Fire protection pumps are crucial equipment for the proper operation of water-based systems. Whether they are providing water to stand pipe, sprinkler, foam mitigation, or other fire suppression systems, it is important that they are UL Listed and FM Approved and are ready to operate when the time comes. The right fire pump Manufacturer will provide you with a high-quality UL/FM Fire Pump that is ready to go when you need it.
Flowserve offers a complete line of engineered fire pumps designed in accordance with recognized international standards (APSAD R1, NFPA20, NFEN 12845, CEPREVEN-UNE, API, ISO, ANSI and customer specifications). Each pump can be provided in numerous configurations to provide water to any standpipe, sprinkler, or foam mitigation system.
The lead times for configured-to-order and assembled-to-order pumps are very long and vary widely. A few days to a few weeks would be at the relatively fast end of the delivery spectrum. For larger, engineered-to-order pumps the lead times can extend into months or even a year. Many factors influence the lead times for these types of projects. Deviations from standard offerings, special engineering submittal requirements, design and manufacture of new patterns and tooling, casting of specialty materials, development of welding procedure specifications or other custom manufacturing processes, inspection hold points, witnessed performance testing and more can all add significant time to an order.
For some applications, such as chemical process and slurry pumps, the components are often assembled-to-order. This includes couplings, shafting, seal support systems, baseplates and ancillary components that are designed to specific customer or industry needs.
Another option for these projects is to use a pre-engineered package that incorporates the pump, ancillary equipment and controls. This approach can significantly reduce the lead time and also the total cost of the project. For a smaller, less complex project, this may be the best route to take.
Fire Pump Configurations
The location of the pump on a fire truck is another major consideration. Traditionally the pumps have been located midship on the truck. This configuration allows firefighters to manage the hoses and discharges in a separate operating area. This arrangement has the added benefit of protecting the fire truck cab from water damage due to discharges splashing up into the cab.
A newer, more efficient, fire pump configuration is called a PUC (Pump Under Cab). This layout places the pump under the cab with the control panel stationed to the left. This configuration provides a distinct operating space for the pump operator and separates the hoses and discharges from the pump. This configuration also allows for easier maintenance and repair of the hoses and discharges. It also requires that the firefighters be qualified to operate and inspect the pump as specified by NFPA 20. This qualification can be met by either the fire department or by personnel certified by a national recognized fire protection organization. This is a significant safety improvement for the firefighters and also saves on fuel and electrical costs as well as providing greater speed of operation.