Vacuum Priming Systems
PFS Pumps is a premier supplier of vacuum priming systems for municipal and industrial clients throughout Ontario. Our company specializes in both custom and manufactured priming system solutions and offers both installation and training.
What is a vacuum priming system?
Centrifugal and turbine pumps are important components of many industrial operations; however, they can run into trouble when the water source is below the pump. To keep pumps running efficiently in these situations, vacuum priming systems may be used. Components of priming systems include priming valves, pumps, air receivers, and control panels.
Priming systems may be configured in simplex or duplex designs and utilize either rotary vanes or liquid ring vacuum pumps in order to create the necessary suction. With a well-designed vacuum priming system in place, industrial operations may make use of more efficient and cost-effective technologies.
How priming systems work
From the priming system, a vacuum line must be installed through a priming valve for each centrifugal pump. When the priming system is started, it creates a vacuum that removes the air from the suction lines and pumps. As the vacuum increases, it raises the water level until each centrifugal pump is fully flooded. This will then be verified by a proof of prime switch located with the priming valve and annunciated at the control panel. Once this occurs, the pumps may be started at any time.
Where are priming systems needed?
Vacuum priming systems may be used in any application in which water needs to be lifted to a higher elevation. Some industries that utilize this technology include:
- Wastewater treatment plants
- Marine applications
- Siphon control systems
- Irrigation systems
- Steel mills
- Power plants
- Industrial applications
Why a vacuum priming system may be necessary:
Before a standard centrifugal pump can be used, it must first be filled with water – this is a process called priming. Priming is generally quite easy to pump when the water source is above the pump. When the water source is below the pump, however, it is another story. Although there are other technologies available to deal with this problem, most engineers agree that the most cost-effective and reliable solution is to use a priming system. This allows the pump to be started immediately without a lengthy delay.
Benefits of a vacuum priming system
Priming systems allow your centrifugal pumps to operate more effectively and can even extend their life. Benefits of priming systems include:
- Allow pumps to start up immediately
- Prevent pumps from becoming air-bound
- They can increase the efficiency of the pump by expelling trapped air from the pump volute
- One priming system may be used for multiple pumps
Why choose PFS Pumps for your vacuum priming systems
PFS Pumps offers a variety of solutions, both custom and pre-manufactured. We service facilities of all types and sizes across a wide range of industries. In addition to being a premier supplier of vacuum pump systems, PFS Pumps also offers installation, maintenance, and training for your team.
To learn more or to schedule a consultation so we can assess your needs, contact us today.
