Commissioning, Startup, Operation, and Shutdown
WARNING:
A build-up of gases within the pump, sealing system, or process piping system may result in an
explosive environment. Make sure the process piping system, pump and sealing system are properly
vented prior to operation.
Before the pump is started, the pump must be fully primed and the suction pipe must be full of
liquid. If pump is run dry, then rotating parts within the pump can seize to stationary parts
because they depend upon the pumped liquid for lubrication. Several methods of priming can
be used depending upon the type of installation and service involved.
Prime the pump with the suction supply above the pump
This method of priming the pump is simplest and safest. A float switch in the suction reservoir
can be arranged to stop the pump if there is a failure of liquid supply.
1. Open the suction gate valve and close the discharge gate valve.
2. Remove the vent plug until all air is expelled and water flows through openings.
3. Close the air vent valves, start the pump, and open the discharge gate valve.
The pump will continue to be primed for any future starting.
1. Float switch
2. Suction gate valve
3. Vent plug
4. Discharge gate valve
Figure 19: Suction supply above the pump
Prime the pump with an outside supply
This method ensures that the pump will remain primed if the foot valve is tight. If the foot valve
fails when the pump is standing idle, then the pump will lose its prime. During long idle periods,
the pump can also lose its prime through leakage from the stuffing boxes.
1. Close the discharge gate valve, remove the vent plug, and open the valve in the priming
supply line until all air is expelled and water comes out of the vent openings.
2. Close the air vents, close the valve in the priming supply line, and start pump.
3. Open the discharge gate valve.
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Model 3610, API Type BB1 API 610 11th Edition Installation, Operation, and Maintenance Manual