Fire Pump and Fire Water Tank: NFPA 20, TS EN Guide
Fire pump set and fire water tank should not be considered independently of the sprinkler or hydrant project. The pump curve that meets the system demand, the actual usable reserve of water and the pump suction geometry are parts of the same calculation chain.
Scope of standards and project implementation
This guide does not reproduce the full text of the relevant standards. It summarizes which technical issues should be checked in the design; Binding articles, current editions and national acceptance conditions should be confirmed from official sources.
Defining the flow-pressure duty point
The critical sprinkler/hydrant/cabinet scenario, simultaneity, pipe loss, and elevation difference determine the net pump duty point. In addition to the rated value, the curve and maximum pressure of the pump at different flow rates should be checked for the system equipment.
Electric, diesel and jockey pump functions
The activation and operation logic of the main fire pumps is regulated together with the electrical supply continuity and the fuel, exhaust and ventilation needs of the diesel engine. The jockey pump is to compensate for small normal pressure drops; It does not count towards the main fire pump capacity.
Suction line and NPSH control
The minimum level in the water tank, suction route, valve and connection losses, air intake conditions and vortex risk are examined. Insufficient net positive suction head (NPSH) can lead to cavitation and performance degradation. Manufacturer's suction specifications must be observed.
Usable fire water reserve
The total tank volume and the actual usable volume may differ. Suction port elevation, dead volume, protection period, filling line, leveling and the risk of other consumers reducing the reserve are evaluated.
Test line and control equipment
Flow meters, test manifolds, measuring pressure gauges, check valves and isolation valves; It is positioned for safe discharge and acceptance tests during maintenance. The claim that the product to be used conforms to UL/FM or the relevant standard is accepted only within its scope.
NFPA 20, TS EN 12845 and specification relationship
The application of NFPA 20 requirements for the pump set is evaluated according to the binding administration and specification conditions of the project. TS EN 12845 deals with water supply and supply conditions in the context of sprinkler systems. All rules of different standards should not be combined arbitrarily.
Frequently asked technical questions
Is the fire pump selected only based on the distance to the farthest hydrant?
No. The flow rate, pipe losses, net end pressure, height difference and pump curve of the critical scenario are evaluated together.
Is the volume of the fire water tank the same as the pump flow rate?
No. Tank volume relates to the ability to maintain the required flow rate for the design fire duration; Pump flow rate is a separate quantity.
The standard number becomes meaningful with the correct version and scope of use.
Product certification, design standard and applicable legislation are different elements. The version, scope and equipment suitability of the relevant reference should be explained separately in the technical specification and acceptance file.
Account and resource verification record
This guide explains the general technical approach. The standard version, design value and method to be applied must be verified by the engineer in charge for the actual project. The formulas in the downloadable calculus files have not undergone independent engineering verification in this release update; It cannot be used in place of an approved project account or official report.
The source, unit, acceptance, publication used and result control of the input should be kept together in the accounting record. It is not assumed that the formula will give the same result if the unit of the inputs is changed. A sample result is not a statement of capacity or suitability for the actual facility.
| control area | Registration |
|---|---|
| input | Field measurement / project / manufacturer data and unit |
| Method | Relevant current publication and scope |
| Conclusion | Independent control and limitations |
| Approval | Actual review record of the project manager |
Content update: 16.10.2026. Technical method and project approval is a separate verification process from this date information.