+ All Categories
Home > Documents > Performance Testing

Performance Testing

Date post: 14-Mar-2016
Category:
Upload: madonna-murphy
View: 24 times
Download: 0 times
Share this document with a friend
Description:
Performance Testing. Knowledge Objectives. Describe the requirements for the performance tests as required by NFPA 1911. Describe the criteria for re-rating fire pumps. Skills Objectives (1 of 2). Perform the no-load governed engine speed test. Perform the pump shift indicator test. - PowerPoint PPT Presentation
99
12 Performanc e Testing
Transcript
Page 1: Performance Testing

12

Performance Testing

Page 2: Performance Testing

12

Knowledge Objectives

• Describe the requirements for the performance tests as required by NFPA 1911.

• Describe the criteria for re-rating fire pumps.

Page 3: Performance Testing

12

Skills Objectives (1 of 2)

• Perform the no-load governed engine speed test.

• Perform the pump shift indicator test.• Perform the pump engine control

interlock test.• Perform a gauge meter test.• Perform a flow meter test.• Perform a tank-to-pump flow test.

Page 4: Performance Testing

12

Skills Objectives (2 of 2)

• Perform a vacuum test.• Perform an internal relief valve test.• Perform a priming system test.• Conduct the pumping and overload tests

for fire pumps.• Perform the pressure control tests.

Page 5: Performance Testing

12

Introduction (1 of 7)

• An apparatus accepted and placed in service must be properly inspected, operated, maintained, and tested over its lifetime. – Pumping system delivers certain amount of

water at desired pressure– Pump’s failure to deliver required water at

certain pressure impairs fire-suppression ability and safety of fire fighters

Page 6: Performance Testing

12

Introduction (2 of 7)

• An apparatus is subject to annual performance testing. – Certification testing can be done by agencies

other than the UL.– Critical that apparatus be tested periodically

by independent, third-party certifying agency

Page 7: Performance Testing

12

Introduction (3 of 7)

• Performance tests are conducted after the apparatus is put into service to determine if its performance meets predetermined specs or standards. – Performance testing of pumps is integral and

a vital part of apparatus safety and maintenance.

Page 8: Performance Testing

12

Introduction (4 of 7)

• Insurance Services Office (ISO) reports that fire is still the leading cause of loss cited with personal and commercial property insurance policies. – Definite correlation between improved fire protection

and compliance with NFPA standards– ISO Fire Suppression Rating Schedule assigns the

highest point total to apparatus pumps.

Page 9: Performance Testing

12

Introduction (5 of 7)

• NFPA 1911, Standard for the Inspection, Maintenance, Testing, and Retirement of In-Service Automotive Fire Apparatus, calls for annual service testing of apparatus pumps– Fire pumps have a rated capacity of 250+ GPM

(1000+ L/min) at 150 psi (1000 kPa) net pump pressure.

– Test fire pumps yearly to determine if they are still able to achieve designed performance.

Page 10: Performance Testing

12

Introduction (6 of 7)

• Performance tests test the entire system.– Engine, transmission, pump, and related

accessories and devices used in operating the pumping system

– “Stress test” for the apparatus– To pass, the apparatus must:

• Deliver original design flow and pressure• Show no signs of overheating, loss of power, or

over-acceleration• Not exhibit other major defects

Page 11: Performance Testing

12

Introduction (7 of 7)

• The test should be annual for all apparatus with a fire pump with 250+ GPM capacity or if the pump and/or engine has been repaired or modified. – The test is not the same as the “New Apparatus

Acceptance or UL Test,” which is by an independent agency for the manufacturer.

– NFPA 1911 calls for a test when major repairs or modifications are made to the pump or a component of the apparatus used in pump operations.

Page 12: Performance Testing

12

Fire Apparatus Requirements (1 of 6)

• Engine-driven accessories should not be disconnected or inoperative during the annual performance test. – If a chassis engine drives the pump, all

headlights, running lights, warning lights, and air conditioners should operate during the pumping portion of the test.

