Page 1
PUBLICATION NUMBER OM--05146
August 7, 2000
VGH SERIES PUMPS
THE GORMAN-RUPP COMPANY D MANSFIELD, OHIO
GORMAN-RUPP OF CANADA LIMITED D ST. THOMAS, ONTARIO, CANADA Printed in U.S.A.
eCopyright by the Go rman-Rupp Company
Page 2
OM--05146 VGH SERIES
INTRODUCTION
Thank You for purchasing a Gorman-Rupp Self-
Priming Centrifugal Pump. Read this manual
carefully to learn how to safely install and operate
your pump. Failure to do so could result in personal
injury or damage to the pump.
A set of three manuals accompanies your pump.
Each set consists of three parts; the
Operation Manual
on installing and operating the pumps. However,
since pump installations are seldom identical,
some of the information only summarizes general
recommendations and practices required to inspect, position, and arrange the pump and piping.
The Parts List Manual
curve(s), a pump model cross-section drawing,
and parts list for your pump.
The Maintenance and Repair Manual
troubleshooting and maintenance instructions required to properly diagnose operational problems,
and to service the pump components.
Because pump installations are seldom identical,
this manual cannot possibly provide detailed in-
contains essential information
provides performance
Installation/
provides
structions and precautions for every aspect of
each specific application. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the owner/installer of the pump to
ensure that applications not addressed in this
manual are performed only after establishing that
neither operator safety nor pump integrity are compromised by the installation. Pumps and related
equipment must be installed and operated ac-
cording to all national, local and industry standards.
If there are any questions regarding the pump
which are not covered in this manual or in other literature accompanying the unit, please contact
your Gorman-Rupp distributor or the GormanRupp Company:
The Gorman-Rupp Company
P.O. Box 1217
Mansfield, Ohio 44901--1217
or:
Gorman-Rupp of Canada Limited
70 Burwell Road
St. Thomas, Ontario N5P 3R7
CONTENTS
SAFETY -- SECTION A
INSTALLATION -- SECTION B
GENERAL INFORMATION PAGE B --- 1.....................................................
PREINSTALLATION INSPECTION PAGE B --- 1...............................................
P O S I T I O N I N G P U M P PA G E B --- 1..........................................................
SUCTION AND DISCHARGE PIPING PAGE B --- 2............................................
AUTOMATIC AIR RELEASE VALVE PAGE B --- 5..............................................
ALIGNMENT PA G E B --- 7.................................................................
ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS PAGE B --- 9..................................................
OPERATION -- SECTION C
PRIMING PA G E C --- 1....................................................................
STARTING PA G E C --- 1...................................................................
OPERATION PA G E C --- 2.................................................................
STOPPING PA G E C --- 3...................................................................
BEARING TEMPERATURE CHECK PAGE C --- 4.............................................
LUBRICATION PA G E C --- 4................................................................
INTRODUCTION
PAGE I -- 1
Page 3
OM--05146VGH SERIES
RECORDING MODEL AND
WARRANTY INFORMATION
SERIAL NUMBERS
The warranty provided with your pump is part of
Please record the pump model and serial number
in the spaces provided below. Your Gorman-Rupp
distributor needs this information when you require
parts or service.
Pump Model:
Serial Number:
The following are used to alert personnel to procedures which require special attention, to those which
could damage equipment, and to those which could be dangerous to personnel:
Immediate hazards which WILL result in
severe personal injury or death. These
instructions describe the procedure required and the injury which will result
from failure to follow the procedure.
Gorman-Rupp’s support program for customers
who operate and maintain their equipment as described in this and the other accompanying literature. Please note that should the equipment be
abused or modified to change its performance beyond the original factory specifications, the warranty will become void and any claim will be denied.
Hazards or unsafe practices whichCOULD
result in minor personal injury or productor
property damage. These instructions describe the requirements and the p ossible
damage which could result from failure to
follow the procedure.
Hazards or unsafe practices which
COULD result in severe personal injury
or death. These instructions describe
the procedure required and the injury
which could result from failure to follow
the procedure.
NOTE
Instructions to aid in installation, operation, and
maintenance or which clarify a procedure.
PAGE I -- 2
INTRODUCTION
Page 4
VGH SERIES
OM--05146
SAFETY - SECTION A
This information applies to the VGH Series Basic Pumps. These pumps are ba sic, pedestal -mounted model and may
be driven by either an electric motor,
gasoline or diesel engine. Refer to the
manual accompanying the power
source before attempting to begin operation.
