Booster Pump System: Location and Installation Requirements

When planning the installation and location of your booster pump system, you will need to make a number of important considerations. Let’s learn about them in depth.

When it comes to a water booster or HVAC pump, no one really wants to find out that a design error is the source of insufficient water pressure in a building. Imagine if tenants on the top floor of a building can’t rinse the shampoo out of their hair. Someone has to be accountable for that.

That’s precisely why Callaghan Pump has come up with a simple road map for properly installing and locating a booster pump system. This is the guide to your peace of mind!

HVAC Pump Location and Installation Requirements

This part of booster pumps requires proper planning. Otherwise, you may create a lot of frustration. Here are some simple things to do when installing an HVAC pump for long-lasting commercial pump service.

• Properly Position the Pump

It is always important to consult the Installation and Operation Manual (IOM) to ensure whether the pump can be installed to discharge up or down, left or right. This will also help you determine the position of the motor shaft. While some booster pumps can be oriented in many different ways, others cannot.

If your booster pump has a bearing assembly, have the pipe support the pump. Be sure to support it from underneath the bearing assembly if you think that additional support is required. Otherwise, this may cause misalignment of the pump coupler, resulting in premature pump failure.

• Locate the Pump for Easy Service

A larger booster pump system should be installed for ease of service and removal of the pump motor. This simply means that there must be sufficient room around and above the pump to remove the motor, seals, impeller, and bushings.

You can install a pump motor hoist beam for larger inline pumps that typically might be 10 HP or greater. This would help move the heavy motor for servicing. Also, avoid installing a larger pump that can't be serviced from the floor. Otherwise, repairs and maintenance will be very difficult because motors can weigh hundreds of pounds.

• Provide Ample Support for Larger Pumps

You will need to take extra care when installing water booster pumps in seismic applications that are geographical areas with high instances of seismic activities. Since most booster pumps have a high center of gravity compared to base-mounted pumps, this may increase the risk of an overturning moment.

This refers to the point at which a specific rotational force causes an object to overturn. Thus, additional piping and equipment supports are required in seismic applications.

• Don’t Skip Accessories

There are some basic pump accessories that will ensure the care and longevity of the water booster pump. For example, flex connectors compensate for minor pipe misalignment and reduce pipe vibrations. Suction diffusers are required when an elbow is needed near the suction. They help stabilize the turbulence and swirling action created by the 90° turn.

A triple-duty valve is installed on the discharge side of the booster for balance, backflow prevention, and isolation. You can also install a single pressure gauge and connect it to both the pump suction and discharge for convenient pressure readings. Make sure that there is a compound gauge on open condenser water applications.

Summing Up

So, this is everything you need to know about booster pump system location and installation. And if you need more information, we are here to help! We at Callaghan Pump will provide you with the right information and sewage pump services to get started.

Jockey Pump Pressure: What to do if a Fire Sprinklers System is Leaking

Experiencing low water pressure due to leaks in your pressure sensing line in fire pumps? These details will help you diagnose and fix the issue before it gets worse.

Whether it’s a sprinkler or pressure sensing line in fire pumps, if your fire protection system is leaking, make sure there is no active fire triggering the system to discharge. Once you know that there is no fire hazard in your facility, get in touch with a professional to diagnose the leak as soon as possible. Here are some basic details that will help you get an idea of the problem.

Why Do Pump Leaks Occur?

There are fire sprinkler systems and pumps that are often prone to corrosion, damage, and freezing temperatures. Take corrosion for instance - it can cause rust and create holes in piping or sprinkler heads. This may occur in both dry as well as wet pipes. The main cause of corrosion is exposure to oxygen. It may also be due to microbiologically influenced corrosion, which is an aggressive type of corrosion caused by bacteria.

Problems like freezing pipes are common in wet pipes. They are less common in dry pipes as they do not hold a constant water supply. Another reason why leaks occur is damaged sprinklers. This may happen because of forklifts, ladders, equipment, etc. Equipment failure is another common problem in sprinkler systems that can occur due to manufacturing or installation errors.

Routine wear and tear is also common in pipes if not regularly maintained. Other common malfunctions that can cause fire sprinkler systems to leak involve O-ring seals and water contaminants.

What to Do if You See a Leak

As soon as you discover a leak in your sprinkler or pressure sensing line in fire pumps, figure out why it is leaking and whether it’s important to evacuate the building. This is because water can cause electrical components to short-circuit or ignite, resulting in a fire in your facility. If you see a large amount of water pouring out of your system, turn off the main water supply to avoid water damage. Even if it is only dripping water, it’s best to check your pressure gauges against manufacturer recommendations to know whether there may be other leaks in the piping circuit.

Once you have investigated the source of the leak, call a fire suppression professional. Share the details about the leak and be ready to make essential repairs. If the leak is due to corroded or burst pipes, you will need to replace either a portion or all of the piping system. If the leak is due to external physical damage, the affected component should be repaired/replaced.