Page 13: Performance Testing

12

Fire Apparatus Requirements (2 of 6)

• Devices turned off or not operated during the pump performance test– Aerial hydraulic pump– Foam pump– Hydraulic-driven equipment– Winch– Windshield wipers– Four-way hazard flashers– Compressed-air foam system compressor

Page 14: Performance Testing

12

Fire Apparatus Requirements (3 of 6)

• If electrical loads are connected through an automatic electrical load management system, the system should automatically disconnect loads during the test.

• When operating the pump, the engine temperature must be kept within a proper range.– Neither cold nor excessively hot engine will

give good service

Page 15: Performance Testing

12

Fire Apparatus Requirements (4 of 6)

• Watch the oil pressure to see that the engine is properly lubricated.

• Monitor the transmission gears for overheating.

• Note and manage engine or pump vibration or leaks in pump casing or connections.

Page 16: Performance Testing

12

Fire Apparatus Requirements (5 of 6)

• Use side intakes only when performance testing the fire pumps. – May use front- or rear-mounted intakes with

side intake suction(s) for all pumps providing flows of 1500+ GPM

– Keep all other intakes closed and properly capped.

– Remove Storz fittings before testing. Replace with steamer caps during the test.

Page 17: Performance Testing

12

Fire Apparatus Requirements (6 of 6)

• In case of apparatus failure, leave time for repairs. – “Failure” is defined as a cessation of proper

functioning or performance. – Document other defects in the engine or

pump performance.– Correct minor defects immediately if possible. – If repairs cannot be done on site, reschedule

apparatus testing for later.

Page 18: Performance Testing

12

Environmental Requirements (1 of 3)

• Before beginning tests on pumps, determine and record the environmental conditions– Ambient air temperature– Water temperature– Atmospheric pressure

• NFPA 1911 specifies tests be conducted when ambient air temperature is 0°F to 110°F (–18°C to 43°C)

• Days with moderate temperatures are ideal.

Page 19: Performance Testing

12

Environmental Requirements (2 of 3)

• Warm water is more likely to cavitate inside the pump.– May result in a loss of 500 GPM (1900 L/min)

in flow rate• Cold water is more likely to freeze and foul

the test equipment, especially if the air temperature is also low. – Recommend a water temperature of 35°F to

85°F (1.7°C to 29°C); 60°F (16°C) is ideal

Page 20: Performance Testing

12

Environmental Requirements (3 of 3)

• To correct local atmospheric pressure readings to sea level, add 1 in. Hg (25 mm Hg) for every 1000’ (305 m) of elevation at the site.– High pressure pushes harder on the surface of the

water being drafted, making it easier to lift.– Low pressure makes it hard to lift.

• If environmental conditions are not within specified limits, delay the test.

Page 21: Performance Testing

12

Test Site (1 of 7)

• The test site should be on an improved roadway or solid ground with water 4–8’ (1.2–2.4 m) below grade.

• Water should be 4+’ (1.2+ m) deep at the strainer to provide clearance below and sufficient depth above.

• Conduct all tests requiring flowing water with the pump drafting.

Page 22: Performance Testing

12

Test Site (2 of 7)

• When a suitable drafting site is not available, a chosen site must provide a level area, a source of water, and a discharge area.

• Site elevation and lift should be recorded. – Lift is the vertical height that water must be raised

during drafting.– Maximum lift is the greatest elevation difference at

which the apparatus can draft required water under established characteristics of operation

Page 23: Performance Testing

12

Test Site (3 of 7)

• The rated capacity of the pump determines:– Suction arrangement– Diameter of the suction hose– Maximum number of suction lines– Maximum allowable lift

Page 24: Performance Testing

12

Test Site (4 of 7)

• Characteristics to consider for maximum lift:– Pump design– Engine adequacy– Condition of the pump and engine– Size and condition of the suction hose and

strainers– Pumping site elevation above sea level– Atmospheric conditions– Water temperature

Page 25: Performance Testing

12

Test Site (5 of 7)

• Fire departments that want the best pump performance should consider other factors when conducting performance tests.– Select a test site with adequate clear, fresh water.– Salt water is denser than fresh water and should not

be used in tests.– Avoid muddy water since it contains hidden debris

and can clog the pump, valves, fittings, and gauge lines.