This manual will alert personnel to
known procedures which require special attention, to those which could
damage equipment, and to those which
could be dangerous to personnel. However, thismanual cannot possibly antici pate and provide detailed instructions
and precautions for every situation that
might occur during maintenance of the
unit. Therefore, it is the responsibility of
the owner/maintenance personnel to
ensure that only safe, established maintenance procedures are used, and that
any procedures not addressed in this
manual are performed only after establishing that neither personal safety nor
pump integ rity are compromised by
such practices.
In addition to this manual, see the separate literature covering maintenance
and repair, pump parts, and any optional
equipment shipped with the pump.
4. Check the temperature before
opening any covers, plates, or
plugs.
5. Close the suction and discharge
valves.
6. Vent the pump slowly and cautiously.
7. Drain the pump.
Do not attempt to pump any liqui d s the
pump has not been designed for, and
which may damage the pump or endanger personnel as a result of pump failure. Consult the factory to determine
compatibilitybetween the pump and liquid.
Use lifting and moving equipment in
good repair and with adequate capacity
to prevent injuries to personnel or damage to equipment. Suction and discharge hoses and piping must be re moved from the pump before lifting.
Before attempting to open or service the
pump:
1. Familiarize yourself with this manual.
2. Disconnect or lock out the power
source and take necessary precautions to en sure that the pump
will remain inoperative.
3. Allow the pump to completely cool
if overheated.
After the pump has been positioned,
make c ertain that the pump and all piping or hose connections are tight, prop erly supported and secure before operation.
Do not operate the pump against a
closed discharge valve for long periods
oftime.Ifoperatedagainstacloseddischarge valve, pump components will
deteriorate, and the liquid could come
PAGE A -- 1SAFETY
Page 5
VGH SERIESOM--05146
to a boil, build pressure, and cause the
pump casing to rupture or e xplode.
Do not remove plates, covers, gauges,
pipe plugs, or fittings from an overheated pump. Vapor pressure within the
pump can cause parts being disengaged to be ejected with great force. Allow the pump to cool before servicing.
Never run this pump backwards. Be certain that rotation is correct before fully
engaging the pump.
tools, causing severe injury to personnel.
If the pump is powered by an electric
motor, do not operate a non-explosion
proof motor in an explosive atmosphere. An explosion, which may cause
severe personal injury or death, could
result. Install, connect and operate the
motor in accordance with the National
Electric Code and all local codes. If
there is a c onflict between the instructions in the manual accompanying the
unit and the National Elec tric Code or
applicable local code, the National or
Local code shall take precedence. All
electrical equipment supplied with the
pump conforms to applicable federal
regulations and national codes in effect
on the date of manufacture.
If the p ump i s used to pump m aterials
which c ould cause serious illness or in jury through di rect exposure or emitted
fumes, wear protective clothing, such
as rubber gloves, face mask, and rubber
apron, as necessary before disassembling the pump or piping.
Do not operate the pump without
shields and/or guards in place over the
drive shafts, belts, and/or couplings, or
other rotating parts. Exposed rotating
parts can catch clothing, fingers, or
If the pump is electric motor driven, the
electrical power used t o operate the
pump is high enough to cause injury or
death. Obtain the services of a qualified
electrician to trouble shoot, test and/or
service the electrical components of
this pu mp.
Pumps and related equipment must be installed and operated according to all national, local and industry standards.
PAGE A -- 2
SAFETY
Page 6
VGH SERIES OM --05146
INSTALLATION --- SECTION B
Review all SAFETY information in Section A.
Since pump installations are seldom identical, this
section offers only general recommendations and
practices required to inspect, position, and ar range the pump and piping.
Most of the information pertains to a standard
static lift application where the pump is positioned
above the free level of liquid to be pumped.
If installed in a flooded suction application where
the liquid is supplied to the pump under pressure,
some of the information such as mounting, line
configuration, and priming must be tailored to the
specific application. Since the pressure supplied
to the pump is critical to performance and safety,
be sure to limit the incoming pressure to 50% of the
maximum permissible operating pressure as
shown on the pump performance curve (see Parts
List Manual).
