On 1 June 2025, the new VdS guideline 2100-47 ‘Diesel engines for driving sprinkler pumps – Requirements and test methods’ will come into force. For the first time, a separate set of rules is dedicated exclusively to diesel engines – a component that forms the heart of many water extinguishing systems. This is because when power grids fail or an independent power supply is required, the engine determines the safe operation of the sprinkler pump – and thus, in an emergency, the success or failure of firefighting efforts.
Why a separate guideline?
Until now, requirements for engines have only been scattered across international standards or general VdS documents. However, critical infrastructures and large industrial plants in particular show that an engine that does not start reliably or fails during continuous operation endangers the entire plant. ‘The new guideline provides clarity for manufacturers, planners and operators. They now know exactly which standards must be met,’ emphasised a VdS spokesperson at the time of publication.
Clear scope of application
The guideline applies to diesel engines with rated speeds of up to 3600 revolutions per minute, regardless of whether they are naturally aspirated or supercharged variants. Various cooling systems – liquid and air cooling – are also included. However, the switch cabinets of the pumps are not covered; their requirements continue to be regulated in VdS 2100-22.
Tests under extreme conditions
The new requirements focus on extensive type testing. The engines must prove that they work reliably even under unfavourable conditions. For example, the starting ability is tested: a cold start at plus five degrees Celsius without starting aid must be successful, as must a warm start, both within 15 seconds.
In addition, there is a four-hour full-load test, supplemented by repeated load changes. Long-term reliability also plays a role: motors must withstand at least 2000 operating hours or five years without a general overhaul.
In addition to continuous operation, performance stability is also important. The engines must reliably maintain their speed and rated power in accordance with ISO 3046-1. Safety devices monitor the coolant, lubricating oil, fuel system and electronic engine management. Even electromagnetic compatibility is part of the tests to rule out malfunctions in complex systems.
Design requirements in detail
The directive also sets out clear specifications for the design. Starting systems must always be redundant, usually by means of two batteries or starting systems. Fuel lines must be fire-resistant, and only diesel fuel in accordance with EN 590 is permitted.
For cooling systems, manufacturers can opt for indirect liquid cooling, liquid-air cooling or direct air cooling – the decisive factor is that sufficient redundancy is maintained even in the event of a malfunction.
Electronic engine management systems may only be used if an alternative ECM is available as a complete redundancy system.
One detail that is of great practical importance is that the standby consumption of electrical components must not exceed 0.5 amps in order not to compromise the battery reserves.
In addition, there are a large number of messages that the engines must pass on to the sprinkler pump control system – for example, on coolant temperature, lubricating oil pressure, overspeed or ECM status.
Documentation and quality assurance
For manufacturers, the directive means not only additional tests, but also more paperwork. Complete technical documentation is required, ranging from P&I diagrams and operating and maintenance instructions to detailed information on operating materials. In addition, a quality assurance system in accordance with VdS 3153 is mandatory, which documents production and component monitoring.
Practical implications
What does this mean for the industry? In future, planners and installers will only be able to use motors with VdS approval if an entire system is to be certified. Manufacturers must adapt their products and factor in additional testing costs.
For operators, on the other hand, the directive brings advantages: maintenance and operation are clearly documented, and transparency and comparability are increased. Above all, however, operational safety is increased. This is because start-up and running behaviour are now tested under realistic conditions. Anyone operating a sprinkler system with a VdS-certified motor can be confident that it will start reliably in an emergency – even if the ambient conditions are far from ideal.
A milestone for fire protection
With VdS 2100-47, the Cologne-based institute closes an important gap in fire protection regulations. The guideline establishes clear, practical standards for diesel engines in sprinkler systems for the first time, thus ensuring a significantly higher level of availability. For manufacturers, this means stricter requirements; for operators, greater safety; and for fire protection as a whole, a decisive step towards even greater reliability in an emergency.
