What does auto spkr mean?

On a fire dept. connection you will see “auto spkr” which means it is connected to the automatic fire sprinkler system. If there is more than one it should also indicate which areas it covers. Some FDC’s only are connected to a standpipe. As the name states it is a stand alone system, and feeds the hose valves.

What is the difference between a fire department connection and a standpipe?

There will be a fire department connection (FDC) on the outside of the building for the standpipe system. The FDC allows firefighters to provide or add to the water supply and overall pressure inside the system. When connecting to the FDC, it is important to ensure that no debris is inside the FDC female couplings.

What is the purpose of fire department connections as part of automatic sprinkler systems?

The Fire Department Connection, also commonly known as the siamese connection, is an important component found on most sprinkler and standpipe systems. When a fire sprinkler system activates, the FDC provides a means for firefighters to connect hose lines to supplement the fire sprinkler system’s domestic water supply.

What is the purpose of a Siamese connection?

Siamese connections are to be equipped with plugs or caps. This is to prevent dirt and other foreign objects from entering the piping, which would inhibit water flow or prevent the connection from being used during an emergency.

What is an automatic standpipe system?

The term “automatic” simply means that the system will automatically provide required pressure and flow while, in contrast, the “manual” system water supply is only required to meet sprinkler demand. The manual standpipe side of the system will require supplemental pressure and flow to be supplied by the fire service.

How high can an FDC be off the ground?

3; 2019 CA Fire Code Section 905.4; 2016 NFPA 14. I. Fire department connections (FDC) shall be located not less than 18 inches and no more than 48 inches above the level of the adjoining ground (NFPA 14 Section 6.4. 6).

What size is the pipe for the fire department connection?

4-inch
For most fire sprinkler systems, NFPA 13 requires a 4-inch pipe for the FDC and the FDC is required to have two inlets. There is no other criterion in NFPA 13 requiring more than two connections. You might, however, encounter a FDC with a single-outlet when the FDC’s piping goes into a 3-inch or smaller riser.

What pressure do you pump through a FDC?

150 psi
All pumpers will pump their capacity at 150 psi at the pump, so increase the throttle slowly until your discharge pressure is at 150 psi while being careful not to run away from your water supply. If your pumper is equipped with a multi stage pump, place the pump in the volume stage.

What is the maximum distance the fire department connection can be from a fire hydrant?

(2) The maximum distance between fire hydrants shall not exceed 500 ft (152 m). 8.

What is a Siamese connection and how does it work?

Inspired by the Y-shaped Siamese twins, a Siamese connection is a Y shaped fire department connection with two female inlets through which firefighters can attach two hoses and refill standpipes or sprinkler systems with water. The siamese connection is alternatively called FDC (Fire Department Connection).

What is the minimum pressure for fire water lines?

The set pressure will typically be in the range 8–10 barg. Generally, the jockey pump will turn itself on and off depending on the header pressure. If the pump runs continuously its discharge should recirculate through a minimum flow bypass.

What is normal pressure for a fire sprinkler system?

➢ Fire sprinklers typically require only 7 pounds-per-square-inch (psi) to operate, which is less than the minimum required pressure for residential plumbing fixtures.