Fire Pump Tutorial as per NFPA 20 standard

NFPA 20 1-8 (3.2) NFPA Official Definitions
NFPA 20 1-8 (3.2) NFPA Official Definitions
Authority Having Jurisdiction
Authority Having Jurisdiction.*
.* The organization,
office, or individual responsible for approving
equipment, materials, an installation, or a procedure.
A-1-8 (3.2.2) Authority Having Jurisdiction.
A-1-8 (3.2.2) Authority Having Jurisdiction.
The phrase “authority having jurisdiction” is used in NFPA documents in a
broad manner, since jurisdictions and approval agencies vary, as do their
responsibilities. Where public safety is primary, the authority having
jurisdiction may be a federal, state, local, or other regional department or
individual such as a fire chief; fire marshal; chief of a fire prevention bureau,
labor department, or health department; building official; electrical
inspector; or others having statutory authority. For insurance purposes, an
insurance inspection department, rating bureau, or other insurance
company representative may be the authority having jurisdiction. In many
circumstances, the property owner or his or her designated agent assumes
the role of the authority having jurisdiction; at government installations,
the commanding officer or departmental official may be the authority
having jurisdiction.

NFPA 20 (3.2.1)
NFPA 20 (3.2.1)
Approved.*
Approved.* Acceptable to the
Acceptable to the
authority having jurisdiction.
authority having jurisdiction.
A-1-8 (A.3.2.1) Approved.
A-1-8 (A.3.2.1) Approved.
The National Fire Protection Association does not approve,
inspect, or certify any installations, procedures, equipment,
or materials; nor does it approve or evaluate testing
laboratories. In determining the acceptability of
installations, procedures, equipment, or materials, the
authority having jurisdiction may base acceptance on
compliance with NFPA or other appropriate standards. In
the absence of such standards, said authority may require
evidence of proper installation, procedure, or use. The
authority having jurisdiction may also refer to the listings
or labeling practices of an organization ( UL or <FM> )
( UL or <FM> )
that is concerned with product evaluations and is thus in a
position to determine compliance with appropriate
standards for the current production of listed items.

WATER SUPPLY
WATER SUPPLY NFPA 20 (5.6)
NFPA 20 (5.6)
The most common sources of fire
The most common sources of fire
protection water are: city water, above
protection water are: city water, above
ground tank, below ground tank, well, or
ground tank, below ground tank, well, or
an open body of water ( pond, river,
an open body of water ( pond, river,
lake, etc. )
lake, etc. )
NFPA 20 (6.1.2)
NFPA 20 (6.1.2) Centrifugal pumps shall
Centrifugal pumps shall
not be used where a static suction lift is
not be used where a static suction lift is
required.
required.
Find out how many GPM are required and how much PSI
is needed to make the sprinkler and/or stand pipe system
work… Will the “proposed” water supply
water supply and fire
fire
pump
pump meet the system demand ?

Will the water supply be adequate at 150% of the
Will the water supply be adequate at 150% of the
fire pump rated flow???
fire pump rated flow??? NFPA 20
NFPA 20 (5.6.2)
(5.6.2)
(5.6.5.1)
(5.6.5.1)
NFPA 20 (5.6.2.2)
NFPA 20 (5.6.2.2) Where the water supply
Where the water supply
from a public service main is not adequate in
from a public service main is not adequate in
quality, quantity, or pressure,
quality, quantity, or pressure, an alternative
an alternative
water source “SHALL” be provided.
water source “SHALL” be provided.
NFPA 20
NFPA 20 (5.6.5) Head. The head (suction
pressure) available from a water supply shall be
figured on the basis of a flow of 150 percent of
the rated capacity of the fire pump. This head
should be determined by a flow test of the water
supply prior
prior to ordering the pump.

--SAMPLE--
--SAMPLE--
This water supply has a 6” line and an 8” that will feed a 1000 GPM pump.
This water supply has a 6” line and an 8” that will feed a 1000 GPM pump.
The top curve has both lines open, the lower curve has only the 6” open.
The top curve has both lines open, the lower curve has only the 6” open.
In the worst condition (6” only) the line will provide 1000 GPM @ 45 PSI.
In the worst condition (6” only) the line will provide 1000 GPM @ 45 PSI.
NOTE: Water supply flow test - MUST
NOTE: Water supply flow test - MUST
BE CONDUCTED BEFORE A PUMP IS
BE CONDUCTED BEFORE A PUMP IS
SPECIFIED AND ORDERED! (5.6.5)
SPECIFIED AND ORDERED! (5.6.5)

STATE of OHIO FIRE SCHOOL - BGSU 6
Theoretical Conditions
Theoretical Conditions
.
323 ‘
323 ‘
NFPA 20 Theoretical
NFPA 20 Theoretical
Maximum Churn
Maximum Churn
HEAD
HEAD “Must not
“Must not
exceed” 140 % of
exceed” 140 % of
Rated
Rated HEAD
HEAD
231 ‘
231 ‘
NFPA 20 100%
NFPA 20 100%
“Rated” Condition
“Rated” Condition
500 GPM @ 231 ‘
500 GPM @ 231 ‘
HEAD
HEAD
500 GPM
500 GPM
750 GPM
750 GPM
NFPA 20 Theoretical
NFPA 20 Theoretical
Minimum Head AT
Minimum Head AT
150%of RATED FLOW
150%of RATED FLOW
- Head Must Be
- Head Must Be
“Above
“Above “
“ 65%of
65%of
Rated
Rated Head
Head
P
P
U
U
M
M
P
P
H
H
E
E
A
A
PUMP FLOW in GPM
PUMP FLOW in GPM

Total Head (H), Horizontal Pumps.*
Total Head (H), Horizontal Pumps.* The
The
measure of the
measure of the “work increase”
“work increase” per pound
per pound
(kilogram) of liquid, imparted to the liquid by the
(kilogram) of liquid, imparted to the liquid by the
pump, and therefore the algebraic difference
pump, and therefore the algebraic difference
between the total discharge head and the total
between the total discharge head and the total
suction head.
suction head.
Where “positive” suction head exists,
Where “positive” suction head exists,
the
the total head
total head (
( work increase
work increase )
) = the
= the
total
total discharge
discharge head ‘
head ‘minus’ ( - )
minus’ ( - )
the total
the total suction
suction head.
head.
Total Head (H), Vertical Turbine Pumps.*
Total Head (H), Vertical Turbine Pumps.* The
The
distance from the pumping water level to the center of the
distance from the pumping water level to the center of the
discharge gauge
discharge gauge ‘plus’ ( + )
‘plus’ ( + ) the total discharge head.
the total discharge head.

PSI /
PSI / HEAD (ft)
HEAD (ft)
CALIBRATED ??
CALIBRATED ?? CALIBRATED ??
CALIBRATED ??

To determine
To determine
FEET of HEAD
FEET of HEAD
multiply “
multiply “ H
H “
“
(net PSI) X 2.31
(net PSI) X 2.31
To determine “
To determine “
H
H ” (net PSI)
” (net PSI)
subtract
subtract
Suction
Suction PSI
PSI
from
from
Discharge
Discharge PSI
PSI
150 PSI
150 PSI
50 PSI
50 PSI
100 PSI
100 PSI
231’ (ft)
231’ (ft)
HORIZONTAL
HORIZONTAL
PUMPS
PUMPS
The suction pressure must
The suction pressure must
be (0 psi) or higher when
be (0 psi) or higher when
pump is operating at 150 %.
pump is operating at 150 %.
When suction is from a tank
When suction is from a tank
the pressure is permitted to
the pressure is permitted to
drop to (-3 psi). NFPA 20
drop to (-3 psi). NFPA 20
(5.14.3)
(5.14.3)

.
.
.
“RATED 100% FLOW “
.
.
A
A
C
C
B
B
.
.
.
.
.
.
“ 150 %
FLOW “
“
“CHURN”
CHURN”
Pressure
Pressure “
“RATED”
RATED”
100 %
100 %
FLOW
FLOW
ACTUAL CITY WATER
ACTUAL CITY WATER
FROM PUMP TEST
FROM PUMP TEST
FLOW IN GPM
FLOW IN GPM
H
H
E
E
A
A
D
D

PUMP FLOW
PUMP FLOW
DETERMINATION
DETERMINATION
WITH FLOW
WITH FLOW
METER
METER

NOZZLE
NOZZLE (PLAY PIPE)
(PLAY PIPE)
AND PITOT TUBE
AND PITOT TUBE
PUMP FLOW
PUMP FLOW
DETERMINATION
DETERMINATION

<FM> FLOW CHART
<FM> FLOW CHART

UL / FM
UL / FM
CENTRIFUGAL
CENTRIFUGAL
FIRE PUMPS
FIRE PUMPS

PACKAGED PUMP HOUSE
PACKAGED PUMP HOUSE

Prefabricated Fire Pump House
Prefabricated Fire Pump House

SITE PREPARATION : Slab or Footer
SITE PREPARATION : Slab or Footer

NOTE :
NOTE :
No Spreader Bars !
No Spreader Bars !

Field Erected Pump House or Pump Room
Field Erected Pump House or Pump Room

Horizontal
Horizontal
Split - Case
Split - Case
Vertical
Vertical
In-Line
In-Line

To Test Head
To Test Head
Jockey
Jockey
Pump
Pump
Vertical Turbine
Vertical Turbine

Horizontal Split - Case Fire Pump
Horizontal Split - Case Fire Pump

Water
Water
Seal
Seal
Piping
Piping
NOTE: Water seal
NOTE: Water seal
piping is not provided
piping is not provided
on UL Fire Pumps
on UL Fire Pumps
with suction pressure
with suction pressure
of 30 psi or more !
of 30 psi or more !
#1
#1
YOU MUST
YOU MUST
ACCURATELY
ACCURATELY
DETERMINE THE
DETERMINE THE
SUCTION PRESSURE
SUCTION PRESSURE
“
“BEFORE”
BEFORE” THE PUMP
THE PUMP
IS ORDERED !!
IS ORDERED !!
NFPA 20 (5.2.2)
NFPA 20 (5.2.2)
(5.6.2.3)
(5.6.2.3)

“
“ACTUAL” Suction pressure MUST be
ACTUAL” Suction pressure MUST be
determined BEFORE you order the pump !
determined BEFORE you order the pump !
NFPA 20 (5.2.2) (5.6.2.3)
NFPA 20 (5.2.2) (5.6.2.3)
Actual
Actual
suction
suction
pressure
pressure
MUST NOT
MUST NOT
exceed
exceed
this !
this !