Page 26: Performance Testing

12

Test Site (6 of 7)

• Make sure the water source allows good performance and easy accessibility.– Apparatus should be able to park on a level, hard

surface.• A properly designed pump test pit is an option in

conducting performance testing. – If using a test pit, make sure the usable pit capacity is

10+ gal for every 1 GPM of the pump. – Pits with less capacity can result in air entrapment

and excessive water temperature rise.

Page 27: Performance Testing

12

Test Site (7 of 7)

Page 28: Performance Testing

12

Equipment Requirements (1 of 5)

• Before conducting performance tests on apparatus, AHJ must ensure the availability of proper equipment and satisfactory working conditions

• Equipment needed during testing– One 0–300 psi test gauge– One 0–30 in Hg vacuum gauge– Two 0–150 psi test gauges– Two Pitot gauges

Page 29: Performance Testing

12

Equipment Requirements (2 of 5)

• Equipment needed during testing (continued)– One or more flow meters in lieu of Pitot gauges– Assorted smooth-bore testing nozzles– Mechanical or digital hand-held tachometer– Strobe-type tachometer and tape if the apparatus

does not have a pump shaft– Suction hoses of appropriate sizes and lengths– One or more mallets– Two deluge appliances with stream straighteners

Page 30: Performance Testing

12

Equipment Requirements (3 of 5)

• Equipment needed during testing (continued)– Numerous lengths of 2½ (64-mm) or 3 (76-mm)

hoses– Two wheel chocks– Assorted wrenches and Allen keys– Roll of plumber’s tape– Assorted spanner wrenches– Hydrant wrench– Calculator

Page 31: Performance Testing

12

Equipment Requirements (4 of 5)

• Nozzles for testing are found in the department’s regular equipment.– Should know the actual coefficient of discharge of

each nozzle– Choose a nozzle size to give the desired discharge at

a nozzle pressure of 60–70 psi (410–480 kPa). – Use only smooth-bore nozzles. – Pitot tube with air chamber and pressure gauge is

necessary for determining velocity pressure of the water at the nozzle

Page 32: Performance Testing

12

Equipment Requirements (5 of 5)

Page 33: Performance Testing

12No-Load Governed Engine Speed

Test (1 of 4)

• Check governed engine speed. – If not within ±50 rpm of governed

speed when apparatus was brand new, correct the problem before proceeding with the tests.

– Check speed while preparing the apparatus before the testing day.

– Failure to operate at the correct governed speed during performance tests is a common problem.

Page 34: Performance Testing

12No-Load Governed Engine Speed

Test (2 of 4)

• To get the maximum engine power, run the engine up to the governed engine speed and make sure it stays once the engine reaches a normal operating temperature. – Do not let the engine exceed a rated no-load

governed speed. – Check the air cleaner and fuel filter restrictions

and replace filter elements to avoid power loss.

Page 35: Performance Testing

12No-Load Governed Engine Speed

Test (3 of 4)

• To get the maximum engine power (continued) – Check the fan belt and adjust the tension to

provide adequate cooling during the pump performance test.

– Check that the alternator belt tension and battery charge will provide enough electrical power to allow 45 seconds of uninterrupted primer operation during the vacuum and priming device tests.

Page 36: Performance Testing

12No-Load Governed Engine Speed

Test (4 of 4)

• Readings should equal the no-load governed engine speed from when the apparatus was new. – Information is listed on the original

acceptance form(s), on or near the pump panel on the UL plate.

Page 37: Performance Testing

12

Intake Relief Valve System Test

• If apparatus is equipped with an intake relief valve system or combination intake/discharge system, test to ensure the system operates by manufacturer’s specifications– Relief valve: device that allows bypass of

fluids to limit the system pressure – Conduct the test using a second pumper to

supply water to the pumper being tested.

