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Fire Protection Pumps
Fire Protection Pumps
Table of Contents
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3-7 Fire Protection Pumps
Page 2 FM Global Property Loss Prevention Data Sheets
List of Figures
Fig. 1. Photo of well arranged pump room ..................................................................................................... 5
Fig. 2. Single-zone pump system ................................................................................................................... 7
Fig. 3. Two-zone pump system with redundant supply from gravity tanks ................................................... 7
Fig. 4. (part 1) Right and wrong pump suction pipe arrangements (See Hydraulics Institute Standards
for Centrifugal, Rotary and Reciprocating Pumps for additional information) ................................... 9
Fig. 4. (part 2) Right and wrong pump suction pipe arrangement ................................................................ 9
Fig. 5. Schematic diagram of suggested arrangements for a fire pump with a by-pass, taking suction
from public mains ............................................................................................................................. 10
Fig. 6. Typical Dedicated Fire Pump Motor Electrical Feeder .................................................................... 16
Fig. 7. Typical fire pump electrical feeder connected ahead of all other facility loads ............................... 16
Fig. 8. Diagram of a typical heat exchanger cooling water piping arrangement. ....................................... 22
Fig. 9. Vertical shaft turbine-type pump installation in a wet pit ................................................................. 24
Fig. 10. Vertical-shaft turbine-type fire pump installation with suction from wet pit .................................... 25
Fig. 11. Sump dimensions plan view ........................................................................................................... 26
Fig. 12. Sump dimensions elevation view ................................................................................................... 26
Fig. 13. Typical horizontal-shaft fire pump installation with suction from aboveground tank ..................... 26
Fig. 14. Cutaway drawing of a typical horizontal shaft split case pump
(Provided courtesy of the Hydraulics Institute, Parsippany, NJ www.pumps.org) ......................... 27
Fig. 15. Cutaway drawing of a typical end suction pump with a close coupled electric motor
(Provided courtesy of the Hydraulics Institute, Parsippany, NJ www.pumps.org) ......................... 27
Fig. 16. Cutaway drawing of a typical separately coupled end suction pump
(Provided courtesy of the Hydraulics Institute, Parsippany, NJ www.pumps.org) ......................... 28
Fig. 17. Cutaway drawing of a typical vertical in-line pump with a close coupled electric motor
(Provided courtesy of the Hydraulics Institute, Parsippany, NJ www.pumps.org) ......................... 29
Fig. 18. A more detailed cutaway drawing of a typical separately coupled vertical in-line pump
(Provided courtesy of the Hydraulics Institute, Parsippany, NJ www.pumps.org) ......................... 30
Fig. 19. A cutaway drawing of a typical two stage vertical turbine pump
(Provided courtesy of the Hydraulics Institute, Parsippany, NJ www.pumps.org) ......................... 32
Fig. 20. Pump characteristics curves .......................................................................................................... 33
Fig. 21. Checking angular and parallel alignment
(Provided courtesy of the Hydraulics institute, Parsippany, NJ www.pumps.org) ......................... 34
Fig. 22. Mechanical Pump Seal ................................................................................................................... 36
Fig. 23. Water supply graph ........................................................................................................................ 36
Fig. 24. Cause of pump failures – Severity (Loss $’s) ................................................................................ 40
Fig. 25. Cause of pump failures – Frequency (Number of Losses) ............................................................ 40
Fig. 26. Water supply graph ........................................................................................................................ 47
List of Tables
Table 1. Summary of Fire Pump Piping Data ................................................................................................ 8
Table 2. Flow Required to Create 15 ft s (4.6 m s) Velocity ....................................................................... 10
Table 3. Approximate Power Required to Drive Fire Pump. For specific power requirements
consult manufacturer. .................................................................................................................... 14
Table 4. Minimum Sump Dimensions .......................................................................................................... 24
1.0 SCOPE
This data sheet provides installation recommendations for property fire protection pumps. These
recommendations assume the use of FM Approved equipment unless otherwise noted.
This data sheet covers the selection and installation of pumps supplying water for private fire protection.
Items considered include pump house construction, suction and discharge piping, power supplies, electric
drive and control, internal combustion engine drive and control, and acceptance testing. This data sheet does
not cover water supply capacity and pressure requirements, nor does it cover requirements for inspection,
testing, and maintenance of fire pump systems. This data sheet does not provide recommendations for the
installation of electrical wiring for fire pump equipment.
1.1 Changes
May 2008. Clarification was made to the recommendation 2.3.3.2.
2.1 Introduction
Fire pumps are intended to supply water for the purposes of fire protection. They are a critical component
in a facility’s fire protection system. They are expected to automatically start upon loss of fire protection system
pressure or by other automatic fire detection means. They are required to supply the necessary water flow
and pressure without interruption to a facility’s fire protection system under fire conditions. They are required
to provide a high degree of reliability.
Only proper installation along with periodic testing and maintenance will ensure a reliable pump installation.
Great care must be taken to ensure the fire pump package components are properly selected and the
installation quality is high.
