Choosing a Fire Pump

Fire pumps are the heart of many water-based fire protection systems, propelling water through pipes to increase the pressure (measured in psi and bar) and flow of a system. These are the most important and complex component of any sprinkler system, so they require special care and attention to ensure they’re always ready to spring into action when needed. But fire pumps don’t just sit idle, they undergo full annual testing that puts them through their paces using actual water, and this must be performed by a licensed professional. This testing is an opportunity for technicians to spot any problems with the pump, including clogs, leaks or even just a faulty part that can easily be fixed in-house.

The most important thing about a fire pump is that it’s the right size for the system, meaning that it must be able to provide enough water at the necessary rate of flow and pressure. In order to do that, engineers must look at the fire sprinkler system’s water demand and then determine the maximum rated flow of a fire pump. This data is then used to select the right fire pump for the system, making sure that the pump is capable of handling all the fire sprinklers that may need to be activated simultaneously.

As with most things related to fire protection, there are many different options and choices when it comes to choosing a fire pump, each of which have their own benefits and drawbacks. Electric motor-driven fire pumps are a common choice, and these use electrical power to spin the shaft that drives the pump’s impeller. They are a cost-effective option, and they’re easy to maintain due to their split casing that can be opened for pump maintenance access. They are available in a wide range of rated flow and pressure capacities, and they can be used with both electric and diesel drivers. However, they tend to need the most space of all fire pump types.

Engine-driven fire pumps are another popular option, and these use a gas or diesel engine to drive the pump’s shaft. They can be either single or multistage, with each stage increasing the pressure of the pumped fluid by an additional amount. These are also very easy to maintain, and they offer a lot of options when it comes to the type of nozzles that can be attached. They also require a separate backup generator to keep them running during power outages.

Regardless of the type of fire pump you choose, it’s critical that you choose the right power source for the driver. This is because, as outlined in NFPA 20 and by the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ), the power source must be reliable. The most common choice is an electric motor, but other options include steam turbines and engine-powered drives.