How to Prevent Future Leaks

One of the easiest ways to prevent future leaks in your fire pump and sprinkler system is to hire a fire protection professional that you can trust. He or she will work with you to ensure your sprinkler system is regularly maintained according to the NFPA 25, carrying out inspections and tests. Proper maintenance and jockey pump selection will also help you prevent any future leaks from occurring. In addition to that, consider installing high-quality fire pumps and jockey pump capacity.

To learn more about fire pump and jockey pump pressure, reach out to us today!

Water Pressure Booster in 2023: What You Should Know

 

Low water pressure can ruin your daily chores like cleaning, washing, and bathing. Luckily, you can install water pressure booster pumps.

Sick of low water pressure in your house? Consider installing water pressure booster pumps in 2023. These pumps are specifically designed to increase pressure for everything from simple bathroom showers to high-demand commercial hotels. Low water pressure is common in multi-family homes and it results in trickling taps, showers, or something that can significantly reduce the comfort of the homeowner.

Key Principles to Choose the Right Water Booster Pump for House

This article describes the use of water pressure booster systems that can improve water pressure and flow on the upper floors of tall buildings. Learn how to choose the best booster pump for your building in 2023.

Identify the Cause of Low Pressure

With increasing improvements in living standards and awareness of water safety, it has become more important than ever to install water purifiers, large showers, and smart toilets. These household devices have certain water pressure requirements to allow for the best customer experience.

In the morning and evening, there are peak hours when multiple people use water at the same time. This may create insufficient water pressure. There are other reasons too, such as gravity, elevation, and fluctuating city main supply. To solve such problems, you will need to install a water pressure booster to the mains inlet pipe.

Understand the Water Source

Make sure what water source you are using. Regular sources are mainly the mains water supply, which may vary significantly with demand. Shallow wells are another common water source. Pumping water from shallow wells will require a booster with priming ability. It has to be able to suck water from underground depths. It is suggested to install a pre-filter to avoid any debris from entering the water pressure booster.

Know the Types of Booster Pumps

Booster pumps are generally centrifugal pumps that pump up the water automatically without any external aid. They can be classified as a kind of self-priming pumps with a noise level slightly lower than other types of pumps, such as jet pumps. This makes booster pumps ideal for long and complex suction applications like transferring water from underground wells or tanks.

Consider Key Parameters

Other key parameters or principles to choose the best water pressure booster are the water delivery volume, the pump head, and the suction head. Represented by the symbol Q, the delivery volume refers to the amount of water that the booster delivers in a unit of time.

The pump head is known as the discharge head of a pump and refers to the maximum height that a booster pump can lift against gravity. It can be recognized as the power of the pump. The greater the power, the more water pressure the pump can generate. It is represented by the symbol H and is measured in meters. Also, consider the suction head, which is the maximum depth from which a pump can raise water via suction.

Summing Up

After figuring out these principles, you will get a basic idea of what water pressure booster pumps are best for your house. For specific model selection, feel free to contact us at Callaghan Pump. We will provide you with the best options that will minimize your water pressure booster pump noise, maintenance, and wear concerns.

Troubleshooting: Everything from Jockey Pumps to Sensing Lines for Fire Pumps

Are you considering sensing lines for fire pumps? The purpose of this blog post is to cover the most popular aspects of fire pump installation. Continue reading to learn more.

Whether you are looking for jockey pumps or sensing lines for fire pumps, you need to be careful. The right equipment is vital to get the desired pressure for your fire protection system. On the other hand, getting it wrong would increase the chances of losing your house to a fire.

That being said, we are going to discuss the basic requirements of fire pump installation and selection. We will also throw some light on fire pump troubleshooting. Before you install any fire pump equipment, here are some crucial things you need to know:

Location: Install the fire pump in a dry place – nearer to the city water entrance. It should be installed with a short and direct suction pipe.

Foundation: The foundation of the pump should be substantial so that it can absorb any vibration. It should create permanent or rigid support for the baseplate. Be sure to use foundation bolts of suitable size. Also, check the pump’s coupling faces and suction flanges for horizontal/vertical position with a level.

Alignment: Faulty alignments may result in noisy pump operation, low bearing life, and excessive coupling wear. So, carefully verify the alignment after the foundation bolts have been tightened. Check the alignment again once the piping is installed.

Fitting: If minimum fittings required by NFPA are loose, install circulation relief valves at the casing discharge. You can also use automatic air release valves on top of the pump to vent casing and suction piping before start-up.

Inspection: Visually inspect different parts of the fire pump for damage affecting serviceability. Take a look at “O” rings and gaskets for any potential cracks, nicks, or tears. Also, check packing rings for excessive compression in sensing lines for fire pumps. Replace them if damaged.