Page 38: Performance Testing

12

Pump Shift Indicator Test• Test to verify the pump

shift indicators in the cab and on the panel indicate the correct status when the pump is shifted from road to pump mode. – Pump shift indicators in the

cab and on the pump panel require an electromechanical device to sense the pump shift status.

Page 39: Performance Testing

12

Pump Engine Control Interlock Test (1 of 2)

• 1991 NFPA 1901 required an interlock system on any apparatus equipped with electronic or electric engine throttle controls to prevent engine speed advancement. – Unless chassis transmission is in neutral with the

parking brake engaged– Or unless the parking brake is engaged, the fire pump

is engaged, and the chassis transmission is in pumping gear

– Or unless apparatus is in “Okay to pump” mode

Page 40: Performance Testing

12

Pump Engine Control Interlock Test (2 of 2)

• NFPA 1911 standard requires testing interlock in only two configurations.– Various combinations for arranging chassis,

transmission gear, parking brake, and pump shift in driving compartment

– Engine speed control should be adjustable at the panel when using that combination.

Page 41: Performance Testing

12

Gauge and Flow Meter Test (1 of 3)

• Can check discharge pressure gauges quickly against test gauges for accuracy– Cap individual discharge lines with gauges

and open the discharge valve slightly. – Test gauge, master discharge gauge, and all

other discharge gauges should have the same reading.

Page 42: Performance Testing

12

Gauge and Flow Meter Test (2 of 3)

• Check each water pressure gauge or flow meter for accuracy. – Check pressure gauges at at least

three points• 150 psi (1034 kPa)• 200 psi (1379 kPa)• 250 psi (1723 kPa)

– Any gauge off by more than 10 psi (69 kPa) must be recalibrated, repaired, or replaced.

Page 43: Performance Testing

12

Gauge and Flow Meter Test (3 of 3)

• Check flow meters (flow minders) individually using hose stream with smooth-bore tip and Pitot tube to measure actual flow – Check each flow meter for accuracy at the flows

included in the test.– Most flow meters can be recalibrated using a small

screwdriver or magnet during the test. – Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations when

recalibrating the flow meter.

Page 44: Performance Testing

12

Tank-to-Pump Flow Test

• Compare flow rate with rate designated when apparatus was new or with rate established in previous testing– Rates less than previously established

indicate problems in tank-to-pump line or tank pump

– For tanks with capacities greater than 750 gal (2840 L), use the same test except use the flow of 500 GPM (1890 L/min).

Page 45: Performance Testing

12

Vacuum Test (1 of 3)

• Pump on the new apparatus must be able to develop a vacuum of 22 in. Hg (75 kPa)– Unless the altitude is greater than 2000’ (610

m)– The vacuum inside the pump or suction hose

should not drop more than 10 in. Hg (34 kPa) in 5 minutes.

Page 46: Performance Testing

12

Vacuum Test (2 of 3)

• Vacuum test is a test of the priming system: tests pump tightness, including valves and fittings – Not a test of the pump’s ability to maintain

vacuum while pumping water– Use the required vacuum based on elevation

above sea level as noted in NFPA 1911

Page 47: Performance Testing

12

Vacuum Test (3 of 3)

• Leaking gaskets and improperly adjusted pump packing are two problems on the test, so preparation of the apparatus is important.

• If the primer device fails to produce a vacuum of at least 22 in. Hg (75 kPa) at sea level, determine and correct the reason for the discrepancy before conducting further testing.

Page 48: Performance Testing

12

Priming System Test (1 of 3)

• At the start of the vacuum test, pay attention to the ease with which the pump develops a vacuum. – Before priming, close all discharges, drains, and

water tank valves and petcocks.– Make sure the gaskets in the suction line hose(s) are

in place and free of foreign matter.– Close the intake valves.– Tighten the intake caps and couplings.

