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Priming: Suction Supply Below Pump 4
The figure provided here illustrates a suction lift configuration. In this configuration, a foot valve is provided at the bottom of the suction line. A "foot valve" is a type of check valve - it allows water to flow in one direction only - into the suction piping.
Here's the procedure to prime a pump in this situation.
a. Check to ensure the system is ready for startup (lubrication is OK, etc.). Close the discharge valve.
b. Notice in this case, for priming purposes, an ejector is used. The ejector is supplied with compressed air, steam or water under pressure. The flow of high speed fluid in the ejector creates vacuum inside the ejector body. Keep valve S closed and open valve E. Now slowly open valve S. This will cause water to be sucked into the pump's body from the suction side of the pump.
c. When the pump's body is filled with water, close the valve S, and then close valve E.
d. Start the main pump and open the discharge valve slowly.
Note: This is a general procedure provided here for basic training purposes only. At your work site you must use authorized procedures provided to you by your supervisor.