A high pressure portable fire fighting pump is a great way to suppress fires. These pumps have more gallons per minute and pressure than traditional garden hoses.
When looking at a firefighting pump, be sure to read the specifications and information carefully. Two acronyms that are important are PSI and GPM.
Size
The size of a fire fighting pump is important because it determines how much water can be pumped out. Fire pumps usually produce a certain amount of pressure (PSI) and GPM (gallons per minute). These numbers can be found on the pump’s label, and they’re important to know before buying one.
There are several ways to choose a fire fighting pump. The standpipe method uses the building’s sprinkler hazard levels to calculate the pressure requirements and design density of the pump. This method is commonly used in smaller buildings and properties.
Another method for selecting a fire fighting pump involves analyzing the water flow of the property using a water meter and determining the required pressure. This method is also known as the metering and flow rate calculation.
Besides these methods, the selection of a fire fighting pump may also be determined by other factors such as potential fire hazard, available water supplies and the capability of a department to use portable pumps. Choosing the right pump can make all the difference in a successful emergency response.
Weight
Fire fighting pumps can be a lifesaver on farms that have barns, crops and equipment at risk from fire. These powerful pumps can help you quickly pump water out of the area while minimizing damage and keeping your livestock safe. These pumps also help you save on costly repairs and replacements to your equipment.
The fire fighting pump you choose will be based on the size of your hoses, what kind of work you need to do and what type of terrain you’ll be using it in. For example, if you have a large property, you’ll want a high pressure fire fighting pump that can move more water over a longer distance. This will be more expensive than a lower pressure fire fighting pump, but it’s worth the investment to keep your farm and livestock safe from harm.
The fire pump you select should have a GPM (gallons per minute) rating. GPM is the volume of water that the pump can move in a certain amount of time, and it’s used to determine how much pressure the pump can produce. It’s important to understand that a fire pump’s rated net pressure only occurs at the rated flow.
Power
If you live far from the nearest fire station, a portable fire fighting pump can buy time for firefighters to arrive. It can divert water from nearby streams, ponds and pools to provide high-pressure water for long distance hose lays. It can also be used to overcome pressure loss caused by elevation changes.
Fire pumps are rated by the manufacturer to produce a specific amount of net pressure at their rated flow. It is important to understand these ratings when choosing a pump for an application, as it will impact cost.
In addition to knowing a pump’s rated flow, it is essential to perform a fire hazard analysis and preliminary hydraulic calculations to determine the required water flow and pressure for a sprinkler or standpipe system. This information is then used to size the fire pump. The fire pump selection process will also consider the location of the test header, as well as the availability and reliability of water supplies at the site. If the calculated flow and pressure is lower than the rated pressure for the components downstream of the fire pump, a pump with a higher net pressure may be required.
Durability
Fire fighting pumps rely on high pressure to get the job done. You’ll need to look for a model with a large maximum PSI measure, meaning it can handle a lot of water under extreme conditions. Also consider the flow rate and maximum head measures when comparing models. You’ll want a pump that can handle long distance hose lays and pumps up to high elevation areas where the pressure loss is significant (see a sample Water Master Fire Pump Curve here).
Another important consideration when selecting a portable fire fighting pump is how mobile it needs to be. Many firefighting pumps have a trolley kit attached, making them easy to maneuver and transport. Others don’t, which may make it more difficult to move them around. Some fire fighting pumps have a trailer mount option, which will be more useful if you plan to affix it to a trailer. Some models also don’t come with a roll cage, so you’ll need to have a plan for how to transport it when needed. If you’re unsure what type of portable fire pump to purchase, contact your local Hale branch or locate a service partner to speak with a fire fighting expert.
Maintenance
Fire fighting pumps are not only useful for fire protection, but also for day to day applications. However, it is important to ensure that the fire pump is well-maintained at all times. For example, the oil should be changed regularly to avoid overheating. Also, the cooling system’s antifreeze level should be checked. Moreover, the temperature of the water inlet should be monitored. In addition, the suction hose coupling and strainer should be checked.
A fire sprinkler system relies on a strong terminal pressure at the fire pump to enable a water flow that will extinguish a fire. Therefore, it is essential to test the fire pump weekly and monthly to make sure that it is in good working condition.
Fire pumps can be electric or diesel-fueled, but all fire sprinkler equipment must be tested in accordance with NFPA requirements. To facilitate the process, consider partnering with an organization that offers a Total Compliance Management program (TCM). These programs will inspect, test and maintain your fire pumps, and they can even archive inspection reports for you.