Page 49: Performance Testing

12

Priming System Test (2 of 3)

• For pumps operating at less than 1500 GPM (5678 L/min), a priming device should create the necessary vacuum in 30 seconds to lift water 10’ (3 m) through 20’ (6 m) of suction hose of an appropriate size. – Priming device on pumps of 1500+ GPM

should accomplish this task in 45 seconds

Page 50: Performance Testing

12

Priming System Test (3 of 3)

• Might need extra 15 seconds where pump system includes auxiliary 4+” (100+ mm) intake pipe with volume of 1 ft3 (0.03 m3) or more– Operate controls to develop pressure, then open one

discharge valve to permit water flow. – If pump does not pull draft in specific time, note the

cause and adjustment and/or repair as necessary.

Page 51: Performance Testing

12

Pumping Test Requirements (1 of 5)

• Make sure loads not required for the pumping test are turned off or shed by the load manager. – NFPA 1911 requires that if the pump is driven by the

apparatus engine, engine-driven accessories should not be functionally disconnected or rendered inoperable during the tests.

– If a chassis engine drives the pump, all headlights, running lights, warning lights, and air conditioners should operate during the test.

Page 52: Performance Testing

12

Pumping Test Requirements (2 of 5)

• Other equipment driven by the engine must operate normally.

• Check for: – Air system leaks– Improper operation of air compressor

unloader– Improper activation of fan clutch– Other potential power loss

Page 53: Performance Testing

12

Pumping Test Requirements (3 of 5)

• During the pumping test, do not stop the pump except when discharges are closed to permit changing the hose layout or nozzle diameter. – Keep flowing water from the discharge outlet when

changing testing nozzles to avoid overheating. – Keep the engine compartment closed during the test

unless the apparatus meets an older standard.

Page 54: Performance Testing

12

Pumping Test Requirements (4 of 5)

• When testing the pump at elevations up to 2000’ (610 m), use 20’ (6.1 m) of suction hose of appropriate size for the pump’s rated capacity. – Number, length, condition of suction hoses,

plus altitude, water temperature, atmospheric pressure, and lift affect the performance while pumping from a draft.

Page 55: Performance Testing

12

Pumping Test Requirements (5 of 5)

Page 56: Performance Testing

12

Pump Performance Test (1 of 20)

• For pump testing, there are three factors – Pump speed– Net pump pressure– Pump discharge rate

• A change in any factor causes a change in at least one other factor. – Using variables is the only way to reach the

standard test condition desired.

Page 57: Performance Testing

12

Pump Performance Test (2 of 20)

• During the test, operate the pump at a reduced capacity and pressure for several minutes to let the engine and transmission warm up gradually. – Increase the pump speed until reaching a

desired pressure at the pump. – If the desired pressure is not attained, add

one or more lengths of hose, use smaller nozzle, or throttle the discharge valve.

Page 58: Performance Testing

12

Pump Performance Test (3 of 20)

• When the pump obtains the desired pressure, read the Pitot gauge to see if the required water is being delivered. – If the discharge is not as desired but the pump

will deliver more water, increase the discharge by speeding up the pump.

– If speeding up the pump increases the pump pressure by more than 5 or 10 psi (34 or 69 kPa), take out a length of hose, slightly open the discharge valve, or use a larger nozzle.

Page 59: Performance Testing

12

Pump Performance Test (4 of 20)

• To achieve maximum pump performance, check the suction screen on the pump inlet and remove any debris. – Check the priming device fluid level and add

more fluid if necessary. – If the pump has packing seals, check and

adjust as required to minimize vacuum losses. – Check and replace cracked or missing suction

and discharge hose and cap gaskets.

Page 60: Performance Testing

12

Pump Performance Test (5 of 20)

Page 61: Performance Testing

12

Pump Performance Test (6 of 20)

• Hard suction hoses with smooth interiors produce lower friction losses than do more flexible suction hoses with spiral-corrugated interiors. – Basket-type suction strainers have lower

entrance losses than do barrel-type strainers.– Recommended for use with 1500 GPM (5678

L/min) or greater pumps

Page 62: Performance Testing

12

Pump Performance Test (7 of 20)

• Testing the pump at a draft is preferable to testing from a hydrant because true pump performance is easier to evaluate. – If no suitable drafting locations are available,

testing the pump from a hydrant is acceptable.

