Self-priming pumps can be said to be a major innovation in the pump industry. It can be used in a variety of fields. For example: corrosive liquid environments such as petroleum and chemicals. However, many friends have a question when using corrosion-resistant self-priming pumps: Should a bottom valve be installed at the bottom of the pipeline?
Next, South Pump Industry will take you to learn more about self-priming pumps and whether a bottom valve is needed. In addition, we will also introduce you to the selection, installation and maintenance of self-priming pumps.
what is self-priming pump
Self-priming pumps for emergency are very practical equipment and are widely used in many industries. They can automatically pump liquids. Even if there is gas in the liquid, it can easily handle it. When working, the fluid in the pump head circulates continuously. A vacuum environment is cleverly created. The air in the suction pipe is smoothly emptied. Let the liquid flow smoothly to the impeller.
Take the common external mixing centrifugal self-priming pump as an example. The impeller rotates and the liquid flows to the volute. The one-way valve opens and the suction process is completed in one go. When using it for the first time, be sure to fill the pump chamber with water. Otherwise, it will run idle, which is very easy to burn the mechanical seal and affect normal use.
Does the self-priming pump need to install a foot value?
In the process of using a self-priming positive displacement pump, many people will struggle with a question: Should I install a bottom valve for it? Generally speaking, there is really no need to install a bottom valve specifically. The design of the self-priming pump has been carefully considered. The check valve equipped at its inlet plays a key role. It can effectively prevent the liquid in the pump body from flowing back to the original pool. When we use the self-priming centrifugal pumps for the second time, there is no need to refill the liquid in a time-consuming and laborious manner. It is extremely convenient to operate.
However, this does not mean that installing a bottom valve is useless. If the self-priming pump’s built-in one-way valve fails. For example, it is worn and aged after long-term use. Then it leads to poor sealing and cannot function normally to prevent backflow. The bottom valve can “fill the position” in time. Therefore, installing a bottom valve can prevent the pump body from idling due to liquid backflow. It effectively ensures the stable operation of the self-priming pump.
There are also some special usage scenarios where it is recommended to install a bottom valve. For example, the liquid that the pumps with self-priming needs to pump is far away from the pump body. The suction height is too large. Or the suction pipe diameter is too large, far exceeding the conventional standard. In this case, the self-priming pump’s lifespan is difficult to work properly based on its own design. At this time, installing a bottom valve is like injecting it with a dose of “heart booster”. It can ensure that the compressed air self-priming pump completes the self-priming process safely and quickly. Finally, the suction work is smoothly promoted.
Especially for some small corrosion-resistant self-priming pumps. Their own structure is relatively simple. Usually they do not have a complete one-way valve device like a large pump. Small self-priming pumps mainly rely on the vacuum generated instantly in the pump body to achieve the self-priming effect. Therefore, installing a bottom valve on a small self-priming pump can improve the suction effect of the pump. Let its work efficiency be greatly improved and better meet various suction needs.
How to choose a self-priming pump
It is critical to choose a good self-priming pump! On the one hand, you have to pay attention to the pump itself, such as the size of solid particles, so that the impeller cannot be blocked. In addition, the fluid viscosity determines the pump speed, which must be adapted to the needs.
On the other hand, you need to pay attention to the use environment. For example, the starting distance covers the pipe accessories, whether the water level fluctuates, the starting time, the power type, etc. Comprehensive considerations can choose the right self-priming pump. Of course, you can also contact us directly. Our professional team will help you choose a self-priming centrifugal pump suitable for your project.
How to install a self-priming pump
You need to be more careful when installing a self-priming electric pump! Before starting, be sure to fill the shell with liquid through the oil suction port. Also check carefully whether there is any air leakage in the suction pipeline? Is the discharge pipeline unobstructed?
Then, we need to place the self-priming motor pump on the concrete foundation. Then use isolation pads to level and tighten the bolts. Large pumps need to have pre-embedded bolts on the foundation in advance, but small pumps don’t have to be so troublesome.
In addition, the dust cover of the inlet and outlet of the easy self-priming pump must be removed. Then you need to install regulating valves and pressure gauges on the inlet and outlet pipes. Finally, remember to “move” the pump shaft. This is done to allow the pump cavity to enter and exhaust liquid to ensure normal operation.
How to maintain a self-priming pump?
Maintenance of a self-priming pump is essential.
- Check the impeller regularly. It is prone to dirt, wear and sediment. Cleaning the dirt in time can ensure efficiency.
- Pay close attention to the seals and gaskets. Once leaks or seepage are found, deal with them immediately. Ultimately prevent self-priming failure.
- Carefully check the pump housing, suction pipe and air pipe for cracks and looseness. This can eliminate the hidden danger of air leakage.
- Clean the filter regularly to avoid clogging by impurities. At the same time, lubricate the bearings on time according to the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure stable operation of the pump.
South Pump’s series of self-priming pumps stand out. There is no need to install a foot valve without special circumstances. In addition, they adopt armored volute, this unique design protects the main housing from wear and high-speed solid impact. And our vacuum-assisted pumps can handle corrosive liquids such as hydrochloric acid and sulfuric acid. And they can serve you for many years. Please contact our experts for more information or to solve any problems, and start your project journey with us!