-pressure applications such as those encountered in firefighting.