EBARA EFQT3 - Manual (Page 17)

EBARA Fluid Handling 17
Strainer Check
If s suction strainer has been shipped with
the pump or installed by the user, check the
strainer regularly, and clean it as necessary.
The strainer should also be checked if pump
flow rate begins to drop. If a vacuum suction
gauge has been installed, monitor and
record the readings regularly to detect
strainer blockage.
Never introduce air or steam pressure into
the pump casing or piping to remove a
blockage. This could result in personal injury
or damage to the equipment. If back flushing
is absolutely necessary, liquid pressure
must be limited to 50% of the maximum
permissible operating pressure show on the
pump performance curve.
Pump Vacuum Check
With the pump inoperative, install a vacuum
gauge in the system, using pipe dope on the
threads. Block the suction line and start the
pump. At operating speed the pump should
pull a vacuum of 20 inches (508,0mm) or
more of mercury. If it does not, check for air
leaks in the seal, gasket, or discharge valve.
Open the suction line, and read the vacuum
gauge with the pump primed and at
operation speed. Shut off the pump. The
vacuum gauge reading will immediately drop
proportionate to static suction lift, and should
then stabilize. If the vacuum reading falls off
rapidly after stabilization, an air leak exists.
Before checking for the source of the leak,
check the point of installation of the vacuum
gauge.
STOPPING
Never halt the flow of liquid suddenly. If the
liquid being pumped is stopped abruptly,
damaging shock waves can be transmitted
to the pump and piping system. Close all
connecting valves slowly.
On engine driven pumps, reduce the throttle
speed slowly and allow the engine to idle
briefly before stopping.
If the application involves a high discharge
head, gradually close the discharge throttling
valve before stopping the pump.
After stopping the pump, lock out or
disconnect the power source to ensure that
the pump will remain inoperative.
Do not operate the pump against a closed
discharge throttling valve for long
periods of time. If operated against a
closed discharge throttling valve, pump
components will deteriorate, and the
liquid could come to a boil, build
pressure, and cause the pump casing to
rupture or explode.
Cold Weather Preservation
In below freezing conditions, drain the pump
to prevent damage from freezing. Also, clean
out any solids by flushing with a hose.
Operate the pump for approximately one
minute; this will remove any remaining liquid
that could freeze the pump rotating parts. If
the pump will be idle for more than a few
hours, or if it has been pumping liquids
containing a large amount of solids, drain the
pump, and flush it thoroughly with clean
water. To prevent large solids from clogging
the drain port and preventing the pump from
completely draining, insert a rod or stiff wire
in the drain port, and agitate the liquid during
the draining process. Clean out any
remaining solids by flushing with a hose.
BEARING TEMPERATURE CHECK
Bearings normally run at higher than
ambient temperatures because of heat
generated by friction. Temperatures up to
160º F (71º C) are considered normal for
bearings, and they can operate safely to at
least 180º F (82º C).
WARNING!
CAUTION!