Rotation: Fire pump rotation will be determined by the vantage point. When sitting on the motor facing the pump, the discharge is to the left and the suction is to the right. This is known as a right-hand or clockwise pump rotation. If opposite, it is known as a left-hand or counter-clockwise pump rotation.

Troubleshooting Common Fire Pump Issues

If your pump does not start, it may be because of a faulty electrical circuit. Make sure both the circuit breaker and the switch are in the “ON” mode. Also, make sure that the pressure switch is working properly so it can respond to changes in pressure. Stuffing the box too tightly or improper packing could be due to loose gland swing bolts. So, remove the stuffing box gland halves and try to replace the packing.

There are other pump issues like the locked impeller that would require removing the obstruction. Excess bearing friction should also be addressed by removing and cleaning the bearings. If there is no water discharge, air pockets or air leaks in the suction line may be the reason. You can uncover the suction pipe to locate and rearrange it. Make sure the pressure switch set point is set according to the suction and working pressure.

If you have any questions about the pump specifications like the jockey pump capacity, flow rate, or rotation, please contact us. We will be more than happy to help you make sure that you get the right pump and sensing lines for fire pumps.

Jockey Pump Specifications: Uncovering the Basics

If you are considering a fire pump installation and want to determine the jockey pump specifications for it, then you have come to the right place. Here’s everything you need to know about fire pump installation.

Fire arrives unannounced and creates panic of all kinds. There are fears of losing lives, assets, valuables, and even reputation. Therefore, one should know how to respond to the situation when a fire suddenly breaks out. The preparation includes determining the right fire pump type and jockey pump sizing for your fire protection system.

Explaining the Role of a Jockey Pump

Picture yourself driving a car in a car race. As the driver, you are considered a jockey. Similarly, on a fire protection system and a fire pump, you will find a small pump that maintains pressure. It is known as a jockey pump.

A jockey pump is a pump with low capacity and high pressure, used to steady pressure for automatic sprinkler systems and hydrants. It ensures that the fire sprinkler is always in a state of constant pressure. Its role is to maintain pressure in a fire protection piping system without running the fire pump.

If you want to know how jockey pumps work, you've got to know how a fire pump system works. First, it keeps the water pressure at a homogenous level. It prevents the sprinklers from going off randomly. Consequently, there's a natural discharge within the pipelines that helps the water pressure go down mechanically.

If you don’t have a controlled system, there will be no depression within the system. And if you start shooting extremely controlled water through these pipes, this may destroy the entire system. You will need a jockey pump to realize this and to make sure that the water pressure is back to its usual state. Also, it makes sure that there’s no injury to the mechanical devices if there’s water coming from the fire pump system.

The Installation of the Jockey Pump

Another aspect of the jockey pump is identifying the installation. You should check your native governance to see what is required for the installation. There may be a number of laws to keep in mind. This may include your local standards, fire pump sensing line details, and the NFPA 20.

Because of the importance of the jockey pump to your fire protection system, it's crucial that you have an expert installation. Make sure that you simply hire a professional for making the installation process hassle-free. This will also help you maintain and properly size your fire pump.

According to NFPA 20…

Fire pumps are used to pressurize and maintain the pressure of an array of fire protection systems, including sprinklers, fire cabinets, and hydrants. They come in different types, ranging from end-suction pumps and vertical in-line pumps to double-suction split-case to multistage pumps.

NFPA 20 is a fire safety standard that defines the installation requirements of fire pumps for fire protection. The scope of the standard includes the selection of fire pumps, jockey pump flow rate, installation, acceptance tests, and operation. Thus, most homeowners and builders are making their home designs according to the NFPA.

Closing Remarks

We supply a complete range of fire pump packages built as per NFPA regulations and customer specifications. These packages come with electric motors, diesel engines, jockey pumps, control cabinets, and batteries. They also include the complete piping with discharge collectors, valves, and pressure switches. All pump packages and fire pump sensing line details can be equipped with any type of fire protection system.

For more info regarding jockey pump sizing and flow, contact us.

Finding the Best Home Water Pressure Booster: 5 Key Aspects

Having the best home water pressure booster can help you eliminate the hassle of low water pressure. Here’s how to pick the right booster pump for your building.

Does your dishwasher take a long time just to finish a cycle? Is it the same with your washing machine or shower? Then it’s time to figure out whether it’s a plumbing issue or a booster pump issue.

Since water pressure is crucial when it comes to managing household tasks, you need to make sure that you are always receiving an adequate supply of water. Otherwise, this can turn the household into bigger hassles than you have time to deal with.

We Advise Installing a Domestic Water Booster Pump

A domestic water booster pump is built to increase water pressure in a hydraulic system. It overcomes pressure losses caused by long distances, gravity, or elevations in various applications, such as municipal water systems, irrigation systems, etc.

