Proper procedure for priming a centrifugal pump to prevent and ensure smooth operation

Kirloskar pump authorised dealer

If you own a centrifugal pump, you would know the importance of priming it before use. It simply refers to filling the pump with a liquid to generate enough suction to operate efficiently. VEMC is the leading Kirloskar pump authorised dealer and in this blog, we talk about the proper procedure to prime your pump to prevent damage and ensure its smooth operation.

Dangers of running a non-primed pump

  1. Cavitation: Without enough liquid for suction inside the pump, there are high risks of cavitation. This is caused by the creation of air bubbles which on bursting create tiny shock waves inside the pump body, leading to gradual internal damage over time.
  2. Drop in performance: Without priming, a centrifugal pump tends to operate at lesser efficiency. It is unable to generate optimum pressure and flow rates.
  3. Overheating: Without adequate fluid inside the pump, the rotating parts can get overheated. This can catalyze wear and tear, and also reduce the expected lifespan of the pump.
  4. Damage to parts: Impellers, shafts, bearings, and seals could face excessive strain due to a lack of fluid inside the pump. This can cause severe damage to parts over some time.
  5. Safety hazards: In some sensitive applications, not priming a pump could even lead to accidents, environmental hazards, and disruptions.

What are the different priming techniques?

  1. Manual priming: Simply by opening the casing and suction pipe and letting the liquid flow in.
  2. Flooded suction: By installing a pump below the level of the source of liquid, and thus using gravity to prime the pump.
  3. Self-priming: Pumps create a vacuum to draw in the liquid automatically without any manual intervention.
  4. Vacuum priming: Using an external vacuum pump to draw the liquid into the casing.
  5. Recirculation: The pumped fluid is recirculated from the discharge side into the suction side. This is especially useful for low-viscosity liquids.
  6. Using a priming pump: A separate priming pump or system is used to create a vacuum, evacuate air, and draw the liquid in.

How to prime a centrifugal pump safely

  1. Make sure your pump is ready for priming. Check all the valves, fittings, and connections.
  2. Check whether the pump has adequate fluid levels to cover the pump’s suction inlet.
  3. Open the vent valve and allow the air to escape.
  4. Fill the pump casing in case you are priming manually.
  5. Close the vent valve once you have filled the suction line with fluid. This will prevent air from escaping.
  6. If you’re using a self-priming pump, start the priming process at this stage.
  7. Monitor the pump priming process throughout, to ensure proper operation.
  8. Close the priming mechanism (if applicable) and start the pump.

For more on priming your centrifugal pumps, feel free to call us on 022 43436655 or email us at marketing@vemc.co.in. VEMC is the leading Kirloskar pump authorised dealer based in Mumbai, with over 70 years of experience in the field of pumping.

Understanding Priming Requirements for Centrifugal Pumps

Kirloskar pump dealer

Table Of Content

Understanding Priming Requirements for Centrifugal Pumps

If you own a centrifugal pump, you must be aware of the process of priming it. Priming simply means filling up the pump casing with the liquid that is to be pumped. This removes any air from the casing and creates a seal between the casing and the impeller. Depending on the type of the pump you’re using, priming can be manual or automatic. VEMC is the leading Kirloskar pump dealer based in Mumbai and in this blog, we tell you all you need to know about priming your centrifugal pump.

Understanding priming

Centrifugal pumps have a priming chamber which is filled with a liquid to expel air and create a vacuum. This helps prevent cavitation of the pump while improving its efficiency. As any Kirloskar pump distributor may tell you, a well-primed pump lasts longer, consumes lesser energy and offers optimum performance.

Different priming methods

  1. Gravity-fed priming: In this type of priming, the casing is filled using the force of gravity, that is, it simply flows downward into the priming chamber without any consumption of external energy.
  2. Vacuum priming: In this type, the vacuum priming system pulls water into the pump allowing it to start. This happens as a result of creation of a vacuum from the top of the impeller down to the level of the water source.
  • Flooding: In this type of priming, the pump is completely flooded with the liquid. However, since these types of pumps cannot handle air, gases or vapours even for a short period of time, there’s always a risk of the liquid being interrupted or bearings getting damaged.

Selecting the appropriate priming method

The right priming method depends upon a number of factors such as:

  1. Pump type: When it comes to priming a pump, there is no one-size-fits-all. Different types of pumps require different priming methods and your Kirloskar pump dealer can provide the right information on this.
  2. Installation: Some pump installation systems may make certain priming methods difficult or impossible. For instance, gravity-fed priming may not be possible for all types of installations.
  3. Operating conditions: Before selecting your priming method, it is important to consider the operating conditions of your pump. These include system designs, constraints, type of liquid to be pumped etc.

Troubleshooting common priming issues

Some of the most common priming issues that customers approach Kirloskar pump distributors with, are:

  1. Air leaks: Air leaks can cause your pump to lose the prime or not prime at all. To fix this, check the pump lid and o-ring for any damage. Even debris or improperly sealed lids or o-rings can cause air leaks.
  2. Insufficient liquid levels: Low water levels can cause a pump to lose the prime. Make sure that the water level is above the minimum level required for operation.
  • Pump not self-priming: This could be caused due to a suction leak. Alternatively, the suction line is too long or its diameter is too wide. To prevent this, use a cling wrap around each joint.

Priming is one of the most crucial aspects of pumping. For more information on priming, feel free to call VEMC at 022 43436655 or email us at marketing@vemc.co.in.

The Impact of Liquid Viscosity on Centrifugal Pump Performance

Pumps do not operate with the same efficiency and effectiveness with all liquids. One of the most important characteristics of the liquids that impact pump performance is their viscosity. VEMC is a leading Kirloskar pump authorised dealer based in Mumbai and in this blog, we tell you about the impact of liquid viscosity on centrifugal pump performance.

Definition and units of liquid viscosity

Let’s first try to understand what viscosity really means. In simple terms, viscosity can be thought of as the thickness of a liquid. However more technically, it refers to the resistance to flow at a given temperature. At the molecular level, it represents the interaction (more specifically friction) between molecules in a particular liquid. Higher viscosity means a liquid is thicker, that is, it offers more resistance to flow and hence requires more energy to be displaced from one point to another.

