To achieve optimal performance and longevity, installing a horizontal axial flow pump requires careful planning and execution. From site preparation to startup, the following guidelines will help you install a horizontal axial flow pump smoothly. By following these steps, you will be able to improve pumping efficiency and ensure a smooth installation.

Site Preparation

Before installing a horizontal axial flow pump, site preparation is the first priority. The site needs to be thoroughly cleaned to remove any debris that may interfere with installation. Next, the stability and flatness of the foundation should be carefully verified to ensure that it can safely support the combined weight of the pump and motor. In the case of poor foundation conditions, a concrete foundation must be built around the pump, at least six inches larger than the pump. In order to provide adequate support for the pump and reduce vibration, the foundation must be designed to bear at least 1.5 times the weight of the pump.

At the same time, there should be enough space around the pump for operation and maintenance, ensuring that all sides of the pump can be easily reached, especially parts that require regular maintenance or inspection. If the pump will be operated in a confined space, good ventilation must be ensured. In addition, the area must be equipped with adequate lighting to facilitate installation work and future maintenance work.

Positioning The Pump

Once the site is ready, the next step is to position the pump. The pump needs to be carefully moved to the foundation with the help of suitable lifting equipment. When handling and placing, follow the manufacturer's instructions and pay attention to lifting points and weight distribution to avoid damaging the pump.

Make sure the motor shaft is parallel to the horizontal axial flow pump shaft. Use a ruler, laser tool or feeler gauge for precise alignment. Proper alignment is essential to the operation of the pump and to avoid premature wear of bearings and seals. Please take the time to complete this step, even a small misalignment can cause problems later.

Connect The Pipes

You can now connect the suction and discharge pipes with the pump in place. It is essential to use pipes that are the right size and made of the material that the pump manufacturer specifies. Oversized pipes may result in excessive costs and unnecessary weight, while undersized pipes may cause cavitation and decrease pump efficiency.

To prevent vibration and allow for thermal expansion, install flexible connectors on the pump's suction and discharge sides. Make sure the pipes are supported properly and don't put too much stress on the pump flanges. Make connections that won't leak by using gaskets and the right bolts. Install valves on both the suction and discharge sides if necessary to make flow control and maintenance easier.

Mount The Pump

Anchor bolts are used to fasten the horizontal axial flow pump to the foundation. The quantity and size of the bolts ought to be in line with the specifications provided by the manufacturer. Using a spirit level placed on the shaft and casing, check the pump's level prior to tightening the bolts. Shims can be used to adjust the level if necessary. Once level, evenly tighten the anchor bolts to prevent the pump casing from being distorted.

Recheck the alignment of the pump and motor shafts after mounting. It is essential to verify and, if necessary, adjust because the mounting process may have caused slight shifts. You will avoid future problems if you align correctly at this stage.

Connect The Motor

It's time to connect the motor now that the pump is securely mounted. Mount the motor now to ensure perfect alignment with the pump shaft if it wasn't already mounted on the baseplate. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for gap and alignment when connecting the coupling to the pump and motor shafts.

Next, make the connections to the motor's electrical components. To comply with local electrical codes and safety standards, it is strongly recommended that an experienced electrician complete this step. The motor's voltage and frequency requirements must match the power supply. At the same time, install all necessary controls, such as soft starters or variable frequency drives, as required by the system design.

Priming the pump is the process of filling the horizontal axial flow pump with the liquid to be pumped before starting it.Open the pump's priming port and slowly add the working fluid to the pump until it overflows. Dry running, which can cause severe damage to the pump's internal components, must be prevented by taking this step.

Opening the suction valve and allowing the liquid to naturally fill the pump may be enough to prime a system with a positive suction head.If the pump is placed above a liquid source, it may need to be primed with the aid of a vacuum pump or other priming method recommended by the manufacturer.

To prime the pump, follow these steps:

First, prime the pump by starting the motor. During this process, watch for any unusual sounds, which may indicate a problem with the installation or alignment. The pump should run smoothly with no noticeable vibration.

Carefully check the pipes and pump body to confirm that there are no leaks. Pay special attention to all seals and connections. If a leak is found, shut down the pump immediately and restart it only after the problem is solved.

Also pay attention to the discharge pressure and flow rate to ensure that they meet the system requirements. If necessary, adjust the valve to optimize the working state. Let the pump run for several minutes, during which time closely monitor its performance and pay attention to any abnormal behavior or overheating.

Horizontal Axial Flow Pump Manufacturers

Tianjin Kairun Pumps offers installation and commissioning services to ensure your pump is set up correctly from the start. If you are selecting a horizontal axial flow pump manufacturer for expert guidance and support, please consider contacting Tianjin Kairun at catherine@kairunpump.com.

References

1. Hydraulic Institute. (2021). "Pump Installation and Operation Manual."

2. Karassik, I. J., et al. (2008). "Pump Handbook." McGraw-Hill Education.

3. Lobanoff, V. S., & Ross, R. R. (2013). "Centrifugal Pumps: Design and Application." Elsevier.