Failure of a fire pump during a fire can expose the facility to catastrophic property loss.
A fire pump that is inoperative for any reason at any time constitutes an impairment to the fire protection
system; therefore, manage these occurrences using the FM Global Red Tag Permit System and return the
pump to service without delay.
2.2.1 General
2.2.1.1 Locate the pump house to permit short and properly arranged piping. Give the highest priority to
suction piping.
2.2.1.2 Locate the pump in a detached building of noncombustible construction a minimum of 50 ft (15 m)
away from protected buildings.
When a detached building is not feasible:
1. Locate the pump room to prevent exposure from fire and falling debris or other exposures that would
damage the pump or electrical feeder cables, or prevent the pump operator from remaining near the
pump during a fire.
2. Provide an access door to the pump room along a building exterior wall.
3. Protect the fire pump from all other areas of the building by 2-hour fire-rated construction. If the pump
room and adjacent areas are protected with an automatic sprinkler system, the separation
recommendation can be reduced to 1-hour fire-rated construction.
4. Do not locate the fire pump room within or attached to an unprotected building.
2.2.1.3 Arrange any electrical control circuit wiring that extends outside the fire pump room so that failure
of that wiring (open or short circuit) does not prevent operation of the pump. A fault in these wires can cause
the fire pump to start and run but cannot prevent the fire pump from starting and running. Protect all control
wiring within the fire pump room that are not fault-tolerant against mechanical damage using metal conduit
attached to the pump room roof or walls.
2.2.1.4 Do not use the pump room or pump house for storage purposes.
2.2.1.5 Provide automatic sprinklers over engine-driven pumps.
2.2.1.6 Provide suitable means for maintaining the temperature of a pump room or pump house, where
required, above 40°F (5°C). See Section 2.8 for higher temperature requirements for diesel engines.
2.2.1.7 Provide ventilation for the pump room or pump house. See Section 2.8.5 for specific ventilation
requirements for diesel engines.
2.2.1.8 To lessen the likelihood of flooding, ensure the pump house floor is at or above the surrounding ground
level. Locate the pump above the 500 year flood level.
2.2.1.9 Protect the fire pump, driver, and controller against possible interruption of service through damage
caused by explosion, fire, flood, earthquake, rodents, insects, windstorm, freezing, vandalism, and other
adverse conditions.
2.2.1.10 Pitch floors for adequate drainage of escaping water away from critical equipment such as the pump,
driver, controller, etc. Provide a floor drain for the pump room or pump house to allow for easy removal of
water from packed seals and pressure-drop testing.
2.2.1.11 Provide artificial lighting in the pump house/room so gauges and instrumentation can be read.
Provide the emergency source of power from dedicated standby engine-driven generators or from building
emergency power sources. In the latter case, size the emergency power source, so it is capable of
supplying the total electrical demand, including that for the fire pump. For additional installation
requirements reference Data Sheet 5-23, Emergency and Standby Power Systems.
Fig. 3. Two-zone pump system with redundant supply from gravity tanks
2.3.1.4 Do not install elbow and tee fittings with a centerline plane parallel to a horizontal split-case pump
unless the distance between the pump suction flange and the elbow or tee is greater than 10 times the suction
pipe diameter. (See Figure 4)
2.3.1.5 Size the suction pipe so the velocity does not exceed 15 ft/s (4.6 m/s) when the pump is operating
at 150% of rated capacity (see Table 2). For multiple pump installations with a common suction source,
assume all pumps are flowing simultaneously.
2.3.1.6 Where the suction supply is of sufficient pressure to be of some fire protection value without the pump,
install a bypass line around the pump equipped with a check valve. Size the bypass piping the same as
the pump discharge pipe.
Fig. 5. Schematic diagram of suggested arrangements for a fire pump with a by-pass, taking suction from public mains
2.3.1.7 Do not install a device or assembly (including, but not limited to backflow prevention devices or
assemblies) that will stop, restrict starting, or restrict the discharge of a fire pump or pump driver in the suction
piping.
2.3.1.8 Locate backflow preventers on the discharge side of the fire pump whenever possible, due to the
increased friction loss and the potential negative effect on pump performance.
2.3.1.9 Do not install low suction pressure cut-off or regulating valves. As a substitute, provide monitoring
devices arranged to activate an alarm if the pump suction pressure or water level falls below a predetermined
minimum.
2.3.1.10 Replace suction regulating valves that are not FM Approved, if required by the authority having
jurisdiction, with FM Approved models.
2.3.1.11 Provide an FM Approved outside screw and yoke (OS&Y) gate valve in the suction pipe. To minimize
water turbulence into the pump, install only gate-type valves within 50 ft (16 m) of the pump suction flange.
2.3.1.12 Where the suction supply is from public water mains, locate the gate valve as far as practical from
the suction flange on the pump. Where it comes from a stored water container, locate the gate valve at the
outlet of the container. The gate valve may be installed in the pump room on the inlet side of the eccentric
suction reducer, if provided. Size the OS&Y gate valve as indicated in Table 1 column headed ‘‘Suction In’’.