NO RODS !!!
SAFE ??
Look at the pipe
fittings !!
This pump installation
develops 213 PSI at
churn.
A 125 lb flanged fitting
is rated at 175 PSI
maximum working
pressure !! NFPA 20
(5.7.4.1)
NFPA 13 15.1.6.1.1
NFPA 13 15.1.6.1.1

NFPA 20
NFPA 20
(5.7.4.1)
(5.7.4.1)
(5.7.4.2)
(5.7.4.2)
Variable
Variable
Speed PLC
Speed PLC
(5.18.1.3)
(5.18.1.3)
(5.18.7)
(5.18.7)

Circulation Relief Valve
Circulation Relief Valve
¾”
¾” is the
is the MINIMUM
MINIMUM size for up
size for up
to 2500 GPM Rated Pump*.
to 2500 GPM Rated Pump*.
1”
1” MIN.
MIN. for larger pumps ???
for larger pumps ???
NFPA 20 (5.11)
NFPA 20 (5.11) *
*

Circulation “Case”
Circulation “Case”
Relief Valve
Relief Valve
NFPA 20 2-6 (5.11)
NFPA 20 2-6 (5.11)
NOTE : Not required on diesel
NOTE : Not required on diesel
engine-driven HSC fire pumps unless
engine-driven HSC fire pumps unless
the engine is radiator-cooled !
the engine is radiator-cooled ! *
*
55 L
55 L
918
918 19 - 20
19 - 20 10691
10691 FWC
FWC

NOTE: Above
(optional) Back-
pressure orifice
assembly installed
in ¾” case relief
valve discharge to
create back
pressure and
reduce cavitation.
NOTE: (Optional) Y strainer can
be used when foreign material
(sand or other debris) is present
in the water.
ORIFICE
FLOW
FLOW
Typical CIRCULATION (CASE)
Typical CIRCULATION (CASE)
RELIEF VALVE Assembly – The
RELIEF VALVE Assembly – The
valve must be installed
valve must be installed
(VERTICALLY)
(VERTICALLY) on the pump
on the pump
discharge before the discharge
discharge before the discharge
check valve NFPA 20 (5.11.1.2)
check valve NFPA 20 (5.11.1.2)

Automatic Air Release
NFPA 20 2-6
Automatic Air Release
NFPA 20 2-6 (6.3.3)

NFPA
NFPA
20
20
NOTE :
NOTE :
Automatic
Automatic
air release
air release
valve
valve
installed
installed

!
!
(5.14)
(5.14)
Elbows and tees with a centerline
plane parallel to a horizontal split-case
pump shaft shall be avoided. See
Figure A-2-9.6. (5.14.6.3.1)
Figure A-2-9.6. (5.14.6.3.1)
If there is a parallel elbow : YOU
MUST HAVE 10 PIPE DIAMETERS
of STRAIGHT PIPE BETWEEN THE
ELBOW AND PUMP SUCTION
FLANGE (5.14.6.3.2)
FLANGE (5.14.6.3.2)
PIPE SIZE ?
PIPE SIZE ?
NFPA 20
NFPA 20
(5.14.3.4)
(5.14.3.4)

NFPA 20
NFPA 20
2-9.6.4
2-9.6.4
(5.14.6.4)
(5.14.6.4)

SUCTION
SUCTION
SUCTION
SUCTION
NFPA 20
NFPA 20
2-9.6.4
2-9.6.4
(5.14.6.4)
(5.14.6.4)

NFPA 20 2-9.6.3
NFPA 20 2-9.6.3 Elbows and tees
Elbows and tees
with a centerline
with a centerline
plane parallel to
plane parallel to
a horizontal
a horizontal
split-case pump
split-case pump
shaft shall be
shaft shall be
avoided. See
avoided. See
Figure A-2-9.6.
Figure A-2-9.6.
SUCTION
SUCTION
(5.14.6.3.1)
(5.14.6.3.1)

CORRECTED !!!
CORRECTED !!!
NOTE: No ELBOWS
NOTE: No ELBOWS

OSY
OSY
Suction
Suction
Valve
Valve
NOTE: Backflow Preventer!
NOTE: The long straight run of
suction pipe after a
HORIZONTAL 90 DEGREE
ELBOW !
More than 10 pipe diameters ?
(5.14.6.3.2)

SUCTION
SUCTION
SUPPLY -
SUPPLY -
City Water
City Water
Is this
Is this
Suction
Suction
Piping
Piping
OK ?
OK ?
(5.14.6.3.3)
(5.14.6.3.3)

SUCTION
SUCTION
DISCHARGE
DISCHARGE
Is this HSC vertical
Is this HSC vertical
installation
installation
“REALLY” a space
“REALLY” a space
saver ??
saver ??
IS IT CORRECT ??
IS IT CORRECT ??
OK ?
OK ?
NFPA 20
NFPA 20
(5.14.6.3.1)
(5.14.6.3.1)

NOTE: Backflow
NOTE: Backflow
Preventer on DISCHARGE
Preventer on DISCHARGE
side of Pump !! (5.26)
side of Pump !! (5.26)
(5.14.9)
(5.14.9)
PUMP
PUMP
Suction
Suction
City By-Pass
City By-Pass
NOTE : Left Hand
NOTE : Left Hand
Rotation ! *
Rotation ! *
Counter Clockwise !
Counter Clockwise !
CONFIRM
CONFIRM
BEFORE
BEFORE you order
you order
the PUMP !!
the PUMP !!
NFPA 20 (5.22)
NFPA 20 (5.22)
Study and
Study and
understand the
understand the
piping !
piping !
Ask questions
Ask questions
if you are not
if you are not
sure !
sure !
#2
#2

NOTE: Test Header Piping is
NOTE: Test Header Piping is
Connected Between the
Connected Between the
Pump Discharge Check Valve
Pump Discharge Check Valve
and the Discharge (System)
and the Discharge (System)
Shut - Off Valve.
Shut - Off Valve.
NFPA 20 (A.5.19.3.1)
NFPA 20 (A.5.19.3.1)
Test Header
Test Header
Control Valve
Control Valve
and Piping
and Piping
City Water By-Pass
City Water By-Pass
What is the SUPPLY Voltage ?
What is the SUPPLY Voltage ?
Is a Transfer Switch required ?
Is a Transfer Switch required ?
DOUBLE CHECK and
DOUBLE CHECK and CONFIRM
CONFIRM
BEFORE
BEFORE you order the pump
you order the pump
#3
#3

Test Header
Control
Valve and
Piping
NOTE : No drain valve on
NOTE : No drain valve on
bottom of test head pipe !
bottom of test head pipe !
NFPA 20 (5.19.3.3.1)
NFPA 20 (5.19.3.3.1)
FLOW
FLOW

FIRE PUMP TEST
FIRE PUMP TEST
CONNECTION
CONNECTION
(5.19.3)
(5.19.3)
What hose threads are
What hose threads are
required on the hose valves
required on the hose valves
in your jurisdiction ?
in your jurisdiction ?
CHECK and CONFIRM
CHECK and CONFIRM
before
before you order the
you order the
pump ! NFPA 20
pump ! NFPA 20
(5.19.3.2)
(5.19.3.2)
#4
#4

Fire Pump Test
Fire Pump Test
Head
Head
Must be located where the
motor and controller will
not be damaged by
spraying or splashing
water.
Preferably outside of
Preferably outside of
the pump house or the
the pump house or the
pump room !
pump room !
NFPA 20 (A.5.19.3.1)
NFPA 20 (A.5.19.3.1)
FIRE
FIRE
PUMP
PUMP
TEST
TEST
HEAD
HEAD

NFPA 20 A-2-14.3.1
NFPA 20 A-2-14.3.1
(A.5.19.3.1)
(A.5.19.3.1)
TEST
HEAD
??
TEST
HEAD
??
HOSE
/TEST
VALVES
HOSE
/TEST
VALVES

FALK Steel Flex – APPROVED ??
FALK Steel Flex – APPROVED ??
What coupling will be
What coupling will be
accepted by LAHJ ?
accepted by LAHJ ? FIND
FIND
OUT
OUT ! ASK ! “UL”
! ASK ! “UL”
Listed ?? NFPA 20 (6.5)
Listed ?? NFPA 20 (6.5)
#5
#5

Drive Shaft – APPROVED ?
Drive Shaft – APPROVED ?

LOOSE SET-SCREWS ????
LOOSE SET-SCREWS ????
DO NOT USE Elastomer
Couplings ON UL/FM
FIRE PUMPS !
< FM> 9-2006
< FM> 9-2006
IRI Bulletin 91-9
IRI Bulletin 91-9

TB Woods
TB Woods
Elastomer
Elastomer
Coupling
Coupling

Diesel Driven
Diesel Driven
HSC Fire Pumps
HSC Fire Pumps
Engine HP De-rate
Engine HP De-rate (11.2.2)
(11.2.2) *
*
3% for every 1000’
3% for every 1000’ ALT.
ALT. above 300’
above 300’
1% for every 10 degrees (F) above 77
1% for every 10 degrees (F) above 77
#6
#6

(5.18.6.3)
(5.18.6.3)
NEW: NFPA 20 (11.2.4.2)
NEW: NFPA 20 (11.2.4.2)
Pressure-Limiting Drivers
Pressure-Limiting Drivers

NOTE : With a PLD
NOTE : With a PLD
All pump discharge
All pump discharge
fittings,
fittings, TO
TO and
and
including the
including the
system shut off
system shut off
valve, must be
valve, must be
rated for the
rated for the
MAXIMUM
MAXIMUM
discharge (CHURN)
discharge (CHURN)
100 PSI
100 PSI
170 PSI
170 PSI
240 PSI
240 PSI
FOR TESTING
FOR TESTING
(14.2.7.3.7.3)
(14.2.7.3.7.3)

CLARKE Fire Protection Products
CLARKE Fire Protection Products

System Relief Valve is
Required when a Variable
Speed – OR --
Pressure Limiting Driver
is used (5.18.1.3 ) *
-------also---------
Required when
diesel fire pump churn
pressure X 1.21 (plus
maximum static suction)
exceeds the maximum
working pressure of the
system components
NFPA 20 (5.18.1.1) *
#
#7
7 REQUIRED ?
REQUIRED ?

(5.18.1.1)
(5.18.1.1)
NOTE:
NOTE: This
This
Pump did not
Pump did not
require a main
require a main
relief valve since
relief valve since
the sum of the
the sum of the
churn pressure
churn pressure
times 121%
times 121%
plus the max.
plus the max.
suction pressure
suction pressure
is only 142 PSI.
is only 142 PSI.
No Relief
No Relief
Valve ?
Valve ?

NOTE: Flexible
NOTE: Flexible
Dresser Pipe
Dresser Pipe
Couplings to allow for
Couplings to allow for
tank settling!
tank settling!
( A.5.17 )
( A.5.17 )
Water
Water
supply is
supply is
from a
from a
ground
ground
storage
storage
tank
tank
Combustion Air Louver
Combustion Air Louver
NOTE: Relief
NOTE: Relief
valve is piped to
valve is piped to
waste outside
waste outside
of building
of building
(5.18.6)
(5.18.6)
(A.5.18.5)
(A.5.18.5)
Relief valve discharge is
Relief valve discharge is
permitted to be piped
permitted to be piped
back to the above ground
back to the above ground
storage tank (5.18.6.3)
storage tank (5.18.6.3)
Note: Packing drain
Note: Packing drain
lines run to a floor
lines run to a floor
drain.(5.12.6.2)
drain.(5.12.6.2)

When Pump
When Pump
Maximum
Maximum
Discharge
Discharge
Pressure is
Pressure is
evaluated
evaluated
with the 121
with the 121
% rule
% rule
NFPA 20
NFPA 20
(A.5.18.1)
(A.5.18.1)

Relief Valve Waste
Relief Valve Waste
(5.18.6)
(5.18.6)
Engine Cooling
Engine Cooling
Water Piping
Water Piping –
–
NFPA 20 (11.2.6.3)
NFPA 20 (11.2.6.3)
NOTE: System (Main) Relief Valve (if
used) is connected to the pump
discharge BEFORE the Discharge
Check Valve !! (5.18.3)
(5.18.5)
(5.18.5)

Where the cooling water contains
foreign material such as leaves, grass,
wood chips, etc – duplex filter type
strainers should be provided.
NFPA 20 (A.11.2.6.4)

ENGINE cooling
ENGINE cooling
waste water
waste water
MUST be piped so
MUST be piped so
the flow can be
the flow can be
VISUALLY
VISUALLY
observed and
observed and
confirmed.
confirmed.
The discharge
The discharge
pipe MUST be at
pipe MUST be at
least one size
least one size
larger than the
larger than the
inlet.
inlet.
NFPA 20
NFPA 20
(11.2.6.6)
(11.2.6.6)

Cooling Water Waste
Cooling Water Waste
To Open Drain
To Open Drain
NFPA 20 (11.2.6.6)
NFPA 20 (11.2.6.6)

EMERGENCY MANUAL STARTING
EMERGENCY MANUAL STARTING
PROCEDURE - NFPA 20 (11.6.6)
PROCEDURE - NFPA 20 (11.6.6)
C
C = Cooling Water
= Cooling Water
F
F = Fuel
= Fuel
C
C = Crank
= Crank

#1
#1
C
COOLING
OOLING
WATER
WATER
#2
#2
F
FUEL
UEL
# 3
# 3
C
CRANK
RANK
NOTE !
NOTE !
SET at 120 % of
Rated RPM *****
EMERGENCY
EMERGENCY
MANUAL
MANUAL
STARTING
STARTING
PROCEDURE
PROCEDURE
(11.6.6)
(11.6.6)
BE SURE THAT YOU
KNOW WHERE
THE OVERSPEED
RESET IS ON
EVERY TYPE OF
ENGINE THAT YOU
SELL or INSTALL !!
INSTRUCT THE
OWNER’S
REPRESENTATIVE
OR OPERATOR.
CUMMINS

#
# 1
1 For EMERGENCY
For EMERGENCY
OPERATION of “ANY ENGINE”
OPERATION of “ANY ENGINE”
the by-pass
the by-pass AND
AND normal
normal
COOLING WATER VALVES must
COOLING WATER VALVES must
ALL be - OPEN !
ALL be - OPEN !

