Check Valves for Fire Pumps

[msm15]

Just a general question.

We are putting in a fire pump in a 12 story building in NYC the plans call for check valves but dont specify if the check valves have to be spring or swing.

I checked NFPA 13,14, and 20 and it doesnt give any info on what type of check valve it has to be.

Can we use either - does any one have info on this ?

Thanks

 

[bimr]

The standard that you have to meet is the UL No. 312 Check Valves for Fire-Protection Service (Revision 10/89) 1988.

You can use a spring or swing as long it has been approved with the UL No. 312 standard.

 

[bimr]

Refer to Reference Standard 17

http://www.nyc.gov/html/dob/downloads/bldgs_code/bcrs17.pdf

"(6) The check valves in the pump discharge line shall
be either swing type or spring loaded."

 

[msm15]

wow awesome thanks for the help

the other thing is according to the code we can use sch 10 pipe (.134 in) for up to 6" and 300 psi do you know of any info against this ?

thanks

 

[bimr]

"Pipe used in sprinkler systems should be designed to withstand a working pressure of not less than 175 psig. It is intended that this sprinkler standard permit the use of "standard wall" pipe as described in ANSI B36.10-1979 for pressure up to 300 psig.
Schedule 40 pipe is considered "standard wall" pipe.
Schedule 30 pipe is acceptable in sizes 8 inches and
larger. However, "light wall" schedule 10 pipe is
acceptable in sizes 10 inches and smaller, provided that
the piping is designed to withstand a working pressure
of not less than 175 psig, when approved."

To be honest, I don't think that you would save much if you went to sch 10 steel.

In consideration of the fact that steel will rust, it is false economy to use sch 10 steel. However, sch 10 stainless steel pipe has been used to save money.

 

[msm15]

wow you certainly are a wealth of info.

thank you very much

 

[stanier]

You may like to consider the transient response of the check valves in such an installation. Buildings are particulalry vulnerable to check valve slam. The residents dont like the noise!
Suggested reading is Fluid Transients in Pipeline Systems ARD Thorley. Also technical papers from Delft laboratories.

You should consider the deceleration vs reverse characterisitcis of the valve and the pumpre d system to establish te correct type of check valve to be used.

Pumping from basement to such a system is almost all static head. This is surely going to result in waterhammer on pump trip.

"Sharing knowledge is the way to immortality"
His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

http://waterhammer.hopout.com.au/