2.3.1.13 Perform hydrostatic leakage testing of suction piping in accordance with Data Sheet 3-10,
Installation/Maintenance of Fire Service Mains. Use steel pipe with welded or threaded flanges, or mechanical
groove fittings aboveground. Do not use adjustable type fittings or flexible pipe fittings unless specifically
FM Approved for use with fire pumps.
Suction Screening
2.3.1.14 Where the water supply is obtained from an open source such as a pond or wet pit, or where there
exists material in the water that might clog the pump or sprinkler system, provide double removable intake
screens at the suction intake. Ensure these screens have an effective net area of openings of 1 in.2 (65 mm2)
for each gpm (3.79 L/min) at 150% of rated pump capacity.
2.3.1.15 Arrange the screens so they can be cleaned or repaired without disturbing the suction pipe.
Stored Water Supplies (Tanks and Reservoirs)
2.3.1.16 See Data Sheet 3-2, Water Tanks for Fire Protection, for stored water supply suction piping
recommendations.
2.3.3.3 If a relief valve is required, install an FM Approved pressure relief valve as follows:
a) Size the relief valve and discharge pipe per the minimum sizes in Table 1 in Section 2.3.
b) Install the relief valve between the pump and the pump discharge check valve so it can be readily
removed for repairs without disturbing the piping.
c) Arrange the relief valve discharge so it flows into an open pipe or into a cone or funnel secured to the
outlet of the valve. Ensure water discharge from the relief valve if readily visible or easily detectable
by the pump operator. Ensure relief valve discharge is well-contained and does not splash water into
the pump room. A closed-type cone can be used if a means for detecting the flow of water through the
cone is provided.
d) Pipe the relief valve cone to a point where water can be freely discharged, preferably outside the building
or returned to the pump suction tank.
e) Do not pipe the relief valve to the pump suction or supply connection piping.
f) Where the supply of water to the pump is taken from a suction tank or reservoir of limited capacity,
locate the relief valve discharge pipe at a point as far from the pump suction inlet pipe as necessary to
prevent the pump from drafting air introduced by the relief valve discharge.
g) Do not install a shutoff valve in the relief valve supply or discharge piping.
Diesel Engine Driven Pumps
2.3.3.4 Provided a main relief valve on all diesel engine-driven fire pumps when 121% of the net rated shutoff
(churn) pressure plus the maximum pump static suction pressure exceeds any system component rated
pressure.
2.4 Pumps
Provide an FM Approved pump. Select the pump based on the conditions under which it will operate. Give
consideration to the total amount of water and pressures required at the pump discharge for automatic
sprinklers and hose streams.
Ensure pumps provide not less than 150% of rated flow at not less than 65% of the rated pump pressure.
The total pressure under zero flow conditions (i.e., churn, shutoff) of an FM Approved pump will not exceed
140% of pump rated pressure.
2.4.2.5 For diesel-driven vertical turbine pumps, verify a mass elastic torsional analysis of the system (engine,
coupling, gear drive, and pump) has been conducted to ensure there are no damaging stresses or critical
speeds in the range of 25% above and below the operating speed of the system components.
2.5.4 Size a booster pump’s rated pressure based on the minimum anticipated suction pressure at the
maximum required flow demand of the system. Review the daily and seasonal fluctuations in supply pressure
to determine the minimum anticipated pump suction pressure.
Table 3. Approximate Power Required to Drive Fire Pump. For specific power requirements consult manufacturer.
Approximate Brake Horsepower
Capacity gpm (L/min) Pressure psi (bar) (kW)
500 (1900) 75 (5) 30-40 (22-30)
100 (7) 50-60 (37-45)
125 (9) 60-70 (45-52)
750 (2800) 75 (5) 50-60(37-45)
100 (7) 60-75 (45-56)
125 (9) 75-125 (56-93)
1000 (3800) 75 (5) 90-100 (67-75)
100 (7) 75-100 (56-75)
125 (9) 125 (93)
1500 (5700) 75 (5) 90-100 (67-75)
100 (7) 125 (93)
125 (9) 150-200 (112-150)
2000 (7600) 75 (5) 100-125 (75-93)
100 (7) 150-200(112-150)
125 (9) 200-250 (150-190)
2500 (9500) 75 (5) 125-150 (93-112)
100 (7) 200 (150)
125 (9) 250-300 (190-225)
utilization voltage is different to the facility’s utilization voltage, provide a dedicated transformer to supply
the fire pump motor and its associated loads. See Figure 6.
2.7.1.4 Ensure circuits feeding the fire pump motors(s) and their accessories are separate from the circuits
supplying other facility loads and are dedicated only to the fire pump motor and its associated loads. Arrange
the power supply to the fire pump motor and its associated loads such that disconnection of the main facility
power does not interrupt power to the fire pump motor and its associated loads. See Figure 7.
