What is a test header?

A test header allows for the flowing of large quantities of water through multiple hoses. The fire department connection (FDC) allows the fire department to supplement the fire protection system in the event of a fire (refer to the August 2006 Quick Response newsletter).

How do you test a fire pump?

Electric Fire Pump Testing Procedure

1. Call the alarm company and have the system put on test.
2. Close the main control valve to the system.
3. Perform manual start of the fire pump by pressing the start button on the fire pump controller.
4. Verify there is sufficient flow from the 3/4” casing relief valve on the fire pump.

Is a fire pump test header required?

Where a fire pump test header is installed, NFPA 20 requires that it be installed on an exterior wall or in another location outside the pump room that allows for water discharge during testing.

What is a forward flow test on a backflow preventer?

9-6.2.1*Backflow Devices. It is an easy concept, the reason for the forward backflow test, is to ensure that the check valves within the backflow assembly will open when needed. The actual backflow test is done to determine if the check valves are leaking our clean sprinkler water into the dirty drinking water.

What is a fire pump churn test?

The fire pump churn test is done by running the fire pump without the water flowing. The churn pressure is measured. This is a measure of the pressure the pump delivers when it is running without water flowing through it. This is general knowledge for people who wish to pursue a career as a firefighter.

What gauge is required on the suction side of a fire pump?

Suction: On suction side of pump, minimum 3.5-inch diameter dial with ¼-inch thread and valve near the pump. This gauge monitors suction pressure to ensure pressure does not drop below 0 psi for a tank feed, which could cause cavitation or infiltration of groundwater.

What is forward flow test?

The Forward Flow Integrity Test is the preferred test method to determine if the membrane and cartridge are structurally integral. The diffusion rate is typically measured at a test pressure at or near the minimum completely retentive bubble point pressure.

What is the NFPA Standard for pump testing?

The current NFPA 1901, Standard for Automotive Fire Apparatus–1996, 5-3.2, requires a tank with 500 gallons or more of water to pump flow at a minimum rate of 500 gpm. This flow rate must be sustained for a minimum of 80 percent of the tank`s capacity. Alternative pump testing from a hydrant is allowed.

How do you perform a churn test?

The monthly churn test requires electric powered pumps to be tested as follows:

1. Run pump for a minimum of 10 minutes.
2. Record the system suction & discharge pressure gauge readings.
3. Check the pump packing glands for slight discharge.
4. Adjust glands nuts; if neccessary.
5. Check for unusual noise or vibration.

What is a test header on a fire pump?

FIRE PUMPS TEST HEADER AND FIRE DEPARTMENT CONNECTION Every fire pump needs a method of testing to verify it is functioning properly. One of the more common methods is the use of a test header arrangement. A test header allows for the flowing of large quantities of water through multiple hoses.

What is a test header on a sprinkler system?

A test header allows for the flowing of large quantities of water through multiple hoses. The fire department connection (FDC) allows the fire department to supplement the fire protection system in the event of a fire (refer to the August 2006 Quick Response newsletter). C A F A B E D F.

What is a flush header on a wall?

Flush test header connections are designed for flush installation on the exterior wall of a building. The test header body is concealed behind the wall, leaving only the wall plate and gate valves visible. They provide a means to flow test a fire pump or backflow preventer.

What does BT mean on a fire hydrant?

Free standing hydrants provide an auxiliary outlet for fire department use. Test headers provide a means to flow test a fire pump. Brass escutcheon lettering options: Hydrant (suffix ‘H’), Fire Pump Test (suffix ‘PT’), Backflow Test (suffix ‘BT’)