#
#3
3 CRANK
CRANK
BATTERY 1 or 2
BATTERY 1 or 2
#2
#2
With Newer Engines, the toggle switch, when in
With Newer Engines, the toggle switch, when in MANUAL
MANUAL
will turn on both
will turn on both FUEL
FUEL and
and COOLING WATER
COOLING WATER

NFPA 20 (11.5.3)
NFPA 20 (11.5.3)
Exhaust pipes
Exhaust pipes
shall be installed
shall be installed
with clearances of
with clearances of
at least 9” to
at least 9” to
combustible
combustible
material.
material.
Insulate or guard exhaust
Insulate or guard exhaust
pipe???
pipe???

NFPA 20
NFPA 20
(11.5.3.3)
(11.5.3.3)

NOTE: Victaulic
NOTE: Victaulic
fittings with
fittings with
rubber gaskets ?
rubber gaskets ?
FLEX CONNECTOR
FLEX CONNECTOR
¼” MAX.
¼” MAX.
MISALIGNMENT ??
MISALIGNMENT ??

Exhaust Fan
Exhaust Fan and
and Air Intake Louver
Air Intake Louver
NFPA 20
NFPA 20
(11.3.2.4)
(11.3.2.4)
NFPA 20
NFPA 20
(11.3.2.3)
(11.3.2.3)
MAX 120
MAX 120
degrees F
degrees F

NOTE : UL Listed tanks must
NOTE : UL Listed tanks must
have a metal “ UL ”
have a metal “ UL ”
nameplate attached to the
nameplate attached to the
tank !
tank !
LOOK FOR IT !
LOOK FOR IT !
(12.4.1.3 - 11) Tank must
(12.4.1.3 - 11) Tank must
be kept 2/3 full !
be kept 2/3 full !
Fuel
Fuel
Return
Return

FUEL Tank Drains
FUEL Tank Drains
NFPA 20
NFPA 20
A-8-4.6 (A.11.4.6)
A-8-4.6 (A.11.4.6)
Top 5%
Top 5% and
and bottom 5% of
bottom 5% of
tank volume is not used in
tank volume is not used in
determining capacity of tank.
determining capacity of tank.
NFPA 20 8-4.3 (11.4) *
NFPA 20 8-4.3 (11.4) *
Bottom 5%
Bottom 5%

Fuel Supply Valve
Fuel Supply Valve
locked in OPEN
locked in OPEN
position …NFPA 20
position …NFPA 20
A-8-4.6 (A.11.4.6)
A-8-4.6 (A.11.4.6)
NEW: 2003
NEW: 2003
NFPA 20
NFPA 20
(11.4.6.2)
(11.4.6.2)
Fuel lines
Fuel lines
no copper
no copper
or
or
galvanized
galvanized
The fuel supply
The fuel supply
opening to the engine
opening to the engine
shall be no lower
shall be no lower
than the engine fuel
than the engine fuel
pump centerline.
pump centerline.
NFPA 20 (11.4.5.4)
NFPA 20 (11.4.5.4)

Fuel tank capacity NFPA 20 (11.4.3) *
Tank location inside NFPA 20 (11.4.5.6)
Fill and vent piping NFPA 20 (11.4.5.8)
Fuel Level
Fuel Level
(11.4.5.7)
(11.4.5.7)
Low Fuel
Low Fuel
Switch *
Switch *
SET AT 2/3
SET AT 2/3
(12.4.1.3)
(12.4.1.3)
Fuel
Fuel
Return
Return

10 ‘
The flash arrester
The flash arrester
should be a minimum
should be a minimum
11’- 0” above the top
11’- 0” above the top
of the fuel tank NFPA
of the fuel tank NFPA
20 (A.11.4.6)
20 (A.11.4.6)

NOTE : Dual Flash
NOTE : Dual Flash
Arresters
Arresters
(VENTS) for
(VENTS) for
“DOUBLE WALL”
“DOUBLE WALL”
Fuel Tanks !
Fuel Tanks !

Tank Fill SHOULD BE Piped
Tank Fill SHOULD BE Piped
to the outside
to the outside
(A.11.4.5)
(A.11.4.5)

Some “LAHJ” REQUIRE a containment dike,
Some “LAHJ” REQUIRE a containment dike,
even when a double wall tank is provided !
even when a double wall tank is provided !
CHECK and LEARN
CHECK and LEARN
THE LOCAL CODES !
THE LOCAL CODES !
5 PSI Hydro-test at the JOB ??
5 PSI Hydro-test at the JOB ??
To
To
Engine
Engine
#8
#8

Vertical In-Line Fire Pump
Vertical In-Line Fire Pump
Suction
Suction
Inlet
Inlet

ALL Pump Rooms are
Required to have a FLOOR
DRAIN!!! (5.12.6.2)
Circulation “CASE” Relief
Valve Piped To A Floor
Drain. (5.11)*
Packing Drain
Lines Run to a
Floor Drain. Do
not combine
with case relief
valve piping! !!
(5.11.1.5)

NOTE STRAINER!
NOTE STRAINER!
10 pipe
10 pipe
dia. ??
dia. ??
NFPA 20 (6.3.4)
NFPA 20 (6.3.4)
NOTE: Strainer requirement
NOTE: Strainer requirement
was removed after 2007 !
was removed after 2007 !
#9
#9

(6.3.4) A Hand Hole is “NOT” a
(6.3.4) A Hand Hole is “NOT” a
Strainer!!
Strainer!! Could You Get Rocks
Could You Get Rocks
and Boards out of this small “
and Boards out of this small “
PIPE PLUG “ opening ??
PIPE PLUG “ opening ??
NO SUCTION STRAINER ?? WHY NOT ?
NO SUCTION STRAINER ?? WHY NOT ?

Could YOU get this stuff out of a “PIPE PLUG
Could YOU get this stuff out of a “PIPE PLUG
OPENING” in the bottom of an Inline Fire Pump ?
OPENING” in the bottom of an Inline Fire Pump ?
Could this be why a strainer Is “REQUIRED” ?
Could this be why a strainer Is “REQUIRED” ?

Vertical Turbine Fire Pump
Vertical Turbine Fire Pump
NFPA 20 (7.4.1)
NFPA 20 (7.4.1)

NOTE: Automatic air release
NOTE: Automatic air release
NFPA 20 (7.3.5.2.3)
NFPA 20 (7.3.5.2.3) “SHALL BE”
“SHALL BE”
Located between the fire pump and
Located between the fire pump and
the discharge check valve. *
the discharge check valve. *
Motor HP and
Motor HP and
THRUST limits
THRUST limits must
must
meet or exceed
meet or exceed
those of the Fire
those of the Fire
Pump.
Pump. CHECK !
CHECK !
(7.5.1.1) (9.5.2)
(7.5.1.1) (9.5.2)
#10
#10

NOTE:
NOTE: Automatic air release “SHALL BE” Located
Automatic air release “SHALL BE” Located
in the highest point in the discharge line, between
in the highest point in the discharge line, between
the fire pump and the discharge check valve.
the fire pump and the discharge check valve. NFPA
NFPA
20 (7.3.5.2.3)
20 (7.3.5.2.3) *
*

NFPA 20 (7.6.2.3)
NFPA 20 (7.6.2.3)
ACCESS FOR REMOVAL ?
ACCESS FOR REMOVAL ?

NFPA 20 ( 7.4.3.7 )
NFPA 20 ( 7.4.3.7 )
I– beams must be parallel
I– beams must be parallel
to the driver !
to the driver !

One degree of off-set is the preferred
One degree of off-set is the preferred
angle, per drive shaft manufacturers!!
angle, per drive shaft manufacturers!!
NFPA 20 (6.5) (7.5.1.7.2)
NFPA 20 (6.5) (7.5.1.7.2)

CHECK the pump HP and THRUST requirements.
CHECK the pump HP and THRUST requirements.
CHECK the gear HP and THRUST limits.
CHECK the gear HP and THRUST limits.
CHECK the engine HP rating.
CHECK the engine HP rating.
THIS MUST BE DONE BEFORE THE PUMP IS
THIS MUST BE DONE BEFORE THE PUMP IS
ORDERED !!
ORDERED !! ( 7.5.1.6.4 )
( 7.5.1.6.4 )
#11
#11

Top Shaft Nut is
Top Shaft Nut is
used to raise
used to raise
shaft and
shaft and
impellers
impellers
approximately
approximately
1/8
1/8 “ inch. (see
“ inch. (see
instruction
instruction
book)
book)
NFPA 20 (7.6.1.3)

Water Vel,
2’/sec Max
Water Vel.
Water Vel.
1’/sec Max
1’/sec Max
Screen openings equal to 1
Screen openings equal to 1
sq. in. for every GPM
sq. in. for every GPM
(pump capacity at 150%)
(pump capacity at 150%)
(at LOWEST Water LEVEL)
(at LOWEST Water LEVEL)
NFPA 20 (5.14.8)
NFPA 20 (5.14.8)
Confirm proper
Confirm proper
submergence
submergence
(Pump Length) *
(Pump Length) *
(7.2.2.2)
(7.2.2.2)
NFPA 20 (A.7.2.2.2) (5.14.8)
NFPA 20 (A.7.2.2.2) (5.14.8)
#12
#12
*
*

Removable screens NFPA 20 (5.14.8.3)
Removable screens NFPA 20 (5.14.8.3)
Intake size NFPA 20 (5.14.8.4)
Intake size NFPA 20 (5.14.8.4)

Removable screens NFPA 20 A4-2.2.2
Removable screens NFPA 20 A4-2.2.2 (5.14.8.3)
(5.14.8.3)
Intake size NFPA 20 A4-2.2
Intake size NFPA 20 A4-2.2 (5.14.8.4)
(5.14.8.4)

NFPA 20 2003
NFPA 20 2003
Zebra Mussel Infestation
Zebra Mussel Infestation
(5.14.8.12)
(5.14.8.12)
With a vertical turbine fire
With a vertical turbine fire
pump a plugged screen will
pump a plugged screen will
affect the water level in the
affect the water level in the
sump and a plugged basket
sump and a plugged basket
strainer on the bottom of the
strainer on the bottom of the
pump will reduce the total
pump will reduce the total
pump performance.
pump performance.

