I may be wrong, but I think the original question was how is it accomplished? Would you leave a test outlet at the sprinkler tree so that a hose can be connected? Or would you have a test header outside the building (similar to a pump test header)? How do others achieve the NFPA requirement?
Can the NFPA requirement for forward flow testing be achieved using the FDC? All you would have to do is replace the check valve with a spool piece, at the time of testing. Or even have a by-pass c/w a control valve across the check valve. NFPA 13, 2007 exhibit 8.53 shows a backflow preevention device, but it is not clear if it has "means for testing". Would help if NFPA gives an "acceptable arrangement". Tony -----Original Message----- From: [email protected] [mailto:[email protected]] On Behalf Of John Drucker Sent: October 4, 2010 8:05 AM To: [email protected] Subject: RE: Backflow Forward Flow Test Jay, NFPA-13 requires a forward flow test without exception. However NFPA-25 while requiring forward flow tests does contain a number of special provisions, i.e. bfp size, existing systems, water conservation issues, etc. Obviously if the system was installed under standards that required forward flow at system demand plus hose at acceptance then the connection to do so should be present. 2002 NFPA-13-16.2.5 Backflow Prevention Assemblies. 16.2.5.1 The backflow prevention assembly shall be forward flow tested to ensure proper operation. 16.2.5.2 The minimum flow rate shall be the system demand, including hose stream demand where applicable. 18.1 General. A sprinkler system installed in accordance with this standard shall be properly inspected, tested, and maintained in accordance with NFPA 25, Standard for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems, to provide at least the same level of performance and protection as designed. 2002 NFPA-25 12.6 Backflow Prevention Assemblies. 12.6.1 Inspection. Inspection of backflow prevention assemblies shall be as described in 12.6.1.1 through 12.6.1.2.2. 12.6.2 Testing. 12.6.2.1 All backflow preventers installed in fire protection system piping shall be tested annually in accordance with the following: (1) A forward flow test shall be conducted at the system demand, including hose stream demand, where hydrants or inside hose stations are located downstream of the backflow preventer. (2) A backflow performance test, as required by the authority having jurisdiction, shall be conducted at the completion of the forward flow test. 12.6.2.1.1 For backflow preventers sized 50.8 mm (2 in.) and under, the forward flow test shall be acceptable to conduct without measuring flow, where the test outlet is of a size to flow the system demand. 12.6.2.1.2 Where water rationing shall be enforced during shortages lasting more than 1 year, an internal inspection of the backflow preventer to ensure the check valves will fully open shall be acceptable in lieu of conducting the annual forward flow test. 12.6.2.1.3 Where connections do not permit a full flow test, tests shall be completed at the maximum flow rate possible. 12.6.2.1.4 The forward flow test shall not be required where annual fire pump testing causes the system demand to flow through the backflow preventer device. 12.6.2.2* All backflow devices installed in fire protection water supply shall be tested annually at the designed flow rate of the fire protection system, including required hose stream demands. 12.6.2.2.1 Where connections do not permit a full flow test, tests shall be conducted at the maximum flow rate possible. Hope that helps John Drucker Jr CET Fire Protection Subcode Official Fire/Building/Electrical Inspector Borough of Red Bank, NJ -----Original Message----- From: [email protected] [mailto:[email protected]] On Behalf Of Jay White Sent: Monday, October 04, 2010 9:14 AM To: [email protected] Subject: Backflow Forward Flow Test Anyone familiar with NFPA 13 requirements to forward flow test the backflow at system demand? Is this accomplished with a bypass arrangement? 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