Table Of Content
Understanding Priming Requirements for Centrifugal Pumps
- Understanding priming
- Different priming methods
- Selecting the appropriate priming method
- Troubleshooting common priming issues
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
- 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.
- 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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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:
- 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.
- 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.