Water Supply and Fire Suppression Flashcards

What color are fire hydrant barrels typically painted to indicate they are privately owned and maintained?

Answer: Red

Red hydrant barrels typically indicate private ownership, though color coding can vary by jurisdiction; always verify local standards.

A fire pump is sized to deliver 750 GPM at 100 psi. At churn (no-flow) condition, the pump discharge pressure should not exceed:

Answer: 140% of rated pressure

NFPA 20 requires that at churn (shutoff) conditions, the pump pressure shall not exceed 140% of the rated net pressure.

What is the function of a jockey (pressure maintenance) pump in a fire suppression system?

Answer: Maintain system pressure and detect small leaks

A jockey pump maintains baseline system pressure and cycles to compensate for minor leaks, signaling potential problems if it runs excessively.

Which NFPA standard governs the installation of private fire service mains and their appurtenances?

Answer: NFPA 24

NFPA 24 covers the installation of private fire service mains and their appurtenances, including underground piping.

When conducting a fire hydrant flow test, the 'pitot pressure' reading is used to determine:

Answer: Velocity pressure and calculate flow rate

A pitot gauge measures velocity pressure at the hydrant discharge opening, which is converted to flow rate (GPM) using standard formulas.

In a Class III standpipe system, the hose connections are designed for use by:

Answer: Both fire department and trained building occupants

Class III standpipe systems include both 2½-inch fire department connections and 1½-inch hose stations for trained occupants.

What pipe material is commonly prohibited for use in underground fire service mains due to its susceptibility to corrosion in certain soil conditions?

Answer: Unlined cast iron

Unlined cast iron is susceptible to internal and external corrosion and is generally no longer permitted for new underground fire service main installations.