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Flexible coupling for fire pump suction pipe

Flexible coupling for fire pump suction pipe

Flexible coupling for fire pump suction pipe

(OP)
Does anyone know what are the requirements for flexible couplings used to protect the suction pipe of fire pumps.?

A vendor is supplying one (10")of the type that consists of a flexible hose covered with a stainless steel wire mesh, I don´t have the technical data of the coupling, but I wanted to know if somebody can comment what are the permitted types of flexible couplings or its requirements, on NFPA 20 it only says that it must be used, but I haven´t seen about it specific requirements.

Thanks a lot.

RE: Flexible coupling for fire pump suction pipe

I would argue that the flexible coupling is not required per NFPA 20.  The only section that I am aware of in NFPA 20 that references flexible couplings on the suction/discharge piping (not the drive shaft/exhaust/fuel etc) is section:

5.27 Earthquake Protection.
5.27.4  Where the system riser is also a part of the fire pump discharge piping, a flexible pipe coupling shall be installed at the base of the system riser.


I would also make the arguement against even installing the "wire mesh" hoses per NFPA 13 paragraph:

6.1.1.2  "Unless the requirements of  6.1.1.3,  6.1.1.4, or  6.1.1.5 are met, all materials and devices essential to successful system operation shall be listed."

I am not aware of ANY wire mesh hoses, other than Metrafelx which is for a different application, that are LISTED for use on a sprinkler system.  But I am interested to learn if someone has finally had their product listed.  That being said I have seen lots of government specs that require these devices and have just put them in to make the client happy.  Let us know what you learn.

RE: Flexible coupling for fire pump suction pipe

I have seen these used a lot when you have a water storage tank that is on a different foundation than the pump room.  I don't believe it is UL listed for fire protection use, but it is frequently done.

RE: Flexible coupling for fire pump suction pipe

DavidCR  what section are you referencing and what year book????????

RE: Flexible coupling for fire pump suction pipe

DavidCR,
If the installation is in earthquake zone you need a flexible coupling at the top and at the bottom of any riser (NFPA 13 1999 6-4.2). The fexible coupling is a flexible coupling not a flexible hose! See Victaulic Style 77 Standard Flexible Coupling http://www.victaulic.com/inCommerce/detail.asp?prod_id=144&site_id=1&page_id=77

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