Regarding the starting issue of vortex pumps
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The manufacturer’s instructions state that before starting a vortex pump, the inlet and outlet valves should be fully opened. However, I believe that a vortex pump is essentially equivalent to a multi-stage centrifugal pump, and in that case the outlet valve should be closed when starting the pump. What are everyone’s opinions on this? How do you drive it?
I also believe that a vortex pump is equivalent to a centrifugal pump; before starting the pump, it is necessary to prime the pump to ensure that there is no gas inside it~
Preparation: 1. Clean the pump and the installation site. 2. The rotation direction of the test pump should be consistent with the pump’s rotation arrow. Generally, the pump is prohibited from operating in reverse and running dry. When wiring the motor, test-run it briefly, but the operating time must not exceed 3 minutes. 3. Open the inlet valve fully. The pump is used in suction mode; it should be primed or evacuated before starting. The pump is used in reverse flow conditions; before starting, it must be filled with the liquid to be pumped. After removing the air from the pump, close the valve on the outlet pipeline. 4. Turn the pump shaft by hand 3–5 times to fill the pump with liquid. 5. Check whether all parts are functioning properly. Start-up 1: Turn off the inlet and outlet pressure (or vacuum) gauges. If there is a bypass pipe, it should also be closed at this time. 2. Quickly open the outlet pipeline valve while starting the motor. Then, turn on the inlet and outlet pressure (or vacuum) gauge. Adjust the outlet valve to the pump’s operating pressure (flow rate). Note that with the outlet valve fully closed, the pump shall not operate continuously for more than 2 minutes. I hope this helps you.
Starting a vortex pump is different from starting a centrifugal pump; when starting a centrifugal pump, the outlet valve must be closed completely, at which point the motor current of the centrifugal pump is at its lowest. When starting a vortex pump, all the outlet valves are opened; at this time, the motor current of the vortex pump is at its minimum. Compare the flow-power curves of the pumps in these two manuals and it will be clear.