The recommendations provided in this article will help you select the right control panel for your specific fire pump control system needs.
This article will help you select the right control panel for fire pump systems. Selecting the right control panel is essential for pump operation, coordination with other safety systems and compliance with current regulations. The main criteria that determine the most correct choice are described below:
Standards and certifications
The control panel must comply with and be labeled in accordance with the standards for fire water supply equipment in force at the site where the installation is to be carried out, in addition to the requirements requested by the property for the whole project. The most internationally recognized standards are the following: UNE 23500, EN 12845, NFPA20, LPCB or APSAD and the most recognized certifications: CEPREVEN, UL, FM, A2P, VdS.
Pump compatibility
It is essential to ensure that the control panel is compatible with the type and size of fire pump used, as an incorrect choice could compromise the operability and safety of the system. Thus, depending on the type of pump motor, the conditions that determine the suitability of the control panel are as follows:
Diesel engine pumps
- Control panel power supply voltage: 110-240 VAC
- Voltage of the motor starter batteries: 12 or 24 VDC
- Capacity of motor starter batteries: up to 270 Ah
Pumps with electric motor
- Control panel power supply voltage: 230-600 VAC
- Electrical power of the motor-pump assembly
- Type of starter desired: Direct, D-Y, Soft starter, VFD…
Particular specific requirements
Although all fire water supply installations are similar, no two are completely alike, so it is very important to have the right control panel that offers the greatest versatility, configurability, and adaptability to the demands that arise before, during and after the design and engineering project that governs the entire installation. Thus, some of the features that should be requested from a pump control panel are the following:
- Complete configuration of functions in a simple and understandable way
- Standby hardware items
- Ports and communication systems with contour elements.
After-sales technical support
Given the security and emergency system nature of the installation, it is essential that it is well supervised by a professional and certified maintenance company and that the supply of consumable components or spare parts is guaranteed. Thus, it is highly advisable to purchase control panels from a solvent manufacturer that can provide a fast and close replacement service.
Do you have questions or need more information? Please contact our team of experts. Our job is to help you choose the control panel that best suits your needs, give you advice throughout the entire decision process and then in the after-sales.