Unit of viscosity: Viscosity is measured in Newton-Second per Square Metre.

How viscosity affects pump efficiency and flow rate

As stated above, more viscous liquids are harder to move due to the greater resistance to flow they offer. As such, higher viscosity has a negative effect on the performance of a pump in terms of flow rate as well as head. This means if you are looking to displace highly viscous liquids such as oil or honey, you will need a really powerful pump.

Selecting the appropriate pump type and size for liquids with different viscosities

Let’s now take a look at which pumps are suited for which levels of viscosity.

  • For low viscosity fluids such as water, centrifugal pumps are the best. However, even with a slight increase in the viscosity of the liquid, centrifugal pumps’ performance may be affected.
  • For highly viscous liquids such as oil or honey, positive displacement pumps are most suitable. These can be run at lower speeds and varying flow rates to make up for the thickness of the liquids. 
  • Finally, peristaltic pumps can handle both high as well as low viscosity liquids with relative ease. These are suited for repeatable dosing applications and can run dry without any risk of pump failure.

Other considerations for highly viscous liquids

Apart from choosing the right pump types for the right levels of viscosity, you must also be mindful of the ancillary setup such as suction and piping. For highly viscous liquids, make sure there is no restriction on the suction end. Also, for such liquids, the pipework size must be larger to compensate for the friction loss or extra drag.

If you’re still not sure which pump is best suited for your liquid type, we are here to help you out. Feel free to speak to our experts by calling on 022 43436655 or emailing us at marketing@vemc.co.in. VEMC is the leading Kirloskar pump dealer based in Mumbai with over 72 years of rich industry experience in supplying and installing pumps, valves, fire panels and other high-standard electromechanical equipment.

Centrifugal Monobloc pumps: Effective water management system

Since its inception in the year 1948, Vijay Engineering and Machinery Company (VEMC) have been toiling to be the best in the industry. Panning India it has for sure attained technical expertise in a roster of domains that pertain to fluid engineering products and varied electromechanical sectors too. Located in Mumbai, Maharashtra, VEMC is an ISO 9001:2008 certified company.  In addition, as a water pump distributor it also renders its services in Pune. The establishment also deals in Kirloskar submersible pumps, Multi stage horizontal pumps, multi stage vertical pumps and many more.

The company is conscientious about the products and services rendered and thus this has made it perfectionist in its domain. Water is a scarce resource and thus effective water management system is needed for its utilization. For this it offers centrifugal monobloc pumps that are utilized for lifting water from well/ river, pumping to high rise building or drainage/sewage water.

Key Point 1: Commitment to Quality

VEMC’s unwavering commitment to the quality of its products and services has solidified its reputation as a perfectionist in its field. In a world where water is becoming an increasingly scarce resource, an efficient water management system is essential for its responsible utilization.

Key Point 2: The Role of Centrifugal Monobloc Pumps

To address the need for efficient water management, VEMC offers centrifugal monobloc pumps designed for a variety of applications, such as lifting water from wells or rivers, pumping water to high-rise buildings, and managing drainage and sewage systems.

Key Point 3: Understanding Centrifugal Monobloc Pumps

With years of experience, VEMC has acquired extensive technical knowledge about centrifugal monobloc pumps. These pumps are unique in that they have all their rotating components mounted on a common shaft, which includes both the pump assembly and the motor assembly. This design is deliberate, with the primary objective being to eliminate energy transmission losses.

Key Point 4: Energy Efficiency and Water Conservation

In traditional setups, like belt-driven and coupling-driven systems, energy is lost during the transmission from the motor to the pump. By integrating the motor and pump on a single shaft, centrifugal monobloc pumps eliminate these energy losses. This innovation not only saves energy but also reduces the wastage of water. As a result, centrifugal monobloc pumps have earned their reputation as the best choice in the industry for efficient water management.

With compounded experience, the company has gained the technical know-how about the pumps in abundance pertaining to the monobloc pumps. To elaborate more, a monobloc pump has all its rotating parts mounted on a common shaft. The prominent parts of it are pump assembly and motor assembly. The reason behind the development of the centrifugal monobloc pumps was to avoid transmission losses. Since, in a belt driven sets and coupling driven sets there are transmission losses. Therefore, motor and pump being mounted on a single shaft, there is no energy loss during energy transmission. So, saving energy as well as wastage of water makes centrifugal monobloc pumps the best in the industry.

How Industries use Pumps to get things done

What some people do not know about water pumps is that they are not a simple category of discussion when it comes to corporate decisions on purchases. Purchasing a pump is as complicated as buying a car or choosing the right company to do business with because in essence, those parts have to come from somewhere. Let’s say that you work in any engineering business and your company is in need of several pumps for various applications. You need to find Industrial Pump distributor for your business. Unfortunately, this is not a simple task because your decision would result in a future cooperation with a specific company.

The Complexity of Pump Selection

Some people may not realize that discussions about water pumps go beyond mere technicalities. Purchasing a pump is akin to buying a car or selecting the ideal business partner, primarily because these essential components must come from reliable sources. Imagine you’re part of an engineering business, and your company requires multiple pumps for various applications. The process of finding the right Industrial Pump distributor for your business is not a straightforward task. Your choice will determine your future cooperation with a specific company, making it a decision of paramount importance.

The Role of Reviews and Clientele

To ensure that you make an informed choice when selecting a pump supplier, it’s wise to consider factors like reviews and clientele. These are telltale signs of a company’s reputation and reliability. In this regard, Vijay Engineering stands out as the best supplier for acquiring a Centrifugal Pump in India. Our extensive clientele and consistently positive reviews are a testament to our commitment to customer satisfaction.

Affordability and Quality

One of the key factors that set Vijay Engineering apart is our unwavering commitment to offering high-quality products at affordable prices. Our competitive pricing ensures that clients get value for their money without overpaying. We firmly believe in transparent, ethical business practices, and our goal is to provide the right solutions for your business without hidden costs or inflated prices.