Fig. 7. Typical fire pump electrical feeder connected ahead of all other facility loads
2.7.1.5 Protect the fire pump motor feeder cables from damage by fire, structural failure, natural hazards,
and operational accidents. The preferred method to protect fire pump feeder cables is to bury the cables
underground. Other methods of installing the fire pump feeder cables are listed in descending order of
preference:
(1) Encase the cables in a minimum of 2 in. (50 mm) of concrete.
(2) Use mineral insulated “MI” power cable.
(3) Use rigid noncombustible conduit on the outside of an exterior wall of a fire-resistive building.
(4) Use rigid noncombustible conduit over or inside a fire-resistive building having noncombustible
occupancy.
(5) Use messenger-supported cables over the roof of a fire-resistive building having noncombustible
occupancy.
(6) Install cables overhead on utility poles away from protected buildings where not exposed to potential
damage from yard storage or facility operations.
2.7.1.6 Do not install feeder cables over or through a combustible building or any building with combustible
occupancy.
2.7.1.7 Eliminate hazards from stored combustibles, objects, equipment, or other sources that may expose
the electrical service to fire or mechanical damage.
2.7.1.8 Size fire pump controller feeder cable conductors based on local electrical codes but, at minimum,
ensure they are capable of carrying 125% of the fire pump motor-rated current.
2.7.1.9 Arrange the power supply so the voltage at the controller line terminals does not drop more than
15% below the controller-rated voltage during automatic motor-starting. This is not required when the manual
emergency start feature of the controller is used; however the power supply must provide sufficient voltage
to allow for emergency manual starting. Ensure the voltage at the motor terminals does not drop more than
5% below the voltage rating of the motor when the motor is operating at 115% of the full-load current rating
of the motor.
2.7.1.10 Size the primary fuses that protect transformers supplying power to the fire pump controller so that
the fuses will not open under motor locked-rotor current conditions in addition to any other normal electrical
loads for an indefinite period.
2.7.1.11 Do not install ground-fault protection in any portion of the circuit that supplies power to the fire pump
controller. If ground fault protection must be provided per the authority having jurisdiction, set the ground
fault protection to trip at currents above the motor locked rotor current. Also set the ground fault protection
so it will not operate on motor start-up. Conduct a reliability study of any fire pump circuit provided with ground
fault protection.
2.8.4.7 Where prompt replenishment of fuel supply is unlikely, provide an on-site reserve supply tank along
with facilities for fuel transfer to the supply tank.
2.8.4.8 For multi-pump installations, provide separate fuel lines and separate fuel supply tanks for each
engine.
2.8.4.9 Do not connect the fuel supply line to the bottom of the tank. Locate the fuel supply line tank connection
so 5% of the tank volume is reserved as a sump volume not usable by the engine. In addition, arrange the
fuel supply line tank connection so that its relative height is higher than the engine fuel pump. Verify the
engine manufacturer’s fuel pump maximum static pressure is not exceeded when the level of the fuel in the
tank is at maximum.
2.8.4.10 Make engine fuel line connections near the tank bottom and provide them with a 1⁄4-turn ball valve
at the tank. Lock this valve open.
2.8.4.11 Provide a mechanical guard or use protected piping for all exposed fuel lines.
2.8.4.12 Provide flame-resistant flexible fuel hoses rated for this service at the engine for connection to the
fuel system piping.
2.8.4.13 Install the fuel return line per the engine manufacturer’s recommendation. Do not install shutoff valves
in the fuel return line to the tank.
2.8.4.14 Use only the type and grade of diesel fuel specified by the engine manufacturer. Ensure the minimum
pour point and cloud point of the fuel is 30°F (-1°C) or less. Do not use biodiesel fuels due to fuel stability
problems when stored for long periods of time.
2.8.4.15 Where an electric solenoid valve is used to control the engine fuel supply, arrange it to be capable
of manual mechanical operation or of being manually bypassed in the event of control circuit failure.
2.8.4.16 For specific recommendations addressing the fire exposure of the diesel fuel tank installation, see
Data Sheet 7-88, Flammable Liquid Storage Tanks.
2.8.5 Ventilation
2.8.5.1 Provide room ventilation that ensures:
a. The maximum temperature under any conditions is maintained at 120°F (49°C) or less when measured
at the combustion air cleaner inlet.
b. Sufficient air for engine combustion.
c. Removal of any hazardous vapors.
d. Sufficient room air changes for radiator-cooled engines.
2.8.5.2 For heat exchanger-cooled diesel engines, provide ventilation openings in the pump room of at least
0.75 in.2/Hp (6.5 cm2/KW).
2.8.5.3 Duct cooling air from the radiator to outside the pump room through free-swinging louvers having
an effective net area of at least one and one-half times the area of the radiator air outlet.
2.8.5.4 Interlock the pump room ventilation system (louvers and fans) with engine operation. Do not use a
thermostat to control room ventilation. For optimum room ventilation, locate the air supply ventilator and air
discharge vent on opposite walls.
