Fuel tanks for fire pumps should have a capacity equal to what formula?

The correct answer specifies that the fuel tank capacity for fire pumps should be calculated using the formula of 1 gallon per horsepower (HP) plus an additional percentage for expansion and a further percentage to accommodate the sump.

This formula is important because fuel tanks must not only have sufficient capacity to provide the necessary fuel for operation based on the horsepower of the pump, but they also need to account for potential expansion of the fuel due to temperature changes. The inclusion of a percentage for sump is crucial, as it ensures that there is adequate volume not only for the fuel requirements but also for proper drainage and management of any spilled or surplus fuel.

Fire safety regulations and standards necessitate careful calculations regarding fuel storage to prevent overflow and ensure safe operation of fire pumps. Therefore, the combination of these factors in the chosen formula results in a comprehensive approach to ensuring that the fire pump operates effectively and safely while also meeting all regulatory requirements regarding fuel storage.