Uncompromising Quality Assurance

When it comes to pumps, quality is non-negotiable. Pumps are the workhorses of various industries, and their reliability is crucial to maintaining the efficiency of industrial processes. At Vijay Engineering, we understand the importance of supplying top-quality pumps that meet and exceed industry standards. Our pumps are rigorously tested and approved by multiple quality benchmarks. This means that the pumps we provide do not break down or deteriorate over time, ensuring that your operations run smoothly.

A Partnership for Success

Our commitment to quality and affordability doesn’t just end at the point of sale.

To rest assured that you have made the right choice in deciding which company to do business with, simply default to the company with the best reviews and the largest clientele. 

We are the best supplier for acquisition of a Centrifugal Pump in India seeing as how our clients are plentiful and are always satisfied with the products that we supply them with. Furthermore, we insist that our prices are low and affordable, given that we are not going out of our way to scam our clients into paying more than they absolutely have to. At Vijay Engineering it is all about helping you find the right deal for your own business.

But not to digress, the importance of finding the right pump lies in the quality guarantee as well as the price. Seeing as how we already noted that our prices are the most profitable, we must assure you that the quality of the parts we supply has been relentlessly tested and approved by many standards. Our pumps simply do not break down or get damaged over time. Once you purchase a part from us, you can rest easy that you will not be disappointed. If anything, you will return for more. Browse our website today and see for yourself.

Vertical Multistage pumps and what makes them interesting!

The thing about multistage centrifugal pumps is that it is a topic of rare frequency in conversation. You simply do not hear enough about this particular topic to know much about the application or the acquisition of pumps.Vertical multistage pumps are the solutions to the space constraint in the vicinity.

Understanding the Multistage Magic

Before delving into vertical multistage pumps, let’s briefly grasp the concept of multistage centrifugal pumps. These pumps are designed to overcome the limitations of traditional single-stage pumps by incorporating multiple impellers or stages. Each stage adds energy to the fluid being pumped, resulting in higher pressure and more efficient operation. Now, let’s take a closer look at vertical multistage pumps.

Multistage Horizontal Pumps are very difficult to find a good pump of the sort and furthermore it is impossible to guarantee that even a high quality pump will not break down after a while. After all, these pumps are subjected to great pressure and they cannot be expected to operate fully forever. We ensure that you buy the pumps that will work the longest and will be the smartest choice for your particular business. Do not save money by purchasing pumps yourself, privately, because in the long run you will lose more money repairing the faulty parts that you have acquired. Trust our judgement and visit our website today www.vemc.co.in

The Assurance of Quality

When it comes to acquiring pumps, quality is paramount. Vertical multistage pumps offer the advantage of longevity and durability. These pumps are built to withstand the rigours of constant pressure and operation, ensuring they serve your business reliably over an extended period.

Trust in Our Expertise

In the world of vertical multistage pumps, trust is paramount. Trust in the quality of the pumps you acquire, trust in their reliability, and trust in the expertise of those guiding you. When faced with space constraints or the need for efficient, compact solutions, visit our website and put your trust in us. We’ll ensure you find the perfect vertical multistage pump that not only works the longest but also proves to be the smartest choice for your unique business needs.

FAQ:

What are the advantages of vertical multistage pump?
Vertical multistage pumps offer several advantages, including efficient space utilization, high energy efficiency, reliable performance across varying flow rates and pressures, ease of installation and maintenance, and suitability for applications with limited horizontal space.

What are the applications of vertical pump?

Vertical pumps are commonly used in various applications, including industrial, municipal, and agricultural settings. Some key applications include water supply and distribution, wastewater treatment, irrigation, power generation, and oil and gas production. These pumps are particularly suitable for situations where space constraints or depth requirements make a vertically-oriented pump more practical and efficient.

Introducing KBL’s DBXe

KBL’s DBXe

Introducing KBL’s DBXe

KBL (Kirloskar Brothers Limited) is a leading company when it comes to fluid management. Its capability spans industries such as water supply, power generation, irrigation, oil and gas, marine and defense etc.

The DBXe is KBL’s highly successful end suction pump mainly used for clean, low-viscosity liquids free from suspended impurities, available with any Kirloskar authorised dealer. The pump has a capacity of up to 550 cubic meters per hour and offers a head of up to 100 meters. 

VEMC is the leading Kirloskar dealer in Mumbai, and in this blog, we tell you all you need to know about the DBXe pump.

Key features

The DBXe is one of the most outstanding pumps available in the market and has some of the most competitive construction and operational features:

  • The delivery size of the DBXe is 32 to 150 mm.
  • The working pressure of the pump is 16 kg per square centimeter (MAWP).
  • It operates at speeds of 1450 & 2900 rpm and 1760 & 3500 rpm.
  • It can operate within a temperature range of -10 to 90 degrees C.
  • The pump casing is made of cast iron. It has centerline delivery with a self-venting design, providing smooth hydraulic passage, and ensuring utmost efficiency. 
  • The enclosed impellers are statically as well as dynamically balanced.
  • Anti-friction ball bearings support the shaft of the pump. Its critical speed is much above the operating speed. The shaft is machined and ground to maintain its concentricity and is protected from the liquid using an ‘O’ ring and a shaft sleeve.
  • The stuffing box is sealed using gland packing or mechanical seal.
  • The bearings are pre-lubricated and grease sealed.
  • The pump has a dry shaft design and rotates in the clockwise direction when viewed from the driving end.
  • The DBXe has a flexible jaw-type spacer coupling.
  • The pump can be driven using both an electric motor and an engine. 
  • Due to its back pull-out type design and interchangeability of components, repair and maintenance are easy and low cost. 