Page 63: Performance Testing

12

Pump Performance Test (8 of 20)

• Discharge pressure– Water pressure on the pump discharge

manifold at the gauge attachment– Gauge readings reflect the pressure

necessary for the pump to perform at a required net pump pressure.

– Reduce the net pump pressure by 1 for the 200 psi test, and by 2 for the 250 psi test.

Page 64: Performance Testing

12

Pump Performance Test (9 of 20)

• When testing the pump from a hydrant, the intake hose size and length should let the needed water reach the pump with an intake gauge pressure of 20+ psi (138+ kPa) while flowing at a rated capacity. – Intake pressure: pressure on the pump intake

passageway at the gauge attachment– Only a strainer (screen) at the pump intake

connection is required to test this.

Page 65: Performance Testing

12

Pump Performance Test (10 of 20)

• Most apparatus are rated for operations at elevations up to 2000’ (610 m). – Engine and pump performance is reduced at

higher elevations. – If more than 2000’ above sea level, contact

the manufacturer for the corrected pump rating before attempting the pump test.

Page 66: Performance Testing

12

Pump Performance Test (11 of 20)

• The pump should be subjected to a pumping test of at least 45 minutes. – Let the pump, transmission, and engine warm

up 10 minutes before beginning the tests. – Do not throttle down the pump except when

the discharges are closed to permit changing the hose or nozzle or to change the position of the transfer valve.

Page 67: Performance Testing

12

Pump Performance Test (12 of 20)

• If the pump is a two-stage, parallel/series-type, run the pump in parallel mode at 100 percent capacity.– Run the pump in series or parallel mode for test at 70

percent capacity– Run the pump in series mode for test at 50 percent

capacity– Do not throttle down the engine except when the

hose, nozzle, or the position of the transfer valve changes.

Page 68: Performance Testing

12

Pump Performance Test (13 of 20)

• Take and record the complete set of readings at least five times during the 20-minute test for a 100 percent rated capacity. – At least twice during the overload test– At least three times during each 10-minute

test for 70 and 50 percent capacity

Page 69: Performance Testing

12

Pump Performance Test (14 of 20)

• Document– Time– Pump speed counter (rpm)– Pump speed (rpm)– Pump tachometer– Pump intake test gauge (in. Hg)– Apparatus pump discharge– Testing gauge pump discharge– Nozzle Pitot readings– Flow meter(s) readings

Page 70: Performance Testing

12

Pump Performance Test (15 of 20)

• During each testing period, record on the performance test form:– Engine water temperature– Engine oil pressure (psi)– Transmission oil temperature– Voltage

Page 71: Performance Testing

12

Pump Performance Test (16 of 20)

• If the pump flow or pressure readings vary by more than 5 percent during the test, determine the reason for fluctuation, correct the cause, and continue or repeat the test. – If the pump counter speed shaft (rpm) is not

provided, read the engine speed with a photo-tachometer or strobe light off the rotating element.

Page 72: Performance Testing

12

Pump Performance Test (17 of 20)

• Subject the pump to a pumping test consisting of:– 20 minutes pumping at 100 percent rated

capacity at 150 psi, net pump pressure– 10 minutes pumping at 70 percent rated

capacity at 200 psi, net pump pressure– 10 minutes pumping at 50 percent rated

capacity at 250 psi, net pump pressure

Page 73: Performance Testing

12

Pump Performance Test (18 of 20)

• Capacity test/150 psi test (100 percent test)– Conduct the capacity test within several

minutes after the priming test is successfully completed.

– This sequence ensures that the engine, pump, and transmission have adequate time to warm up.

Page 74: Performance Testing

12

Pump Performance Test (19 of 20)

• Overload test/165 psi test– If the pump has a rated capacity of 750 GPM

(3000 L/min) or greater, subject the apparatus to an overload test.

– Do not start the pumping tests until the pump pressure and discharge quantity are satisfactory.

