Clarke Fire Pump Engines
Power Reliable Fire Protection
Fire protection systems are essential components of virtually every major construction and building retrofit project worldwide. At the core of these systems are fire pump engines. These engines activate automatically when a pressure drop signals the presence of fire.
Clarke is a leading global fire pump engine manufacturer. We engineer diesel-driven fire pump engines for durability and performance. Our fire pump engines power the critical water flow and pressure needed to protect lives and property under the most demanding conditions.
Our decades of experience in designing and manufacturing industry-leading engines keep people and property safe from fire emergencies. These systems must comply with rigorous international standards — such as NFPA 20 (Standard for the Installation of Stationary Pumps for Fire Protection), Underwriters Laboratory (UL) 1247, Diesel Engines for Driving Stationary Fire Pumps, and Factory Mutual (FM) 1333, Diesel Engines for Fire Pump Drivers – to ensure reliable operation during life safety emergencies.
What is a Fire Pump Engine?
Diesel fire pump engines are typically powered by diesel or electric sources. Diesel fire pump engines are especially valued for their independence from the electrical grid, ensuring reliable performance even during power outages. As a core component of emergency response infrastructure, diesel fire pump engines provide the essential force to move water swiftly and consistently to sprinkler systems, standpipes or hose reels in critical situations.

Fire Protection Applications Across a Range of Industries
Whether a high-rise structure or an offshore drilling platform, fire pump engines ensure rapid fire suppression response in complex and high-risk environments. Industrial fire protection engines are used across a wide range of industries, in facilities that include:

Commercial buildings

Industrial plants

Manufacturing facilities

Data centers

Power plants

Hospitals

Airports

Oil Drilling
Meet or Exceed the NFPA Standards and Other Guidelines for Fire Pump Engine Performance Standards
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), established in the United States, has developed fire safety standards that have been adopted and recognized in numerous countries worldwide. For instance, Canada's model codes reference nearly 90 NFPA standards, including NFPA 13 for sprinkler systems and NFPA 25 for the inspection, testing and maintenance of water-based fire protection systems.
In Europe, while many countries have their own fire protection standards, NFPA standards are increasingly utilized in certain areas to enhance fire safety measures. Additionally, NFPA standards are gaining recognition in regions such as the Middle East, Asia and South America, where they are used to improve fire protection practices. This international adoption underscores the NFPA's role as a global leader in fire protection, providing comprehensive guidelines that ensure the safety of lives and property across diverse regions
All Clarke diesel engines are designed to meet or exceed these industry standards:
- Underwriters Laboratories (UL) 1247 – Standard for Diesel Engines for Driving Stationary Fire Pumps, specifying rigorous performance, safety and reliability requirements. Clarke assembles engines certified under this global benchmark.
- National Fire Protection Association (NFPA 20) – Safety standard requirements for the selection and installation of pumps to ensure that systems will work as intended.
- Factory Mutual (FM) Approval Standard 1333 – Covers performance and safety criteria specific to diesel fire pump drivers, with additional emphasis on loss prevention and risk mitigation in fire protection applications.
Importance of Regular Fire Pump Engine Maintenance
Regular maintenance of fire pump engines is essential to ensure reliable performance during emergency situations. Over time, components such as fuel systems, batteries, cooling systems and lubrication can degrade, potentially compromising engine functionality.
Scheduled inspections and testing — aligned with NFPA 25 guidelines — help identify and resolve issues before they lead to failure. Preventive maintenance not only extends the engine’s lifespan but also ensures compliance with fire safety regulations and insurance requirements. By investing in routine upkeep, facility managers can safeguard their operations and maintain uninterrupted fire protection readiness.
Fire pump engine reliability is crucial in ensuring the fire protection system performs when needed. A commitment to quality and compliance with these guidelines ensures that Clarke delivers the best fire pump engines in the world.
Ready for a Fire Protection System with Unmatched Reliability?
Explore Clarke’s engine solutions today! Clarke designs and manufactures fire pump engines while collaborating with our partners to be the premier and most trusted fire pump engine supplier.
You can contact our experts to find the right diesel fire pump engine for your needs.
Engine FAQ
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How do fire pump engines work?
When triggered, the engine powers the pump to increase water pressure and flow to the sprinkler or hose systems. Sensors detect low pressure and send a signal to the fire pump controller, which then automatically starts the engine.
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What kind of fire systems are best for fire protection?
The best system depends on your building type, risk level and local codes.
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How does a diesel engine fire pump work?
A diesel engine uses fuel combustion to create mechanical energy that powers the pump. The engine operates independently of the electrical grid, offering reliable starting power, in the event of an emergency.
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Which fire water pump is preferable: electric or diesel?
Electric fire pumps are sometimes used for urban areas with access to a stable power supply and produce less noise. Diesel engine driven pumps, however, provide better value when considering installed cost and expected loss when the exposed value is moderate.
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What are fire pump motors?
Fire pump motors — as opposed to diesel engines — are electric motors that drive the fire pump and ensure water delivery during a fire emergency.
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Where can I find service and maintenance for my fire pump engine?
Clarke Fire has a network of services providers around the world. Find a service provider in our Service Dealer Locator search tool.