Goulds Pumps API 3171 - IOM - Manual (Page 34)

Fill the housing
1. Turn the wing nut clockwise until the center stem is raised all the way and the wing nut does not turn
any further.
2. Fit a pressurized grease gun to the top zerk fitting and pump the grease cup full until a small amount
of grease starts to come out of the side vent of the housing.
3. Unthread the wing nut in order to energize the grease cup. Allow the internal spring pressure to push
grease into the bearing lube line.
4. If the stem immediately recedes into the housing and the bearing has been purged, then complete
these steps:
a) Unthread the top lid in order to remove the top of the grease cup.
b) Inspect the plunger for defects.
If all the grease is found on the reverse (or back side) of the plunger, then it is defective and must be
replaced.
Adjust the flow (preferred method)
1. Unthread the wing nut completely against the zerk fitting of the center stem.
2. Unlock the hex nut of the throttling screw and turn the slotted screw clockwise approximately one-
half turn at a time.
3. Relock the hex nut and monitor the stem movement.
If the grease in the grease cup is completely consumed in 1 to 2 weeks of operation, then the flow is
correct and will maintain the proper amount of grease to the bearings.
Adjust the flow (alternate method)
This method provides a more precise amount of grease to the bearings independent of changing operating
temperatures and surrounding conditions. However, you must have a more controlled maintenance
schedule in order to make sure this is done on a regular basis.
1. Leave the throttling screw locked and open.
2. Back off the wing nut several turns for every 2 to 3 days of operation.
Shaft sealing with a mechanical seal
Precautions
WARNING:
The mechanical seal used in an Ex-classified environment must be properly certified. Prior to startup,
make sure that all areas that could leak pumped fluid to the work environment are closed.
NOTICE:
• The mechanical seal must have an appropriate seal-flush system. Otherwise, excess heat generation
and seal failure can occur.
• Cooling systems such as those for bearing lubrication and mechanical-seal systems must be operating
properly to prevent excess heat generation, sparks, and premature failure.
• Sealing systems that are not self-purging or self-venting, such as plan 23, require manual venting prior
to operation. Failure to do so will result in excess heat generation and seal failure.
Shipping
Pumps may be shipped with or without a mechanical seal installed.
Cartridge-type mechanical seals
Cartridge-type mechanical seals are commonly used. Cartridge seals are preset by the seal manufacturer
and require no field settings. Cartridge seals installed by the user require disengagement of the holding
clips prior to operation, allowing the seal to slide into place. If the seal has been installed in the pump by
ITT, these clips have already been disengaged.
Commissioning, Startup, Operation, and Shutdown
32 Model API 3171 Installation, Operation, and Maintenance Manual