September 18, 2019
Fire alarm bells connected to the system riser can provide first responders with essential information—and encourage passersby to quickly call the fire department. Learn what NFPA standards have to say about joining fire alarm bells and water motor gongs to fire risers in both standpipe and fire sprinkler systems.
September 12, 2019
Handheld pitot gauge kits make flow tests easy. But it’s important to match pitot tube pressure gauges to the flow rates and orifice sizes you’ll be testing.
August 28, 2019
QRFS explains when manual priming is required by a gravity feed – even for self-priming hydrostatic test pumps.
August 22, 2019
QRFS examines hydrostatic test pumps: the device that enables a critical fire protection system test that ensures piping networks can handle the pressure.
August 1, 2019
QRFS makes using a pitot gauge to calculate gallons per minute simple: convert PSI to GPM manually or with this convenient online calculator.
July 1, 2019
Flow and pressure switches may look similar, but choosing the wrong type can have serious consequences for fire protection systems. Learn about their construction, use, and code requirements.
June 6, 2019
QRFS looks at the origins and historic use of the term “playpipe,” explaining how firefighting playpipe became the inspector’s tool of choice for straightening water flows.
January 22, 2019
How do you properly use a hydrostatic test pump? When can you troubleshoot a hydrostatic test pump on your own and when should you contact the manufacturer? Learn to prime, start, stop, and safely pressurize pumps with this guide from QRFS.
November 6, 2018
What makes a hydrostatic test pump better for acceptance and maintenance testing on fire sprinklers and standpipes? QRFS takes a look at features impacting the portability, ease of use, and reliability of today’s hydrostatic test pumps.
October 30, 2018
Standpipes and sprinklers require hydrostatic testing before system acceptance, every 5 years for certain standpipes, and/or when there are significant system revisions. But how do you know if you’ve got the right pump for the job? QRFS reviews the key specs and features to look for when choosing a hydrostatic test pump.
September 28, 2017
Gain a better understanding of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), their mission, and what it means for your pressure gauges. Learn what it means when a gauge has a NIST Certificate, when it’s necessary, and options for getting a certification for gauges in your current inventory.
May 16, 2017
Contact or contact-less? That is the question. In this article, we explore the differences between contact and contact-less handheld digital tachometers and share our recommended model that balances price with reliability and functionality.
May 5, 2017
This article explores the history of the Underwriters Playpipe and its significance, uses, types, and benefits.
April 22, 2016
Fire sprinkler gauges – air or water pressure gauges installed at various points throughout the system – provide building owners and firefighters with an easy, visual way to prove the system has an adequate supply of water. Learn what to look for when purchasing sprinkler gauges, including the necessary certifications required by most building codes and how to ensure your current gauges are working correctly.
April 18, 2016
Handheld digital pressure gauges add long life and useful features that make them a worthy alternative to analog measuring devices.
April 10, 2016
Ashcroft Gauges have set the standard for Fire Protection and Testing for over a century. Learn about the company and their fire protection and testing-specific gauges in this blog.
