Do you know how to start and commissioning the centrifugal pumps? What is your advise and steps? Here we list 11 steps preparation works need to do before pump commissioning, hope these will help you reduce and avoid pump start failure.
1) Installation and operation manual and local facility operating procedures / manuals have been carefully read.
Before pump starting, please adjust the space of impeller and mechanical seal. Please note the pump rotation, otherwise it will cause damage. A simple inspection method is to rotate the pump by hand (also known as "turning gear"), and the pump should be able to rotate freely without binding and friction. Barring should be carried out after lubrication or start-up but before sealing setting.
2) Each centrifugal pump must be filled, vented and filled with liquid before starting. The pump to be started must be properly filled and vented.
The pump must be primed before starting, which is often misunderstood or ignored. Even the self-priming pump must be filled before the first start.
When the liquid source is lower than the centerline of the impeller, the pump needs to be vented and filled in other ways. There are three main methods:
a. Use the bottom valve (check valve) at the suction end of the pump nozzle. Liquid can be filled in the suction line, and the bottom valve will keep it in the line until the pump starts.
b. Use an external device to vacuum the suction line. This can be done by vacuum pump, ejector or auxiliary pump (usually positive displacement pump).
c. Use a filling tank or chamber.
3) The pump suction valve must be fully open.
4) The pump outlet valve can be closed, partially opened or fully opened, depending on several factors described in part 2 of this article.
5) The bearings of pumps and drives must have the appropriate oil lubricated at the appropriate level and / or the presence of grease. For oil mist or pressure oil lubrication, it must be confirmed that the external lubrication system has been started.
6) Packing and / or mechanical seals must be properly adjusted and / or set.
7) The driver must be accurately aligned with the pump.
8) The installation and layout of the whole pump and its system have been completed (the valve is installed in place).
9) The operator has been authorized to start the pump (perform lockout / tagout procedures).
10) Start the pump, and then open the outlet valve (to the opening under the required working condition).
11) Observe that the relevant instrument outlet pressure gauge rises to the correct pressure, and the flowmeter displays the correct flow.
