Fire Protection Valves - Fusible Link

[nkendle]

I have been having issues with our fusible link valves on our alcohol storage tanks leaking through the packing. These valves are directly butted up to the tank and reduce from 14" at the tank to 12" prior to the pump suction isolation valve. The pump suction isolation valve is also a fire rated valve.

My thoughts are to remove the existing fusible link valves, and move the pump suction isolation valves into their place.

My question (I have been digging through NFPA but can't find the specification) is: Does the fire safe (fusible link) valve have to be on the immediate flange face of the tank? I would like to put a reducer on the tank from 14" to 12" and then use the pump suction isolation valve as the fire safe (fusible link) valve.

 

[stookeyfpe]

Your answer is in NFPA 30. In the 2012 edition of this standard, Section 27.6.6.2 states that piping systems in connection with pumps shall contain valves to properly control the flow of liquid both in normal operation and in the event of an emergency.

Your proposed valve arrangement meets the requirement of Section 27.6.6.2 in my mind.