Testing of Firewater Pumping Systems

Normal fire protection practices and standards recommend fire pumps be tested annually to determine performance levels. Common practice in the petroleum industry is to trend the result of flow performance to prepare predictive maintenance and replacement forecasts. Such forecast can predict poor pump performance and prepare measures to implement corrective actions before this occurs. 

Obtain the manufacturers pump curve for the unit to be tested. Confirm the pump to be tested is properly identified, i.e., verify nameplate tag number, serial number, etc. 

Determine the flow measurement method to be used during the test, i.e., flowmeter or pitot tube measures of the nearest available water outlets on the system. Ensure that the flow measurement devices are calibrated or adjusted for the fire pump maximum flow output. 

Ensure independent measurement devices for verification of the driver (i.e. engine) and pump rpm are available and accurate, i.e. strobe light hand held tachometer. 

Ensure the recycle valve is closed if water is to be measured at the local water outlet or the system discharge valve is closed if water is to be recycled into storage. 

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