PUMP TESTING
Purpose:
Investigation has shown that where regular and systematic tests of pumps are not made, defects often exist and can continue undetected for considerable periods under the light demands at ordinary fires; these defects only become apparent at a large fire where the pump is called on to perform at or near rated capacity. Furthermore, regular tests are valuable training for pump operators. The breakdown of a pump at a fire or the inability of the crew to operate it properly can cause loss of life and property.
Environmental concerns and other considerations or circumstances, such as water shortages, should not relieve a fire department from pump test requirements.
NFPA ( National Fire Protection Association ) does not approve, inspect, or certify any installations, procedures, equipment, or materials; nor does it approve or evaluate testing laboratories. In determining the acceptability of installations, procedures, equipment, or materials, the authority having jurisdiction may base acceptance on compliance with NFPA or other appropriate standards.
Frequency:
Service tests should be conducted at least annually and whenever major repairs or modifications to the pump or any component of the apparatus that is used in pump operations have been made.
Conditions:
It is preferable to test apparatus at draft. The true performance of the pump is easier to evaluate while pumping from draft.
The test site must be adjacent to a supply of clear water at least 4 ft. ( 1.2 m ) deep, with the water level not more than 10 ft ( 3 m ) below the center of the pump intake close enough to allow the suction strainer to be submerged at least 2 ft ( 0.6 m ) below the surface of the water when connected to the pump by 20 ft. ( 6 m ) of suction hose.
Environmental conditions should be as follows:
|
Air Temperature |
0 F to 100 F ( -18 C to 38 C ) |
|
Water Temperature |
35 F to 90 F ( 2 C to 32 C ) |
|
Barometric Pressure |
29 in Hg ( 98.2 kPa ) minimum ( corrected to sea level ) |
Any engine-driven accessories should not be functionally disconnected or otherwise rendered inoperative during the tests. If the chassis engine drives the pump, all headlights, running lights, warning lights, and air conditioner(s), if provided, must be operating during the pumping portion of this test. If any electrical loads are connected through an automatic electrical load management system, that system must be permitted to automatically disconnect those loads during the course of the test.
Procedures:
Select pump testing detail from the list below:
Intake Relief Valve System Test
Test Results
Test Parameters
Troubleshooting