The Many Advantages of a Firefighting Pump

Posted by mygenerator on January 7th, 2017

Firefighting pumps, as the name suggests, help extinguish spot fires by discharging water at high pressure. Firefighting pumps need to be reliable and must be able to perform in emergency situations. Some of the most reputed brand names associated with firefighting pumps are Honda, Yamaha, and Subaru amongst others.

There are two major types of firefighting pumps, based on their fuel type. These high power pumps can be either petrol or diesel powered, with the latter often being preferred over the former due to the reduced flammability of diesel. Firefighting pumps are able to emit water at much higher pressure than other water pumps such as transfer and trash pumps.

There are several types of firefighting pumps and each one of them has its own unique list of features and advantages. A few of them are briefly discussed here.

End Suction - Horizontal: The end suction horizontal pumps have the suction pipe and engine placed parallel to each other, removing any concern of the pump’s orientation or rotation during installation. The biggest advantage of these pumps is their lower initial cost. The design also makes them easy to install and place in the pump room.

End Suction - Vertical Inline: The end suction vertical inline pumps have a casing setup similar to that of the end suction horizontal pump except that the motor is mounted on top. It is a compact and space-saving design. These pumps also have a lower initial cost.

Rotary Gear Pump: Rotary gear pumps can be used to pump liquids with high viscosity such as Class A foams, Class B foams, etc. It is one of the only types of fire pumps that can be built for self-priming. These are powerful pumps that work best for high pressure and high-hazard applications.

Horizontal Split Case: Horizontal Split Case (HSC) pumps are well-built and durable pumps designed to handle higher working pressures. These are built in such a way that the casing cover can be lifted off to expose the internal components. These pumps can withstand a large amount of vibration and thrust forces usually caused by water turbulence in suction piping. This pump lasts longer than other types of fire pumps, it is also easy to maintain and service.

Vertical Shaft Turbine: Vertical Shaft Turbine pumps, also known as a vertical turbine, are fire pumps that can be installed for situations where the water source is below the pump impellers. These pumps can come handy in situations where water is scarce. Several impellers can also be installed in these pumps to boost pressure. These can be installed in space-crunch situations easily.

Always buy a fire pump from a reputed brand after a thorough search to find the model that suits your requirements. You may be able to get more details on the internet instead of going to stores for information. Since the firefighting pumps come at different price points, make sure to choose the one that functions well for you instead of just going for the cheapest option.

About the Author:

Steve Reynolds, Power Product Expert at My Generator is a small engine specialist with particular expertise in Generators, Water Pumps, Pressure Washers and other Outdoor Power Equipment products. Outside of work; an avid caravan enthusiast who enjoys time on the road and has gained years of familiarity with Caravan & Camping products also. A passion for power products used for work, home and leisure!