2.8.7 Batteries
2.8.7.1 Provide each engine with two separate starting batteries. Size each battery to have twice the capacity
sufficient to maintain the cranking speed recommended by the engine manufacturer (120 rpm is typical)
through a 3-minute “attempt to start” cycle (15 seconds cranking and 15 seconds of rest, in six consecutive
cycles) at a temperature of 40°F (4.5°C). In addition, ensure the batteries are capable of starting the engine
for a minimum of 90 hours following a power failure.
2.8.7.2 Ensure lead-acid, nickel-cadmium, and other kinds of batteries are compatible with the battery
chargers in the controller. Install and maintain them in accordance with the battery manufacturer’s instructions.
2.8.7.3 Do not place starting batteries directly on the pump room floor. Locate the batteries above the floor,
preferably on a supporting rack, secured against movement, and located where they will not be subject to
excessive temperature, vibration, mechanical injury, or flooding by water. Locate the batteries so they are
readily accessible for servicing. Determine the minimum battery cable size and maximum length based on
the engine manufacturer’s instructions in the engine manual.
2.8.7.4 Do not install current-carrying conductors (battery and signal cables) to and from the engine less
than 12 in. (300 mm) above floor level.
A sound suction screen will be constructed of brass, copper, monel, stainless steel, or other equivalent
corrosion-resistant metallic material wire screen of 1⁄2-in. (12.7 mm) mesh and No. 10 gauge wire to a metal
frame sliding vertically at the entrance to the intake. The overall area of this screen should be approximately
1.6 times the net screen opening area.
Figures 9 through 12 illustrate dimensions recommended by the Hydraulics Institute Standards for intake
design using a sump (wet pit).
The dimension variables are as follow:
S — This is the minimum width of the wet pit.
B — This is the suggested maximum dimension of the pump centerline from the back wall. The edge of
the bell should be close to the back wall.
C — Should be specified by the pump manufacturer.
H — This is the minimum value based on minimum water level. Submergence for determining the location
of the second impeller from the bottom of the pump bowl assembly is H minus C.
Y — This is the minimum recommended distance of the pump centerline to the screen.
Based on expected maximum pump flow, recommended values are as follows:
When determining dimension S in order to not exceed 1 ft/s (0.7 m/s) velocity in the wet pit, dimension H
will be fixed, and S should be either the minimum indicated above, or larger if needed to not exceed the
velocity limits.
Fig. 10. Vertical-shaft turbine-type fire pump installation with suction from wet pit
Fig. 13. Typical horizontal-shaft fire pump installation with suction from aboveground tank
Fig. 14. Cutaway drawing of a typical horizontal shaft split case pump
(Provided courtesy of the Hydraulics Institute, Parsippany, NJ www.pumps.org)
Fig. 15. Cutaway drawing of a typical end suction pump with a close coupled electric motor
(Provided courtesy of the Hydraulics Institute, Parsippany, NJ www.pumps.org)
Fig. 16. Cutaway drawing of a typical separately coupled end suction pump
(Provided courtesy of the Hydraulics Institute, Parsippany, NJ www.pumps.org)
Fig. 17. Cutaway drawing of a typical vertical in-line pump with a close coupled electric motor
(Provided courtesy of the Hydraulics Institute, Parsippany, NJ www.pumps.org)
Fig. 18. A more detailed cutaway drawing of a typical separately coupled vertical in-line pump
(Provided courtesy of the Hydraulics Institute, Parsippany, NJ www.pumps.org)
Limited-Service Pumps
Limited-service fire pumps furnish not less than 130% of rated capacity at not less than 65% of rated head.
They are limited to a maximum of 30 hp across-the-line starting electric motor drive only.
Fig. 19. A cutaway drawing of a typical two stage vertical turbine pump
(Provided courtesy of the Hydraulics Institute, Parsippany, NJ www.pumps.org)
This type of pump is particularly adaptable for installation on open bodies of water subject to variation of
surface water levels.
The use of these pumps is also recommended where an automatically controlled pump is desired and the
physical conditions are such that a horizontal-shaft pump would have to take suction under lift.
Since vertical-shaft turbine-type pumps do not require priming, their use under this condition eliminates the
need for complicated automatic priming equipment.
The use of deep wells for direct fire pump service is undesirable if the maximum length of column
pipe-and-bowl assembly would exceed 100 to 150 ft (30 to 45 m). Breakdown is more likely to occur with
long shafts, and repairs would take more time. To meet the required ground-level pressure, the head rating
of the pump would have to be increased; likewise, this would increase the size of the driver. Deep wells and
long pump shafts usually increase significantly the total cost of the installation. Under these conditions, it may
be more economical and reliable to provide aboveground storage tanks or reservoirs from which horizontal
fire pumps could take suction. Deep well pumps of relatively low head and small capacity could be used
for filling.
Listed pumps can have different head capacity curve shapes for a given rating. Figure 20 illustrates the
extremes of the curve shapes probable. Shutoff head will range from minimum of 101% to maximum of 140%
of rated head. At 150% of rated capacity, head will range from a minimum of 65% to maximum of just below
rated head. Pump manufacturers can supply expected curves for their listed pumps.
