Testing a backup pump results in the operating pump not producing sufficient flow
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Our unit is a solvent deasphalting plant. A few days ago, when we were testing the newly repaired feed pump, it failed to deliver the required flow rate; we’re not sure what the problem is Let me first briefly describe the process of heating the pump. We use the pump’s inlet line to feed oil in, while the waste oil is discharged through the outlet line. After two hours, the temperature of the pump body rises above 100°C; at that point, the pump’s inlet valve is slowly opened. Everything operates normally. However, after 20 minutes, the pump suddenly stopped delivering fluid as expected
Is there a filter on the inlet pipeline? If so, check the filter to rule out the possibility of it being clogged. When two pumps are turned on at the same time, flow competition can occur, especially when the main pipe is as thick as the inlet pipes of the two pumps. In such cases, it is necessary to reduce the flow rate of the pump that is currently in operation before starting the backup pump.
We didn’t turn on the outlet; the heating pump circuit and the connection wires are all off
It’s probably because the inlet pipe is too small or blocked
The inlet pipe blockage shouldn’t be an issue, as it worked properly before the pump was used. Our pump inlets are connected in series, which might be the cause of the problem
It might be clearer if the original poster draws a simple diagram of the process