For further assistance, contact your Gorman-Rupp
distributor or the Gorman-Rupp Company.
c. Carefully read all tags, decals, and markings
on the pump assembly, and perform all duties
indicated. Note that the pump shaft rotates in
the required direction.
d. Check levels and lubricate as necessary. Re-
fer to LUBRICATION in the MAINTENANCE
AND REPAIR section of this manual and any
other literature accompanying the unit and
perform duties as instructed.
e. If the pump and power s ource have been
stored for more than 12 months, some of the
components or lubricants may have exceeded their maximum shelf life. These must
be inspected or replaced to ensure maximum pump service.
If the maximum shelf life has been exceeded, or if
anything appears to be abnormal, contact your
Gorman-Rupp distributor or the factory to determine the repair or updating policy. Do not put the
pump into service until appropriate action has
been taken.
Pump Dimensions
See the individual pump specification data sheet
for the approximate physical dimensions of the
pump.
PREINSTALLATION INSPECTION
The pump assembly was inspected and tested before shipment from the factory. Before installation,
inspect the pump for damage which may have occurred during shipment. Check as follows:
a. Inspect the pump and power source (if so
equipped) for cracks, dents, damaged
threads, and other obvious damage.
b. Check for and tighten loose attaching hard-
ware. Since gaskets tend to shrink after drying, check for loose hardware at mating surfaces.
POSITIONING PUMP
Lifting
Use lifting equipment with a capacity of at least 5
times the weight of the pump, not including the
weight of accessories, or optionalequipment. Customer installed equipment such as suction and discharge pipingmust be removed before attempting
to lift.
Thepumpassemblycanbeseriously
damaged if the chains or cables used to lift
and move the unit are improperly wrapped
around the pump.
See the individual pump specification data sheet
for the approximate weight of the pump.
PAGE B -- 1INSTALLATION
Page 7
OM--05146 VGH SERIES
Mounting
Locate th e pump in an accessible place as close as
practical to the liquid being pumped. Level mount ing is essential for proper operation.
The pump may have to be supported or shimmed
to provide for level operation or to eliminate vibration.
SUCTION AND DISCHARGE PIPING
Pump performance is adversely effected by increased suction lift, discharge elevation, and friction losses. See t he performance curve in the Parts
List manual to be sure your overall application allows the pump to operate within the safe operation
range.
Materials
Either pipe or hose maybe used for suction and
discharge lines; however, the materials must be
compatible with the liquid being pumped. If hose is
used in suction lines, it must be the rigid-wall, reinforced type to prevent collapse under suction. Using piping couplings in suction lines is not recommended.
Line Configuration
Keep suction a nd discharge lines as straight as
possible to minimize friction losses. Make minimum use of elbows and fittings, w hich substantially increase friction loss. If elbows are necessary,
use the long-radius type to minimize friction loss.
Connections to Pump
Before tightening a connecting flange, align it exactly with the pump port. Never pull a pipe line into
place by tightening the flange bolts and/or couplings.
Gauges
Most pumps are drilled and tapped for installing
discharge pressure and vacuum suction gauges. If
these gauges are desired for pumps that are not
tapped, drill a nd tap the suction a nd discharge
lines not less than 18 inches (457,2 mm) from the
suction and discharge ports and install the lines.
Installation closer to the pump may result in erratic
readings.
SUCTION LINES
To avoid air pockets which could affect pump priming, the suction line must be as short and direct as
possible. When operation involves a suction lift, the
line must always slope upward to the pump from
the source of the liquid being pumped; if the line
slopes down to the pump at any point along the
suction run, air pockets will be created.
Fittings
Suction lines should be the same size as the pump
inlet. If reducers are used in suction lines, they
should be the eccentric type, and should be installed with the flat part of the reducers uppermost
to avoid creating air pockets. Valves are not normally used in suction lines, but if a valve is used,
install it with the stem horizontal to avoid air pockets.
Strainers
If a strainer is furnished with the pump, be certain
to use it; any spherical solids which pass through a
strainer furnished with the pump will also pass
through the pump itself.
If a strainer is not furnished with the pump, but is
installed by the pump user, make certain that the
total area of the openings in the strainer is at least
three or four times the cross section of the suction
line, and that the openings will not permit passage
of solids larger than the solids handling capability
of the pump.
Lines near the pump must be independently supported to avoid strain on the pump which could
cause excessive vibration, decreased bearing life,
and increased shaft and seal wear. If hose-type
lines are used, they should have adequate support
to secure them when filled with liquid and under
pressure.
