This Is How It Works; Major Autopump Features - QED AutoPump AP-3 Operation Manual

AP-3 Manual

This is How it Works

The AutoPump is a submersible compressed air-driven pump which fills and empties
automatically. It also controls the fluid level in a well automatically. The pump fills (see
Figure 1) when fluids enter either the top or bottom check valve. Air in the pump chamber
exits through the exhaust valve as the fluid fills the pump. The float inside the pump is carried
upwards by the fluid rising inside the casing until it pushes against a stop on the control rod,
forcing the valve mechanism to switch to the discharge mode.
The switching of the valve causes the exhaust valve to close and the air inlet valve to open.
This causes the pump to empty (see Figure 3) by allowing compressed air to enter the pump.
This pressure on the fluid closes the inlet check valve and forces the fluid up the discharge
tube and out of the pump through the outlet check valve. As the fluid level falls in the
pump, the float moves downwards until it pushes against the lower stop on the control rod,
forcing the valve mechanism to switch to the fill mode. The outlet check valve closes and
prevents discharged fluids from re-entering the pump. The filling and discharging of the pump
continues automatically.
Note: The figures shown here are simplified schematics.

Major AutoPump Features

• The AutoPump System is small and lightweight and can be easily moved from site to site,
allowing quick response to changing conditions.
• The hoses are color coded and all the fittings are different so only the proper connections
can be made.
• Rugged construction ensures long system life, even under harsh conditions.
• The entire system is pneumatically powered with no electrical components, thus avoiding
sparks in control power and sensing devices.
• Durable stainless steel air valves that can pass liquids as viscous as 90 weight gear oil
without fouling. The air valves can handle reverse flow and submersion for long periods
of time. Unlike pumps with bubblers or bleed lines, there are no problems with start up,
clogging, and failure under these difficult conditions when using the AP-3. This results in
less downtime and lower training, maintenance, and repair costs.
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