- Fire Pumps have been used to supply flow and pressure to fire protection systems for over 100 years. The first National Fire Protection Association (will be referred to as ‘NFPA’ from here on out) was published in 1896 and included information on steam and rotary fire pumps that is still acknowledged today.
In this Blog we will discuss the basics of diesel driven Fire Pumps.
Fire protection is a critical aspect of safeguarding lives and property, and a reliable fire pump system plays a pivotal role in this defense. Among the various types of fire pumps, diesel-driven fire pumps are commonly employed to ensure uninterrupted water supply in emergency situations. The NFPA has established standards, particularly NFPA 20, to guide the design, installation, and maintenance of fire pump systems, including those driven by diesel engines. In this blog, we will delve into the significance of diesel-driven fire pumps and explore how NFPA 20 standards contribute to their effectiveness.
The standard minimum fire pumps is not less than 500 gallons per minute rated capacity and requires not less than 60 minutes of water supply. Modern fire pumps are connected to a reliable driver of either an electric or diesel driven motor, and are designed to automatically start and run under the most demanding conditions
The Basics of Diesel-Driven Fire Pumps:
Diesel-driven fire pumps are designed to provide a dependable water supply for firefighting purposes when the primary water source is insufficient or compromised. These pumps are often installed in industrial facilities, commercial buildings, and other high-risk areas. Unlike electric-driven fire pumps, diesel-driven pumps offer the advantage of operating independently of the electrical grid, ensuring continued functionality during power outages or emergencies.
Key Components of Diesel-Driven Fire Pumps:
- Diesel Engine:
- NFPA 20 specifies the requirements for diesel engines used in fire pump applications. It addresses aspects such as fuel storage, starting systems, and the need for regular maintenance to ensure the engine’s reliability during emergencies.
- Pump Assembly:
- NFPA 20 outlines the design and performance criteria for fire pumps. This includes considerations for pump capacity, head pressure, and suction piping configurations. The standards also emphasize the importance of conducting regular tests and inspections to verify the pump’s operational readiness.
- Fuel Supply:
- Proper fuel storage and delivery systems are critical for diesel-driven fire pumps. NFPA 20 provides guidelines on fuel tank sizing, fuel quality, and safety measures to prevent fuel contamination.
- Control and Instrumentation:
- NFPA 20 addresses the need for reliable control systems to start and monitor diesel-driven fire pumps automatically. These systems must be designed to initiate prompt response in case of a fire emergency.
NFPA 20 Standards for Diesel-Driven Fire Pumps:
The NFPA 20 standards cover a wide array of aspects related to the design, installation, operation, and maintenance of fire pump systems. Some key considerations specific to diesel-driven fire pumps include:
- Installation Requirements:
- NFPA 20 provides detailed guidelines for the proper installation of diesel engines and fire pumps. This includes considerations for pump room layout, ventilation, and accessibility for maintenance.
- Testing and Maintenance:
- Regular testing and maintenance are crucial to ensure the reliability of diesel-driven fire pumps. NFPA 20 outlines testing frequencies, procedures, and performance criteria to be followed, including weekly and monthly inspections as well as annual flow tests.
- Fuel System Safety:
- The standards address the safety of the fuel supply system, emphasizing the need for proper sizing, material selection, and protection against leakage or spillage.
- Emergency Power Supply:
- NFPA 20 highlights the importance of ensuring a reliable emergency power supply for diesel-driven fire pumps, ensuring their functionality during power outages or other electrical failures.
Conclusion:
Diesel-driven fire pumps are essential components of fire protection systems, providing a reliable water supply during critical situations. Adhering to NFPA 20 standards is crucial in ensuring the proper design, installation, and maintenance of these pumps. By following these guidelines, building owners, engineers, and fire safety professionals can contribute to a safer and more resilient built environment, minimizing the risks associated with fire emergencies.
-Levi Rock
Vice President
Red Seal Fire Protection Ltd.