There are many reasons why you need a water pressure booster pump in a hydraulic system. First, it can increase the system’s overall pressure, flow, and efficiency. It can also reduce wear and tear on other components, which may prolong the system’s life.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a City Water Booster Pump

There are a few important factors to consider when looking for the best home water pressure booster for your system. Let’s take a look at them!

Flow Rate

Firstly, the required flow rate will help you determine the right booster pump for your specific application. It is the rate at which water is flowing through the system. It is measured in either gallons per minute (gpm) or cubic meters per second (cms).

Flow rate measures can vary depending upon the requirement or applications. For instance, industrial buildings require high flow and domestic buildings require normal flow. So, make sure you determine this before making final decisions.

Elevation

The elevation is another crucial factor to consider when choosing a city water booster pump. Imagine that the destination for the water to reach is at some higher elevation than the water source. This means you will need to choose a booster pump that can generate enough pressure to overcome gravity.

Power Source

Additionally, you also need to think about the power source of the pump. This is because some booster pumps use diesel, while others may use electricity. So, choose a booster pump that is compatible with the available power source.

Sizing

A booster pump’s size, weight, and other dimensions are also important. You will need to consider all the sizing details if the pump needs to be portable. For tighter areas, you may need a different sizing configuration than spacious areas. So, be sure to determine the correct size for the application.

Budget

Last but not least, your budget will also influence your buying decision. As the range of options available varies greatly, you should have a clear budget for your VFD booster pump. Install one that fits within your pump budget. Otherwise, you may overspend not only on the initial cost, but also on pump care and maintenance.

Wrapping Up

So, if you are experiencing low water pressure in your building, it’s time to act! Make sure the low-pressure issue is not due to any plumbing issues, such as leaks and clogs. It’s better to consult a licensed professional to examine the problem before making a decision.

For the best home water pressure booster, contact us today!

Diesel Fire Pump Package: Why you need a Jockey Pump

When a fire sprinkler system gets activated, there is often a sudden drop in water pressure in the system. This may create serious water pressure problems, but jockey pumps can be installed to overcome such situations. These are small pumps connected to a fire sprinkler system to maintain pressure in the sprinkler pipes by sensing the fire pump automatic controller.

The main components of a diesel fire pump package include:

• Jockey Pump: It prevents the fire pump and system from any potential short cycling during non-emergency situations.

• Jockey Pump Controller: This is an automatic pump controller that controls the jockey pump system.

• Check Valve: It prevents water from flowing back into the fire pump and is installed on the discharge side of the pump.

• Control Valve: It allows the jockey pump to be isolated for maintenance purposes. This valve may be a butterfly type or an OS&Y.

The Role of a Jockey Pump in Fire Sprinkler Systems

Also known as a pressure maintenance pump, the role of a jockey pump is to maintain the pressure in the sprinkler system to avoid any non-emergency starting of the fire pump. It is built to start before the fire pump and return the fire protection system to its minimum static pressure.

The jockey pump saves the fire pump from short cycling, which can shorten its life span in the long run. It is a low-cost component of a fire pump sprinkler system and is sized to 1% of the fire pump’s rated flow. However, it doesn’t keep up with the system demand in regard to water flow. In this case, the water pressure will continue to reduce until the fire pump starts.

The Operation of a Jockey Pump

Sprinkler systems often use an electric or diesel fire pump package to push the necessary amount of water pressure throughout the system when activated. All the water pressure comes from a large fire pump. However, it’s not good to use this large pump to keep your sprinkler system pressurised. Therefore, you may need a jockey pump to keep your lines at a set pressure limit.

Since proper pressure is critical to safely operate your fire sprinkler, you need a jockey pump, along with a fire pump, to manage required water pressure. This small pump allows the fire pump system to stay charged without overworking your large pump. In fact, in an ideal scenario, your large pump will never get activated, meaning that the jockey pump is doing all the work to ensure your lines are charged and ready to spray water at a fire.

The Maintenance of a Jockey Pump

To keep your sprinkler system fully operational and ready for any fire emergency, you should maintain your jockey pump and diesel fire pump package. Like any other pump, it is a compact unit subject to maintenance issues. The most immediate maintenance signs will show up during weekly tests. Be sure to test the fire pump, not only the jockey pump.

Activate the fire pump with the controller and open the main drain line to test the jockey pump capacity. Watch the pressure drop closely to see if your jockey pump activates to make up for the pressure difference. If not, you need to troubleshoot the pump as soon as you can.

At Callaghan Pump, we supply the highest quality, NFPA-approved diesel fire pumps with appropriate jockey pump sizing for fire protection. If you need more information regarding jockey pump sizing or capacity, please feel free to send us a message today.

Diesel Fire Pumps: Everything You Need to Know About Inspection and Testing

There’s no better protection from fire accidents than proper preparation and maintenance of your diesel fire pumps. Thus, you should protect your business/place of residence with expert fire maintenance and inspection. Let’s learn about them in this blog post!