PAGE B -- 2 INSTALLATION
Refer to the Specification Data sheet for the spherical solids handling capability of your specific pump
model.
Sealing
Since even a slight leak will affect priming, head,
and capacity, especially when operating with a
Page 8
VGH SERIES OM --05146
high suction lift, all connections in the suction line
should be sealed with pipe dope to ensure an airtight seal. Follow the sealant manufacturer’s recommendations when selecting and applying the
pipe dope. The pipe dope should be compatible
with the liquid being pumped.
Suction Lines In Sumps
If a single suction line is installed in a sump, it
should be positioned away from the wall of the
sump at a distance equal to 1-1/2 times the diameter of the suction line.
If there is a liquid flow from an open pipe into the
sump, the flow should be kept away from the suction inlet because the inflow will carry air down into
the sump, and air entering the suction line will reduce pump efficiency.
If it is necessary to position inflow close to the suction inlet, install a baffle between the inflow and the
suction inlet at a distance 1-1/2 times the diameter
of the suction pipe. The baffle will allow entrained
air to escape from the liquid before it is drawn into
the suction inlet.
If two suction lines are installed in a single sump,
the flow paths may interact, reducing the efficiency
of one or both pumps. To avoid this, position the
suction inlets so that they are separated by a distance equal to at least 3 times the diameter of the
suction pipe.
Suction Line Positioning
The depth of submergence of the suction line is
critical to efficient pump operation. Figure 1 shows
recommended minimum submergence vs. veloc-
ity.
NOTE
The pipe submergence required may be reduced
by installing a standard pipe increaser fitting at the
end of the suction line. The larger opening size will
reduce the inlet velocity. Calculate the required
submergence using the following formula based
on the increased opening size (area or diameter).
Figure B-1. Recommended Minimum Suction Line Submergence vs. Velocity
PAGE B -- 3INSTALLATION
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OM--05146 VGH SERIES
DISCHARGE LINES
Siphoning
Do not terminate the discharge line at a level lower
than that of the liquid being pumped unless a siphon breaker is used in the line. Otherwise, a siphoning action causing damage to the pump
could result.
Val ves
If a throttling valve is desired in the discharge line,
useavalveaslargeasthelargestpipetominimize
friction losses. Never install a throttling valve in a
suction line.
A check valve in t he discharge line is normally recommended, but it is not necessary in low discharge head applications.
With high discharge heads, it is recommendedthat
a throttling valve and a system check valve be installed in the discharge line to protect the pump
from excessive shock pressure and reverse rotation when it is stopped.
If the application involves a high discharge
head, gradually close the discharge
throttling valve before stopping the pump.
LUBRICATION
FILL ONLY
THROUGH
CONSTANT
LEVEL OILER
DO NOT FILL
THROUGH
VENT PLUG
Figure B --2. Lubricating Bearing Cavity
Do not fill the bearing cavity through the vent plug
in the top of the housing. This will result in over-filling, and can cause leakage, excessive heat build
up and/or premature bearing failure.
Check the oil level regularly through the constant
leveloilerandaddoilasrequired.
Seal Assembly
The seal assembly is lubricated by the medium being pumped and no additional lubrication is required.
ALIGNMENT
The alignment of the pump and its power source is
critical for trouble-free mechanical operation. In
either a flexible coupling or V-belt driven system,
the driver and pump must be mounted so that their
shafts are aligned with and parallel to each other. It
is imperative that alignment be checked after the
pump and piping are installed, and before operation.
NOTE
Check Rotation, Section C, before final alignment
of the pump.
Bearings
The bearing housing was not lubricated when
shipped f rom the factory. To lubricate the bearing
cavity, fill the constant level oiler as shown in Figure
B--- 2, then close the oiler and allow t he oil to drain
into the bearing cavity. Repeat this procedure until
oil no longer drains from the constant level oiler.
PAGE B -- 4 INSTALLATION
When mounted at the Gorman-Rupp factory, driver
andpumparealignedbeforeshipment.Misalignment will occur in transit and handling. Pumps
must be checked and realigned before operation.
Before checking alignment, tighten the foundation
bolts. The pump casing feet and/or pedestal feet,
and the driver mounting bolts should also be tightly
secured.
Page 10
VGH SERIES OM --05146
ARA
A
V
When checking alignment, disconnect
the power source to en sure that the
pump will remain inoperative.
Adjusting the alignment in one direction
may alter the alignment in another direction. check each procedure after altering
alignment.
