Pump Start-up

In industrial applications, the operators are provided with approved procedures. In many cases many pumps which may look similar may be different in some unique ways. For example, a pump may have an additional drain on its casing. Therefore it is important to take time to learn the approved procedures and follow them.

For training purposes, we are providing some key pieces of information for starting up of large centrifugal pumps.

Start-up Procedure

a. Open the suction and close the discharge valve.

b. Prime the pump, using any of the methods provided in earlier sections.

c. Bleed air out of the casing by using the air bleed connection (provided at the top of the volute). Close the air bleed line after all of the air has been released.

d. Check lubrication to ensure all components are properly lubricated.

e. Start the pump motor.

f. Slowly open the discharge valve. Listen carefully to pump sounds. In the beginning rough turbulent sound is expected. After a few seconds the pump should settle down to its normal sound.

g. Check the discharge side to see if water is flowing through. If not, repeat the start up procedure.

h. Open the air bleed line to remove air from top of the pump. Close it after air has been bled off.

i. Inspect the pump to see if everything seems OK. Bearings should be slightly hot to touch. Overheating of bearings indicates mechanical problems. Vibration should be at normal level. Suction and discharge side pressure should be at normal level.