Test Operation: Checks Prior to Operation

Industrial pumps play a vital role in various industrial processes and applications. To ensure optimal performance and prevent unwanted issues during operation, it is important to conduct pre-operation checks. In this article, we will discuss several key steps that need to be taken before operating your industrial water pump.

1. Water tank interior

• Ensure that water tank has been thoroughly cleaned. If there are bits of waste or wood, vinyl, concrete, paper, etc., in the tank, they will clog the foot valves or impellers resulting in malfunction. Make sure there is sufficient water in the tank. When the toot valve is not fully submerged (to a depth at least twice the pipe diameter), air may enter the pump.

2. Bearing oil (Model MS pump) 

• Apply lubricant ( # 140 turbine or equivalent) to pump sleeve bearings. Since lubricant is removed from bearings prior to shipment from the factory, be sure to lubricate before attempting to operate pump. No lubrication is required for pumps when sealed ball bearing are used.

3. Gland packing

• Ensure that the gland packing is satisfactory. Check gland nuts for proper condition.

4. Rotating motor manually

• Rotate the coupling, if any, by hand. For pumps without couplings, (Model LPD), insert a screwdriver in the groove on motor shaft and manually rotate the pump. If the pump can not be turned easily, or the internal components contact the casing, such distortion may be a result of excessive tightening of the gland packing or excessive pipe loading. Corrective measures are then required.

5. Motor protector

• Check that capacity of the motor protector is sufficient for the motor used. Determine that voltage, phase and frequency agree with the operating conditions listed on nameplate of the OPERAT motor.
  Do not attempt test operation using a temporary power source. Voltage of most temporary power sources is unstable, and protectors are often unsuitable, which can lead to damage.

6. Direction of motor rotation

• 1) Direct coupling pump (using couplings)
  Remove the coupling bolts, operate the motor independent- ly, and check direction of rotation. If it operates in the direction of the arrow, rotation is proper. (For a general-purpose pump, correct rotation is clockwise when viewed from the driving end.)
  • Since a single-phase motor will rotate in only one direction, it will not operate in reverse.
  After determining rotational direction, recheck for direct coupling centering. If defective, correct and install coupling bolts.
• 2) Close coupled pump (no coupling)Check the motor for rotation direction after having primed the pump. To reverse rotation, refer to paragraph 1.

In conclusion, pre-operation checks are crucial to ensuring the readiness and optimal performance of your industrial pump. By cleaning the water tank, lubricating the bearings, inspecting the gland packing, manually rotating the motor, and checking the motor’s protective device, you can minimize the risk of damage and issues during operation. Through these steps, you can maintain the performance of your pump and ensure smooth industrial processes.