VTFP INTAKE PROBLEMS………..
VTFP INTAKE PROBLEMS………..
Removable screens NFPA 20 A4-2.2.2 (5.14.8.3)
(5.14.8.3)
Intake size ???
Intake size ??? NFPA 20 A4-2.2
NFPA 20 A4-2.2 (5.14.8.4)
(5.14.8.4)
2 ft/sec and
2 ft/sec and
1 Sq. Inch per
1 Sq. Inch per
GPM at
GPM at
150% Flow ?
150% Flow ?

Pond Maintenance
Pond Maintenance
-OR-
-OR-
Lack of !!!
Lack of !!!

Proper pond
Proper pond
Maintenance
Maintenance

PART 2
PART 2
FIRE PUMP
FIRE PUMP
Acceptance Testing
Acceptance Testing
In The State of
In The State of
OHIO
OHIO

FIRE PUMP
FIRE PUMP ACCEPTANCE TEST
ACCEPTANCE TEST
1. Check for company and individual LICENSING.
1. Check for company and individual LICENSING.
2. Check for HYDRO and FLUSHING CERTIFICATES.
2. Check for HYDRO and FLUSHING CERTIFICATES.
3. Check for CERTIFIED shop test curve vs. SYSTEM DEMAND.
3. Check for CERTIFIED shop test curve vs. SYSTEM DEMAND.
4. Has the pump been properly ALIGNED and PRE-TESTED???
4. Has the pump been properly ALIGNED and PRE-TESTED???
5. Record all pump, driver, and controller data. (HP, VOLTAGE, etc.)
6. Look system over…sensing lines, reducers, piping , water supply….
6. Look system over…sensing lines, reducers, piping , water supply….
7. Check for CERTIFICATE of CALIBRATION for test equip. (SAFE??)
7. Check for CERTIFICATE of CALIBRATION for test equip. (SAFE??)
8. Decide in advance just what is to take place during the test
8. Decide in advance just what is to take place during the test
9. Operate the pump at churn (no flow)….temp., brgs., packing, etc.
9. Operate the pump at churn (no flow)….temp., brgs., packing, etc.
10. Record PSI, RPM, AMPS, VOLTS, (compare and plot results).
11. Operate the pump at additional flow points 50%, 100%, 150%,.
11. Operate the pump at additional flow points 50%, 100%, 150%,.
13. 6 AUTO Starts and 6 MANUAL Starts. (One Full Load Start)
13. 6 AUTO Starts and 6 MANUAL Starts. (One Full Load Start)
14. Controller and Driver alarms connected / tested (electric and diesel)
14. Controller and Driver alarms connected / tested (electric and diesel)
15. Start and Stop PSI for Main Fire Pump and Jockey Pump.
15. Start and Stop PSI for Main Fire Pump and Jockey Pump.
16. Low Suction Control Set Point AND Alarm Connected???
16. Low Suction Control Set Point AND Alarm Connected???
17. Operators trained in maintenance and weekly testing???
17. Operators trained in maintenance and weekly testing???
18. Review test results - ASK QUESTIONS!!!!!! Do it again ???
18. Review test results - ASK QUESTIONS!!!!!! Do it again ???
19. STOP!!!! Don’t accept it if the data is not CORRECT!!!!
19. STOP!!!! Don’t accept it if the data is not CORRECT!!!!

1. Check for company and
1. Check for company and
individual LICENSING as
individual LICENSING as
REQUIRED by STATE or
REQUIRED by STATE or LAHJ
LAHJ.
.
CHECK EVERYONE who touches the
equipment…pump guy, fitters, controller
guy, and engine guy!!! They all must have
a license to service, test, repair, or install
any fire protection equipment in the State
of Ohio.
Compare with driver’s license…..
Check every year…..
RECORD the information…….

RECORD NAMES OF ALL FIELD
RECORD NAMES OF ALL FIELD
ACCEPTANCE TEST PERSONNEL
ACCEPTANCE TEST PERSONNEL
 (LAHJ)
(LAHJ) FIRE DEPT OFFICIAL
FIRE DEPT OFFICIAL
 OWNER’S REPRESENTATIVE
OWNER’S REPRESENTATIVE
 MAINTENANCE PERSONNEL
MAINTENANCE PERSONNEL
 INSTALLING CONTRACTOR
INSTALLING CONTRACTOR
 AUTHORIZED FIRE PUMP REP
AUTHORIZED FIRE PUMP REP
 AUTHORIZED CONTROLLER REP
AUTHORIZED CONTROLLER REP
 AUTHORIZED ENGINE REP
AUTHORIZED ENGINE REP
 INSURANCE REPRESENTATIVE
INSURANCE REPRESENTATIVE

1.
1. Check for HYDRO and
Check for HYDRO and
FLUSHING CERTIFICATES.
FLUSHING CERTIFICATES.
NFPA 20 11-1.1 (14.1)
Was the U
Underground and A
Aboveground piping
installed, flushed, and hydro-tested by a “Licensed”
contractor ?
Did “YOU”
“YOU” witness flushing and hydro-test??
Did installing contractor “OFFER” to have you witness
the above and provide you with the mandatory test
certificates …… NFPA 20 11-1.3 (14.1.3)
Someone had to sign and witness (WHO ??)
(WHO ??)
NO TEST CERTIFICATES???? WHY NOT???
NFPA 20 (14.1.3)
What happens when the pump plugs with rocks or a
pipe fitting blows apart?????

Table (14.1.1.1[a])
Table (14.1.1.1[a]) Minimum Flush Rates
Minimum Flush Rates.
.
Contractor may have a calculated system
Contractor may have a calculated system
demand which, if greater, will require higher
demand which, if greater, will require higher
flush rates than those listed below.
flush rates than those listed below.
Pipe Size
Pipe Size Flow Rate
Flow Rate
in.
in. mm
mm gpm
gpm L/min
L/min
4
4 102
102 590
590 2,233
2,233
6
6 152
152 1,360
1,360 5,148
5,148
8
8 203
203 2,350
2,350 8,895
8,895
10
10 254
254 3,670
3,670 13,891
13,891
12
12 305
305 5,290
5,290 20,023
20,023
NFPA 20 (14.1.1.1) FLUSHING
NFPA 20 (14.1.1.1) FLUSHING

ROCKS IN IMPELLER
ROCKS IN IMPELLER
Was this system properly flushed?? NFPA 20 (14.1)

System was flushed for 2 hours with 3 hoses !
System was flushed for 2 hours with 3 hoses !
Problem : Hoses were ¾” garden hoses !!!
Problem : Hoses were ¾” garden hoses !!!

3. Check for PUMP CERTIFIED
SHOP TEST CURVE. Compare
it to the SYSTEM DEMAND.
NFPA 20 2-16
2-16 and 11-2.3 (14.2.4)
Find out how many GPM are required and
how much PSI is needed to make the
sprinkler system work… Will the fire
pump and water supply do it ?
Fire Pumps are selected for “SYSTEM
DESIGNS” which can utilize any pump
flow up to 150% of rated capacity.
NFPA 20 2-3 and A-2-3 (5.8)

Sample Pump Curve
Sample Pump Curve

4. Has the Pump and Driver
4. Has the Pump and Driver
been ALIGNED, LUBRICATED,
been ALIGNED, LUBRICATED,
and PRE-TESTED???
and PRE-TESTED???
Pump and driver MUST
MUST be field-aligned
NFPA 20 3-5 (6.5.2) and pre-tested PRIOR
PRIOR to
the field acceptance test - includes electrical
includes electrical
NFPA 20 (14.2.3)
NFPA 20 (14.2.3) so that inspector’s time is
not wasted standing around…….. MANY
jurisdictions charge an additional fee if re-
testing is required due to problems with a
system which has not been pre-tested prior
to the acceptance test!!!!

GAP MUST BE
GAP MUST BE
EQUAL - TOP TO
EQUAL - TOP TO
BOTTOM AND
BOTTOM AND
SIDE TO SIDE.
SIDE TO SIDE.
Within .005”
Within .005”
USE OF DIAL
USE OF DIAL
INDICATORS OR
INDICATORS OR
LASERS IS
LASERS IS
PREFERRED.
PREFERRED.
Angular
Angular
Alignment
Alignment

Parallel alignment should be less than .005
Parallel alignment should be less than .005
“VERTICAL and HORIZONTAL”
“VERTICAL and HORIZONTAL”
NOTE : The
NOTE : The
coupling halves
coupling halves
should remain
should remain
disconnected
disconnected
until rotation
until rotation
has been
has been
checked!
checked!

AFTER
AFTER alignment and
alignment and
rotation have been
rotation have been
checked the coupling
checked the coupling
should be lubricated
should be lubricated
and re-assembled.
and re-assembled.
Be sure to check the
Be sure to check the
set screws for
set screws for
tightness
tightness
FALK
FALK
Steelflex
Steelflex
Coupling
Coupling

After checking the alignment, leave the pump and
driver uncoupled until after rotation check !
Pump rotation should be checked with the
coupling not
not connected……..*
*
Pump was 6 % Low.
4 Year Old
4 Year Old
Pump
Pump

NOTE: The quarter on a
NOTE: The quarter on a
properly installed, grouted,
properly installed, grouted,
aligned, and lubricated
aligned, and lubricated
fire pump!!!
fire pump!!!
125 HP, 1760 RPM Motor -
125 HP, 1760 RPM Motor -
in operation
in operation,
,
NO VIBRATION !
NO VIBRATION !
NFPA 20 ( 14.2.6 )
NFPA 20 ( 14.2.6 )

Add Grease
Add Grease
slowly !
slowly !
Check For
Check For
Excess Grease
Excess Grease
After greasing be
After greasing be
sure to check
sure to check
torque of ALL
torque of ALL bolts
bolts
and
and set screws !
set screws !

NOTE:
NOTE: Insert
Insert
clean grease
clean grease
slowly until old
slowly until old
grease is forced
grease is forced
out of the drain
out of the drain
hole with
hole with PLUG
PLUG
REMOVED !!
REMOVED !!
NOTE : Operate the
NOTE : Operate the
pump for 15 – 30 min.
pump for 15 – 30 min.
before replacing the
before replacing the
plug !
plug !

Motor oil full ?
Motor oil full ?
Check it !
Check it !
Gear oil full ?
Gear oil full ?
Check it !
Check it !
What oil did they use ??
What oil did they use ??
ASK !!
ASK !!

Coolant level full ?
Coolant level full ?
Engine Lube
Engine Lube
Oil and
Oil and
Coolant
Coolant
Checked ?
Checked ?
Engine Guy ?
Engine Guy ?

HAS THE PUMP
HAS THE PUMP
BEEN PRE-TESTED ??
BEEN PRE-TESTED ??
Is it required ?
Is it required ?

5.
5. RECORD
RECORD all equipment data:
all equipment data:
pump, driver, and controller. (HP,
pump, driver, and controller. (HP,
RPM, VOLTAGE, SN, etc.)
RPM, VOLTAGE, SN, etc.)
Are the fire pump, driver, and controller
ALL “UL
UL” listed or “FM
FM” approved????
CHECK THE NAME PLATES !!!
CHECK THE NAME PLATES !!!
Motor and controller voltage and HP must
be the same!!! 200 volt is “not” the same
as 230 volt!!! The required pump HP must
not exceed the driver rated HP X 1.15 SF!!!

