Live discharge testing does more than meet compliance – it proves your fire protection system will perform in a real emergency.
Our engineering team recently completed a site visit for a long-standing client, conducting pump performance flow testing and deluge discharge testing across their high-risk tank farm and tanker unloading bay.
FM Global Witnessed Testing
The special visit was requested to satisfy FM Global insurer requirements, demanding full verification of system pressure, flow rates, and spray patterns across high-hazard storage zones.
Our engineers worked alongside FM Global representatives to evaluate:
- Fire Pump Performance: Hydraulic output and pressure verification under full load.
- Live Deluge Activation: Full-flow testing across the open-nozzle network protecting the tank farm and unloading bays.
The Value of Physical Discharge Testing
While visual checks are essential, live discharge testing exposes issues that static inspections miss.
During testing, video capture revealed that several Medium Velocity (MV) spray nozzles were blocked. Without a live discharge test, these blockages would have gone undetected—compromising spray angles, flow rates, and thermal cooling density in the event of a fire.
Key Takeaways
- Verify Nozzle Dynamics: Live water flow is the only way to confirm clear spray angles and full coverage.
- Insurer Alignment: Witnessed testing maintains full compliance with FM Global standards.
- Proactive Protection: Identifying blockages early ensures total system readiness.
Contact our engineering team to discuss deluge system testing and special hazard maintenance.