Certification Examination Practice

Illinois Fire Apparatus Engineer Certification Examination Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the primary purpose of a fire pump on an apparatus?
• To provide water for hose testing
• To transfer water between tanks
• To supply adequate pressure and flow for fire suppression operations
• To maintain hydrant pressure

A: C

Rationale: The fire pump’s fundamental function is to deliver the pressure

and flow needed to extinguish fires.

• What is the standard pressure used for pump discharge during sprinkler

system support? 1 / 4

• 100 psi
• 150 psi
• 75 psi
• 200 psi

A: B

Rationale: Sprinkler systems are traditionally supported at 150 psi unless

otherwise specified.

• What is the primary limiting factor affecting pump capacity?
• Hose size
• Nozzle reaction
• Engine horsepower
• Pump panel configuration

A: C

Rationale: Pump capacity is ultimately constrained by the power available

from the apparatus engine.

• When calculating friction loss, which factor has the greatest effect?
• Water temperature
• Flow rate (GPM)
• Hose color
• Elevation

A: B

Rationale: Friction loss increases exponentially with flow rate. 2 / 4

• Which type of valve is commonly used on intake connections?
• Globe valve
• Gate valve
• Clapper valve
• Ball valve

A: C

Rationale: Clapper valves allow water flow in one direction and prevent

backflow at intakes.

• What is the typical pressure loss per floor when pumping a standpipe?
• 2 psi
• 10 psi
• 5 psi
• 15 psi

A: C

Rationale: Standard elevation pressure is estimated at 5 psi per floor.

• What is cavitation?
• Air entering a hose line
• Water hammer
• Formation and collapse of vapor pockets in the pump
• Engine overheating

A: C 3 / 4

Rationale: Cavitation occurs when intake pressure drops too low, causing

vapor bubbles that damage the pump.

• Which NFPA standard governs automotive fire apparatus?

A. NFPA 1001

B. NFPA 1901

C. NFPA 1002

D. NFPA 1962

A: B

Rationale: NFPA 1901 is the design standard for automotive fire

apparatus.

• What is the most common cause of pump overheating while pumping

from draft?

• Using a hard suction hose
• Running the tank-to-pump valve open
• Insufficient water flow through the pump
• High engine RPM

A: C

Rationale: Low flow prevents cooling water from circulating, causing pump

overheating.

• What is the correct action when switching from tank to hydrant water

supply?

• / 4