Applications and Industries

As mentioned above, the DBXe is used to process clean low-viscosity liquids (up to 20 cSt). The temperature range of the pumped liquid could be -10 to 120 degrees C. Some of the most common applications of the DBXe are:

  1. Water supply
  2. Sprinkling
  3. Swimming pool water
  4. Industrial water
  5. Firefighting
  6. Condensate
  7. Air conditioning
  8. Cooling water
  9. Clear juice
  10. Drinking water

An eco-friendly pump

KBL always puts a huge premium on designing environment-friendly equipment and the DBXe is no exception. With its centerline delivery and self-venting design, the pump is one of the most energy-efficient systems out there. The robust cast iron construction and anti-friction ball bearings mean utmost durability and reliability which precludes frequent repair and replacement of the pump. 
VEMC is an authorized Kirloskar submersible pump dealer based out of Mumbai. To learn more about the KBL DBXe pumps and find out whether they suit your needs, get in touch with our team of experts at 022 43436655 or email us at marketing@vemc.co.in.

Why the Performance Witness Test is Important for Centrifugal Pumps

Performance witness test is the procedure to establish the integrity of a pump and keep a record for future reference. It is necessary to ensure the pump meets industry standards and is compliant with various norms and regulations. Very often some technical snags and issues also surface during a performance witness test. 

VEMC is the leading Kirloskar Pump Distributor based out of Mumbai

In This Blog, We Explain Why A Performance Witness Test Is Important For Your Centrifugal Pump.

Verification Of Design Specifications

A performance witness test enables a user to verify first-hand the various design specifications of the pump, as promised by the supplier. The data generated during the test could be plotted on a graph to ascertain whether the pump is performing satisfactorily within the expected limits. The pump must be run long enough in order to stabilise it and test it at raised temperatures.

Detection Of Defects And Malfunctions

As any Kirloskar pump distributor will explain, testing the mechanical integrity of the pump is another important reason to carry out a performance witness test. This ensures that the pump operates satisfactorily with no defects or problems at higher temperature and vibration levels. During the test, the pump is checked for possible leaks from parts such as gaskets and seals. 

Identification Of Operational Problems

Data is plotted to identify any possible problems while running the pump. Operational issues such as misalignment, or their symptoms such as unexpected vibrations or excessive noise can be identified and corrected once the pump is put through a thorough performance witness test. Your Kirloskar pump distributor most likely will also provide pump AMC services and can be of great help in this regard.

Determination Of Energy Efficiency

A performance witness test culminates in the drafting of statistical reports which help determine the efficiency of your pump. The performance curve for instance has energy curves and efficiency curves among many others. These curve helps identify any efficiency-related issues such as overconsumption of electricity.

Documentation Of Performance

One of the most significant outputs of performance witness tests is the documentation of results. This can be of great value for future reference, especially in case of a pump breakdown, poor performance, or reduced efficiency. In other words, this acts as a medical history of sorts for your centrifugal pump!

Compliance With Industry Standards

Your centrifugal pump must comply with a number of industry standards which mostly signify optimum performance and efficiency. Some of these industry standards are:

  • Hydraulic Institute (HI) “vertical pump tests”, ANSI/HI 2.6-1994
  • ASME Power Test Codes (PTC) 8.2-1990
  • American Petroleum Institue (API) Standard 610
  • HI “Centrifugal Pump Tests” ANSI/HI 1.6-2000

If you are looking to get your centrifugal pump performance tested, get in touch with VEMC today. We are the leading Industrial Water Pumps Dealers In Mumbai and have a proven track record of excellence in AMC services. We take pride in being the most reputed Kirloskar Pump Distributor across the country. Give us a call at 022 43436655 or email us at marketing@vemc.co.in.

Five Ways to Maintain a Centrifugal Pump

 Centrifugal Pump

Maintaining your centrifugal pumps can extend the life of your pumps, reduce operation costs and minimise the chances of a sudden breakdown. With proper maintenance, you are also able to keep a record of all the problems arising in the pump which can help you zero in on future problems easily. VEMC is the leading Industrial Water Pump Dealer in Mumbai.

In This Blog, We Take You Through 5 Ways In Which You Can Ensure Comprehensive Maintenance Of Your Centrifugal Pump. 

1. Proper Lubrication

The failure of bearings is mostly caused by lubrication or the lack of it. Make sure you are lubricating the pump just enough. Over-lubrication can be as harmful to the pump as under-lubrication by creating solids on the bearings and making them run at higher temperatures.

2. Regular Inspection

Make sure you are regularly checking the pump for leaks, excessive vibrations, lubrication, and discharge pressure. Maintain a log register of your inspections and note any remarkable changes or faults. This way you can ensure proper upkeep and identify the problem instantly in case of a breakdown.

3. Control The Pump’s Operating Conditions

While the pump is working, a number of parameters like temperature, pressure and vibrations need to be kept under check. Usually, a pump will exhibit a rise in temperature while operating but watch out for overheating to prevent damage to parts. Likewise, determine the optimum flow range of your pump (represented by parameters like BEP, POR and AOR). As much as possible, make sure that your pump doesn’t operate beyond this acceptable range. 

4. Proper Alignment

Misalignment of your centrifugal pump can cause a number of problems like greater wear and tear, leakage, excessive vibration, noise, higher maintenance costs, lower energy efficiency, and even early failure. These issues can be avoided by ensuring the proper alignment of your pump.   For this, station your pump on a solid foundation which is at least thrice the mass of your pumping system. Affix the pump with cement grout or epoxy to eliminate any movement and misalignment during operations. 

Besides, monitor the shaft alignment of your pump regularly as well, to avoid any disproportionate stress and strain. In case the pump is functioning at a higher temperature, the likelihood of thermal expansion will demand greater attention to pump alignment.

5. Regular Maintenance

All said and done, regular maintenance of your centrifugal pumps is absolutely indispensable. While this may seem like an annoying overhead on your operations costs, it actually helps save you from a sudden breakdown which may cause longer downtime and serious business losses. Setting up a comprehensive preventative maintenance regime along the lines suggested by your dealer can contribute to longer pump life, better efficiency and reduced downtime. As the top Industrial Water Pump Dealer in Mumbai, VEMC provides AMC services and can also help you maintain your pumps better.

