Frequently Asked Questions about the Fire Pumps

1. What are the differences in all of the starting methods used in fire pump electric
controllers?
Starting Methods
2. What is locked rotor amps?
LRA is 6 times full load amps.
3. What is AIC rating?
Ampacity Inrush Current. It refers to the rating of a fire pump controller enclosure
to protect from electric surges.
4. Why are there tier levels for diesel engines, and what do they mean?
EPA requires for all fire pump engines to comply with EPA tier 3 emissions
standards for engines sold in the US and its territories. All engines sold outside the
US are not subject to this requirement. In addition, any engine running over 2650
rpm is not subject to these standards in any part of the world including US, except
California. until 2012.
5. What are the differences in NEMA enclosure ratings?
NEMA Enclosure Types
6. How do I figure out my churn pressure?
Churn pressure is pump pressure at 0 flow, plus static suction pressure from supply
source.
7. What is the difference between clockwise and counterclockwise rotation of a fire
pump?
If you are sitting on the motor, looking at the pump, if the water supply is on your
right, that is clockwise (right hand rotation). If the supply water is on your left, that
is Counter clockwise (left hand rotation). Typically, your suction flange will be
greater than your discharge flange.
8. What are the differences between ODP and TEFC motors?
Open Drip Proof, typically used in indoor applications or Totally Enclosed, Fan
Cooled, typically used in outdoor applications.
9. What is an Automatic Air Release Valve and a Casing Relief Valve?
Automatic air release valve is used on Horizontal split case pumps and is installed at
the top of the casing to prevent air getting trapped in the pump casing causing
cavitation and other issues that will cause internal damage.
Casing relief valve (circulation valve) is used on HSC, VIL and End suction pumps to
allow cool water from the discharge side of the pump to circulate through the casing
to prevent pump from overheating. In a diesel application, a CRV is not required
because the cooling loop accomplishes the same task.

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Frequently Asked Questions about the Fire Pumps

10. When would I require a Main Relief Valve?
On diesel applications where pump shut of pressure (0 flow) plus suction pressure
times 121% is greater than the rated system pressure, a main relief valve shall be
required. Main relief valves for electric sets violate NFPA 20 code.
11. How often do I need to test my fire pump?
NFPA requires weekly testing on all fire pumps.
12. How should I size a jockey pump (Pressure Maintenance Pump)?
NFPA 20 suggests that the jockey pump be sized 1% of pump flow at 10 psi over
pump rated pressure.

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