Types of Fire Pumps

Fire pumps may be powered by an electric or diesel engine.

A fire pump is a specialized water pump that provides constant, high pressure for a water
system used to extinguish fires. The fire pump intake can be connected to an underground
water pipe or a static source, such as a water tank or reservoir. Fire pumps may be powered
by an electric or diesel motor. The fire pump starts up when the water system dips below a
certain pressure threshold, which can happen as sprinkler system heads, fire hoses and
other firefighting connections are opened. There are two main types of fire pumps: positive
displacement and centrifugal.

1. Positive Displacement
o A positive displacement fire pump moves water by trapping a fixed amount of it, then forcing
that water out the discharge pipe. Positive displacement pumps can be further divided into
two categories: reciprocating pumps like piston and diaphragm pumps, and rotary pumps like
screw and gear pumps. Of these types, rotary pumps are most commonly used in firefighting
systems as a primer pump to fill hoses, lines and the main pump.

Centrifugal
o Centrifugal pumps are commonly used as main pumps in firefighting systems. A centrifugal
pump uses a revolving device called an impeller to accelerate water radially outward from
the center of the pump housing, imparting it with velocity. This velocity, when coupled with
the resistance of the pump housing and discharge line, creates pressure, which propels
water out of the pump. Additionally, a vacuum is created at the impeller input opening that
continuously draws in more water.

Differences
o The main difference between the two types of pumps is that a positive displacement pump
has the ability to pump air, whereas the centrifugal pump cannot. This makes the positive
displacement pump a necessary choice for filling empty water lines, which is why it is
commonly used as a primer pump. The centrifugal pump is used as a main fire pump
because of higher flow rate and efficiency

How to Select Fire Pumps

A fire pump is an important component in many building sprinkler systems. The pump provides a
higher level of water pressure than most municipal water systems and can often be found in high
rises or buildings that use well water as part of their sprinkler system. Fire pumps take in water and
provide it to sprinkler pipes at the correct pressure, which helps to put out fires more quickly and
effectively. To ensure a fire pump will function correctly, however, it is important to choose the right
unit for the job. Buyers should consider factors such as design, power source and system
compatibility to find the best fire pump to meet their needs.
o 1
Check the brand name and system compatibility. Many fire pump and sprinkler
manufacturers have their own proprietary systems, many of which are not
interchangeable. When selecting a fire pump, make sure it will work with your existing
control system, as well as you sprinkler piping and other equipment.

o 2
Review flow rates. The flow rate on a fire pump is measured in gallons per minute
(GPM). The GPM needed for your building is determined by local building codes, as
well as the system designer. Check the sprinkler plans for your building to see what
flow rate is required.

o 3
Determine what pressure is needed. The amount of water pressure supplied by a fire
pump is measured in pounds per square inch (PSI). The PSI for your building will
depend on the PSI of the municipal water supply, as well as on the sprinkler designs
for your system. Consult the building's sprinkler plans to determine what PSI is needed.

o 4
Consider the pump design. Fire pumps are often designated as "horizontal case" or
"vertical case, " which refers to the orientation of the metal casing around the pump. If
you have a small storage space for this pump, choose a vertical case. If ceiling space
is limited, choose a horizontal case. Make sure to confirm the size and shape of each
unit to ensure it will fit in your mechanical or engine room.

o 5
Think about how the pump will be powered. Fire pumps can be electrically-powered, or
powered by diesel engines or steam turbines. Choose a unit that can be tied to your
existing power supply.

o 6
Decide if you'll need a rotary or centrifugal unit. Rotary pumps are the more traditional
type of fire pump, and can only be used with single-stage sprinkler systems (where one
water pressure rating will work for the entire building). If you need a multi-stage
(multiple water pressures) unit, choose a centrifugal pump.
o 7
Evaluate maintenance requirements. Check how the pump is configured to make sure
you'll have easy access to all gauges and adjustment devices. Look for split-casings,
which allow part of the casing to be easily opened and generally provide better access
than non-split casings.