VEMC is the leading industrial water pump dealer in Mumbai. We pride ourselves in electromechanical engineering products like pumps, compressors and control panels. If you are looking to buy an Industrial Pump in Mumbai, get in touch with us by calling 022 43436655 or emailing us at marketing@vemc.co.in.

Centrifugal Pump Types & Common Applications

Centrifugal Pump

Centrifugal pumps are used across sectors in a variety of operations. These include construction, chemical manufacturing, food processing, etc. The rapidly rotating impeller of the pump boosts the velocity of fluids and pushes them out with force. A specially designed casing ensures the fluid remains constricted within, directs it to pass through the impeller and controls the flow on its way out effectively. VEMC is one of the leading Kirloskar Pump Dealers based in Mumbai and in this blog, we tell you all you need to know about centrifugal pumps.

How A Centrifugal Pump Works:

Centrifugal pumps have a fairly simple way of operating, as any Kirloskar pump dealer can brief you. These pumps have one or two impellers attached to the shaft of a rotary pump. Once the shaft turns, impellers also start to rotate. This converts the mechanical energy into the kinetic energy of the moving fluids. The rotating impellers thus move the pumped liquids along the spinning vanes, enhancing their velocity.

Basic Parts Of A Centrifugal Pump

    • Impeller is the most basic part of any centrifugal pump. These have a series of curved vanes which are usually sandwiched between two discs. 

    • On the opposite side, the impeller is connected to a motor through a shaft. The motor rotates the impeller at a high velocity, boosting the liquid’s flow rate. 

    • The casing of the pump is another important feature of a centrifugal pump’s construction. This is of two types: volute and diffuser. Both designs aim to keep the flow under a controlled discharge rate.

Types Of Centrifugal Pumps

The two major types of centrifugal pumps are:

    • Axial

    • Radial

Axial and radial pumps have only one basic distinction –– their orientation. A radial centrifugal pump pushes the liquid out through a downstream piping. On the other hand, an axial pump generates the pressure through a lifting effect of the vanes. Both radial and axial centrifugal pumps are available with VEMC –– the leading Kirloskar Pump Distributor in Mumbai.

Single-stage, two-stage and multi-stage pumps. On the basis of the number of impellers in a pump, we have 3 types:

    1. Single-Stage: 

As the name suggests, this pump has only one impeller. The simplicity of design allows for easy maintenance. These pumps are best suited for low-pressure operations.

   2. Two-Stage: 

Twin impellers present within the casing rotate in tandem and process the liquid at a high speed. It is suited for medium-head operations.

    3. Multi-Stage: 

Three or more impellers are used in these pumps to boost the liquid at maximum efficiency. These are best for high-head operations.

Common Industrial Centrifugal Pump Applications:

A number of domestic and industrial applications make use of centrifugal pumps. Some of the most important operations where centrifugal pumps find the greatest use are:

    • Sewage disposal

    • Oil and gas operations

    • Chemical processing

    • Food and beverage processing

    • Fire safety systems

Conclusion

For more information on industrial water pumps in Mumbai, call us on 022 43436655 or email us at marketing@vemc.co.in. We at VEMC are the leading industrial water pump suppliers in Mumbai. We are also the top-notch Kirloskar submersible pump dealers in the country and pride ourselves on over 70 years of rich experience in pumping.

How to Install Mechanical Seal in an End Suction Centrifugal Pump

End Suction Centrifugal Pump

Centrifugal pumps have a rotating shaft that sticks out from the back of the pump casing through a seal chamber or stuffing box. The mechanical seal is needed to prevent fluid from leaking into the atmosphere along this shaft. Failure of these mechanical seals can have serious implications for the pump’s safety and reliability. It is therefore very important to install the seal properly.

How a Mechanical Seal Works in an End Suction Centrifugal Pump

A mechanical seal needs two smooth and flat seal faces in contact, one that is rotating with the shaft and another that is stationary with the casing. The faces are sealed to their holders using secondary seals. These are flexible so that they’re placed in contact and move to compensate for any misalignments or wear and tear. The faces however need lubrication to function at their best.

Steps for Installing a Mechanical Seal in Centrifugal Pumps

Here are 7 simple steps to follow when you are installing or replacing a mechanical seal in end suction centrifugal pumps:

1. Make sure the power is off

Make sure you cut the power so that the motor is not in motion. It’s even better to be doubly sure by cutting the main supply so that the motor may not start up while you’re working on it. 

2. Isolate the fluid from the pump

Next up, shut both inlet and outlet isolation valves and drain the pump casing by removing the drain plug.

3. Dismantle the pump

Use a wrench to unscrew the bolts holding the housing of the pump in place. Detach the pump carefully and keep the bolts safe for reassembly later.

4. Identify the stuffing box arrangement

If the pump is of the back pull-out design, remove the spacer element in the coupling, remove the casing bolts and pull the pump away from the casing. You can then access the seal without having to disconnect the casing from the piping. 

In case the pump is not a ‘back pull-out design, you’ll have to completely disconnect the pump after you disconnect the coupling between the pump and shaft. If the pump is a close-coupled design, you’ll have to remove the entire pump.

5. Remove the impeller

Dismantle the impeller of the pump. You can find the seal located on the shaft behind the impeller. Detach the shaft by holding it in place using a wrench and then rotate the impeller to unscrew it.

6. Detach the old seal

After removing the impeller, you can access both the rotary and stationary seal parts. The parts are usually held in place with screws all along the shaft. Remove the screw and pull away the rotary seal parts, and then remove the stationary part of the seal.

7. Replace the seal

Now place the replacement seal parts along the shaft. Push the stationary part into the casing using a new o-ring or gasket material. 
For any guidance on your centrifugal pumps, including all your sealing needs, feel free to speak to our experts at 022 43436655 or email us at marketing@vemc.co.in. We at VEMC are authorised Kirloskar dealer based in Mumbai and deal in a range of Kirloskar centrifugal pumps including multistage centrifugal pumps, (also called horizontal multistage pumps).

