Fire Pump Test Meter Instructions

Gerand pump test meter manufactured by Gerand Engineering Co. was required to supply Factory Mutual all drawings and
independent laboratory test reports on all venturis in order to apply for Factory
Mutual approval.

The Factory Mutual Approval was issued to Gerand Engineering Co. after the
units were tested and met the Approval Standard – Class No. 1046 for Fire Pump
Flowmeter Systems. Stated in this standard under II Description, Para. 4.2 Accuracy
is that the system must meet an accuracy of ±2%, full scale deflection for
the range of flows from 50% to 200% of the rated capacity of the pump for which
it is used.

Factory Mutual annually conducts a stringent audit and inspection of all designs
and parts used in the Fire Pump Test Meters. This inspection includes the
reviewal of all quality control information we maintain on each part as well as a
physical measurement of all dimensions of parts and random testing of the
gauges.

Attached to the meter with a brass chain is an oblong metal tag with the suggested piping diagram of the
system on one side, and the following operating instructions on the reverse side:

  1. Close system OSY valve “A”
  2. Open by-pass valve and “B” butterfly throttle valve
  3. Purge meter, located on venturi, as follows:
    • Open station shut-off valves on venturi, and vent valves attached to meter. When a steady stream of water without air bubbles passes through the clear plastic hoses, the meter is purged of air.
    • Close the vent valves after purging.
  4. Start the fire pump, and read meter in GPM.
  5. Refer to pump GPM requirement and adjust throttle valve to meet the requirement.
  6. After the test, open valve “A” and close the by-pass and “B” valves.

Gerand Pump test Flow Meter

Pump Test Meter
Flow Meter for  Fire Pump Meter

Gerand’s product line consists of Venturis, Indicators (orifice type) and Ball valve-Venturis (one-piece unit, fixed Venturi and valve) manufactured by Gerand and meters used to balance the hydronic and air systems.

Venturis and Indicators are furnished with a set of meter fittings (nipples, valves and quick disconnects). Balvalve-Venturis have nipples and quick disconnects.
A chained metal tag is furnished with all flow devices. The tag shows the unit size, unit location, the GPM and corresponding meter reading in inches of water.
Found in Gerand’s complete catalog are curves that have been based on Independent Test laboratory Calibrations. An accuracy of +1% is standard as a result of these calibrations.
Specifications
Gerand suggests using Venturis on all units at least 2-1/2″ and larger for ultimate accuracy and lowest possible head loss. Orifices may also be used though the permanent head loss, with orifices is substantially increased from that of Venturis.
On 1/2″ through 2″ lines we recommend using Ball valve-Venturis furnished as a one-piece Venturi/valve with a memory lock on the handle.
All flow fittings should be supplied with chained metal tag indicating the unit size, unit location, GPM and corresponding differential reading in inches of water. Venturis and indicators should be supplied with nipple, valve and quick disconnect meter fittings. Ball valve-Venturis should be supplied with nipples and quick disconnects.
A portable 0-50″ or 0-100″ differential meter shall be used for balancing flow in all  units. Meter should be furnished as part of the system.

Fire Pump Test Meter Product

Model K Fire Pump Test Meter

  • A calibrated venturi and attached GPM meter installed on the discharge of a fire pump to accurately determine pump performance.
  • 4-1/2″ dial meter is shipped for mounting on venturi bracket. Special hose lengths available for remote mounting.
  • Pressure Range: 500 PSI (Buttweld, Grooved, 300# Flanged) and 275 PSI (150# Flanged)
  • Dual LPM/GPM Scales Available.​…..

Model M Fire Pump Test Meter
  • A calibrated venturi and attached GPM meter installed on the discharge of a fire pump to accurately determine pump performance.
  • 6″ dial meter is shipped for mounting on venturi bracket. Special hose lengths available for remote mounting.
  • Pressure Range: 175 PSI
  • Dual LPM/GPM Scales Available.

Fire Pump Test Meter Operating Instructions

Attached to the meter with a brass chain is an oblong metal tag with the suggested piping diagram of the
system on one side, and the following operating instructions on the reverse side:
1. Close system OSY valve “A”
2. Open by-pass valve and “B” butterfly throttle valve… read more