Submersible vertical axial flow pumps are essential equipment in various industries, including agriculture, wastewater treatment, and flood control. These pumps are designed to efficiently move large volumes of water or other fluids while operating fully submerged. Proper operation of these pumps is crucial for ensuring their longevity, efficiency, and safety. 

Safety Precautions

Before operating a submersible vertical axial flow pump, it is paramount to prioritize safety. These pumps often handle large volumes of water and operate with high-powered electrical systems, making safety measures crucial for both personnel and equipment protection.

First and foremost, ensure that all personnel involved in the operation and maintenance of the pump are properly trained and familiar with the specific model and its safety requirements. This includes understanding the pump's electrical systems, mechanical components, and potential hazards associated with its operation.

When working with electrical components, always follow proper lockout/tagout procedures. Before any maintenance or inspection, disconnect the power supply and verify that it is properly isolated. Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as insulated gloves, safety glasses, and non-slip footwear when working around the pump or its electrical systems.

Be aware of the pump's weight and size during installation or removal. Use proper lifting equipment and techniques to prevent injuries or damage to the pump. Never lift the pump by its power cable, as this can cause damage and create electrical hazards.

When the pump is in operation, maintain a safe distance to avoid entanglement with moving parts or exposure to electrical components. Ensure that all safety guards and covers are in place and properly secured before starting the pump.

Installation

Proper installation of a submersible vertical axial flow pump is crucial for its optimal performance and longevity. The installation process requires careful planning and execution to ensure the pump operates efficiently and safely in its intended environment.

Begin by thoroughly reviewing the manufacturer's installation guidelines and specifications. These will provide critical information about the pump's dimensions, weight, electrical requirements, and recommended installation configurations.

Site preparation is the first step in the installation process. Ensure that the installation site can accommodate the pump's size and weight. The foundation or support structure must be sturdy enough to handle the pump's operational loads and vibrations. In many cases, a concrete base is recommended for stability.

When positioning the pump, consider factors such as the minimum water level required for operation, the maximum submergence depth, and accessibility for maintenance. The pump should be installed at a depth that ensures it remains submerged during operation, even at the lowest expected water level. However, it should not exceed the maximum submergence depth specified by the manufacturer to prevent damage to the motor or electrical components.

Priming

Priming is a crucial step in the operation of many pumps, ensuring that the pump is filled with fluid and ready to operate efficiently. However, one of the significant advantages of submersible vertical axial flow pumps is that they typically do not require manual priming when properly installed.

The submersible design of these pumps means that under normal operating conditions, they are already submerged in the fluid they are pumping. This submergence naturally fills the pump casing and impeller with water, effectively "priming" the pump automatically.

However, it's important to note that while manual priming is not typically necessary, there are still some considerations related to the pump's fluid-filled state that operators should be aware of:

First, ensure that the pump is fully submerged before starting. The minimum submergence level specified by the manufacturer must be maintained to prevent air from entering the pump, which could lead to cavitation and reduced efficiency.

If the pump has been out of the water for maintenance or any other reason, it's crucial to allow sufficient time for it to become fully submerged before starting. This ensures that all air pockets are displaced and the pump is filled with water.

Starting the Pump

Starting a submersible vertical axial flow pump correctly is crucial for ensuring its efficient operation and longevity. While these pumps are designed for submerged operation, which simplifies the starting process compared to surface-mounted pumps, there are still important steps to follow.

Before initiating the start-up sequence, conduct a final pre-start check. Verify that the pump is fully submerged and that the water level is above the minimum submergence level specified by the manufacturer. Ensure all valves in the discharge line are open to allow for proper water flow.

Check the power supply to ensure it matches the pump's requirements. Verify that all electrical connections are secure and properly insulated. If the pump is equipped with thermal overload protection or other safety devices, confirm that these are properly set and functional.

For pumps with level control systems, such as float switches, ensure these are free to move and are set at the correct levels. Clear the area around the pump of any debris that could interfere with the operation of these control systems.

When you're ready to start the pump, begin by energizing the electrical system. Many modern submersible pumps are equipped with soft starters or variable frequency drives (VFDs) that provide a gradual increase in motor speed. If your pump has such a system, follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper start-up using these devices.

For pumps without soft start capabilities, the start-up process typically involves direct online starting. In this case, the pump will start at full speed. Be prepared for an initial surge of current as the motor comes up to speed.

Monitoring Operation

Once your submersible vertical axial flow pump is up and running, consistent monitoring is crucial to ensure optimal performance, efficiency, and longevity. Proper monitoring allows for early detection of potential issues and helps maintain the pump's operational efficiency.

Start by establishing a regular monitoring schedule. The frequency of checks will depend on the criticality of the pump's function, the operating environment, and the manufacturer's recommendations. In many cases, daily checks are advisable, with more comprehensive inspections performed weekly or monthly.

During routine checks, pay attention to the pump's performance parameters. Monitor the flow rate and discharge pressure, comparing them to the pump's design specifications. Significant deviations from the expected values could indicate problems such as wear, blockages, or changes in the system conditions.

Submersible vertical axial flow pump supplier

Tianjin Kairun's commitment to quality extends beyond the point of sale, with a robust after-sales service program designed to support customers throughout the life of their pumps. This includes detailed operating instructions, technical support for installation and operation, guidance on monitoring procedures to maintain optimal performance, and prompt assistance with any issues that may arise.

Interested parties are encouraged to reach out to the company at catherine@kairunpump.com for more information on their product offerings, operating instructions, and how they can meet specific pumping needs. With their focus on quality, performance, and customer support, Tianjin Kairun is well-positioned to provide submersible vertical axial flow pumps that excel in a wide range of applications, backed by the expertise and support necessary for optimal operation and maintenance.

References:

1. Karassik, I. J., Messina, J. P., Cooper, P., & Heald, C. C. (2008). Pump Handbook (4th ed.). McGraw-Hill Education.

2. Gülich, J. F. (2014). Centrifugal Pumps (3rd ed.). Springer.

3. Tuzson, J. (2000). Centrifugal Pump Design. John Wiley & Sons.