How to Calculate Total Dynamic Head for an Industrial Pump

TDH for an Industrial Pump

The total Dynamic Head in an industrial pump refers to the total pressure when water is flowing in a particular system. It has two parts: the vertical rise and friction loss. In this blog, we explain to you the complete calculation of the TDH. So let’s get started.

Broadly, the TDH of a pump can be calculated by following these steps:

  1. Calculate the value of the vertical rise 
  2. Find out the friction losses in the system as the water passes through the pipe and other components
  3. Add both these values to arrive at the TDH.
  • How to calculate the vertical rise:

As the name suggests, this parameter seeks to calculate the distance up to which the liquid has to rise from its starting point in the system below to the endpoint. If the liquid level at the bottom goes down, the vertical rise will naturally increase. Likewise, in case the level of liquid rises at the bottom, it has to rise over a shorter distance to reach the endpoint, and hence the vertical rise will decrease. With the increase of the value of vertical rise, the TDH also increases.

  • How to calculate friction loss:

To find out the friction loss, it is necessary to calculate the desired flow. The greater the flow going through your pipes more will be the loss due to friction. Friction loss also depends on the type of pipe in use, its vertical and horizontal length, and its schedule. You must also factor in the elbows, valves, connectors, or other components that come in contact with the liquid, and hence contribute to the friction loss. 

  • The result: Total Dynamic Head calculation:

As stated earlier, TDH is simply the summation of vertical rise and friction loss. To arrive at the TDH value, first ensure both are in the same units of length, say feet. For instance, if the vertical rise in the worst-case scenario is 25 feet, and the friction loss of the system is 6 feet, the TDH value would be 31 feet.

  • Alternative scenario:

Always considers the worst-case scenario in case of vertical rise to ensure you have sufficient amount of TDH. For instance, in the above case, if the water level never goes below 5 feet, the vertical rise will always be 20 feet and hence the TDH value will only be 26 feet.

Other Considerations When Calculating Total Dynamic Head

A few other factors also have an impact on the Total Dynamic Head. These include viscosity, specific gravity, and temperature. The specific gravity of a liquid can slightly alter the friction losses. Likewise, viscosity can significantly increase friction losses. 
For any information on centrifugal pumps, multistage centrifugal pumps, horizontal multistage pumps, or vertical pumps, feel free to call us at 022 43436655 or email us at marketing@vemc.co.in. VEMC is the authorised Kirloskar dealer that deals in the entire range of pumps suited for various operations. VMC is an ISO 9001:2015 certified company with a rich industry experience of 72 years.

What is pump cavitation? How to get rid of it

What is pump cavitation?

Cavitation is one of the most common issues in centrifugal pumps. Often this surfaces as strange noise, vibration and reduced performance of the pump. Prevention of cavitation is necessary as this may otherwise impact the lifespan of the pump. But before talking about the ways to prevent it, let’s understand what cavitation really is.

What is cavitation?

Cavitation is simply the accumulation of bubbles around the pump impeller. Bubbles are formed in liquids of any viscosity and when these burst inside the pump, high energy shock waves are created inside the pump. This is analogous to the ripples created in a pond when you throw a stone into it. However, with the enormous number of bubbles exploding inside the liquid, cavitation can cause serious erosion of pump components over time.

How does pump cavitation occur?

When the pressure quickly drops below the vapour pressure, bubbles or voids are formed inside the liquid. When the same bubbles experience high pressure, they collapse and create small shockwaves in the process. These shockwaves create tiny holes in the pump components over a period of time. This is called “pitting”.

How to prevent pump cavitation

1. You can prevent pump cavitation most effectively by increasing the pressure upstream from the pump’s impeller. This pressure is called Net Positive Suction Head (NPSH). NPSH can be increased in the following ways:

  • By increasing the water level of the upstream reservoir
  • By adding an inducer to the pump inlet
  • By reducing the flow losses upstream
  • By operating the pump at lower flow rates

2. Even the smallest amount of air going into the pump can cause cavitation. Check and make sure all the joints and connections are sealed perfectly well. Check all the O-rings and any other mechanical seals regularly. Cavitation can also be caused by the bubbles created by a foaming liquid. In such a case, run the pump slower and remove all the contents periodically, including air.

3. Use a booster pump to reduce the pressure on your primary pump. Increase the liquid level around the suction area and if possible, reduce the temperature of the pump, liquid or other components.

Types of cavitation

Let’s try to understand two of the most common types of cavitation, that is, suction cavitation and discharge cavitation.

1. Suction cavitation

Also known as classical cavitation, this happens when the pump is under low pressure or high vacuum conditions. Pressure is dropped instantly when the liquid being pumped enters the eye of a centrifugal pump. Bubbles or cavities are formed near the eye of the impeller which gradually move to areas of higher pressure.

2. Discharge cavitation

This happens when a pump discharge pressure is extremely high or the flow is restricted and cannot leave the pump. This results in majority of the pump fluid getting circulated within the pump. The bursting of bubbles creates intense shockwaves, resulting in premature wear and tear of the impeller.

VEMC is a Kirloskar authorised dealer and deals in swimming pool pumps, submersible sewage pumps, vertical turbine pumps etc. We also offer AMC services for pumps and resolve technical issues. Avail our services by giving us a call on 022 43436655 or email us at marketing@vemc.co.in.

Unveiling the Taloja APOEM

Unveiling the Taloja APOEM

VEMC is thrilled to announce that the Taloja APOEM (Applied Pump Original Equipment Manufacturer) pump testing facility is all set to begin manufacturing and testing the pumps in accordance with industry standards.

Let’s take a look at what is in store:

The APOEM testing unit consists of pump assembling, alignment, and dismantling units. The components of the pump are put together during the pump assembly process. And during the alignment procedure, the pump components are brought into an alignment. It is during the dismantling procedure that the components of the pump are separated.

At the pump testing platform, the pumps must be tested after complete assembly in order to evaluate their performance properly. VEMC performs pump testing on a state-of-the-art testbed that was specially designed to meet the requirements of the pump OEM market.

The Lathe machine is used to rotate a pump to perform various operations such as turning, facing, knurling, grooving, and other movements.

