1. Fire Protection Dual Power Source Transfer Panel Photos (ATS Automatic Transfer Switch)
The photo shows aFire Protection Dual Power Source Transfer Panel(ATS): Main power and standby power each enter the ATS through a circuit breaker. The ATS automatically monitors the main power source — when main power is lost (or undervoltage <0.7Ue), it transfers to standby power after a 3-5s delay; when main power is restored, it transfers back after a 5-10s delay. The ATS in the photo isPC-class(integrated, with mechanical interlock), transfer time ≤3s.
2. Fire Protection Inspection Control Panel Photos (Low-Speed Automatic Inspection)
The photo shows aFire Protection Inspection Control Panel: The core component is a VFD (inspection VFD rated at 1/4 to 1/3 of the main pump power). A PLC controls the inspection logic — every 7 days (adjustable), it automatically starts the VFD to run each fire pump at low speed for 10-15 min at approximately 300-500 rpm (<50% of rated speed), checking whether the pump is seized, motor insulation is normal, and the control circuit is intact.
GB 50016 Clause 8.1.6 requires fire pumps to have an automatic inspection function. During inspection, the pumpruns at low speed without discharging water(the pump outlet check valve is closed), and piping pressure remains unchanged. Inspection includes: ① motor winding insulation test; ② low-speed pump start and run; ③ piping and valve status check; ④ fault alarm logging. Any fault found during inspection triggers an immediate alarm and is recorded.
3. Fire Pump Control Panel Photos (One Duty / One Standby, Two Duty / One Standby)
The photo shows aTwo Duty / One Standby Fire Pump Control Panel(3×55kW hydrant pump + sprinkler pump):
- Dual Power Source Incoming Lines: Main power + standby power enter the control panel busbar after ATS transfer.
- Three Pump Control Units: Each pump has an independent circuit breaker (NSX160F 125A) + contactor (LC1D80) + thermal overload relay (LRD80) + soft starter (55kW ATS480).
- Local/Remote Control: Local control pushbuttons and indicator lights are mounted on the cabinet door; remote control is via signal interlock from the fire alarm control panel (FACP).
- Multiple Start Methods: Fire hydrant button direct start, fire alarm automatic start, manual local start, and automatic inspection start.
- Signal feedback: Pump running/stopped/fault signals are fed back to the fire alarm control panel.
4. Special Requirements for Fire Control Panels (Differences from standard control panels)
Fire control panels differ from standard control panels in4 key differences:
| Requirement | Standard Control Panel | Fire Control Panel |
|---|---|---|
| Changeover | Not required | Must have ATS dual power source transfer |
| IP rating | IP30~IP54 | ≥IP55 (fire pump rooms are damp) |
| Start Method | Direct / star-delta / VFD | Must be capable of direct start(during a fire, a VFD fault must not prevent pump start) |
| Inspection function | None | Must have automatic inspection (mandatory per GB 50016) |
5. Fire Control Panel Visual Inspection Standard (6 mandatory checks at acceptance)
① dual power supply transfer: Disconnect main power → ATS transfers to backup power → transfer time ≤3s; ② Dual power source mechanical interlock: Main and backup cannot be closed simultaneously; ③ Local pump start: Press the start button manually and the pump starts; ④ Remote pump start: Fire hydrant button actuates → pump starts automatically (<30s); ⑤ Inspection function: Set inspection cycle to 7 days → automatic low-speed run of each pump for 10 min → record inspection results; ⑥ IP rating: Enclosure IP≥55, sealed cable entries and exits, anti-condensation heater installed inside the cabinet.
FAQ FAQ
Must a fire control panel have dual power sources?
Yes, it is required. Article 10.1.1 of GB 50016 requires that fire equipment be supplied from dual power sources (main + backup) with transfer at the load end — that is, an ATS dual power source transfer device installed at the fire pump control panel, with transfer time ≤3s. The backup power source is typically a diesel generator or a second utility feed.
Why can't fire pumps run at full speed during inspection?
A fire pump running at full speed will supply water to the piping network, which may cause overpressure damage. During inspection, the pumpruns at low speed (300-500 rpm) without discharging water, only verifying that the pump turns, the motor is normal, and the control circuit is intact. The check valve at the piping network outlet is closed, so pressure does not change.
Can a fire pump be started with a VFD?
A VFD can be provided for inspection runs, butthe fire pump must be able to start across the line when it is called to run. GB 50016 requires the fire pump to start reliably during a fire — if the VFD fails and the pump cannot start, that is a fatal problem. The fire pump main circuit must therefore have adirect-on-line bypass, with the VFD used only for low-speed inspection runs.
Why is IP55 required for a fire pump control panel?
Fire pump rooms are usually in the basement, where the environment is damp and water spray is possible. IP55 keeps out water spray and dust, so the electrical components inside the cabinet do not short out from moisture. The cabinet should also be fitted with aanti-condensation heater(50W, thermostat starts at 5°C) to prevent condensation caused by temperature swings.
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