Pumping Apparatus Driver/Operator Quiz & Flashcards

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Questions and Answers

What factors affect the max height of the lift in fire service equipment?

The type of water supply, the distance from the water source, and the pump's brand

The material of the intake hose, the diameter of the intake hose, and the pump's horsepower

The color of the intake hose, the length of the intake hose, and the water temperature

The angle of the intake hose, amount of negative pressure, and existing atmospheric pressure (correct)

How does atmospheric pressure change with altitude?

For every 1,000 feet above sea level, atmospheric pressure increases approx. 0.5 psi

For every 1,000 feet above sea level, atmospheric pressure decreases approx. 0.5 psi (correct)

Atmospheric pressure remains constant regardless of altitude

Atmospheric pressure decreases linearly with altitude

What is the theoretical lift defined as in the fire service?

The theoretical lift can be calculated by determining the actual atmospheric pressure of an area and multiplying that number by the water's pressure per square foot while it is in the intake hose (correct)

The theoretical lift is solely determined by the elevation difference between the water source and pump intake

The theoretical lift depends on the color and material of the intake hose

The theoretical lift is a fixed value based on the type of pump used

What is the formula for determining max lift in the fire service?

L = 1.13(Hg) Signup and view all the answers

What is the dependable lift for a fire pump operating properly after factoring in atmospheric pressure and friction loss?

At least 14.7 feet Signup and view all the answers

How does an increase in lift or friction loss in the hard intake hose affect the water supply capability of the pump?

It decreases the water supply capability of the pump Signup and view all the answers

What are some problems that may impede access to static water supply sources?

Inability to position pumper close to the water source Signup and view all the answers

Where are some places where a pumper may not reach the water?

Bridges too high above the water Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum flow that floating pumps can attain?

500 gpm Signup and view all the answers

What is a cistern?

An underground water storage receptacle typically found in areas without hydrant systems Signup and view all the answers

What problem does a dry hydrants help address?

Allows for more efficient access to a natural supply source Signup and view all the answers

Why is an elevated tank not considered a static water source?

It has elevation pressure at the outlet Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a water supply pumper in a relay pumping operation?

To take water from the source and pump it under pressure to the next apparatus in the relay Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes a relay pumper in a relay pumping operation?

It receives water from the source pumper or another pumper in the relay, raises the pressure, then supplies it to the next pumper Signup and view all the answers

What determines the need for relay pumping in a firefighting operation?

The amount of water required at an incident and the distance between the scene and the water source Signup and view all the answers

What must be done to increase the flow through a relay operation?

The diameter of the supply hose must be increased Signup and view all the answers

What factor may also play a role in some relay operations?

Elevation pressure Signup and view all the answers

What should drivers maintain as intake pressure when acting as a relay pumper?

20 - 30 psi Signup and view all the answers

How should apparatus equipped with pressure governors be set when acting as the attack pumper in a relay pumping operation?

In the pressure mode Signup and view all the answers

What determines the overall capacity of the relay pumping system?

The smallest pump and the smallest diameter of the hose used Signup and view all the answers

What should the intake relief valve pressure be set to for an attack pumper equipped with an adjustable intake relief valve?

50-75 psi Signup and view all the answers

When should the operation of relay pumping be discontinued?

After the need for relay pumping has ended Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of employing the open relay method during relay pumping operations?

To eliminate pressure surges and inconsistent supply Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Factors Affecting Max Height of Lift

Atmospheric pressure decreases with altitude, impacting the height a lift can achieve.
The quality of the lift system and hydraulic design of the pump play significant roles.
Environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity also affect lift efficiency.

Atmospheric Pressure and Altitude

Atmospheric pressure decreases approximately by 1 inch of mercury for every 1,000-foot increase in altitude.
At higher altitudes, less atmospheric pressure may hinder pump performance.

Theoretical Lift in Fire Service

Theoretical lift is defined as the maximum height that a pump can draw water under ideal conditions, typically measured in feet.

Formula for Determining Max Lift

Max lift can be calculated using the formula: Max Lift = Atmospheric Pressure (in feet) - Friction Loss (in feet).

Dependable Lift for Properly Operating Fire Pump

Dependable lift accounts for atmospheric pressure effects and friction loss, typically yielding a lower operational lift than the theoretical max.

Impact of Increased Lift or Friction Loss

Higher lift or friction loss reduces the pump’s water supply capability, potentially leading to insufficient water supply during operations.

Problems Impeding Access to Static Water Supply Sources

Construction, terrain obstacles, and urban development can restrict access.
Weather conditions such as heavy rains can alter water flow and accessibility.

Locations Where Pumper May Not Reach Water

Remote or elevated bodies of water, such as lakes on uneven terrain or locations with limited road access.

Maximum Flow of Floating Pumps

Floating pumps can achieve flow rates up to 1,500 gallons per minute, depending on design and conditions.

Cistern

A cistern is a storage tank for water, often underground, used for fire protection and other needs.

Purpose of Dry Hydrants

Dry hydrants facilitate easy access to static water sources, particularly in areas where traditional hydrants are unavailable.

Elevated Tank as a Water Source

Elevated tanks are not considered static sources because their water supply can fluctuate with usage and management.

Primary Function of Water Supply Pumper in Relay Operation

The primary function is to maintain adequate water pressure and flow during relay pumping to supply fire attack units.

Characteristics of Relay Pumper

A relay pumper is equipped to receive water from a source and pump it over longer distances to support firefighting operations.

Factors Determining Need for Relay Pumping

The distance between water supply and fire scene, and inadequate pressure from initial pump setups necessitate relay pumping.

Increasing Flow in Relay Operation

To increase flow, additional pumpers can be added to the relay system, or adjustments in valve settings can be made.

Role of Other Factors in Relay Operations

Elevation changes and friction loss due to hose and fittings can also dictate relay operation effectiveness.

Intake Pressure for Relay Pumper Drivers

Drivers should maintain an intake pressure of approximately 20-30 psi when operating in a relay mode to ensure consistent flow.

Pressure Governors in Attack Pumpers

Apparatus equipped with pressure governors should be set to ensure they maintain consistent outlet pressure during relay operations.

Overall Capacity of Relay Pumping System

The total capacity is determined by the number of functioning pumpers, their flow rates, and the configuration of hoses and connections.

Intake Relief Valve Pressure Settings

For attack pumpers with adjustable intake relief valves, the setting should typically be around 30 psi.

Discontinuation of Relay Pumping Operations

Relay operations should be discontinued when fire conditions change, water supply is secured, or if efficiency drops significantly.

Open Relay Method Purpose

The open relay method allows for continuous water flow and quick adjustments, enhancing efficiency during relay pumping operations.

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