Incoming Power Supply
Incoming Power Supply (voltage) MUST
(voltage) MUST
Be the “SAME” as the Main Fire Pump
Be the “SAME” as the Main Fire Pump
Controller “AND” the UL Listed Fire Pump
Controller “AND” the UL Listed Fire Pump
Motor
Motor !! NFPA 20 (9.1.3)
NFPA 20 (9.1.3)
NFPA 70 Article 695
NFPA 70 Article 695 CHECK IT !!*
CHECK IT !!*

THE AVAILABLE POWER MUST
THE AVAILABLE POWER MUST
MATCH THE FIRE PUMP MOTOR
MATCH THE FIRE PUMP MOTOR
NAMEPLATE AND CONTROLLER
NAMEPLATE AND CONTROLLER
NAMEPLATE VOLTAGES - LOOK FOR
NAMEPLATE VOLTAGES - LOOK FOR
CHANGED OR ALTERED
CHANGED OR ALTERED
NAMEPLATES THAT ATTEMPT TO
NAMEPLATES THAT ATTEMPT TO
COVER UP A MISTAKE !!!!
COVER UP A MISTAKE !!!!
*
*

*
*
NFPA 20 (10.3.4.4)
NFPA 20 (10.3.4.4)
Means shall be provided on
Means shall be provided on
the exterior of the
the exterior of the
controller for measuring all
controller for measuring all
line amps and volts.
line amps and volts.

Is it “
Is it “SAFE
SAFE”? Is it “CORRECT”?
”? Is it “CORRECT”?
Power, sensing lines, reducers,
Power, sensing lines, reducers,
UL/FM piping , water supply
UL/FM piping , water supply.
Jockey and main fire pump must each have a separate ½ “
sensing line with 2 ea. 3/32 “ orifices located at least 5’ – 0”
apart . `NFPA 20 7-5.2.1 and appendix!! (10.5.2.1.6)
NFPA 20 7-5.2.1 and appendix!! (10.5.2.1.6)
Case relief valve (electric fire pumps) piped to a REQUIRED
REQUIRED
floor drain in
in the pump room??? NFPA 20 2-6.1 and 2-7.6
(5.12.6.2)
Do not pipe Case Relief Valve discharge and Packing Drain lines
together into a common drain line (5.11.1.5)
Pump coupling and guard secured???

IS THIS A CONFINED SPACE????
IS THIS A CONFINED SPACE????
Is the “TEST SET UP” (test hoses, rack,
Is the “TEST SET UP” (test hoses, rack,
and play pipes) pump location “
and play pipes) pump location “SAFE”
SAFE”?
?

Would
Would
“
“YOU
YOU” go
” go
down here
down here
to test this
to test this
pump????
pump????
OSHA APPROVED ???
OSHA APPROVED ???
NFPA 25 4.7.1
NFPA 25 4.7.1
and A.4.8
and A.4.8
( A.5.12) DRAINAGE and VENTILATION
( A.5.12) DRAINAGE and VENTILATION
)
)

Note : Rods on
Note : Rods on
transition piece!!
transition piece!!
NOTE : This fire pump
develops 165 psi at churn !
The class 125 fittings are
good for a maximum
working pressure of 175 psi.
(5.7.4.1)

NO RODS !!!
SAFE ??
Look at the pipe
fittings !!
This pump installation
develops 213 PSI at
churn.
A 125 lb flanged fitting
is rated at 175 PSI
maximum working
pressure !! NFPA 20
(5.7.4.1)
NFPA 13 15.1.6.1.1
NFPA 13 15.1.6.1.1

TEST HEAD ??
TEST HEAD ??
Test Header outside
Test Header outside
of the pump house or
of the pump house or
“IN” the pump room
“IN” the pump room
?
?
NFPA 20 (A.5.19.3.1)
NFPA 20 (A.5.19.3.1)

Has the Voltage Been Checked ??
Has the Voltage Been Checked ??
Check NFPA 70E and NFPA 25 A.4.8
Check NFPA 70E and NFPA 25 A.4.8
WHERE DOES THE POWER COME FROM ?
WHERE DOES THE POWER COME FROM ?
IS THERE ANOTHER DISCONNECT OR
IS THERE ANOTHER DISCONNECT OR
FUSES ???
FUSES ???
PRESSURE
PRESSURE
RECORDER
RECORDER

Each “Fire Pump” Controller MUST have IT’S
Each “Fire Pump” Controller MUST have IT’S
OWN Pressure Sensing Line and Pressure
OWN Pressure Sensing Line and Pressure
Recorder
Recorder
NFPA 20 (10.5.2.1.6) and (12.5.2.1.6) *
NFPA 20 (10.5.2.1.6) and (12.5.2.1.6) *

NOTE: Main fire pump
NOTE: Main fire pump
controller sensing line is
controller sensing line is
connected between the
connected between the
pump discharge check
pump discharge check
valve and the system shut
valve and the system shut
- off valve. (10.5.2.1.6)
- off valve. (10.5.2.1.6)

NFPA 20 10.5.2.1*
NFPA 20 10.5.2.1*
One sensing line
One sensing line
Two (2) CONTROLLERS ??
Two (2) CONTROLLERS ??
NFPA 20
NFPA 20
(10.5.2.1.6)
(10.5.2.1.6)
Pressure
Pressure
Recorder
Recorder
MISSING!
MISSING!

One sensing line for 3 controllers ??
One sensing line for 3 controllers ??

Pressure Recorder
Pressure Recorder
Each fire pump controller must have it’s own recorder !!
Each fire pump controller must have it’s own recorder !! (10.5.2.1.6)
(10.5.2.1.6)

*On the pump suction, a listed OSY valve is
required: no valve, other than a listed OSY valve
is allowed within 50 feet of the pump suction
flange NFPA 20 (5.14.5.2)*
*When located in the suction pipe of a fire pump,
back flow prevention devices, check valves, and
pipeline strainers (for in-line pumps) shall be no
shall be no
closer than 10 pipe diameters from the pump
closer than 10 pipe diameters from the pump
suction flange
suction flange. NFPA 20 (5.14.6.3.1) (5.26.3)*

NOTE ROTATION ?
NOTE ROTATION ?
Counter-Clockwise
Counter-Clockwise
LEFT Hand *
LEFT Hand *
Impeller Turns
Impeller Turns
Toward The Suction !
Toward The Suction !
Have The Wire
Have The Wire
Connections Been
Connections Been
Checked By the
Checked By the
Electrician and/or
Electrician and/or
Controller Guy ?
Controller Guy ?
SUCTION
OSY
OSY
Valve
Valve

!
!
(5.14.6.4)
(5.14.6.4)
Figure A-2-9.6. (5.14.6.3.1)
Figure A-2-9.6. (5.14.6.3.1)
FLANGE (5.14.6.3.2)
FLANGE (5.14.6.3.2)

OSY
OSY
Suction
Suction
Valve
Valve
NOTE: Backflow Preventer!
NOTE: The long straight run of
suction pipe after a
HORIZONTAL 90 DEGREE
ELBOW !
More than 10 pipe diameters ?
(5.14.6.3.2)

NOTE STRAINER!
NOTE STRAINER!
10 pipe
10 pipe
dia. ??
dia. ??
OSY
OSY
Valve
Valve
NFPA 20 3-3.4 (6.3.4)
NFPA 20 3-3.4 (6.3.4)

Batteries Properly Connected and
Batteries Properly Connected and
Electrolyte Topped Off ?? USE CAUTION
Electrolyte Topped Off ?? USE CAUTION
WHEN FILLING AND CONNECTING
WHEN FILLING AND CONNECTING
LEAD ACID BATTERIES !!!
LEAD ACID BATTERIES !!!
Dual
Dual
Batteries
Batteries
Have The Wire Connections been
Checked at “BOTH”
“BOTH” The Engine and
Controller ???
Wires Correct and Terminals “TIGHT”
Wires Correct and Terminals “TIGHT”

DO NOT USE FORKED
DO NOT USE FORKED
CONNECTORS FM F27-92
CONNECTORS FM F27-92

7. Check for CERTIFICATE of
7. Check for CERTIFICATE of
CALIBRATION for test equip.
CALIBRATION for test equip.
“
“TEST GAUGES”
TEST GAUGES” and “CLAMP-ON VOLT/AMMETERS” should be re-
calibrated and certified every 12 months (by an approved testing and
calibration facility)….Most never get calibrated and certified ! NFPA 20
NFPA 20
(A.14.2.7.1)
(A.14.2.7.1)
“
“TEST GAUGES”
TEST GAUGES” will have an accuracy of;
will have an accuracy of;
0.25%
0.25% (ASME Grade 3A)
(ASME Grade 3A)
or sometimes-
0.5%
0.5% (ASME Grade 2A) pocket
(ASME Grade 2A) pocket “TEST GAUGES”
“TEST GAUGES” or inspectors
or inspectors
“TEST GAUGES”.
“TEST GAUGES”.
DEMAND a “Certificate of Calibration” from an approved testing and
calibration facility –then- Check and Verify the Serial Numbers! If you
suspect a problem, write down the phone number of the calibration
facility and phone them!!
Look for
Look for “TEST GAUGE”
“TEST GAUGE” on the dial.
on the dial.

Calibrated “TEST GAUGES”
Calibrated “TEST GAUGES”
plus CALIBRATION
plus CALIBRATION
DOCUMENTATION as per
DOCUMENTATION as per
NFPA 20 A-11-2.6.1
NFPA 20 A-11-2.6.1
(A.14.2.7.1)
(A.14.2.7.1)

8. Decide in advance just what is
8. Decide in advance just what is
to take place during the testing….
to take place during the testing….
WHO WILL TAKE CHARGE ?
WHO WILL TAKE CHARGE ?
What test equipment will be used ?
What flow points (PITOTS) will be targeted ?
Who will do what ????
TAKE THE PITOT READINGS ?
ADJUST and HOLD THE TEST VALVES ?
TAKE PRESSURE AND RPM READINGS ?
RECORD and PLOT THE TEST RESULTS ?
TAKE THE ELECTRICAL READINGS ?
PRE RUN EQUIPMENT CHECK LIST ??
PRE RUN EQUIPMENT CHECK LIST ??

SOMEONE HAS
SOMEONE HAS
TO TAKE CHARGE
TO TAKE CHARGE
OF THE PUMP
OF THE PUMP
TEST ?
TEST ?
Will It Be The Sprinkler
Will It Be The Sprinkler
Guy, The Local Fire
Guy, The Local Fire
Official, The Pump Guy,
Official, The Pump Guy,
The Insurance Guy, or
The Insurance Guy, or
The Owners Rep ?
The Owners Rep ?
SOMEONE HAS TO
SOMEONE HAS TO
STEP UP TO THE
STEP UP TO THE
PLATE !!
PLATE !!

FLOW TEST EQUIPMENT
FLOW TEST EQUIPMENT

FLOW METER
FLOW METER
When a flow meter is
When a flow meter is
used, you must have an
used, you must have an
air vent valve or auto air
air vent valve or auto air
release valve to eliminate
release valve to eliminate
ALL
ALL air from the flow
air from the flow
meter piping !
meter piping !
10 X D
10 X D
4 X D
4 X D

<FM> Short Play Pipe
Underwriters Play Pipe
1 ¾ ” Nozzle
1 1/8 ” Nozzle
Pitot
Tube

FREE FLOW WITH HOSES AND PLAYPIPES
FREE FLOW WITH HOSES AND PLAYPIPES

Each additional pitot
tube, used during the
test, will increase the
chance for error!
chance for error!
Use 1 pitot tube and 1
gauge which has
gauge which has
been checked prior to
been checked prior to
the start of the test!
the start of the test!

