Operate and Overhaul Your Centrifugal Pump Properly
15 December 2022Industrial plants typically maximise pumps in carrying out their operations. One type of pump that they often utilise is the centrifugal pump.
A centrifugal pump is made from one or more impellers connected to a rotary pump shaft. The impellers turn in sync with the rotary pump shaft, which then alters dynamic mechanical energy from the motor into kinetic energy utilised by moving fluids. Some portion of the processed energy, however, is channelled as potential energy.
This pump is often used in processing food products, beverages, and chemicals. It can also be used in domestic applications such as supplying water.
The Operations of Your Centrifugal Pump
Pump operators and plant engineers should know how to operate their centrifugal pumps properly. If you are one of the owners or operators of these pumps, you must know how to operate one to avoid unnecessary issues or downtimes on your plants.
As mentioned earlier, a centrifugal pump is comprised of rotating components. This pump, however, also houses stationary components like bearings, casing, and casing cover.
The operation of the centrifugal pump is straightforward. It converts mechanical energy into kinetic energy, with the latter subsequently transported to the moving fluids. To start the pumping process, the moving fluids often enter the pump through the suction nozzle until they reach the centre of the impeller. The impeller will then spin the fluids to generate a radial centrifugal force. The curved blades will then generate low pressure on the impeller, which allows the fluids to be drawn from its suction end. The centrifugal force will then eject the fluid from the discharge nozzle to the intended applications.
Start and Overhaul Your Centrifugal Pump
When starting your centrifugal pump with an automatic air release system, you must first open the suction valve. You must also make sure that the discharge valve is retained in the closed position. The next thing you should do is to turn the power of the pump off.
Subsequently, manually turn the shaft and check if you feel any obstructions. If the shaft is free from any obstructions, you can close the discharge valve and start the motor. The discharge nozzle must then be gradually opened until it is fully open. Ultimately, you must check the pressure and regulate it whenever necessary.
Now, if your centrifugal pump operates poorly, you must have it overhauled. Before overhauling your pump, you must ensure first that the discharge and suction valves are closed. You must also make sure that it is turned off and disconnected from the main switch. You should then note the rotation direction of the terminal to make its connection easier after the overhaul.
Upon doing these things, you must now check if the pump maximises coupling bolts. If yes, you should remove them. The pump must then be opened so that the pump impeller joint and pump flanges can be loosened. Ultimately, the pump must be brought out for inspection and servicing.
If you need more help with your centrifugal pump, you can contact us at Fluid Sealing.
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