Fire Pump Inspection and Testing

Since pressure sensing lines in fire pumps help maintain designed pressure on each fire sprinkler system, make sure you know how to take care of them. When your fire pump stops working, the fire sprinkler system won’t get to the desired water pressure during an emergency. Thus, maintaining it would help you diagnose and prevent potential issues before they get worse.

Inspections are visual observations to verify that a fire pump system appears to be in good operating condition. It determines whether the system is free of physical damage. On the other hand, tests include hands-on simulations that mean taking actions on the fire protection system. Below are some key fire pumps tests and inspections:

• Weekly fire pump tests: This includes inspecting the condition of your pump room and the fire pump system.
• Monthly fire pump inspections: This includes checking the pump operation. You should run the test for 10-15 minutes.
• Annual fire pump inspections: Check the pump operation for both diesel and electric pumps. Test the alarm signals and be sure to service hydraulic systems, mechanical transmissions, and motors on an annual basis.

Now that you know the main types of fire pump tests and inspections, it’s time to know what you should keep in mind while inspecting your electric or diesel fire pumps. By practicing the following tips, you can prolong the life of your sensing line for fire pumps.

• Perform weekly fire pump tests that can be carried out by a designated person.
• Inspect the power source of your fire pump, be it an electric or diesel engine.
• Make sure the source can be cycled once or twice a year.
• Maintain lubrication to prevent parts inside the fire pump from locking in place.
• Check the fire pump components inside your fire pump, including the fire pump casing relief valve, the packing, and the casing relief valve.
• Don’t forget to monitor your water pressure gauge. And if it is above/below the normal value, contact your fire protection professional.

According to NFPA 25…

Inspection, testing, and maintenance of water-based fire protection systems, including fire pumps, should comply with industry standards. These standards will help you maximize the system’s integrity and avoid potential pump failures. They establish the minimum requirements for the periodic inspection and maintenance of your sensing line for fire pumps. The key requirements include the changes in occupancy, use, operation, materials, hazard, or water supply that can impact the performance of the fire pump system.

Also, NFPA standards address the operating condition of fire protection systems, such as impairment handling and reporting. They apply to fire protection systems and ensure that the system has been properly installed by generally accepted practices. Keep in mind that these standards do not require the inspector to verify the adequacy of the design of the system. This requirement is not a part of the periodic inspection and maintenance standard.

Since corrective actions are needed to ensure that your fire pump system operates satisfactorily, it should be in accordance with the NFPA standards. In addition to that, if your sprinkler or the pressure sensing lines in fire pumps show any signs of the following, it should be replaced:

• Corrosion
• Leakage in the system
• Sudden loss of water pressure
• Any physical damage like bending and warping

Final Remarks

We offer an array of fire pumps that can be the best solution if your building is equipped with a sprinkler system. It requires constant water pressure regardless of varying demand or fluctuation in the incoming pressure. We supply branded fire pumps for commercial, industrial, and residential applications. From smaller commercial facilities to manufacturing industries, our line of diesel fire pumps can be a good fit for any application.

To find out more about pressure sensing lines in fire pumps, contact us.

Fire Pump Packages: 7 Frequently Asked Questions

                                                                        

Reliable and code-compliant fire sprinkler systems for domestic and commercial buildings begin with fire pump packages. Without them, your sprinkler system won’t be able to generate the required water pressure by itself. Since fire pumps are a critical piece of fire protection, make sure they follow the NFPA standards for installation, inspection, and maintenance.

That being said, this blog post is going to cover the most commonly asked questions about fire pumps and jockey pump selection. Below are a few questions that we are frequently asked about fire pump systems:

1. What is a Fire Pump?

A fire pump is used to boost the available water pressure for a fire protection system. Its role is to increase the pressure coming from your water source to the rate required by your fire protection system to control a fire. Fire pumps usually come in a package consisting of a pump, driver, controller, and sensing line for fire pumps.

2. Why do I Need a Fire Pump?

If you live in a building where the available water pressure isn’t enough to meet the requirements of your fire protection system, then you may need a fire pump. Although fire pumps are not required in every building, they are common in high-rise structures that often struggle with low water pressure. This is because these buildings have high water pressure requirements that can exceed the capabilities of the water supply.

3. How do Fire Pumps Work?

Fire pumps are more than just a pump. In fact, they are made up of a full system combined with a motor, controller, and fire pump sensing line. The pump gets the water from a source like a lake, tank, or reservoir. The available pressure is boosted by the means of the motor and impellers to distribute it throughout the sprinkler system.

4. What does Fire Pump Testing Include?

During an annual fire pump test, you will have to check all of the necessary lines and incoming voltage. Look at all the phases to ensure that no excessive voltage is going to the panel. Also, don’t forget to look for internal problems within the pump to know whether it is performing as per the design and industry standards. This is why you will need to perform a flow test at 100 and 150% of the fire pump’s rated value.

