Real World Considerations for

Pump Design, Operation and

Maintenance

Steve Truitt, PE

Design Considerations

Operation

Troubleshooting

Maintenance and Op Staff involvement in design meetings

Piping design and Pipe Supports

Gauges!

Pressure and vacuum switches for PD pumps

Pulsation dampeners

Suction piping and suction lift applications

Independently support piping

Install valves on suction and discharge side for maintenance

If using mechanical joint couplings (Victaulic), must be rigid cut

Suction piping as short as possible

Use check valves when multiple pumps discharge to common header

Piping design

Penn Valley Pump Co., Inc.

Penn Valley Pump Co., Inc.

.

Poor piping design

On both suction and discharge sides of pump

Gauges provide diagnostic tools to troubleshoot pumping problems

Recommended for both suction and discharge sides of all PD pumps

Prevents pump damage due to blocked lines or inadvertent closed valve

Mounts to top of dampeners, clear of process liquid to improve gauge and switch life

.

• SS316 Body w/ EPDM Sleeve

•Adjustable Vacuum/Pressure Switches

•4” SS Gauge

•Glycercin fill for smooth gauge movement

•SS316 Fittings and Ball Valve

•Quick release air-fitting for easy dampener re-charging

Helpful for all PD pumps

Reduces vibrations and pulsations in piping

Can be used on suction

and discharge

Suction piping as short as possible

NPSH

Cavitation – reduced flow, knocking/gravel, pump damage

Suction lift

Pumps create low pressure

Vacuum tight valves

Straight, vertical pipe runs are best

Preventative Maintenance

Listen

Touch

Teach

Tools

Pressure and Vacuum Gauges

Tachometer

Vibration Meter

Amp/Voltage Meter

Infrared Thermometer

Common causes of pumping issues

The pump

Hydraulic issues

Controls

Lowest life cycle cost PD sludge pump

Primary, scum, WAS transfer, digester recirculation, thickening/dewatering feed, industrial

100% manufactured in U.S. for over 35 years

Self-priming, Self-valving (No ball check valves)

Pumps run dry indefinitely without damage

No packing/mechanical seals (No seal water!!)

Minimal routine maintenance required (no oil/grease, no traditional seals)

.

Thank You. Questions?

Steve Truitt, PE