Page 75: Performance Testing

12

Pump Performance Test (20 of 20)

• 200 psi test (70 percent test)– Conduct a 200 psi (1379 kPa) test

immediately after the 165 psi overload test. – No time delay between tests unless you are

making a nozzle tip change• 250 psi test (50 percent test)

– Conduct a 250 psi (1723 kPa) test immediately after the 200 psi test.

Page 76: Performance Testing

12

Pressure Control Test (1 of 2)

• Test the pressure control device, relief valve, or the pressure governor on the pump panel at 150 psi (1034 kPa), 90 psi (620 kPa), and 250 psi (1723 kPa). – Perform a pressure control test using net pump

pressure and net pressure rise readings. – Some pressure control systems might not

operate correctly if the hydrant pressure is too high.

Page 77: Performance Testing

12

Pressure Control Test (2 of 2)

• Closing all discharges in less than 3 seconds could cause instantaneous pressure rises.

• The pressure control device might not respond rapidly enough to avoid damage to the pumping system.– Taking more than 10 seconds to close all

discharges is not a reasonable test of the pressure control device response capability.

– Controlling the closure of discharges can be performed manually or otherwise.

Page 78: Performance Testing

12

Post Performance Testing (1 of 9)

• After conducting the performance tests, reduce the apparatus engine speed to idle. – Let the engine, pump, and transmission cool

down for approximately 10 minutes. – After cool down, turn off all engine-driven

accessories turned on during testing.

Page 79: Performance Testing

12

Post Performance Testing (2 of 9)

• After 5 minutes, switch the apparatus from pump to road mode. – Keep the apparatus idling to let the engine

turbo cool down. – Pump and suction lines still have a vacuum, so

open the discharge valve to remove the vacuum inside the pump.

– Remove testing equipment, hoses, hard suction hoses, and nozzles; put apparatus back in service.

Page 80: Performance Testing

12

Post Performance Testing (3 of 9)

• When operating from a draft or static source, backflush the pump and tank after testing. – Backflushing requires attaching the apparatus

to a clean water source and flushing the discharge and intake valves and pump.

– Drain and refill the tank.

Page 81: Performance Testing

12

Post Performance Testing (4 of 9)

• The pumping system should exhibit no undue heating, loss of power, or other defect during the test. – Calculate and record the average flow rate,

discharge pressure, intake pressure, and engine speed at the end of each test phase.

Page 82: Performance Testing

12

Post Performance Testing (5 of 9)

• When the apparatus operates at or near full engine power while stationary, heat raises the temperature of certain components above what could be touched without discomfort or injury. – Performance is considered acceptable as long

as the apparatus can be operated, used for required duration under those conditions, and engine coolant temperature stays within a normal range.

Page 83: Performance Testing

12

Post Performance Testing (6 of 9)

• Normal wear in the pumping system can require speeds greater than required at the time of delivery for the pumping test. – Variances are acceptable as long as the

apparatus passes performance tests without exceeding the no-load governed engine speed.

Page 84: Performance Testing

12

Post Performance Testing (7 of 9)

• Final test results– Record all test conditions, readings, and

information to receive full credit for performance tests.

– Compare most recent results with previous ones to look for long-term changes that could indicate hidden problems.

Page 85: Performance Testing

12

Post Performance Testing (8 of 9)

• NFPA 1911 contains a test data form to be used with annual performance tests.– Contains headings and blank spaces to

record data– Record information neatly.– Use a pen instead of a pencil.– Fill in “Witnessed by” and “Date” lines at the

bottom of the first page to make the test form more legally defensible.

Page 86: Performance Testing

12

Post Performance Testing (9 of 9)

• Conduct testing once per year, every year.– Pumps tested less often will not show serious

trends.• If test conditions are equivalent to those at

delivery and engine speed increases by more than 10 percent, determine the reason and correct the deficiency. – Maintain test conditions as consistently as

possible from test period to test period.

Page 87: Performance Testing

12

Problem Solving (1 of 7)

• Most performance tests are conducted without any incident, but sometimes trouble may develop.

