Don't Check, Butterfly Valves Limit Max Pressure?

8/28/2026

Looking at NFPA 14-2019 A.7.1(b) Typical Two Zone - Wouldn't the system on the 2nd fire pump in series discharge side be limited to 365 psi static pressure (not forgetting the jockey pump added pressure) due to the check & butterfly valve's listed working pressures?

NFPA 14-2019 Section 7.2.1 limits max pressure to 400 psi and Section 7.2.2 says express mains can exceed 400 psi in accordance with material listings (or as approved by AHJ).

From what I can find on the market, Victaulic has the highest listed of those two valves at 365 psi (Vic Check 716 and Vic BFV 765/766).

It seems like a lot of designs rely on the fact that some valves list that you can field test them up to 500 psi or 1-1/2 times one time and are relying on the as approved by the AHJ.

The waterflow switch is listed up to 450 psi and not worried about the pressure gauge.

Am I just not aware of higher-listed valves?

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3 Comments

Anthony

8/28/2026 07:36:17 am

In these cases You need to use non listed oil and gas or mechanical parts with AHJ approvals in my experience OR you need to stage pumps so that your output is limited to ~350 working pressure usually with a VFD. as soon as you get over 25~30 stories a secondary lift pump is suggested. IF you're at these heights you should start talking to the AHJ on their needs for fire fighting. A lot of building code here gets a tag "as approved by the AHJ" so early and consistent engagement is critical.

Vic has the Series 970-N Check Valve (400 psi) and the Double Disc Check Valve Series 415 (1200 psi). They may be willing to provide a letter stating the effectiveness of these devices in other fields. Talk to your local rep for options.

Dan Wilder

8/28/2026 08:57:05 am

In the couple systems I have dealt with at pressures in the 350 range, most of the piping was bulk and the elevation change provided the needed reduction in pressures to more standard materials. Minimal valves were needed so when we could not find a listed fire protection valve, we chose UL listed water control types (Victualic 415/716, Nibco KG-900-W-350, F-960-W, GD-6865, Kennedy Series 5000, Meuller). Worst case, we went the direction that Anthony indicated.

Each case had VFD and/or PLD adders to the pump to also help with not exceeding the pressure requirements.

Nimal Tissa Wijetunga

8/29/2026 07:01:52 am

I am pf the view that the best option is limiting pressure by organising pressure zones within the building where residual pressure is maximum of 175 psi in accordance with maximum working pressure allowed

Don't Check, Butterfly Valves Limit Max Pressure?

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