In Areas where water shortages exist,
In Areas where water shortages exist,
the test water can be discharged back
the test water can be discharged back
to the stored supply !
to the stored supply !

THERBOLIZER 6
THERBOLIZER 6

Test Header
Test Header
arranged to SAFELY
arranged to SAFELY
discharge directly to
discharge directly to
the Pond
the Pond

A
A
B
B
C
C
. .
.
“
“CHURN”
CHURN”
Pressure
Pressure
“RATED 100% FLOW “ 1
Hose, Pitot of 32 PSI
“ 150 % FLOW “
2 Hoses, Pitots
of 18 PSI
What Flow Points Will Be Targeted?
What Flow Points Will Be Targeted?

To determine
To determine
FEET of HEAD
FEET of HEAD
multiply
multiply (H)
(H)
(net PSI) X 2.31*
(net PSI) X 2.31*
To determine (H)
To determine (H)
(net PSI)
(net PSI) subtract
subtract
Suction PSI
Suction PSI from
from
Discharge PSI
Discharge PSI
150 PSI
150 PSI
50 PSI
50 PSI
100 PSI
100 PSI
231’ (ft)
231’ (ft)
Who will observe
Who will observe
and record the
and record the
test results ??
test results ??

WHO Will Take The
Pitot Readings ??
Does that person know
the CORRECT Procedure ?

To Obtain a
To Obtain a
Correct
Correct
Pressure
Pressure
Reading With A
Reading With A
Pitot Tube, It
Pitot Tube, It
“MUST” Be
“MUST” Be
Held In The
Held In The
Center of The
Center of The
Flow Stream
Flow Stream
And It “MUST”
And It “MUST”
Be Kept
Be Kept
Perpendicular
Perpendicular
To the Flow
To the Flow
Stream
Stream

Hold The HOSE TEST VALVES After the
Hold The HOSE TEST VALVES After the
Pitot Readings have been obtained.
Pitot Readings have been obtained.
Will These Hose Valves Vibrate or Chatter Open ?
Will These Hose Valves Vibrate or Chatter Open ?

NFPA 70E and
NFPA 70E and
OSHA
OSHA 1910.333
1910.333
Only
Only “QUALIFIED”
“QUALIFIED”
persons are
persons are
permitted to work on
permitted to work on
or near “LIVE”
or near “LIVE”
exposed parts of
exposed parts of
electrical equipment.
electrical equipment.
3.
3. Distinguish live parts.
Distinguish live parts.
(WHAT’S HOT, WHAT’S NOT ?)
(WHAT’S HOT, WHAT’S NOT ?)
4.
4. Determine nominal voltage and
Determine nominal voltage and
protection required.
protection required.
5.
5. Determine the minimum
Determine the minimum
required safe clearance or safe
required safe clearance or safe
working distances.
working distances.
(4 feet / 12 inches ) *
(4 feet / 12 inches ) *
ARC-FLASH
ARC-FLASH
12 Inches
12 Inches
MINIMUM
MINIMUM
NEC Digest - Feb. 2006
NEC Digest - Feb. 2006

OSHA may cite non-compliance with
OSHA may cite non-compliance with
29CFR 1910.335(a)(1)(i)
29CFR 1910.335(a)(1)(i) which requires
which requires
the use of protective equipment when working
the use of protective equipment when working
where a potential electrical hazard does
where a potential electrical hazard does
exist.**
exist.**
-OR-
-OR-
29CFR 1910.132(d)(1),
29CFR 1910.132(d)(1), which requires
which requires
employer assessment of workplace hazards
employer assessment of workplace hazards
and the use of personal protective equipment.
and the use of personal protective equipment.
These regulations are supported by NFPA 70E.
These regulations are supported by NFPA 70E.
NFPA 70E, is
NFPA 70E, is NOT LAW
NOT LAW, however, it helps
, however, it helps
employers by providing education, guidance,
employers by providing education, guidance,
and
and “how-to”
“how-to” for compliance.
for compliance.

CONFIRM THAT PUMP BASE IS PROPERLY GROUTED
CONFIRM THAT PUMP BASE IS PROPERLY GROUTED
CONFIRM THAT ALL EQUIPMENT IS ALIGNED AND LUBRICATED
CONFIRM THAT ALL EQUIPMENT IS ALIGNED AND LUBRICATED
CONFIRM THAT COUPLING GUARDS ARE INSTALLED
CONFIRM THAT COUPLING GUARDS ARE INSTALLED
CONFIRM CASE RELIEF, AIR RELEASE, COOLING WATER ALL CORRECT
CONFIRM CASE RELIEF, AIR RELEASE, COOLING WATER ALL CORRECT
CONFIRM THAT POWER IS CORRECT and “ON”
CONFIRM THAT POWER IS CORRECT and “ON”
CONFIRM THAT WATER IS AVAILABLE and “ON” (PUMP PRIMED)
CONFIRM THAT WATER IS AVAILABLE and “ON” (PUMP PRIMED)
CONFIRM THAT PUMP HAS PROPER ROTATION
CONFIRM THAT PUMP HAS PROPER ROTATION
CONFIRM THAT VALVES ARE IN CORRECT POSITION FOR TESTING
CONFIRM THAT VALVES ARE IN CORRECT POSITION FOR TESTING
CONFIRM SAFE TEST SET UP (HOSES, PLAYPIPES, WATER DISPOSAL)
CONFIRM SAFE TEST SET UP (HOSES, PLAYPIPES, WATER DISPOSAL)
CONFIRM THAT SYSTEM PRESSURE IS AT OR ABOVE EXPECTED FIRE
CONFIRM THAT SYSTEM PRESSURE IS AT OR ABOVE EXPECTED FIRE
PUMP CHURN PRESSURE (USE THE JOCKEY PUMP) -OR-
PUMP CHURN PRESSURE (USE THE JOCKEY PUMP) -OR-
IT IS PREFERABLE TO ISOLATE THE SYSTEM
IT IS PREFERABLE TO ISOLATE THE SYSTEM
“
“CLOSE THE DISCHARGE
CLOSE THE DISCHARGE
(SYSTEM) VALVE”
(SYSTEM) VALVE”
KEEP IT CLOSED DURING FLOW TESTING
KEEP IT CLOSED DURING FLOW TESTING
! **
! **
FIRE PUMP “PRE-RUN” CHECK LIST
FIRE PUMP “PRE-RUN” CHECK LIST
LAST CHANCE
LAST CHANCE - PRIOR TO TEST
- PRIOR TO TEST

Base is not
Base is not
grouted!!!
grouted!!!
(6.4.1)
(6.4.1)

Motor Oil Full ?
Motor Oil Full ?
Check It !
Check It !
LAST CHANCE !!!
LAST CHANCE !!!
Gear Oil Full ?
Gear Oil Full ?
Double Check
Double Check
It !
It !
What Oil Did They
What Oil Did They
Use ??
Use ?? ASK !!
ASK !!

Is The Engine Oil and
Is The Engine Oil and
Coolant Correct ?
Coolant Correct ?
Checked By Engine Guy
Checked By Engine Guy ??
??
Block
Block
Heater
Heater
Working ??
Working ??
120 Degrees F
120 Degrees F
(11.6.5.2)
(11.6.5.2)

NOTE : Guard Is In Place !
NOTE : Guard Is In Place !
NFPA 20 (5.12.7) **
NFPA 20 (5.12.7) **
NOTE : Cooling
NOTE : Cooling
Water For Gear
Water For Gear
Connected !
Connected !
Flow Visible ??
Flow Visible ??
(7.5.1.6.5)
(7.5.1.6.5)

ENGINE
ENGINE
COOLING WATER ON
COOLING WATER ON

IS THE POWER ON
IS THE POWER ON ??
??
Has the Voltage Been CONFIRMED and
Has the Voltage Been CONFIRMED and
controller digital readout
controller digital readout (amps/volts)
(amps/volts)
compared to readings taken with a
compared to readings taken with a
“CALIBRATED” hand held amp / volt
“CALIBRATED” hand held amp / volt
multimeter ??
multimeter ??

Supply “OSY” Valve OPEN, Water
Supply “OSY” Valve OPEN, Water
Available, and pump primed ??
Available, and pump primed ??
NOTE ROTATION ?
NOTE ROTATION ?
Clockwise / Right Hand
Clockwise / Right Hand
Impeller Turns Toward
Impeller Turns Toward
The Suction ! **
The Suction ! ** SUCTION
This Pump
This Pump
Base Has
Base Has
Been Properly
Been Properly
Grouted !
Grouted !
(6.4.1)
(6.4.1)

FIRE PUMP
FIRE PUMP
TEST HEAD
TEST HEAD
OUTSIDE ! !
OUTSIDE ! !
Hose valves
Hose valves
closed and
closed and
hoses
hoses
connected ?
connected ?

Playpipes secured so water can be SAFELY
Playpipes secured so water can be SAFELY
disposed of during flow testing ??
disposed of during flow testing ??

OPEN Test
OPEN Test
Header Valve
Header Valve
System Pressure at or
System Pressure at or
above “EXPECTED”
above “EXPECTED”
Fire Pump Churn
Fire Pump Churn
Pressure -or-
Pressure -or-
Discharge (System)
Discharge (System)
Valve
Valve CLOSED During
CLOSED During
the Flow Test
the Flow Test ??**
??** 1/2” Test
1/2” Test
Head Drain
Head Drain
Valve
Valve
Closed ??
Closed ??
(Bottom of
(Bottom of
Test Head
Test Head
Pipe ! )
Pipe ! )
Outside Hose
Outside Hose
Valves Closed ??
Valves Closed ??

TEST HEAD
TEST HEAD
CONTROL
CONTROL
VALVE OPEN
VALVE OPEN
FOR TEST ???
FOR TEST ???
½” TEST HEAD
½” TEST HEAD
DRAIN VALVE
DRAIN VALVE
CLOSED FOR
CLOSED FOR
TEST !
TEST !

