ABSTRACT
The specific instructions given by each manufacturer should be reviewed before any operation, and where contrary to this general treatment, they are to prevail. Observe pump operation during start-up and make any necessary “settling in” adjustments, such as seal adjustment. Once it has been established that the pump is ready to run, start the driver in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. If the driver is variable speed, bring it up to the minimum operating speed; see specific instructions for the pump. When the pump has been started with its discharge valve shut, open the valve and establish flow to the system. Loss of suction can result from quenching a saturated suction vessel, inadequate suction line venting, or running with too low a liquid level in the suction vessel. All these cause a cessation of pumping by way of vapor or gas binding.
