A fire fighting pump is a special high-pressure water supply used for fire sprinkler systems and standpipes. These pumps are often powered by electricity or diesel fuel.
Fire fighting pumps are installed when the water pressure available cannot meet fire protection system demands (for example, a high-rise building where the city supply line can’t reach the top floor). Routine maintenance on these pumps is essential to ensure compliance with international standards.
Horizontal Split Case
Firefighting pumps need to be able to handle high-pressure operations. They are used to supply water for sprinkler, hydrant and stand pipe systems and can be driven by either an electric motor or diesel engine. These pumps are commonly installed in commercial, industrial and residential high-rise buildings and warehouses, Offshore facilities, Power stations and Airports.
Horizontal split case pumps are known for their mechanical reliability and efficiency. They are UL Listed and FM approved and come in a range of rated flow and head capacities. They are easy to maintain due to the design of their split casing that allows access to all internal components without disturbing the driver or piping.
The angled split in the casing also helps to minimize turbulence on the impeller eye, allowing for increased efficiency. Additionally, this design is able to accommodate a double-suction impeller which drastically reduces the load on the bearings, resulting in longer bearing life and more efficient operation.
Positive Displacement
Fire pumps are essential tools for water-based fire protection systems. They must be inspected, tested and maintained to ensure they work properly in the event of an emergency.
A fire pump flow (churn) test should be performed once per year to measure the pump’s ability to maintain its rated performance. It is done by attaching hoses to the discharge test header and running them to a safe location where the flow of water won’t cause damage.
Pumps are usually powered by either an electrical motor or a diesel engine and can deliver water at various pressures and flows. They are commonly used in high-rise buildings to meet sprinkler demand and may also be installed in foam systems, standpipes and helipads.
The size and number of intake connections on a fire fighting pump will vary depending on the system requirements. The larger main inlet connection is called the “steamer” connection and should be sized to supply the pump’s full rated capacity from draft.
High-Pressure
Fire fighting pumps are rated in two ways: pressure (PSI pounds per square inch) and flow (GPM or gallons per minute). A fire pump is typically paired with a portable gasoline or diesel engine that powers the pump. The pump and engine are housed in a roll cage that keeps all machinery safe from damage.
At pressures of 1200 psi, water droplets are broken into 64 smaller drops that have 10 times the surface area and absorb heat more effectively. This allows for a faster, safer attack on a fire and helps control the spread of the fire.
The lightweight MARK-1 pump is a favorite of wildland firefighters. Its detachable pump end allows firefighters to replace a faulty motor or pump end in the field and it can be backpacked into remote areas. This pump is also known for its ability to operate in tandem with other pumps in series and its durability. It is important to note that the operation of any type of high-pressure firefighting equipment should only be performed by trained and properly equipped personnel.
Portable
Portable fire fighting pumps are a vital tool for firefighters who fight wildfires in the wilderness. They are designed to be self-contained and easy to operate. They are usually powered by air-cooled petrol or diesel engines. They also meet world wide regulations regarding exhaust emissions and noise levels.
They can be used to increase the water pressure (measured in psi and bar) of an existing water supply for use in water-based fire protection systems. They can be used in lakes, rivers and ponds to pump water into the system or they can be used in dry-pipe sprinkler systems to supply water under high pressure.
The pumps are portable and designed to provide excellent power-to-weight ratios, with minimal maintenance. They are built with high quality materials and engineered for maximum reliability. They are equipped with a hydraulically operated clutch and mechanical seal for easy start up and operation. They are supplied with suction and discharge hoses, nozzles and delivery hoses as standard.