5. How Should I Maintain a Fire Pump?

The best way to maintain your fire pump is to run it on a weekly/monthly basis. Make sure its drain lines are draining and not flooding. The pump area should be clear of anything that could prevent a clog. If it is not properly taken care of, the pump will most likely not perform to its design standards. You can consider contacting a pump expert to schedule an inspection.

6. What are the Different Types of Fire Pumps?

The most common types of fire pumps are the horizontal split case, vertical split case, vertical in-line, and vertical turbine. These types have different sizes and lifespans based on their accessibility for repairs and maintenance. For instance, the horizontal split case is the most widely used fire pump, but it takes up more space than other types. On the other hand, vertical split case fire pumps are similar, but take up less space.

7. How do I Pick the Right Fire Pump Driver?

When it comes to powering your fire pump sensing line, there are two major drivers available – electric motors and diesel engines. Pick the right driver on the basis of reliability, adequacy, safety, and economy. For example, diesel engines are proven to be reliable for larger applications and require batteries and fuel tanks for the electric start.

On the other hand, electric motors are best for smaller applications with a reliable source of power. Other options may include steam turbines that are rare to come by. Because there are different fire pump packages, make sure you choose the right driver that is appropriate for your space.

The Final Verdict

Bringing together the years of knowledge, expertise, engineering, utility, and quality, Callaghan Pump offers a complete range of fire pump packages from horizontal to vertical models. These packages offer a longer life span, higher efficiencies, and lower maintenance costs. Plus, they are available with both electric and diesel drivers.

Talk to us for more details.

Summary: When it comes to sprinkler systems and fire pump packages, there are several burning questions people usually have. Let’s try to answer them one by one in this blog post.

Fire Pumps and Systems: The Most Commonly Asked Questions

At its best, firefighting is a hazardous business. And without a well-designed fire protection system and a fire booster pump, it becomes even more dangerous to save assets and lives. A fire pump is an important part of your sprinkler system and is essential in buildings with levels higher than 400-500 ft.

Especially in high-rise structures, fire pumps and systems are critical in distributing water through sprinklers. This is true where water pressure from water mains can’t reach the sprinkler system. It usually happens when the fire pump intake is either connected to the public water supply or a static water source like a tank, reservoir, lake, etc.

·         What does a Fire Booster Pump do?

The role of the fire pump is to provide water flow to the sprinkler risers and hose standpipes at a higher flow. It starts when the water pressure in the fire protection system drops below a certain threshold.

The fire pump is powered either by an electric motor or a diesel engine. If a building code requires power that is free from the local electric power grid, you will need an electric motor connected via a listed transfer switch and the installation of an emergency generator.

·         When do You Need a Fire Pump?

To determine whether you need a fire booster pump, compare the fire suppression system demands with the available water supply. If the supply cannot meet the demands, you will need a fire pump. Conversely, if the water supply meets the pressure demands, you don’t need a fire pump.

·         What are the Standards Governing Fire Pumps?

Code-compliant fire pumps and systems for commercial and industrial buildings begin with the standards governing fire pumps. According to the US-based National Fire Protection Association - NFPA, the standard for installing stationary pumps is the most widely accepted standard. NFPA 20 is considered the leading code, with its many safety measures that are designed to account for all conceivable scenarios and ensure maximum fire protection.

NFPA 20 addresses everything from the fire pump room to the water source itself. The standard provides installers, designers, and manufacturers with minimum requirements for the design, manufacture, installation, and testing. It ensures that each of the individual components would perform as a whole when the system is active.

·         How Often Should You Inspect/Test Your Fire Pump?

It is likely that your building contains a sprinkler system and a fire booster pump as part of your fire protection equipment. These are automatic systems that act as the first line of defense when a fire breaks out. A vital part of your fire safety plan is to inspect your fire pump so that it can perform optimally. You may wonder how often you should inspect and test your fire pump. Well, this can be done regularly, weekly, monthly, and yearly.

·         Why You Should Install a Jockey Pump in the Fire System

Fire pumps and sprinkler systems are designed to put out fires as quickly as possible. This is done by a set of sprinklers connected to each other and to the water source. When the sprinkler system is active, it will take only a few seconds for the sprinkler to release water.

However, there is a need to maintain pressure in the pipes, so each fire sprinkler loses a small amount of pressure when it turns on. When a fire breaks out and a sprinkler turns on, there must be enough pressure in the pipes to activate the next sprinkler.

Here, installing a jockey pump could save your day. It is designed for this purpose and will turn on whenever it senses a certain amount of pressure drop in the fire protection system. It will maintain water pressure to help the fire booster pump operate without any delay.

The Bottom Line

Without a fire booster pump, your fire sprinkler system will only work until there is a prolonged water supply and pressure. This means that the system won’t be able to reach every corner of your building and put out an entire fire by itself. So, rest easy knowing that having a sensing line for fire pumps would help you ensure fire safety 24/7.

