Clarke has a system called PLD, it's like cruise control for the engine. It maintains a constant discharge pressure regardless of flow just like VFD. It's pretty slick, I've done a few. It's factory set for pressure and usually set for something in the region of 80-120% of design flow and pressure. It's cool to watch (like a VFD) as the pump starts slower than constant speed and ramps up as you increase flow. But yes, as environmental factors effect exhaust, more accessories appear all requiring maintenance and upkeep. We're moving into Tier 4 now and tier 3 will eventually be phased away, as was tier 2.
I will say, referencing that old 1971 Cummins from my other thread; 43 years old, stone cold (block heater dead and 10° outside, room heater barely keeping it above freezing), 7800 hours on the clock, I did a quick PM and she cranked right up. Can't always say that for a 43 year old Lincoln or US Motor. Tom Is there a way or such a thing as soft starting a diesel? I seem to recall a LONG time ago FM had a report out concluding 25%+ of diesel pump would fail during a fire. Now I could be wrong on the long, FM, 25%. Does anybody else recall something along these lines current or old? I admit I am biased against diesel pumps, cost more, require more maintenance and I believe are less reliable mostly due to the maintenance that rarely gets done properly. I suppose I'd agree they are more reliable IF maintained. I also have a surge pressure issue. But the most important thing is I'm open minded either way for someone to school me. I could be off base or there is supporting justification. And no, we have yet to delve into the reliable power question officially. I was told by the PM and other discipline leads we're using diesel but no one can tell me why exactly. So I'm making a case for either contingency. Chris Cahill, PE* Associate Fire Protection Engineer Burns & McDonnell Phone: 952.656.3652 Fax: 952.229.2923 [email protected]<mailto:[email protected]> www.burnsmcd.com<http://www.burnsmcd.com/> *Registered in: MN Proud to be #14 on FORTUNE's 2014 List of 100 Best Companies to Work For _______________________________________________ Sprinklerforum mailing list [email protected] http://lists.firesprinkler.org/listinfo.cgi/sprinklerforum-firesprinkler.org _______________________________________________ Sprinklerforum mailing list [email protected] http://lists.firesprinkler.org/listinfo.cgi/sprinklerforum-firesprinkler.org
