What is NFPA 20? Installation Standard for Fire Pumps

What is NFPA 20?
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) was established in 1896 as the United States' National Fire Protection Association. NFPA 20 is the organization's standard titled "Installation of Stationary Pumps for Fire Protection" and was first published in 1899. This standard specifies the technical requirements, performance criteria, and installation rules for fire pumps, control panels, and auxiliary components.

According to NFPA 20, fire pump types can be classified as follows:

• In-Line
• End Suction
• Horizontal/Vertical Split Case
• Vertical Turbine
• Positive Displacement Pumps (e.g., Foam Pumps)

The performance curve characteristics of pumps are defined as follows:

• Shutoff Pressure: The shutoff pressure of the fire pump (maximum pressure at zero flow) must not exceed 140% of the pump’s rated pressure.
• Rated Values: These are the flow and pressure values at the intersection point on the pump’s hydraulic curve where the demand is met.
• Maximum Load: The fire pump curve must provide zero flow capacity, and the pressure at zero flow must be no less than 65% of the rated pressure.

The NFPA 20 standard serves as a global benchmark in fire safety, making compliance essential for ensuring the safety of facilities.