What is fire pump controller?

A fire pump controller is the enclosure that contains controls and status indicators for a fire pump. NFPA 20 requires these devices to be within sight of the fire pump motor or engine.

What does a pump controller do?

Pump controllers monitor flow and/or level variables, and control a pump accordingly to maintain the desired levels. Pump control can include simply turning a pump on and off, or more advanced controls for pump speed, output pressure, etc. Products that provide level or pressure control are also available.

Does a fire pump controller require a neutral?

The Utility Xfmr. also feeds the Fire Pump Controller (3 Pole ATS) for normal power. The generator supplies an emergency feed to the F.P Controller (3P-ATS), apparently they do not make 4 Pole Fire Pump Controller ATS’s since the F.P. motors are 3 Phase 480 volt and a neutral is not needed.

How does fire pump work?

How Does a Fire Pump Work? As part of a fire sprinkler system, a fire pump receives water from either an underground water supply or a water tank, lake, or reservoir, and is powered by electricity or diesel fuel. The high-pressure supplied by the pump distributes water through the sprinkler system and hose standpipes.

What is a jockey pump controller?

A jockey pump is a small pump connected to a fire sprinkler system to maintain pressure in the sprinkler pipes. This is to ensure that if a fire-sprinkler is activated, there will be a pressure drop, which will be sensed by the fire pumps automatic controller, which will cause the fire pump to start.

What are fire pump valves used to control?

Pump control valves are automatic control valves used to minimize surges associated with the starting and stopping of pumps. Opening and closing speed controls are adjustable. They can be configured with backpressure, rate-of-flow, or pressure reducing features.

Can you run a well pump without a control box?

Two wire well pumps do not use a control box. All the elements already come built within the motor or pump house itself. This allows for easier installation. However, if any of the starting components fail, the pump will have to be pulled up and the whole motor will have to be replaced.

How do you control pump pressure?

Therefore, to control the flow of a centrifugal pump, simply set the output pressure to the point on the P-V diagram that allows the pump to deliver the desired flow rate. The output pressure of the pump is set using a back pressure regulator. Once the pressure is set, the flow rate to the process is established.

Is a generator required for a fire pump?

An onsite generator must provide the secondary source of power for the fire pump. The service to the fire pump will need to meet the requirements as defined by NFPA 70: National Electrical Code (NEC) 695.3(B)(2) for service from an individual source and onsite standby generator.

Is the jockey pump required to be on emergency power?

PUMP ROOM TEMPERATURE LIMITS – Most microprocessor controllers are limited to 120 deg. Also, please confirm the Jockey pump does not require backup power.

What is the difference between a jockey pump and a fire pump?

A jockey pump, also know as a pressure maintenance pump, maintains the pressure in the fire sprinkler system to avoid non-emergency starting of the main fire pump. The jockey pump is designed to start before the main fire pump and return the fire protection system to its minimum static pressure.

How does fire pump and jockey pump work?

How does a fire pump controller panel work?

The devices within a fire pump controller panel perform such functions as: receiving signals from alarm devices, such as pressure operated switches, sprinkler alarm valves, or remote fire alarm equipment; activating motor control devices to provide electric power to motors driving fire pumps; and monitoring fire pump operation and performance.

How does a pumpspump controller work?

Pump controllers rely on other parts of the system to work properly. Before we focus on the pump controller to see how it can prevent more than pump failure or damage, it is helpful to list the components of a water pumping system. As we mentioned, the most important use of the controller is to protect the pump.

How does the main fire pump turn on?

The turn-on for the main fire pump is a water pressure switch. When there’s a fire, sprinkler heads are going to activate and spray water. This loss of water in the sprinkler system causes the pressure to drop. When the pressure drops, the main fire pump turns on.

How does a pressure and flow controller work?

With the appropriate pressure and flow sensors, the controller identifies the extreme changes in pressure or flow and shuts the pump down, preventing potential damage. If the flow rate suddenly drops, this can be an indication that there is a blockage in the system.