WATER PUMP MAINTENANCE
When using a pump, the following should be observed and corrected:
1. WATER SUPPLY.
Water used in fluid mechanics experiments should always be clear and clean water. Rust inhibitor fluid such as
used in automobile radiator may be added to minimize rusting.
2. WATER BECOMES RUSTY
2.1 If the pump is made of cast iron, the pump casing will get rusted on the initial use with water. This is normal.
2.2 After a few weeks of use, the rust is fully developed and protects the casing from further rusting.
2.3 The circulating water should then be drained and replaced with new clean water.
3. PUMP USE.
3.1 Do not run a pump when there is no water since this can damage the pump seal.
3.2 If the pump is not in use for a long period of time, drain all water inside the pump by opening the drain plug at
the bottom of the pump casing.
Figure 1
Top plug and drain plug
3.3 Before running the pump, check that the check valve is not stuck and fill the pump up fully with water.
3.4 The motor and the pump are aligned at the factory. If they are separated, care must be taken when
reconnecting. Otherwise, the shaft vibration will cause serious damage to the bearings and the seals.
4. PUMP SEIZED.
Leaving water in the pump without use for along period of time may cause pump shaft seizing.
Turn on the main power supply switch and turn on the pump.
If there is no flow make sure the flow control valve at the rotameter is open.
4.1 Multi Speed Pump
If the pump does not turn, the shaft may be seized. Turn off the pump and open the plug at the top of the pump
and turn the shaft with a screw driver. Once turn, close the plug (see figures below).
Figure 2
Open plug with screw driver
Figure 3
Turn pump shaft with screw driver.
Drain plug
Top plug
