Lidl Fire Pump

Problem:

A high-profile distribution warehouse required a temporary fire pump installation to maintain sprinkler protection while modifications were carried out to the permanent system.

The site operated continuously and could not risk a gap in fire cover. The temporary system needed to replicate the existing system and integrate with multiple storage tanks maintaining uninterrupted supply to the sprinkler network all without disrupting warehouse operations.

Solution:

Exsel Pumps delivered and installed a high-pressure temporary pump system designed to mirror the site’s existing configuration. Working alongside the client’s engineering team, we integrated into a newly prepared 12″ flanged connection outside the pump house and constructed a manifold system to manage suction and discharge flows.

Pipework was routed from two storage tanks into a shared suction manifold, with tank 2 drained in advance to allow removal and modification of the gate valve assembly. Re-installed valve and a 90-degree bend ensured compatibility with the temporary layout while preserving operational control.

Discharge from the pump was fed into a second manifold supplying both the sprinkler system and tank refill line, replicating the original system and maintaining safe operational flow.

Once installed, the system was pressure-tested, leak-checked, and commissioned in partnership with site engineers. Exsel provided a full operational demonstration and handover, ensuring the client’s team could safely monitor and manage the temporary installation.

To ensure ongoing performance and compliance, Exsel Pumps carried out scheduled weekly and monthly servicing and testing. Our engineers undertook routine inspections, system checks and performance verifications ensuring the temporary system remained fully operational and compliant throughout the hire period.

Outcome:

The warehouse maintained full sprinkler protection throughout the works with no interruption to operations. The temporary system functioned as a direct substitute for the permanent infrastructure, preserving compliance and operational continuity. The structured handover allowed the client to confidently monitor the installation, ensuring ongoing reliability until permanent upgrades were completed.