Need Help? Our pumping specialists are standing by.

Variable Speed Booster Pumps: 10 Reasons Why to Use Yaskawa

 

When planning to invest in water pressure boosters, consider variable frequency drives. This is because they are designed to save power costs, especially on large pumps, HVAC systems, and other high-horsepower industrial applications. Yaskawa is a leading name in VFD applications and adds value to water booster systems by providing extensive integration, powerful control options, and enough diversity of designs.

As a leading distributor of variable speed booster pumps in New York and surrounding areas, we know how to take care of our client’s bottom line. Our team of experts understands how to help clients avoid “extras” that may add cost. We supply domestic as well as residential water booster pumps that use the Yaskawa technology. Here are the reasons why we use Yaskawa VFDs.

1)      Excellent Support

Using Yaskawa Variable Frequency Drives (VFD) means guaranteed satisfaction. You won’t miss anything when it comes to customer support and understanding pumps inside and out. The factory personnel will always be helpful, and any troubleshooting will be handled promptly.

2)      High-Quality

Out of the box, Yaskawa VFDs are a true winner. In fact, we can’t even remember the last quality issue in the last few years. This is simply because Yaskawa spends a ridiculous amount on packaging, manufacturing, and testing, so the quality will never feel disappointing.

3)      VFD Options

Depending on the client and application, three different Yaskawa VFDs are available to meet water pressure needs. We use a robust iQ1000 VFD, which is full of features that people usually need. These features include BMS/BAS modules and digital and analog outputs to satisfy basic requirements. 

4)      Easy to Program

The parameter numbering scheme is consistent throughout the Yaskawa VFDs we use. This makes programming and troubleshooting easier than ever. And with hundreds of parameters, you can fine-tune your variable speed booster pumps over the phone. Plus, you can ably network multiple VFDs, providing you with huge savings by eliminating the PLC panel.

5)      High Demand

Yaskawa VFDs are high in demand because of their powerful and feature-loaded designs. They are designed specifically for water pressure boosters. Plus, it’s not surprising that clients are increasingly investing in water-boosting solutions.

6)      Scalable Control

From basic 10 HP systems to medium 16,000 HP, Yaskawa offers energy-saving and control-enhancing systems that are standard for many new facilities. When existing facilities are being upgraded, Yaskawa VFDs not only allow better operational control, but also maximize the integration of diverse systems under standardized network control.

7)      Software and Networking

Yaskawa VFDs integrate well with industry-standard networking protocols, such as Fieldbus and Industrial Ethernet-based systems. They come with device programming, energy savings prediction, and harmonics estimation software that will help you profile a company's operations and configure control systems. Also, auxiliary power may keep drivers linked while the main power is off.

8)      Wide Applications

VFD applications from Yaskawa provide users with options to integrate plant-wide solutions for HVAC systems, motion control, pumps, and fans. These solutions are designed for both domestic and industrial applications. In fact, you can convert existing installations to variable speed and variable torque VFD systems that will allow modernized production lines and energy savings.

9)      Optimized Control Systems

Yaskawa systems are able to monitor and optimize motor temperatures and offer improved braking technologies. This provides fast-acting current and voltage limits to keep the system operating during periods of high-demand. From induction types to permanent magnets, Yaskawa VFDs are available for many motor types.

10  History and Experience

Yaskawa is a world-renowned company with 100+ years of experience and rich history. Their products are the result of extensive research, making them the industry standard for a wide variety of applications. In addition to that, Yaskawa offers both AC and DC converters to supply power for multi-drive residential water booster pumps.

The Sum Up

Yaskawa iQ1000 is designed with pump service operators and owners in mind, offering ease of setup, network, and operation. The integrated pump software parameters allow you to program control values for a wide range of applications. Bypass options are also provided to address a variety of environmental conditions. Plus, the pump drive will automatically adjust pump operating conditions when the process variables change. We carefully select, design, assemble, and program domestic water booster pumps and use Yaskawa iQ1000 on every system that we supply.

For variable speed booster pumps, talk to us directly.

A Guide on How to Calculate Jockey Pump Capacity

 Our customers often ask us about jockey pumps and how to calculate their capacity and size. This is crucial because it ensures there is enough water pressure to control a fire. Before we answer this question, it would be best to understand what a jockey pump is and how it functions in electric or diesel fire pumps.

Jockey Pumps

Also known as a pressure maintenance pump, a jockey pump is a key component of fire pumps. It is a small apparatus that works in conjunction with the fire pump as part of a fire protection system. Designed to keep the pressure elevated, a jockey pump prevents the main fire pump from running unless absolutely necessary.

Unwanted pressure drops, water leaks, and temperature changes often fool the fire pump into starting without any requirement. Using a jockey pump, which is electric motor-driven, you can control the pump and switch it on and off periodically to maintain the main pressure at high levels. Jockey pumps are preferred to be centrifugal pumps and must be properly approved.

