A fire pump performance test is a procedure used to verify that a fire pump system operates correctly and delivers the required water flow and pressure needed for fire protection systems, such as sprinklers or standpipes. This test ensures the fire pump complies with design specifications and relevant standards, such as NFPA 20 (Standard for the Installation of Stationary Pumps for Fire Protection).
Fire Pump Name Plate Details
Preparation
Ensure the pump room is safe and accessible.Verify that all equipment (gauges, meters, flow meter, pressure gauges) are calibrated. Connect a test line or flow meter to measure water discharge.
STEP 1: CHURN TEST (SHUT OFF PRESSURE)
- Start the fire pump with discharge valve closed.
Read the discharge pressure.
Record suction pressure and subtract it to get net pressure.
Check that it does not exceed 140% of rated pressure.
STEP 2: RATED FLOW (100%)
# Open the discharge valve to allow 1000 GPM to flow through the test header or flow meter.
# Record discharge and suction pressures.
# Confirm that the net pressure (calculated by subtracting the suction pressure from the discharge pressure) is approximately 145 PSI, which matches the pump’s rated pressure.
STEP 3: 150% FLOW
# Increase the flow to 1500 GPM (by opening more outlets or test header valves).
# Record discharge and suction pressures.
# Confirm that net pressure is at least 65% of rated (94.25 PSI minimum).
Test Frequency (per NFPA 25)
Annually: Full flow performance test.
Weekly or Monthly:No-flow (churn) test, depending on pump type and local codes.
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