Goulds Pumps 3700 Installation, Operation And Maintenance Manual page 60

Commissioning, Startup, Operation, and Shutdown
NOTICE:
• Vary the capacity with the regulating valve in the discharge line. Never throttle the flow
from the suction side. This action can result in decreased performance, unexpected heat
generation, and equipment damage.
• Risk of equipment damage on pure or purge-oil mist-lubricated units. Remove the viewing
port plugs to verify that oil mist is flowing properly. Reinstall the plugs after confirming.
• Risk of equipment damage from unexpected heat generation. Do not overload the driver.
Ensure that the pump operating conditions are suitable for the driver. The driver can
overload in these circumstances:
• The specific gravity or viscosity of the fluid is greater than expected
• The pumped fluid exceeds the rated flow rate.
• Make sure to operate the pump at or near the rated conditions. Failure to do so can result
in pump damage from cavitation or recirculation.
• Make sure the oil level has remained steady by checking the oiler.
• Check the bearing temperatures using a pyrometer or other temperature-measuring
device. Monitor the bearing temperature frequently during initial operation in order to
determine if a bearing problem exists, as well as to establish normal bearing operating
temperature.
• For pumps with auxiliary piping, make sure that proper flows have been established and
that the equipment is operating properly.
• Establish baseline vibration readings in order to determine normal running conditions. If
the unit is running roughly, then consult the factory.
• Monitor all gauges to ensure that the pump is running at or near rating and that the suction
screen (when used) is not clogged.
Operation at reduced capacity
WARNING:
• Risk of breach of containment and equipment damage. Excessive vibration levels can
cause damage to bearings, stuffing box, seal chamber, and/or mechanical seal. Observe
pump for vibration levels, bearing temperature, and excessive noise. If normal levels are
exceeded, shut down and resolve.
• Risk of explosion and serious physical injury. Do not operate pump with blocked system
piping or with suction or discharge valves closed. This can result in rapid heating and
vaporization of pumpage.
• Risk of equipment damage and serious physical injury. Heat build-up can cause rotating
parts to score or seize. Observe pump for excessive heat build-up. If normal levels are
exceeded, shut down and resolve.
NOTICE:
Cavitation can cause damage to the internal surfaces of the pump. Ensure net positive suction
head available (NPSH
performance curve of the pump.
Operation under freezing conditions
NOTICE:
Do not expose an idle pump to freezing conditions. Drain all liquid that is inside the pump and
any auxiliary equipment. Failure to do so can cause liquid to freeze and damage the pump.
58 Model 3700, API Type OH2 / ISO 13709 1st and 2nd Ed. / API 610 8/9/10/11th Ed. Installation, Operation, and Maintenance
) always exceeds NPSH required (NPSH
A
) as shown on the published
3
Manual