Further, the vertical dynamic balancing machine helps to do the impeller balancing and trimming tasks according to the reading. It balances the unbalanced impeller and grinds the unbalanced part.

At the pump paint booth, the pumps are painted in the standard colours of red or blue using the spray painting method. After they have dried, the DFT of the paint is checked as a part of the final inspection.

The newly painted pumps are then packaged in a corrugated box, loaded in a lorry, and prepared to be sent to the customer.

We have planned each activity meticulously. We’ve also established Standard Operating Procedures as the guidelines to be followed while carrying out each task, in order to ensure optimal performance and safety.

VEMC is ISO 9001:2015 certified and a pioneer in the field of electromechanical engineering products, allied equipment, and services. We are a well-established industry leader and have been authorized Kirloskar pump dealers since 1950.

Today, we are excited to offer you an extensive range of state-of-the-art products and services. These include physical pump inspection, assembly, witness testing, performance assurance, and more. With decades of industry experience, we guarantee you superior services with shorter delivery times post dispatch.

We continue to provide you with top-quality products and services and hope to strengthen the trust you built in us.

How Does a Dewatering Centrifugal Pump Work?

A dewatering centrifugal pump works much like a regular centrifugal pump, but with one distinctive difference. This type of pump is built with a special feature that allows the fluid passing through it to be controlled and maintained in its movement. Let’s explore what this means and how a dewatering centrifugal pump does this.

May be an image of text that says 'MONSOON READY. FLOOD READY VEMC VIJAY NGINEERING ANDMACHNERY Kirloskar De-watering Pumps help solve waterlogging. Serves across areas like: Individual Villas Residential Housing Societies Underground Parking Area Shopping Malls Parks etc. Medium and large townships of Industries Refineries City ndustrial area Stadium Hotel Hospitals Underground manufacturing area Godowns Warehouses etc. City underground passages City deep excavation construction area Airport line construction area Raliway tracks etc. Authorised Channel Partners of Kirloskar Brothers Ltd Vijay Engineering Machinery Company'

What is a dewatering pump used for?

A dewatering centrifugal pump, just as the name suggests, is primarily used to remove water from a particular place and transfer it to another location. A dewatering pump finds several uses across industries including construction, mining, mills, and municipal operations. Any place that needs to be kept dry and clean, such as roads and worksites, will benefit from having a dewatering pump to work with. During the monsoon season especially, a dewatering pump comes in extremely handy thanks to its effective flood control, inland wastewater management, and prompt drainage functions.

How does a dewatering pump work?

A dewatering centrifugal pump actually functions as any other pump does. Just like a centrifugal pump, the dewatering pump makes use of an impeller that has a blade to start and keep up the movement of the water. The fluid goes into a smaller part of the impeller called the impeller eye. The flow of the water is then collected from here and directed to the diffuser, which is a discharge nozzle that is shaped like a cone. This is when the velocity of the water is decreased and the energy of the water flow is changed to pressure energy.

After the above process, the water is then removed from the pump at an angle of 7 to 10 degrees for optimal efficiency. This is the stage of dewatering. To help this process along, usually, an electric motor is used. However, some pumps may use different types of motors.

Special features of a dewatering pump include a robust and compact design, light weight for portability, high fluid capacity, and high abrasion resistance to enable the most efficient handling of muddy water and slurry.

Dewatering centrifugal pumps are also easy to operate and because they are usually installed above the source of water and a ground level site, they are also quite easy to access.

Today, there are dewatering centrifugal pumps available in the market that offer extremely high performance, durability and are very reliable. Many top brands are also providing quality maintenance services. Make sure to select one that offers hassle-free servicing of parts. This will minimize the possibility of downtime and ensure that your dewatering centrifugal pump continues to function at peak efficiency levels.

For more information on industrial pumps, motors, and other equipment, feel free to contact us at +91 98199 07445. We would be glad to assist you in finding the best match for you based on your requirements. VEMC is an authorized dealer of Kirloskar dewatering pumps and provides end-to-end project management services to its clients. We are ISO 9001:2015 certified and a pioneer in the field of electromechanical engineering products, allied equipment, and services. For inquiries, contact us at marketing@vemc.co.in.

What does it mean if your pump is self-priming?

In several applications that require liquid to be pumped, the pump must be kept above the level of liquid. This lets air into the line, which can often create issues like overheating and pump failure. To avoid this from happening, a self-priming pump is used to empty out the air before moving the fluids. 

A self-priming pump is like other centrifugal pumps but is built with an outer casing that contains the fluid being pumped. The rotation of the impeller in this casing creates an area with low pressure at the impeller’s eye. This causes the fluid, along with the air, to get pushed up into the pump through the line of suction. Through its motion, the self-priming pump causes the air to separate from the fluid and get released from the casing. When all of the air has escaped, the pump allows the fluid to flow. Thus, a self-priming pump essentially removes any air pockets from the fluid to ensure smooth delivery by the pump. 

The main difference between a self-priming pump and a regular centrifugal pump is that there is no need to physically prime the former type, as its extra in-built mechanism is designed to do just that.

Practical uses

A self-priming pump can be used for anything that requires a standard centrifugal pump. This can include pumping water, sewage waste or other industrial applications. 

It is important to choose the right kind of pump for the task at hand, as well as the correct sized pump that matches the flow and head. Then, a net positive suction head (NPSH) calculation must be conducted to make sure there is adequate atmospheric pressure to sustain the required flow. Lastly, the speed of the pump must be high enough to be able to prime itself. The size of its line of suction too must be selected carefully.

Advantages of a self-priming pump

Because self-priming pumps are installed above the fluid source, the infrastructure needed to set them up is relatively less. They are easy to access due to their ground-level location. Maintenance and repair too, are simpler to conduct on a self-priming pump than on a regular centrifugal pump.

Self-priming pumps can handle a variety of liquids as well as slurries and suspended solids. They are also ideal for frequent pumping operations, as the steps involving pump priming at the start are eliminated. As well, they use less power and time to run than other centrifugal pumps. Self-priming pumps are also safer to operate, as hoists or cranes are not required for their use.

