What is the maximum allowable shutoff pressure for a fire pump with a rated capacity of 750 gpm and a rated head of 60 ft?

To determine the maximum allowable shutoff pressure for a fire pump, particularly one with a specified capacity and head, it's essential to understand the relationship between flow rate, head, and pressure.

In this case, the fire pump has a rated capacity of 750 gallons per minute (gpm) and a rated head of 60 feet. The formula to convert head (in feet) to pressure (in psi) is:

Pressure (psi) = (Head (feet) × 0.433)

Using the rated head of 60 feet:

Pressure = 60 feet × 0.433 psi/foot = 25.98 psi

However, the maximum allowable shutoff pressure is subject to specific guidelines that consider both the pump’s rating and operational parameters. For fire pumps, it’s also typical to account for safety margins and pressure adjustments as regulations and standards dictate that the maximum shutoff pressure should not exceed around 36 psi within acceptable limits based on the pump's characteristics.

Given the calculated pressure and the safety considerations in fire protection systems, the maximum allowable shutoff pressure that complies with the regulations and best practices for this particular setup is indeed 36 psi. This alignment with the standards and the specified operating parameters justifies why