Turbulent flow created by components located upstream from the pump suction inlet should be minimized
so pump performance is not compromised. The distance of 10 pipe diameters is considered by the water
control industry as an acceptable distance.
Space the faces of the coupling halves within the manufacturer’s recommended limits. Make an allowance
for wear of the thrust bearings that will cause the pump shaft to move in the axial direction. The necessary tools
for an approximate check of the alignment of flexible coupling are a straight edge and taper gage or set of
feeler gages.
A check for angular alignment is made by inserting the taper gage or feelers at four points between the
coupling faces and comparing the distance between the faces at four points spaced at 90-degree intervals
around the coupling. The pump and driver shafts will be in angular alignment when the measurements show
the coupling faces are the same distance apart at all points.
A check for parallel alignment is made by placing a straight edge across both coupling rims at the top, bottom,
and at both sides. The pump and driver shafts will be in parallel alignment when the straight edge rests evenly
on the coupling rim at all positions. Allowance may be necessary for temperature changes and for coupling
halves that are not of the same outside diameter. Care must be taken to have the straight edge parallel to the
axes of the shafts.
When the alignment is correct, the foundation bolts should be tightened evenly, but not too firmly. The base
plate can then be grouted to the foundation. The base plate can be completely filled with grout, and it is
desirable to grout the leveling pieces, shims or wedges in place. Foundation bolts cannot be fully tightened
until the grout is hardened, usually about 48 hours after pouring. After the grout has set and the foundation
bolts have been properly tightened, check the pump and driver for parallel and angular alignment and, if
necessary, take corrective measures. After the piping has been connected to the pump and driver, check
the alignment once more.
At this time, the direction of driver rotation can be verified to make certain it matches that of the pump. The
corresponding direction of rotation of the pump is indicated by a direction arrow on the pump casing.
The coupling halves can then be reconnected. With the pump properly primed, the pump can be operated
under normal operating conditions until temperatures have stabilized. Following engine shut down,
immediately check for alignment of the coupling. All alignment checks must be made with the coupling halves
disconnected and again after they are reconnected.
After the pump has been in operation for about 10 hours, the coupling halves should be given final check
for misalignment caused by pipe or temperature strains. If the alignment is correct, both pump and driver
should be doweled to the base plate. Dowel installation and location is very important, especially if the
equipment is subjected to temperature changes. Obtain the recommended locations from the manufacturer.
If the pump does not stay aligned after being properly installed, the following are possible causes:
a. Settling, seasoning or springing of the foundation
b. Pipe stress distorting or shifting the pump
c. Wear of the bearings
d. Springing of the base plate due to temperature
e. Shifting of the building structure due to variable loading or other causes
It may be necessary to slightly readjust the alignment from time to time while the pump and foundation are
new.
Demand point C represents a high-volume, moderate-pressure system. The demand can be supplied by
the pump.
Demand point D represents a low-volume, high-pressure system. The actual pump performance cannot meet
the demand.
A fire pump must not be used to maintain pressure in the fire protection system. This is the function of the
pressure maintenance (jockey) pump. However, it must start as soon as a dry pipe, pre-action, or deluge
system has tripped, or one or more sprinklers on a wet pipe system have operated. Large differences in
pressure between the pump starting pressure and the pump discharge pressure can result in damaging water
hammer. Where there is more than one pump, coordinate the starting of each pump so they do not start
simultaneously, but do start promptly. The simultaneous starting of pumps can exacerbate a water hammer
problem. Also, in the case of two electric motor driven pumps, simultaneous starting can increase the
possibility of tripping an upstream overcurrent device in the electrical feed.
Installation of the pressure-sensing line between the discharge check valve and the control valve is necessary
to facilitate isolation of the jockey pump controller (and sensing line) for maintenance without having to drain
the entire system.
components and piping or a failure of the cooling system and, consequently, the diesel engine can occur.
Heat-exchanger-cooled engines are equipped with an engine-driven coolant pump that circulates coolant
around the heat exchanger tubes and through the engine block. Use only new coolant complying with the
engine manufacturer’s recommendation and distilled water in the circulating system. The coolant temperature
is regulated by a thermostat in the circulating system.
Raw water for the heat exchanger is piped from the fire pump through connection between the pump outlet
and the discharge valve. The raw-water line is equipped with strainer, control valves, bypass, and gauge
connection. When the heat-exchanger tubes are not designed to withstand 300 psi(2067 kPa, 20.7 bar), a
regulator is provided in the raw-water line. When the pump is arranged for automatic starting, the raw-water
line is equipped with a normally closed solenoid valve that opens only when the engine is running; otherwise,
water from the suction tank or reservoir could be wasted through the pump and engine-cooling system. A
solenoid valve is not required when the pump is a vertical-shaft turbine-type installed in a well or wet pit.
