Storz Coupling Explained:
In 1882, Carl August Guido Storz invented a type of hose coupling that connects large diameter hoses to fire hydrants and pumps, and the inlets that supply water to fire sprinkler or standpipe systems. The product quickly gained popularity in Europe before making its way to the United States almost a century later.

Standardized fittings:
Historically, many fire departments in the United States have tried to standardize the fittings they use to connect fire hoses to fire hydrants, pumps, and the inlets that supply water for fire sprinkler or standpipe systems. Most of these are threaded swivels or hose couplings that screw together, but one type of standardized hose connection works particularly well with large diameter hose: the storz coupling.

Quickly connects to hydrants and pumpers:
The most important benefit of the storz coupling is its quick, quarter-turn connection to fire hydrants or pumps. This feature makes it much faster to connect than a threaded swivel or hose coupling, which requires several turns to secure the fitting.
Fixes mismatch between hose and hydrant
A major problem with threaded hose couplings is the risk of mismatch between a firefighter’s male-threaded hose and a female-threaded hydrant. This can result in the firefighter having to re-lay the hose all over again or use an adapter, which is both a waste of time and could lead to a life threatening situation if the hydrant were to break and cause a fire.