Flow test or fire pump test

[bob smith]

Working on a small project that has a fire pump. Instead of conducting a new flow test at the hydrant that is feed from the fire pump it was suggested to use the annual fire pump test. I’m trying to remember how to do that since it’s been years. Can someone help me out?

 

[cdafd]

To design a sprinklers system???

Or other??

I am not a designer or engineer,,, but have never seen a pump test submitted for a sprinkler flow test design?

Anyway easier to do a fire hydrant test

Hire a sprinkler company to do it

 

[Histfires71]

Same here. I've never seen fire pump data used in place of a hydrant test for a new project. You should probably run that by the AHJ before you proceed.

 

[bob smith]

To design a small system off the fire pump. I have seen it before but can’t remember

 

[MGXFP]

Hire an inspection company to do the fire pump test. It's worth it to have it done correctly if you don't know how or aren't trained to do it. If you don't want to do the pump test, a hydrant test is always acceptable. NFPA 13 says to calculate the sprinkler system back to where the water supply is known so a fire pump curve is an acceptable source.

 

[TravisMack]

A fire pump test is a completely valid water supply test for a fire sprinkler system design. It is more valid than a hydrant flow test at the street. It would account for any discrepancies or deficiencies in the underground supply to the fire pump. Unless you are going to calculate through the bypass with city water only, you would need a pump test anyway.

Get a proper annual pump test completed per NFPA 25 and design your system to that known point.

 

[SprinklerDesigner2]

I agree with Travis and the actual fire pump test results are more accurate than calculating from a hydrant.

I've done this a good number of times in four different states and never had a problem with any AHJ or insurance company.

 

[cdafd]

Interesting. I do agree a yearly pump test is required/ needed

But to do it just for adding to the system?

Maybe depends on what you will be trying to protect?

Interesting question