Engine-exhaust manifolds that are cooled with water have water jackets connected into the circulating cooling
system or into the raw-water discharge line from the heat exchanger. Oil coolers, intake manifolds, and other
parts may also be equipped with water jackets supplied from the cooling system, as recommended by the
engine manufacturer. Engines require a flow of 15 to 65 gpm (56.8 to 246 L/m), or more, of raw water through
the heat exchanger for adequate cooling. To allow for quick inspection of proper engine cooling, the raw-water
outlet should discharge freely to atmosphere in a location visible to the operator, usually the waste cone
of the pump relief valve.
Radiator-Cooled Engines
Radiator-cooled engines require much more cooling air than comparably rated heat exchanger cooled
engines.
A thermostatically controlled bypass may be used to obtain warm air from the discharge air duct to reduce
the pump room heating load during engine operation. Duct air obtained from bypass in a manner to prevent
it from circulating directly back to the radiator.
Variable-Speed Diesel Pumps
FM Approved variable-speed diesel pumps use a pressure connection to the discharge of the valve that
directly reduces the speed of the engine if the set pressure limit is exceeded. The pressure-limiting control
and the pressure-limit-adjustment means is located on the engine and is independent of the fire pump
controller. The variable speed control can be by-passed by closing the valve on the pressure connection
piping that runs between the pump discharge and the pressure control on the engine.
4.0 REFERENCES
4.1 FM Global
Installation Data Sheets
Data Sheet 2-8, Earthquake Protection for Water-Based Fire Protection Systems
Data Sheet 2-8N, Installation of Sprinkler Systems.
Data Sheet 3-2, Water Tanks for Fire Protection.
Data Sheet 3-10, Installation and Maintenance of Private Fire Service Mains and Their Appurtenances.
Data Sheet 4-4N, Standpipe and Hose Systems.
Occupancy Data Sheets
The following list contains FM Global data sheets that may be helpful in determining the sprinkler system
water demand requirements for the specific hazards or occupancies listed.
VdS Schadenverhutung GmbH. VdS CEA Guidelines for Sprinkler Systems: Planning and Installation. VdS
CEA 4001: 2005-09.
Hydraulic Institute (HI). Various standards for centrifugal, rotary, and reciprocating pumps. 2005 editions.
National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA). Motors and Generators. NEMA MG 1: 2006.
National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA). Application Guide for
Electric Fire Pump Controllers. NEMA ICS 14:2004.
National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA). Instructions for the Handling, Installation, Operation,
and Maintenance of Electric Fire Pump Controllers Rated Not More than 600 V. NEMA ICS 15:2004.
Mechanical seals: A sealing device that forms a seal between the pump shaft and stationary components.
If may be used in place of compression (soft) packing. The primary seal is achieved by two very flat, lapped
faces perpendicular to the shaft The rubbing contact between these two flat mating surfaces minimizes
leakage. One face is held stationary in a housing and the other face is fixed to, and rotates with, the shaft
Dissimilar materials are usually used for the stationary insert and the rotating seal ring face in order to prevent
adhesion of the two faces.
Multiple stage pumps: Horizontal split-case, centrifugal fire pumps with more than one impeller on the same
shaft The number of stages is determined by the number of impellers.
Net positive suction head (NPSH) required: The minimum pump suction pressure needed to prevent
vaporization of the water (cavitation) in the pump.
Pressure reducing valve: A valve in a fire protection system that is designed to limit down-stream water
pressure under both flowing and non-flowing (static) conditions.
Rated pump capacity: Flow capacity (gal/min [L/min]), at rated pressure and speed.
Rated pressure: Pressure in pounds per square inch — psi (kilopascals -kPa) developed by the pump when
operating at rated capacity.
Relief valve (main): A valve near the discharge of a fire pump used to limit the pressure in the fire protection
system under abnormal conditions.
Service factor: A multiplier that, when applied to the rated horsepower of an ac motor, indicates a permissible
horsepower loading that can be carried at the rated voltage, frequency, and temperature. The service factor
multiplier (e.g., 1.15) indicates that the motor is permitted to be overloaded 1.15 times the rated horsepower
without insulation breakdown or otherwise significantly reducing service life.
Shutoff or churn pressure: The net pressure in psi (kPa) developed by the pump at rated speed with zero
flow.
Single-stage pump: A pump in which the total head is developed by one impeller.
Stuffing box packing: The function of packing is to control leakage at the pump shaft, but it is not intended
to eliminate it completely. Typically, an arrangement consisting of rings of packing, a lantern ring for the
injection of a lubricating and/or flushing liquid, and a gland to hold the packing and maintain the desired
compression for a proper seal. The packing is lubricated by the pumped liquid. The lantern ring is supplied
for situations where the stuffing box pressure is below atmospheric pressure, to inject lubrication into the
stuffing box by the use of a bypass line from the pump discharge to the lantern ring connection.
Total discharge head: The gauge reading in psi (kPa) at the discharge flange of the pump, referenced to
the pump centerline, plus the velocity head at the point of gauge attachment.
Total suction head: The condition when the suction pressure is above atmospheric. The total suction head
is the algebraic sum of the gauge reading in psi (kPa) at the pump suction nozzle flange, referenced to the
pump centerline, and the velocity head at the point of gauge attachment. Also called “positive suction
pressure.”
