NFPA essentially stands for “National Fire Protection Association.” It can be defined as a universal organization that includes many standards related to fire safety and is mandatory to apply specifically in the United States. NFPA has gained great respect worldwide thanks to its content and extensive programs on fire safety. This is, of course, also true for Turkey. NFPA is currently the most referenced and respected organization in its field globally.
Although based in America, many organizations in Turkey are also members of NFPA. Membership in this organization can be considered an important reference. While similar standards may exist in every country, NFPA has a universal recognition and its content is much more comprehensive. The number of references alone is one of the most important indicators of this. NFPA sets certain standards for the use of fire pumps, fire pump systems, and motor control systems. These cover both installation rules and performance characteristics.
Turkey is currently an official member of NFPA. The first work related to NFPA in Turkey dates back to 1986. The organization specifically includes fire pumps and automatic sprinklers. A committee for fire pumps was established by five members of an association related to insurers. The headquarters of this particular insurance company is in Boston. The goal of this private company is to minimize existing losses. It inspects the compliance of both panels and pumps according to NFPA standards. NFPA, a completely non-profit organization, primarily aims to prevent loss of life and property. Besides NFPA, UL standards are also considered as criteria in this context.
Scope of NFPA Standards
Examining the structure of NFPA, we see that it outlines a framework for motor control systems, pump systems, fire pumps, and auxiliary components regarding both performance and installation rules. NFPA can also be referred to as the “National Fire Protection Association of the United States.” Fire is a serious threat universally. Proper preparation for fires, which often have severe consequences, and organizing the system consciously significantly reduce the risk. Severe fire consequences largely result from inadequate preparation. Complying with various standards and successfully passing necessary inspections is extremely important for organizations. Such standards are crucial for eliminating or minimizing both life and property losses. Independent organizations periodically inspect enterprises operating in industries with fire risks.
Emergency action plans must be prepared in detail. Today, in many countries worldwide, technologies from automatic sprinklers to fire cabinets, hydrant systems to water-based fire extinguishing systems are designed according to this standard. The benefits provided by NFPA standards are proven and recognized worldwide. As a general rule, any system must have all products used within it meet the performance requirements of the standard under which it was designed. This is considered a principle of integrity. If this is not followed, there can be serious mismatches between design and products. Attention to this criterion is essential when procuring products, as all fire safety stages are interconnected and cannot be evaluated independently.
In some references, NFPA may directly be cited as a hazardous material labeling standard. It provides information about the first steps to take during emergencies, mandatory procedures, and general precautions. The seriousness with which NFPA is regarded worldwide and used as a reference is not coincidental. NFPA is one of the strictest and most rigorous organizations globally, especially regarding pump systems. This organization not only sets various rules and standards for fire safety but also publishes books and journals that are recognized worldwide. The journals published by NFPA serve as references for many countries, making it a leading organization in terms of education as well.
Fire Pumps According to NFPA
Fire pumps are given special attention under NFPA. Both material and performance characteristics are crucial in this context. NFPA standards are updated periodically. Significant differences can be observed between general-purpose pumps and fire pumps. Fire pumps are primarily designed to ensure maximum safety, particularly maintaining precise discharge pressure. General-purpose pumps, on the other hand, prioritize maximum efficiency. NFPA-compliant fire pumps must have a dedicated control panel.
At zero flow, the pressure cannot exceed 1.4 times the rated value. There are also specified values for bearing and suction pipe dimensions. Additionally, the fundamental required characteristics of the pump casing, shaft, and seals are defined. NFPA-compliant pumps offer significant advantages. Manufacturers and businesses supplying pumps must pay attention to these requirements for public safety. While NFPA standards are stricter than other standards, they provide very positive long-term results.
Fire Pump Specifications According to NFPA 20
NFPA 20 establishes important standards for fire pump characteristics. Due to the special requirements and sensitivity of fire pumps, they differ from many industrial products. This sensitivity is carefully reflected in the standards. Significant differences exist between general-purpose pumps and fire pumps. Fire pumps focus on maximum safety and maintaining precise pressure throughout their operation.
The design process is aligned with this purpose. General-purpose pumps usually prioritize efficiency and economic operation. Fire pumps have rated flows ranging from 100 to 8000 gpm. The rated pressure values are 30–262 psi for horizontal shaft pumps and 26–510 psi for vertical shaft pumps. Horizontal shaft end-suction fire pumps have flow rates of 50–1250 gpm, inline pumps 50–750 gpm, and vertical turbine pumps 250–5000 gpm.
Material Requirements for Fire Pumps According to NFPA
NFPA 20 specifies the material requirements for fire pumps. Pump casing materials vary depending on pressure class. Impellers must be made of bronze or stainless steel. Cast iron is not accepted. Pump shafts must also be made of stainless steel. Sealings must use soft mechanical packing. Packing bearings should be designed with at least five rows. Bearings should be greased and designed to operate for up to 5000 hours.
Performance Requirements of Fire Pumps According to NFPA
NFPA 20 defines the performance requirements of fire pumps based on three criteria. For example, closed discharge pressure should not exceed 140% of rated pressure. The pump curve should intersect or surpass the rated flow and pressure. Pumps may operate at 150% of rated flow when required, maintaining at least 65% of rated pressure. A key performance criterion for fire pumps is water velocity, which should not exceed 3 m/s. Pipe diameters in designed systems should be chosen accordingly.
All calculations are based on 20°C water. Motor power should match the rated flow. Manufacturers must prove that pumps meet these specifications by performing individual hydrostatic tests. Certificates must include flow, pressure, shaft power, and efficiency curves. Fire pumps must also display a metal nameplate reflecting key performance characteristics.
Comparison of NFPA and EN 12845
NFPA standards are often compared to EN 12845 standards. Although both standards address the same theme, there are significant differences. In Turkey, the fire regulations enacted in 2007 made TS EN 12845 mandatory. Some provisions of EN 12845 conflict with NFPA requirements, giving NFPA an advantage. This explains why NFPA remains the most preferred universal standard worldwide. Users should be aware that they are responsible for any shortcomings in the standard they adopt.