Limitations of a self-priming pump

Self-priming pumps have a limited suction lift. There are limitations in the NPSH and fluid temperature and can cause a loss of friction in the line of suction.

For more information on industrial pumps, motors, and other equipment, contact VEMC on +91 98199 07445. We would be glad to provide customized support for your requirements. We are well-established industrial water pumps dealers in Mumbai who deliver end-to-end project management services to our clients. VEMC is ISO 9001:2015 certified and a pioneer in the field of electromechanical engineering products, allied equipment, and services. 

The Importance of Reading a Centrifugal Pump Curve

A centrifugal pump is used to transport fluids by converting rotational kinetic energy into hydrodynamic energy. It finds common applications across the food and beverage, dairy, and pharmaceutical processing industries. Reading a pump performance curve is important when choosing the pump that best fits your requirements.

A pump performance curve predicts the performance of a pump in terms of its flow and pressure head and being able to read it is imperative to a pump’s performance in the long term. Also, when selecting a centrifugal pump for a new application, you need to consider its composite curve so that its performance matches the one that is most suitable for the system. Generally, a composite curve consists of pump performance and horsepower curves, as well as the required NPSH (Net Positive Suction Head).

A centrifugal pump passes energy onto the fluid and possesses certain flow and head qualities. The pump needs to overcome a necessary level of pressure, and this is what determines where the performance point should be on the curve, and how much flow will be produced. The value of the pressure is inversely proportional to that of the flow. As pressure increases, flow decreases. This shifts the performance point to the left of the pump curve. Conversely, as pressure decreases, flow increases, and the point shifts to the right of the pump curve.

As a rule of thumb, when analyzing a pump curve for a new requirement, it is best to stay as close to the BEP (Best Efficiency Point) as possible. This is the operating point on the performance curve that shows the highest efficiency point for the pump’s impeller diameter. 

There are 8 main pieces of information that you will need to be able to identify on a centrifugal pump curve. They are as follows:

1. Title Box

This contains the pump model, size, speed, and other characteristics of the pump. 

2. Flow

The horizontal axis of the pump curve indicates the flow, so identify the amount needed from the pump.

3. Head

The vertical axis on the pump stands for the head. 

4. Impeller Trim

In some cases, performance points cannot be met with the maximum impeller size alone. This is why centrifugal pumps accommodate trimmed impellers. On the pump curve, the impeller diameters are to the left and the performance for each trim is represented as a bold line across it.

5. Horsepower

The horsepower is displayed as a dotted line across the pump curve.

6. NPSHR

Net Positive Suction Head Required (NPSHR) is the minimum amount of pressure on the suction side of the pump to overcome losses in pump entrance. (This is not to be confused with Net Positive Suction Head Available or NPSHA.)

7. Efficiency

On the pump curve, the efficiency is the ratio of energy delivered by the pump to the energy supplied to the pump. The higher the efficiency, the less energy required to operate for a specific performance point. Pump efficiency numbers of 60-80% are normal.

8. Minimum Flow

A centrifugal pump needs a minimum flow moving through the pump to dissipate the heat that is generated. On the left side of the curve, the minimum flow is indicated by a vertical bold line. Operating to the left of the minimum flow line is detrimental to the shelf life of the pump and is not advisable.

For more information on industrial pumps, motors, and other equipment, contact us on +919819907445. As leading industrial water pumps dealers in Mumbai, we would be happy to assist you in finding the best match based on your requirements. VEMC is ISO 9001:2015 certified and a pioneer in the field of electromechanical engineering products, allied equipment, and services.

How Does Water Pump Contribute As A Back-Bone For Industrial Sectors

All pumping equipment is intended for one purpose, and specifically, for pumping water. They can be used in communal systems, in industry, and even in everyday life. For example, you can bring the installation of a mechanism for pumping wastewater in private sewer systems. Industrial water pumps are more complex. It’s hard to imagine how, presently, the supply and pumping of water can be done without a centrifugal pump. After all, pumps play a crucial role in this process.

In the world pumps, there are various types like Vertical Inline Pumps, Multi Outlet Pumps, and Vertical Split Casing Pumps. This is since it is possible to supply water in different ways, and not only water can be supplied and pumped out, but also other liquids.

It is essential to choose the right pump, in particular when selecting water pumps. For example, centrifugal water pumps or external circulation pumps. The only question is which pump and why.

When choosing a water pump, you can be guided by many criteria, since the choice of products is large, but more important criteria that will prompt the right choice of pump can be:

– Scope

– Tasks that the pump must fulfil

The scope of pumps for water can be domestic and industrial. If water pumps are needed for an enterprise (production, non-production), institutions, or other similar fields, it is necessary to choose water pumps in the industrial category.

Centrifugal pumps are dynamic hydraulic machines and are characterized by low cost in contrast to other devices. The simplicity of design, reliability in operation have led to their wide distribution in various industries. The advantages include continuity of fluid supply, high efficiency and reliability, and ease of automation control. Industrial centrifugal pumps available in India are used in water supply, heat power engineering, chemical, and nuclear industry.

The necessary pressure is created in the pump due to the centrifugal force when the impeller rotates. Inside the housing, the impeller is rigidly mounted on the shaft. When the impeller rotates, a centrifugal force appears, and a vacuum appears in the central part, and pressure increases on the periphery. Therefore, the liquid is pushed into the pressure pipe. Most pumps are driven by an electric motor, which can be located in one housing with the pump unit. Such an electric centrifugal pump has compactness and high efficiency.

Centrifugal pump is divided into several types, depending on the number of stages, the flows flowing along with them, as well as the conditions for liquid drainage, drive method, shaft location, and purpose. For example, a surface centrifugal pump is used to organize water supply from open sources and is installed above the surface of the pumped liquid. The working chamber must be filled with liquid before starting.

To date, the market is simply clogged with pumping equipment. This gives a certain advantage for buyers who can choose for themselves. But you must have knowledge of how the pump is used and its maintenance. Furthermore, getting the ideal type of pump is essential.