AUTOMATIC FIRE PUMP SYSTEMS

Shaft Alignment 

One of the most crucial steps of fire pump inspection is making sure your fire pump’s couplings are appropriately aligned. Many factors can affect alignment, including thermal expansion and equipment maintenance. Couplings that are misaligned are far more likely to fail and could disrupt service.

Circulation Relief Valve Inspection

Circulation relief valves are usually mounted on the neck of the discharge flange and prevent the fire pump from overheating when the pump is operating at shutoff conditions. The valve should be inspected weekly and should discharge to a drain. Visual inspection of the fire pump is critical because if the valve fails to operate, the fire pump could overheat when it is needed most.

Fire Pump Testing

It is highly recommended that all fire pumps undergo weekly testing at shutoff conditions. Electric fire pump systems should be tested for 10 minutes, while diesel fire pump systems should be tested for 30 minutes. Annual testing is conducted at minimum, rated, and peak load to ensure that the fire pumps work optimally under all these conditions. Annually, demand must be placed on the suction supply to test the hose streams and flow meter systems. Automatic Fire Systems, Inc. will also check the pump controller and current draw of the pump and motor rotation and RPM speed.

Fire Pump Maintenance

Fire pumps must undergo regular preventative maintenance to ensure that they maintain their effectiveness. One of the most common maintenance measures is proper bearing lubrication. As a rule, an ounce of grease should be added to the bearings every 3 – 6 months, and care should be taken not to add too much grease.

If you need fire pump maintenance or inspection, call Automatic Fire Systems, Inc. today at 205-661-3388. We can test and inspect your pipes and ensure that your fire protection system is up to code and will protect you and your coworkers and equipment during an emergency.