Jockey Pump Sizing

The size of your jockey pump determines whether it is able to maintain the fire protection system pressure, allowable leakage, or any pressure drops. Make sure it is the size you need to maintain the desired fire protection system pressure. Keep these things in mind:

·         The sizing of the jockey pump should be done in such a way that it provides a flow less than a single fire sprinkler. This is true when the jockey pump serves only above-ground piping for fire sprinklers.

·         The fire pump should start and run for water flow situations where a sprinkler is open. Keep in mind that this won’t happen if the jockey pump is too large.

·         Select a jockey pump that makes up the allowable leakage rate in 10 minutes or 1 GPM (whichever is larger).

·         The water pressure of the jockey pump should be greater than the pressure of the main fire pump by a minimum of 10 psi. This will avoid the false starting of the main fire pump.

·         A good rule of thumb for sizing a jockey pump is to utilize 1% of the fire pump rated capacity.

·         The pump is not required to have alternate or standby power.

Jockey Pump Capacity

A simple rule for sizing is that the jockey pump capacity should be around 5-10% of the main fire pump. Based on NFPA 20 Standard, jockey pumps should have rated capacities not less than normal leakage rates. They should have discharge pressure sufficient to maintain the desired sprinkler system pressure. So, the first thing is to calculate the normal leakage rate and know how to size a fire pump. You need to take into account the net positive suction pressure available and the effect of rising to shutoff the system.

Additionally…

There are valves required for diesel fire pumps and jockey pumps. For instance, an isolation valve should be installed on the suction of the jockey pump, so that it will isolate the pump for repair. Also, a check valve and isolation valve should be in the discharge pipe of the jockey pump. That’s it!

To learn more about jockey pumps, get in touch with us.

Fire Pump Sensing Line Details: Weekly Fire Pump Inspection and Testing

 Carrying out a weekly fire pump inspection and testing sensing lines for fire pumps

would help you ensure the system is in operating condition and is free from any physical damage. You can also detect deficiencies that may not be visible by visual inspection and assure that the pump can ably provide continuous water delivery for required fire protection demands.

Here are a few important things to keep in mind during pump mounting and piping:

·         Install the fire pump in a dry place as near the city water as possible with a short, direct suction pipe.

·         Make sure there is sufficient space above the pump to give it some clearance for general accessibility and ventilation.

·         Foundation must be substantial to absorb vibrations and form a rigid support for the baseplate.

·         The foundation bolts you use should be of suitable size embedded in the concrete.

·         The fire pump should be firmly mounted before the operation begins.

·         Never use flexible connectors on the suction/discharge of a vertical in-line fire pump unless the pump is rigidly standing on a foundation.

·         Assure the piping doesn’t exert any strain on the pump, since this could distort or damage the casing. Plus, it mustn’t produce any vibrations during operation.

·         Connecting pipe flanges should be square to the piping and parallel to the pump flanges.

·         Install eccentric reducers on the suction connection with the flat side upward.

·         Lay out the suction line in such a position that it continually rises toward the pump without high points.

Weekly Fire Pump Inspection and Testing

To avoid any false alarms, provide notification to the alarm monitoring facility before and after completing the weekly fire pump test. Make sure all fire pump supervisory signals are received by the facility. Here’s a checklist and some jockey pump sensing line details for the weekly inspection:

•        Take a look at the power-indicating light (for the electric fire pump) on the controller to confirm there is power to the pump.

•        Make sure there’s normal heat in the fire pump room, which should not be less than 40ºF and 70ºF for diesel pumps without engine heaters.

•        The ventilating louvers must be free to operate, and the pump suction, discharge, and bypass valves should be kept open.

•        Examine the pipework, fitting, and connections for any potential physical damage or leaking.

•        The suction and discharge gauge pressure reading should be normal.

Electric Fire Pump Weekly Test Procedure

Verify the start and stop settings on the jockey pump sensing line details by dropping the water pressure in sensing lines for fire pumps. When done with all inspection procedures, try to start the pump automatically by dropping the water pressure in the controller sensing line. After that, the pump should run for at least ten minutes. Check the pressure at which it automatically started.

Make sure there is proper tightness and adequate lubrication. Verify the operation of the circulation relief valve, which is usually located on a 1-inch line off the discharge side of the pump. Also, check the pump shaft bearings, packing, stuffing, and casing for any signs of overheating, noise, or vibration. If your pump is equipped with a main relief valve, then it is important to ensure proper operation.

At Callaghan Pump…

We offer a complete range of sensing lines for fire pumps, from horizontal to vertical fire pumps. Plus, they are available in both electric and diesel engines. As one of the most renowned names in the pumping industry, every line of fire pumps we offer is made from the best materials possible.

For fire pump sensing line details, contact us.