9.
9. Operate the pump at
Operate the pump at CHURN
CHURN PSI
PSI
(POINT A on CURVE)
(POINT A on CURVE)
Momentarily Operate the Pump
Momentarily Operate the Pump - Check for
- Check for
rotation, vibration, pressures, leaks, unusual sounds.
rotation, vibration, pressures, leaks, unusual sounds.
Start The Pump Again:
Start The Pump Again:
Check the pump for vibration, temperature,
Check the pump for vibration, temperature,
case relief valve operation (Electric) or cooling water
case relief valve operation (Electric) or cooling water
flow (Diesel), bearing temp, packing leakage, pump
flow (Diesel), bearing temp, packing leakage, pump
pressures, RPM, Electrical (Controller Guy), etc.
pressures, RPM, Electrical (Controller Guy), etc.
“
“DO NOT”
DO NOT” stand in front of electrical panels or motor
junction boxes and keep the controller doors closed
during the initial starts (THINK SAFETY - 4 Foot Rule).
Note the
Note the test start time
test start time… Pump must be operated for
AT LEAST ONE HOUR
AT LEAST ONE HOUR for “ENTIRE” acceptance test !
NFPA 20 11-2.11 ( 14.2.12 )

PACKING LEAKAGE: 1 – 2
PACKING LEAKAGE: 1 – 2
Drops per second +/-
Drops per second +/-
Adjust as Needed ¼ Turn !
Adjust as Needed ¼ Turn !
Packing and bearings
Packing and bearings
SHOULD stay cool or
SHOULD stay cool or
warm to the touch!!
warm to the touch!!
(14.2.5)
(14.2.5)

Case Relief Valve
Case Relief Valve
“FULL” Stream
“FULL” Stream
Discharge To an
Discharge To an
Open Floor Drain ?
Open Floor Drain ?
Packing Drain
Packing Drain
Lines Piped to a
Lines Piped to a
Floor Drain !!
Floor Drain !!
Does the pump and
Does the pump and
motor stay COOL ?
motor stay COOL ?
(14.2.5)
(14.2.5)

10. Record
10. Record Churn
Churn PSI Readings,
PSI Readings,
RPM, AMPS, VOLTS,
RPM, AMPS, VOLTS,
Look at the factory shop test curve and plot the
Churn Pressure in feet of head
feet of head, (no-flow POINT A
A).
How close is it ???? NFPA 20 11-2.3 ( 14.2.4.2 )
NFPA 20 11-2.3 ( 14.2.4.2 )
NOTE: Some pumps will require a correction for
(RPM) speed !!! NFPA 20 A-11-2.6.3 ( A.14.2.7.3.f )
NFPA 20 A-11-2.6.3 ( A.14.2.7.3.f )
REMEMBER THIS
REMEMBER THIS - TO GET FEET OF HEAD !!
- TO GET FEET OF HEAD !!
1 PSI = 2.31 FEET OF HEAD -or-
1 PSI = 2.31 FEET OF HEAD -or-
.433 PSI = 1 FOOT OF HEAD
.433 PSI = 1 FOOT OF HEAD

A
A
.
“
“CHURN”
CHURN”
Pressure
Pressure

11. Operate the pump at additional “TARGETED”
11. Operate the pump at additional “TARGETED”
flow points : 50%, 100%,
flow points : 50%, 100%,
150%, Etc.
150%, Etc.
With the hose valves closed, SLOWLY open test head valve
to pressurize test head (If it is not already open and
pressurized). (DISCHARGE (SYSTEM) VALVE and TEST
(DISCHARGE (SYSTEM) VALVE and TEST
HEAD DRAIN VALVE SHOULD ALREADY BE CLOSED)
HEAD DRAIN VALVE SHOULD ALREADY BE CLOSED)
Open
Open and adjust
adjust appropriate number of hose valves to
obtain each targeted flow point (PITOT). You should
already know how many hose streams and what Pitot
Readings will be required to obtain “EACH” Targeted
Flow point!!
Double check pitot readings, do not allow hose valves to
vibrate open after obtaining the targeted pitot readings, and
make sure that there are “NO” kinks in the hoses !!!
NOTE: On High Pressure Systems (above 150 PSI) it may be
NOTE: On High Pressure Systems (above 150 PSI) it may be
desirable to
desirable to Open
Open the proper number of hose valves and regulate the
the proper number of hose valves and regulate the
pitot pressures with the
pitot pressures with the Test Header Control Valve
Test Header Control Valve.
.
AVERAGE
AVERAGE the pitot readings (NO MATTER HOW CAREFUL YOU
the pitot readings (NO MATTER HOW CAREFUL YOU
ARE, ALL OF THE PITOT READINGS WILL NOT BE THE SAME) !!
ARE, ALL OF THE PITOT READINGS WILL NOT BE THE SAME) !!

12. Record PSI, RPM, AMPS,
12. Record PSI, RPM, AMPS,
VOLTS, (compare and plot
VOLTS, (compare and plot
results on the factory curve).
results on the factory curve).
Do the field test results duplicate the factory shop test curve
for EACH
EACH flow point ??? NFPA 20
NFPA 20 11-2.3 ( 14.2.4.2)
11-2.3 ( 14.2.4.2)
If any results are “OFF” Double Check PITOT Readings?
Correct for RPM ? ( On Small Pumps check the Case Relief
( On Small Pumps check the Case Relief
Valve flow. The case relief discharge flow could be as much
Valve flow. The case relief discharge flow could be as much
as 5% to 10% of the rated flow of smaller pumps !! )
as 5% to 10% of the rated flow of smaller pumps !! )
If Total Head (
Total Head (Net PSI
Net PSI) is STILL
STILL low, do we need to correct
for velocity head? Triple Check PITOT Readings, hose
valves vibrating open, gauge piping plugged, RPM low???
AS A LAST RESORT : before you pull the cover to check
AS A LAST RESORT : before you pull the cover to check
for rocks - retest using a backup set of calibrated “TEST
for rocks - retest using a backup set of calibrated “TEST
GAUGES” and backup pitot tube with gauge!
GAUGES” and backup pitot tube with gauge!

B
B
C
C
. .
.
“RATED 100% FLOW
“1 Hose, Pitot of 32 PSI
“ 150 % FLOW “
2 Hoses, Pitots
of 18 PSI

LOW TEST RESULTS ? WHY ?
LOW TEST RESULTS ? WHY ?
Are there any kinks
Are there any kinks
in the hoses??
in the hoses??
Hose Valves
Hose Valves
Vibrating Open ?
Vibrating Open ?
Is this guy doing his job ?
Is this guy doing his job ?

Did
Did Someone
Someone Stay Outside to Adjust and
Stay Outside to Adjust and Hold
Hold
The HOSE VALVES (especially ANGLE Valves) to
The HOSE VALVES (especially ANGLE Valves) to
Keep Them From Vibrating Open
Keep Them From Vibrating Open ?
?

DOUBLE or TRIPLE Check
DOUBLE or TRIPLE Check
Pitot Readings !!
Pitot Readings !!
CONFIRM
CONFIRM Pitot Gauge
Pitot Gauge
accuracy prior to testing !
accuracy prior to testing !

?
?
Check pitot tube and
Check pitot tube and
gauge for fouling , which
gauge for fouling , which
might occur during test?
might occur during test?

chance for error!
chance for error!
gauge which has been
gauge which has been
checked prior to the
checked prior to the
start of the test!
start of the test!
Half of all field
Half of all field
test problems
test problems
involve the
involve the
“USE” of, or the
“USE” of, or the
“MIS-USE” of,
“MIS-USE” of,
Hose Monsters
Hose Monsters

Calibrated Test Gauges (
Calibrated Test Gauges (
liquid filled gauges are
liquid filled gauges are NOT
NOT Test gauges )*
Test gauges )*

Gauge connection
Gauge connection
piping must have a full
piping must have a full
flow when flushed
flow when flushed
(checked) PRIOR to
(checked) PRIOR to
flow testing of the
flow testing of the
fire pump.
fire pump.
Check for an
Check for an
obstruction during
obstruction during
testing, if test results
testing, if test results
are not correct !
are not correct !

DO NOT
DO NOT
connect test
connect test
gauges to
gauges to
case relief
case relief
valve piping !
valve piping !

On small fire pumps the
On small fire pumps the
case relief valve
case relief valve
discharge may be as
discharge may be as
much as 10% of the
much as 10% of the
rated flow - if it has not
rated flow - if it has not
shut off during the test.
shut off during the test.

Main system relief
Main system relief
valve must be closed
valve must be closed
for testing !**
for testing !**
Failure to do so will
Failure to do so will
result in low (POOR)
result in low (POOR)
test results !
test results !

!
!
(5.14)
(5.14)
Figure A-2-9.6. (5.14.6.3.1)
Figure A-2-9.6. (5.14.6.3.1)
FLANGE (5.14.6.3.2)**
FLANGE (5.14.6.3.2)**
PIPE SIZE ?
PIPE SIZE ?
NFPA 20
NFPA 20
(5.14.3.4)
(5.14.3.4)

Curve will continue
Curve will continue
to drop off as the
to drop off as the
flow increases
flow increases

Impeller is not
Impeller is not
centered in the case.
centered in the case.

Pump Not
Pump Not
De-burred
De-burred

Top Shaft Nut is
Top Shaft Nut is
used to raise shaft
used to raise shaft
and impellers
and impellers
approximately
approximately
1/8
1/8 “ inch. (see
“ inch. (see
instruction book)
instruction book)
VTFP Best Lateral Setting
LOW
LOW
PERFORMANCE
PERFORMANCE
MAY RESULT IF
MAY RESULT IF
LATERAL IS NOT
LATERAL IS NOT
CORRECT !
CORRECT !

Check Submergence
Check Submergence
(MEASURE) how far
(MEASURE) how far
down
down (feet)
(feet) the
the
water level is from
water level is from
the gauge center
the gauge center
line,
line, at each flow
at each flow
point !
point !
REMEMBER : This
REMEMBER : This
must be
must be added
added to
to
the reading ( TH )
the reading ( TH )
on the discharge
on the discharge
TEST GAUGE !
TEST GAUGE !
WL ??
WL ??
ADD +
ADD +

Removable screens? Check
Removable screens? Check
for fouling (build-up) !
for fouling (build-up) !

With a vertical
With a vertical
turbine fire pump
turbine fire pump
a plugged screen
a plugged screen
will affect
will affect
(lower)
(lower) the water
the water
level in the sump!
level in the sump!
Check
Check (measure)
(measure)
the water level in
the water level in
the sump during
the sump during
each and every
each and every
flow point !
flow point !

A plugged basket strainer on
A plugged basket strainer on
the bottom of the pump will
the bottom of the pump will
reduce the total pump
reduce the total pump
performance.
performance.

Underwater Inspection of Basket Strainer
Underwater Inspection of Basket Strainer

13. * “6” AUTO starts
and “6” MANUAL starts *
(one “FULL LOAD” start)
When an electric fire pump is provided with an automatic
transfer switch, at least half of the starts should be performed
while the fire pump is connected to the emergency power
source (with one start under peak load). **
NFPA 20 (14.2.8) (14.2.7.4) **
NFPA 20 (14.2.8) (14.2.7.4) **
NOTE: Pumps should be operated for 5 Min. for each
NOTE: Pumps should be operated for 5 Min. for each
start (This will allow the Motor and Controller time to
start (This will allow the Motor and Controller time to
Cool Down)
Cool Down)
When a diesel driven fire pump is provided, the starts shall be
When a diesel driven fire pump is provided, the starts shall be
divided between both sets of batteries.
divided between both sets of batteries.
NFPA 20 (14.2.8.7)
NFPA 20 (14.2.8.7)

1.
1. Controller and Driver alarms
Controller and Driver alarms
connected, tested, and
connected, tested, and
demonstrated + low suction…
demonstrated + low suction…
A. Electric requires Power Available, Phase Reversal, Pump
Running, and Controller Connected to Alt. Source …..…
NFPA 20 (10.4.7.2)
(These are “TROUBLE
TROUBLE” or “SUPERVISORY
SUPERVISORY”
” alarms
alarms)
B. Diesel engine is much more involved…..* Engine Trouble -
High temp, low oil pressure, over crank - fail to start,
charger fail, battery fail, over speed, low fuel, Switch Not
in Auto, and Engine Run…….NFPA 20 (12.6.7.3)
…….NFPA 20 (12.6.7.3)
(These are “TROUBLE
TROUBLE” or “SUPERVISORY
SUPERVISORY”
” alarms
alarms)
Pressure Recorder Installed / Operational ???
Pressure Recorder Installed / Operational ???
EACH
EACH Fire Pump Controller is required to be furnished
with a pressure recorder. (ELECTRONIC or CHART TYPE)
(ELECTRONIC or CHART TYPE)
NFPA 20
NFPA 20 (10.5.2.1.6 and 12.6.9.1)
(10.5.2.1.6 and 12.6.9.1)

