Connection from private fire main

[DTR]

I have a client who has requested a connection from our Fire Main to top up a water cooled heater circuit, I have told him that it's just not done, Fire Mains are for Fire Systems and it will affect the operation of the Pumps but I can't find anything in NFPA 24 that tell me it is forbidden....any help would be appreciated.

 

[PEDARRIN2]

There are instances where other uses of water can come off of a "fire main". I believe if you look in NFPA 13, you will find it.

 

[farshi]

connection of fire water to process line is forbidden as the fire water spec. is difrrent from cooling water ,it may cause corrision in cooler and fire water system is for fire water ring .and it deseign for fire situation .during any fire the fire flow to cooler will be decress.

 

[gouveia]

Interesting question.

First, yes it appears to be allowed per code. Technically NFPA 24 section 1.1.2 states "This standard shall apply to combined service mains used to carry water for fire service and other uses." So I guess the code writers may have envisioned this possibility. I generally agree with you, but a quick review of the code does not come up with anything prohibiting it.

Second, will your revised installation be capable of supplying the simultaneous demands and all other applicable requirements? How long will it take before the alarms from the fire pump starting to get there attention. Do you intend to increase the jockey pump size?