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What’s suction lift – and what to expect from a Husky AODD pump?
A major benefit of a Husky Air Operated Double Diaphragm pump is that it can run dry for a limited time
A pump layout in which the source of liquid is below the pump is called a suction lift configuration. In other words, in a suction lift configuration, a pump takes suction from a source of liquid located below the pump’s center line.
A feature of most pumps, whether they are gear pumps, progressive cavity pumps, hose pumps or piston pumps, is that they must be primed prior to operation, and must not be allowed to run dry. However, once a pump and the suction piping leading to the pump are primed, it is possible for that pump to provide suction lift, and lift liquid from a point below the pump as it operates.
Pumps that are correctly installed and operated within their design parameters can be expected to provide long trouble-free service of ten years or more, unless on very arduous duties. Should a problem be encountered, mostly they can be traced back to suction issues. More specifically, to a pump that has been incorrectly primed, or is failing to self-prime. Pumps are capable of evacuating (pumping) a modest amount of air from the suction side of the pump to the discharge side of the pump. Filling the inlet system with fluid or at least filling the pump (wetted pumping elements) will make a major improvement in the pump’s priming capability.
The advantages of self-priming
Standard pumps can also be applied in a suction lift configuration. However, if they are, a priming mechanism must be used to evacuate air out of the suction piping and pump casing prior to energizing the pumps. This is where an air-operated diaphragm (AODD) pump like the Graco Husky comes into its own, as it’s a self-priming pump. Self-priming pumps are designed with a large reservoir that remains full even when the pump is not in operation. When the Husky pump begins to operate, air is drawn out of the suction piping and pushed out of the discharge. Once all air has been drawn out of the suction piping the pump begins to produce flow.
The clear benefit of an AODD pump therefore is that it can run dry for a limited time and the casing does not have to be filled to start the pump.
The versatility of AODD pumps
In a variety of applications across a number of industries, AODD pumps provide reliable, high performance pumping. They have come to be known as the “work horse” of industry, when it comes to handling and transferring fluids at relatively low flows and pressures. Above ground or below ground, on land or on sea, in normal or extreme conditions, the versatility of AODD pumps ensures that processes keep moving.
Key to safe and reliable operation of an AODD pump is correct configuration. This involves taking fluid characteristics into consideration, such as pH levels, abrasiveness, temperature and fluid density. Also important is to check chemical compatibility: manufacturers often provide guides on their websites to ensure pump materials are suitable for the fluid being transferred. These same websites often feature online pump selector tools to assist in configuring a pump in a matter of minutes and with a few clicks of the mouse.
Graco can help you choose the optimum AODD pump
Graco provides a wealth of information and tools to help you decide which AODD pump to select for each specific application. For example, Graco’s detailed Materials of Construction Guide outlines all the materials commonly used in the manufacture of AODD pumps, along with their temperature range and an indication of price. It indicates whether each material is suitable for mild chemicals, aggressive chemicals, high temperatures and abrasives.
Graco also provides pump performance charts to help you determine what the air consumption will be at a certain fluid pressure and flow, as well as an online diaphragm pump selector tool at www.graco.com/husky. For specific questions, fill in the below form.
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