Main Fire Pump and Jockey Pump.
Main Fire Pump and Jockey Pump.
Use a “TEST GAUGE” to
Use a “TEST GAUGE” to
confirm set points.
confirm set points. NFPA
NFPA
20 A-11-2.6 (A.14.2.7)
20 A-11-2.6 (A.14.2.7)
Jockey “STOP”
Jockey “STOP” = Fire Pump churn pressure plus (+)
lowest static suction pressure !
Jockey “START”
Jockey “START” = Jockey Stop PSI less (-) 10 PSI
Fire Pump “START”
Fire Pump “START” = Jockey Start less (-) 5 –10 PSI
“
“MANUAL” Fire Pump “STOP”
MANUAL” Fire Pump “STOP” = ( Must be used when Fire
Pump is a sole supply pump) !
- or - (if permitted by L.A.H.J.)
“
“AUTOMATIC” Fire Pump “STOP”
AUTOMATIC” Fire Pump “STOP” = (Fire Pump churn +
lowest static suction)

Jockey
Jockey Pump
Pump

Jockey Pump Control
Jockey Pump Control
Set Jockey Pump to STOP At /OR Near The Maximum
(CHURN) Discharge Pressure of the Main Fire Pump !!
Set Jockey Pump To START at 10 - 20 PSI Less

16. Low Suction Shut Down
16. Low Suction Shut Down
Panel/Device Listed, Tested
Panel/Device Listed, Tested
AND “Alarm” Connected ?
AND “Alarm” Connected ?
Required by some states to protect the public water supply, when it is
used as the main water source.
Set to lock out the fire pump at 20 PSI,
20 PSI, after a 30 second
30 second delay -
delay - with
with
manual re-set only (OHIO) and ALARM must be monitored (5.23)
manual re-set only (OHIO) and ALARM must be monitored (5.23).
Must be FM or UL listed for Fire Protection Equipment –
Must be FM or UL listed for Fire Protection Equipment –
not UL Industrial !!
not UL Industrial !! NFPA 13 15.1.8.3
Is the “EQUIPMENT” or “DEVICE” listed in the UL or FM
Is the “EQUIPMENT” or “DEVICE” listed in the UL or FM
Directory for Fire Protection Equipment
Directory for Fire Protection Equipment ?
CHECK THE BOOK !
CHECK THE BOOK !

-
See if you
can find this
low suction
control
listed in the
UL or FM
Directory
for Fire
Protection
Equipment
???
???

See if you can
See if you can
find this low
find this low
suction
suction
“DEVICE”
“DEVICE” listed
listed
in the UL or FM
in the UL or FM
Directory for
Directory for Fire
Fire
Protection
Protection
Equipment
Equipment ??
??

Ohio EPA and Ohio Department of Health
Ohio EPA and Ohio Department of Health
CHECK WITH “ YOUR” LAHJ ?
CHECK WITH “ YOUR” LAHJ ?

Suction Control Valve
Suction Control Valve
Should be located
Should be located
between the pump
between the pump
discharge and the
discharge and the
discharge check valve !
discharge check valve !
Sensing line for suction control valve
Sensing line for suction control valve
and/or low suction shut down panel
and/or low suction shut down panel
should be at least
should be at least ½”
½” (Copper, 300
(Copper, 300
Stainless, or Brass) and include provision
Stainless, or Brass) and include provision

UL/FM Suction
UL/FM Suction
Control Valve
Control Valve
½”
½”
Suction
Suction
Pressure
Pressure
sensing
sensing
line !
line !
In the State of Ohio
a UL or FM Listed
low suction shut
down control is
required to protect
a public water
supply – this is in
addition to any
suction control
valve (which may
“ALSO”
“ALSO” be required
by others) .

15.1.8* Connection from Waterworks System.
15.1.8.1 Where connections are made from public waterworks systems, it
might be necessary to guard against possible contamination of the public
supply.
15.1.8.2 The requirements of the public health authority having jurisdiction
shall be determined and followed.
FIND OUT WHAT “ YOUR ” STATE or CITY REQUIRES !!
FIND OUT WHAT “ YOUR ” STATE or CITY REQUIRES !!
NFPA 13 15.1.8.3
NFPA 13 15.1.8.3 Where equipment is installed to guard
against possible contamination of the public water system, such
“EQUIPMENT”
EQUIPMENT” and “DEVICES”
“DEVICES” SHALL
SHALL be listed for
be listed for
“
“FIRE PROTECTION SERVICE”
FIRE PROTECTION SERVICE”.
NFPA 13 - Chapter 15
NFPA 13 - Chapter 15


17. Operators trained in required
17. Operators trained in required
maintenance, weekly operation,
maintenance, weekly operation,
testing, and record keeping ???
testing, and record keeping ???
Did the pump rep provide a weekly check
list and go over the required weekly
testing, maintenance, and inspections of
the pump, driver, and controller ???
NFPA 20 (14.3 ) NFPA 25 4.1 - 4.3
NFPA 20 (14.3 ) NFPA 25 4.1 - 4.3
If not, he is not doing his job!!!
Weekly Check list should include those
items required by NFPA 25 Chapter 8
NFPA 25 Chapter 8.

Develop a check list
Develop a check list
of your own for
of your own for
both “electric” and
both “electric” and
“diesel” Fire
“diesel” Fire
Pumps.
Pumps.
-OR-
-OR-
Make a copy of
Make a copy of
NFPA 25, Chapter 8
NFPA 25, Chapter 8
for the owner or his
for the owner or his
representative to
representative to
use as a guide for
use as a guide for
weekly checks.
weekly checks.
“
“TRAIN THEM !!
TRAIN THEM !!

NOTE: Clean Grease
NOTE: Clean Grease
Forced out of the
Forced out of the
Drain hole with
Drain hole with
PLUG REMOVED !!
PLUG REMOVED !!
Check For
Check For
Excess
Excess
Grease
Grease
Review ALL Required
Review ALL Required Weekly
Weekly/
/Annual
Annual Maintenance
Maintenance

AFTER
AFTER alignment has
alignment has
been re-checked
been re-checked
(ANNUALLY) the
(ANNUALLY) the
coupling should be
coupling should be
lubricated and re-
lubricated and re-
assembled. Be sure
assembled. Be sure
to check the set
to check the set
screws for tightness
screws for tightness
Annual
Annual
Alignment
Alignment
Check
Check

HAVE
HAVE
THESE
THESE
FOLKS
FOLKS
BEEN
BEEN
PROPERLY
PROPERLY
TRAINED?
TRAINED?

???
???
This is the ONLY “WM” case relief valve –
This is the ONLY “WM” case relief valve –
on record, that had a tight shut off with
on record, that had a tight shut off with
“NO” nuisance leakage - until they had to
“NO” nuisance leakage - until they had to
buy a new pump !!
buy a new pump !!

#1
#1
C
COOLING
OOLING
WATER
WATER
#2
#2
F
FUEL
UEL
# 3
# 3
C
CRANK
RANK
NOTE !
NOTE !
SET at 120 % of
Rated RPM **
EMERGENCY
EMERGENCY
MANUAL
MANUAL
STARTING
STARTING
PROCEDURE
PROCEDURE
(11.6.6)
(11.6.6)
BE SURE THAT YOU
KNOW WHERE THE
OVERSPEED RESET
IS ON EVERY TYPE
OF ENGINE THAT
YOU SELL !!
INSTRUCT (TRAIN)
THE OWNER’S
REPRESENTATIVE
OR OPERATOR.
CUMMINS

18. Review test results …
18. Review test results …
ASK QUESTIONS ! Do it
ASK QUESTIONS ! Do it
again if the results do not
again if the results do not
look correct ???
look correct ???
Did the pump rep try to rush the testing????
Did the pump rep try to rush the testing????
Did the pump rep get nervous or defensive
Did the pump rep get nervous or defensive
when you questioned any of the results or test
when you questioned any of the results or test
procedures???
procedures???
Were the PUMP test results at or above the
Were the PUMP test results at or above the
factory shop test curve and within ½ % (
factory shop test curve and within ½ % (
the minimum accuracy of a CALIBRATED
the minimum accuracy of a CALIBRATED
TEST GAUGE ) ??? NFPA 20 (14.2.4.2)
TEST GAUGE ) ??? NFPA 20 (14.2.4.2)
Did the pump run for
Did the pump run for one hour
one hour (all testing)???
(all testing)???
NFPA 20 (14.2.12)
NFPA 20 (14.2.12)

19.
19. STOP !
STOP ! Don’t accept it if
Don’t accept it if
the pump test results do not
the pump test results do not
duplicate the shop test curve or
duplicate the shop test curve or
the system is not CORRECT !
the system is not CORRECT !
L.A.H.J. ( INSPECTOR )
L.A.H.J. ( INSPECTOR ) : YOUR NAME
YOUR NAME and
and
REPUTATION
REPUTATION goes on the bottom line:
Approved and Accepted By:
NAME
NAME : ………………………………………….
………………………………………….

FIRE PUMP “
“Annual”
Annual” FLOW TEST
1.
1. Check
Check for company and individual LICENSING.
for company and individual LICENSING.
2.
2. Check
Check for HYDRO and FLUSH CERTIFICATES (if work has been done).
for HYDRO and FLUSH CERTIFICATES (if work has been done).
3. Look system over…housekeeping, sensing lines, leaks, piping , etc.
3. Look system over…housekeeping, sensing lines, leaks, piping , etc.
5. Has the pump been properly Maintained and ALIGNED ANNUALY???
5. Has the pump been properly Maintained and ALIGNED ANNUALY??? (CHECK)
(CHECK)
6. Review Records of weekly testing and maintenance that was performed.
6. Review Records of weekly testing and maintenance that was performed.
7.
7. Check
Check for CERTIFICATE of CALIBRATION for
for CERTIFICATE of CALIBRATION for ALL
ALL flow test equip. (SAFE??)
flow test equip. (SAFE??)
8. Decide in advance just what is to take place during the flow test.
8. Decide in advance just what is to take place during the flow test.
9. Operate the pump at Churn (no flow)….temp., brgs., packing, relief, etc.
9. Operate the pump at Churn (no flow)….temp., brgs., packing, relief, etc.
10. Record Churn Test Results (compare with test results from previous year).
10. Record Churn Test Results (compare with test results from previous year).
11. Operate the pump at additional flow points 100%, 150%,.
11. Operate the pump at additional flow points 100%, 150%,.
12. Record Test Results , compare with previous year ( within 5 % nameplate?).
12. Record Test Results , compare with previous year ( within 5 % nameplate?).
13. 1 AUTO Start and 2 MANUAL Starts (One Full Load Start)
13. 1 AUTO Start and 2 MANUAL Starts (One Full Load Start)
14. Controller and Driver alarms
14. Controller and Driver alarms TESTED
TESTED (electric and diesel)
(electric and diesel) (CHECK)
(CHECK)
15.
15. Confirm
Confirm Start and Stop PSI for Main Fire Pump and Jockey Pump.
Start and Stop PSI for Main Fire Pump and Jockey Pump.
16. Low Suction Control Operation, Set Point, Time Delay,
16. Low Suction Control Operation, Set Point, Time Delay, AND
AND Alarm
Alarm TESTED
TESTED ?
?
17. Review
17. Review ALL
ALL results - ASK QUESTIONS!! - ANY CONCERNS?? - Do it again ?
results - ASK QUESTIONS!! - ANY CONCERNS?? - Do it again ?
18. STOP ! INVESTIGATE ! If the PUMP is more than 5 % below nameplate !
18. STOP ! INVESTIGATE ! If the PUMP is more than 5 % below nameplate !

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