Fire protection systems are critical in safeguarding lives and property. Among the various components of these systems, pumps play a vital role in ensuring water is readily available and delivered effectively in the event of a fire. One type of pump that has proven particularly effective in this application is the regenerative turbine pump, often employed as jockey pumps or pressure maintenance pumps.
What Are Regenerative Turbine Pumps?
Regenerative turbine pumps, also known as peripheral pumps, are designed to handle moderate to high-pressure applications with relatively low flow rates. They operate by utilizing a rotating impeller that creates a regenerative flow, increasing the pressure of the pumped fluid through a series of small, staged chambers. This unique mechanism allows regenerative turbine pumps to achieve high pressures with smooth, pulsation-free flow.
The Role of Jockey Pumps in Fire Protection Systems
In fire protection systems, jockey pumps serve a specific purpose: maintaining the pressure in the system to prevent false alarms and ensure readiness. These pumps, also known as pressure maintenance pumps, are designed to keep the system’s pressure at a preset level, compensating for small leaks and minor drops in pressure.
Why Regenerative Turbine Pumps?
Regenerative turbine pumps are ideally suited for use as jockey pumps in water-based fire protection systems for several reasons:
1. High Efficiency at Low Flow Rates
Regenerative turbine pumps excel in applications where maintaining high pressure with low flow rates is essential. In fire protection systems, this characteristic ensures that the system pressure is maintained without the need for large, energy-intensive pumps.
2. Compact Design
The compact design of regenerative turbine pumps allows them to be easily integrated into fire protection systems, often requiring less space than other types of pumps. This makes them an excellent choice for installations where space is at a premium.
3. Reliability and Durability
MTH regenerative turbine pumps are known for their robust construction and long service life. They can withstand the demanding conditions of fire protection systems, providing dependable performance when it matters most.
4. Smooth and Pulsation-Free Operation
The smooth, pulsation-free flow generated by regenerative turbine pumps ensures consistent pressure maintenance, reducing the risk of pressure spikes or drops that could compromise the system’s effectiveness.
Conclusion
Regenerative turbine pumps play a crucial role in maintaining the pressure in water-based fire protection systems as jockey pumps. Their high efficiency, compact design, smooth operation, and exceptional reliability make them an ideal choice for this critical application. By ensuring consistent pressure maintenance, these pumps contribute to the overall effectiveness and readiness of fire protection systems, ultimately helping to protect lives and property in emergency situations.
For more insights into the applications of regenerative turbine pumps and how they can benefit your fire protection system, contact MTH Pumps for our latest developments in pump technology.
MTH Pumps is a “Made-in-the-USA” manufacturer since 1965, that specializes in high pressure, low flow regenerative turbine pumps. Our Pumps produce as little as 5 PSI up to 1,000 PSI and anywhere from a ½ gallon to 150 gallons per minute. They are available in rugged, cast construction iron, bronze, and stainless-steel materials with a variety of sealing options. We have both horizontal and vertical models with a number of drive options including AC / DC volt motors or pedestal mountings. Every pump is 100% tested before it leaves our facility. MTH is an ISO certified company in a state-of-the-art, quality driven factory in Plano, Illinois. Please see our products we offer at www.mthpumps.com or call us, 630-552-4115.
