Commissioning, Startup, Operation, and Shutdown
Model 3410 Installation, Operation, and Maintenance Manual
47
Methods for pump priming
Pump installation
Priming method
Positive head on the suction
Open the suction valve and loosen the vent plug on top of the
casing. This allows air to be purged from the casing. While you
vent the air from the pump body, always rotate the pump shaft
a few times by hand.
Suction lift
Priming must be done by other methods such as foot valves,
ejectors, or by manually filling the casing and suction line.
Start the pump
1. Close the drain valves.
2. Completely open all valves in the suction and discharge lines.
3. Turn on the seal water to the stuffing box.
These lines must always be left open if the pumped fluid is dirty or if there is the possibility
of air leaks.
4. Prime the pump.
NOTICE:
Make sure that the pump is properly primed. If it is not, then shut down the pump and
correct the condition.
5. Start the pump driver.
Turbines and engines can require a brief warm-up period. Consult the instructions provided
by the engine manufacturer.
6. When the pump is operating at full speed, make sure that the check valve has opened.
The check valve must open five seconds or less after startup in order to prevent damage to
the pump by operating at zero flow.
7. Adjust the liquid seal valves to produce the recommended pressure for either the
mechanical seal or the packed stuffing box.
Pump operation precautions
General considerations
Operation at reduced capacity
WARNING:
• Risk of breach of containment and equipment damage. Excessive vibration levels can
cause damage to bearings, stuffing box, seal chamber, and/or mechanical seal. Observe
pump for vibration levels, bearing temperature, and excessive noise. If normal levels are
exceeded, shut down and resolve.
• Risk of explosion and serious physical injury. Do not operate pump with blocked system
piping or with suction or discharge valves closed. This can result in rapid heating and
vaporization of pumpage.
• Risk of equipment damage and serious physical injury. Heat build-up can cause rotating
parts to score or seize. Observe pump for excessive heat build-up. If normal levels are
exceeded, shut down and resolve.
CAUTION:
• Avoid increased radial load. Failure to do so can cause stress on the shaft and bearings.