A fire fighting water pump is a critical piece of equipment for the protection of life and property. It requires a thorough inspection, testing and maintenance program to ensure it operates properly and can deliver required water flow and pressure when needed. This article will provide an overview of the key requirements and elements to consider when evaluating, selecting and installing a fire fighting pump.
The most important factor in determining the size of a fire pump is the pressure requirement, measured in PSI and gallons per minute (GPM). These numbers indicate what type of pump is required for a given application and building layout. When selecting a fire fighting water pump, it is recommended that the manufacturer’s performance curve be used to determine what the best selection would be. This will allow the engineer to compare pumps based on their ability to meet specific requirements.
When evaluating a fire pump, the nozzle flow rate and discharge port size are also important factors to consider. Most municipal fire departments use a 1.5″ hose, so the fire fighting pump must be able to deliver the required gallons per minute at this hose size. It is recommended that the fire fighting water pump be rated at least 250 psi, which is well within the operating pressure of most fire department nozzles and fittings.
There are three major types of fire fighting pumps – horizontal split case, inline and vertical turbine. The most common is the horizontal split case, which is easy to work on and has a small footprint. Other considerations include power requirements, space in the pump room and the need for a cooling system. fire fighting water pump
