Fire Pumps 101: How They Work, Sizing, and Types of Fire Pumps

Most tall and high-rise buildings have water-based fire protection systems installed. However, there are times when the water source needs more pressure to supply the system. Here the fire pump sets act as a great saviour as it helps to increase the pressure of the water. Each water pump consists of a driver and a controller. However, before opting for a fire pump, you should know the available types of pumps. These can be hydrant pumps, sprinkler pumps, and combined pumps. No matter what kind of pump you choose, each pump works on either of the two principles: Centrifugal Pumps and Positive Displacement Pumps.

For the Centrifugal Pumps, the impeller is rotated to generate a centrifugal force. This force throws the water from the centre of the impeller to the outer parts of the impeller. The positive displacement pumps take a certain amount of water for the input and remove it through the outlet using a mechanical action. They use gears, pistons, lubes, and so on to increase water pressure when discharging. Now that we’ve learned about the mechanisms, let’s look at the different types of pumps available.

Types Of Fire Pumps

As mentioned earlier, water pumps are divided into two categories: Centrifugal Pumps and Positive Displacement Pumps. 

Centrifugal water pumps

Centrifugal water pumps are the most common ones. One of the main reasons behind this is their ability to handle large volumes of water. These pumps can be classified into the following types:

Horizontal and Vertical Split-Case Pumps

A great advantage of Horizontal and Vertical Split-Case Pumps is that they are extremely durable and can be available in a range of sizes. There is also a huge range in their rated flow and pressure capacities. Thus, they can be utilised for several water applications. For the horizontal split case pump, the flow enters the pump through the opposite sides of the housing. The pump also has a split case that can be disassembled during maintenance. The connection of the pump to the driver is made through a horizontal shaft.

The vertical split case pump is similar to the horizontal one. However, the position of the pump and motor is vertical. An advantage of this type of pump is that it requires less space, and the motor is also protected in case flooding occurs. The horizontal and vertical split case pumps require positive suction pressure through a water source.

Vertical Turbine Pumps

These pumps can start from negative pressure. Another characteristic of these pumps is that they can take water input from a below-grade source. 

In-Line Pumps

These pumps are widely used when the space is limited. They are available in both types of vertical and horizontal shafts. However, the vertical one is the most commonly chosen alternative. The capacity of these pumps is limited. 

End Suction Top Discharge Pump

In this type of pump, a suction inlet is present. Perpendicular to this suction inlet is a discharge. They are compact; however, their capacity is limited. 

Multistage Multiport Pump

In this type of pump, multiple impellers are present in a series. These are in a single casing which is driven by a horizontal shaft. Multiple discharge outlets are also present that discharge the fluids at different pressures. 

Positive Displacement Fire Pumps

These pumps generate extremely high pressure. However, their flow volume is very limited. These are not commonly used and are only utilised in specific applications.

The pump types mentioned above will help you understand how different types of fire pumps work. Thus, when buying a water pump, check if your needs and requirements match the type of fire pump you choose. To get the right pump, you should opt for the right company to understand your requirements. You don’t have to worry about this when M.F.E Services are beside you! We will cover all needs related to fire protection in Brisbane, such as fire extinguishers in Brisbane. Contact us on 07 3390 6055 or send an email at jamie@mfeservices.com