• Failure to prime the centrifugal pump is a frequent source of trouble.– Usual reason for failure is an air leak in the suction

hose or pump– Trace trouble by removing the discharge hose lines,

capping the discharge openings and suction hose, and operate the priming mechanism.

Page 88: Performance Testing

12

Problem Solving (2 of 7)

• Locate the leak by listening for air movement.• Two causes of failure of pump to deliver desired

capacity, pressure, or both– Insufficient power– Restrictions in intake arrangement

• Insufficient pressure when operating the centrifugal pump could be from pumping too much water for the available power.

Page 89: Performance Testing

12

Problem Solving (3 of 7)

• Possible causes of insufficient power:– Failure to advance the throttle far enough– Using the wrong transmission gear position– Engine might need a tune-up– Improper fuel grade for adequate combustion– Vaporization in the fuel line

Page 90: Performance Testing

12

Problem Solving (4 of 7)

• Restriction in intake arrangement is indicated if the pump speed is too high for the capacity and attained pressure levels.

• Could result from:– Too-small suction hose– Too-high altitude or suction lift– Incorrect strainer type– Intake strainer clogged at the pump or the end

of the suction hose

Page 91: Performance Testing

12

Problem Solving (5 of 7)

• Could result from (continued):– Collapsed or defective suction hose– Aerated water or too warm water (greater than

90°F [32°C])– Foreign material in the pump– Pressure control device set too low or

malfunctioning

Page 92: Performance Testing

12

Problem Solving (6 of 7)

• An air leak in the suction hose connections or pump intake manifold results in an excessive pump speed.– Could cause a loss of prime and complete

cessation of flow• Engine speed differences from the original

pump test could be from:– Operating an apparatus with the wrong

transmission gear

Page 93: Performance Testing

12

Problem Solving (7 of 7)

• Engine speed differences from the original pump test could be from (continued):– Stuck throttle control cable– Restrictions in intake arrangements– Suction hose under insufficient water– Air leak on the pump’s intake side– Changes in environmental conditions– Pump and/or engine wear– High gear lockup not functioning

Page 94: Performance Testing

12

Re-rating Fire Pumps (1 of 4)

• Consider re-rating the apparatus fire pump under two conditions:– When the apparatus is delivered or re-

powered with an engine that supplies power beyond that needed by the pump, warranting a larger capacity rating for the apparatus

– Changes to the environment in which the engine or pump was initially delivered so that the engine no longer achieves its original performance

Page 95: Performance Testing

12

Re-rating Fire Pumps (2 of 4)

• Never consider the pump for re-rating if the engine is worn or should have major restorative work. – Do not consider the pump for re-rating if test

results indicate that the pump has wear or other problems.

– There’s a good chance the pump will not pass the complete pump test.

Page 96: Performance Testing

12

Re-rating Fire Pumps (3 of 4)

• If AHJ wants to re-rate the pump, complete a pumping test as specified in NFPA 1911, including having the test witnessed and certified by an accredited third-party testing organization. – Problems with engine wear, pump wear, pump

blockages, and other issues will worsen at an accelerated rate if not corrected, resulting in catastrophic failure during an emergency.

Page 97: Performance Testing

12

Re-rating Fire Pumps (4 of 4)

• Might need to keep using the pump on the apparatus that does not meet original rating until the pump can be repaired– Decide on a case-by-case basis depending on

the specific pump deficiency and the apparatus available for replacement while repairs are being made.

– Re-rating the pump downward where deficiencies exist creates a false sense of vehicle capability.

Page 98: Performance Testing

12

Summary (1 of 2)

• Failure of the pump to deliver the required water at a certain pressure impairs the suppression ability and safety of fire fighters.

• Engine-driven accessories should not be disconnected or inoperative during tests.

• First performance test: Check the governed engine speed.

Page 99: Performance Testing

12

Summary (2 of 2)

• A vacuum test is a test of the priming system, including pump tightness plus valves and fittings.

• There are two conditions to consider when re-rating a pump.


Recommended