Total suction lift: The condition when suction pressure is below atmospheric. The total suction lift is the
algebraic sum of the gauge reading in psi (kPa) at the suction nozzle flange of the pump, referenced to the
pump centerline, and the velocity head at the point of gauge attachment.
Total head: The algebraic difference between the total discharge head and the total suction head. Where
suction head exists, total head equals total discharge head minus total suction head. Where suction lift exists,
total head equals total discharge head plus total suction lift
Variable-speed pressure-limiting control: A control system for limiting the discharge pressure produced by
a fire pump by reducing the pump driver speed.
Suction pit: A defined area enclosed by open grates and screens filled with water from an open body of water
such as a pond, river, or reservoir, used as a fire pump suction source.
April 2008. Data Sheet 3-7 is new and supercedes Data Sheet 3-7N. The revision history of Data Sheet
3-7N can be found in the 2001 version of 3-7N.
December 2007. The following changes were made:
1. The data sheet number and title has been changed.
2. The data sheet has been completely rewritten.
3. Information on the use of variable speed pumps has been added.
4. Information on the use of mechanical seal pumps has been added.
5. Information on the use of positive displacement pumps has been added.
6. Information on steam turbine fire pumps has been retired.
7. High rise building pump installation requirements clarified.
8. New electrical feeder arrangement figures have been added.
9. Alert information on Cummins Campaign No. 8422, No. 8532, No. 8815, No. 9209 have been retired.
c. Evaluate the suction supply. If a public supply, conduct a flow test with the pump turned off to verify
this supply is sufficient and clear of debris. If a suction tank, ensure it is full and the supply valve is open.
If an open body of water, ensure the screens are clear.
d. Start the pump.
e. Verify that the relief valve (if provided) is not flowing water.
f. Partially open one or two hose valves, or slightly open the meter discharge valve.
g. Check the general operation of the pump and driver. Watch for vibration, leaks (oil or water), unusual
noises, and general operation; confirm slight water flow from packing glands.
h. Discharge of water:
1. Where a test valve header is used, regulate the discharge by means of the hose valves and selection
of the nozzle tips. The play pipe has a removable 1 1⁄8-in. (28.6 mm) tip and, when the tip is removed,
the play pipe has a 1 3⁄4-in. (44.4 mm) nozzle.
2. When a test meter is used, regulate the discharge valve to achieve various flow readings.
3. Test the fire pump over its entire range of flow (0 to 150% of the rated capacity) by controlling the
quantity of water discharged. Start at low flow and gradually increase it; starting the pump with hoses
open can cause cavitation. Important test points are at churn (no flow), rated capacity, and 150% of
rated capacity. Two intermediate points should be taken to help develop the performance curve.
i. Record the following data at each test point:
1. Pump rpm
2. Suction pressure
3. Discharge pressure
4. Number and size of hose nozzles, pitot pressure for each nozzle, and total gpm (L/min). For flow
meter, record gpm (L/min).
5. Amperes (electric motors)
6. Volts (electric motors)
j. Calculation of test results:
1. Rated speed. Confirm pump is operating at rated rpm.
2. Capacity. For hose valve header, using nozzle discharge tables in Hydraulics Tables (P6920),
determine the flow in gpm (L/min) for each nozzle at each pitot reading. An example: 16 psi (1.1 bar)
pitot pressure with 1 3⁄4-in. (44.4 mm) nozzle with a coefficient of 0.97 indicates 364 gpm (1378 L/min).
Add the flow for each hose line to determine total volume. For a flow meter, the total flow is read directly.
3. Net head. This is a measure of the actual work done by the pump, essentially the difference between
the suction pressure and discharge pressures.
For horizontal pumps, this is the difference between the discharge pressure and the suction pressure.
For vertical pumps, this is the sum of the discharge pressure and the suction pressure. The suction
pressure is calculated by multiplying 0.433 psi/ft (0.098 bar/m) by the height in ft (m) between the water
level and the centerline of the pump discharge.
In both cases, if there is a significant difference between the effective point of the suction or discharge
gauge and the pump centerline, this should be included.
4. Electrical input. Voltage and amperes are read directly from the volt/ammeter. This is compared to
the motor nameplate full-load amperes. The only general calculation is to determine the maximum
amperes allowed due to the motor service factor. In the case of 1.15 service factor, this is approximately
1.15 times motor amps, because changes in power factor and efficiency are not considered. If the
maximum amps recorded on the test do not exceed this figure, the motor and pump will be judged
satisfactory. It is most important to measure voltage and amperes accurately on each phase. This is
important since poor power supply with low voltage will cause high ampere readings. This can be
corrected only by improvement in the power supply; there is nothing that can be done to the motor
or the pump.
5. Correction to rated speed. For purposes of plotting, correct the capacity, head, and power to the
pump rated speed from those values obtained at test speed. The corrections are made as follows:
Capacity: Q2 = N2/N1 × Q1
Head: P2 = [N2/N1]2 × P1