Coupled Drives
When using couplings, the axis of the power
source must be aligned to the axis of the pump
shaft in both the horizontal and vertical planes.
Most couplings require a specific gap or clearance
between the driving and the driven shafts. Refer to
the coupling manufacturer’s service literature.
Align spider insert type couplings by using calipers
to measure the dimensions on the circumference
of the outer ends of the coupling hub every 90_ de grees. The coupling is in alignment when the hub
ends are the same distance apart at all points (see
Figure B-3).
Figure B-4. Aligning Non-Spider Type Couplings
Check paralleladjustment by laying a straightedge
across both coupling rims at the top, bottom, and
side. When the straightedge rests evenly on both
halves of the coupling, the coupling is in horizontal
parallel alignment. If the coupling is misaligned,
use a feeler gauge between the coupling and the
straightedge to measure the amount of misalignment.
V-Belt Drives
When using V-belt drives, the power source and
the pump must be parallel. Use a straightedge
along the sides of the pulleys to ensure that the pulleys are properly aligned (see Figure B-5). In drive
systems using two or more belts, make certain that
the belts are a matched set; unmatched sets will
cause accelerated belt wear.
Figure B -3. Aligning Spider-Type Couplings
MISALIGNED:
SHAFTS
NOT P
LLEL
MISALIGNED:
SHAFTS
NOT IN LINE
ALIGNED: SHAF TS
PARALLEL AND
SHE
ES IN LINE
Figure B-5. Alignment of V-Belt Driven Pumps
Align non-spider type couplings by using a feeler
gauge or taper gauge between the couplinghalves
every 90_. The coupling is in alignment when the
hubs are the same distance apart at all points (see
Figure B-4).
Tighten the belts in accordance with the belt manufacturer’s instructions. If t he belts are too loose,
they will slip; if the belts are too tight, there w ill be
excessive power loss and possible bearing failure.
PAGE B -- 5INSTALLATION
Page 11
OM--05146 VGH SERIES
Select pulleys that will match the proper speed ratio; overspeeding the pump may damage both
pump and power source.
The electrical power used to operate the
pump is high enough to cause injury or
death. Obtain the services of a qualified
electrician to make all electrical con -
Do not operate the pump without the
nections.
guard in place over the rotating parts.
exposed rotating parts can catch clothing, fingers, or tools, causing severe injury to personnel.
If the pump is powered by an electric
motor, do not operate a non-explosion
ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS
proof motor in an explosive atmo-
sphere. An explosion, which may cause
Ifthepumpisdrivenbyanelectricmotor, check
that the electrical service available matches the
motor requirements stamped on the motor nameplate before connecting a motor to the incoming
power. Check that the motor speed meets pump
specifications.
severe personal injury or death, could
result. Install, connect and operate the
motor in accordance with the National
Electric Code and all local codes. If
there is a c onflict between the instruc-
tions in the manual accompanying the
unit and the National Elec tric Code or
If rotation is incorrect on a three -phase motor, have
a qualified electrician interchange any two of the
three phase w ires to change direction. If rotation is
incorrect on a single-phase motor, consult the literature supplied with the motor for specific instructions.
applicable local code, the National or
Local code shall take precedence. All
electrical equipment supplied with the
pump conforms to applicable federal
regulations and national codes in effect
on the date of manufacture.
PAGE B -- 6 INSTALLATION
Page 12
VGH SERIES
OM--05146
OPERATION --- SECTION C
Review all SAFETY information in Section A.
Follow the instructions on all tags, labels and decals attached to the pump.
Do not attempt to pump any liqui d s the
pump has not been designed for, and
which may damage the pump or endanger personnel as a result of pump failure.
Pump speed and operating conditions
must be within the performance range
shownonthecurveinPartsListsmanual.
Refer to the pump Specification Data Sheet or the
accompanying Parts List Manual for the specific
performance for your pump.
priming device, close the discharge throttling
valve. (Installation of a spring-loaded check valve
is also recommended to facilitate priming.) Once
the pump is fully primed, close the valve between
the priming device and pump to preserve the
prime. Start the pump and open the discharge
valve slowly to fill the discharge line. When installed
in a flooded suction application, simply open the
system valves and permit the incoming liquid to
evacuate the air. After the pump and piping system
have completely filled, evacuate any remaining air
pockets in the pump or suction line.
Never operate the pump unless there is liq-
uid in the pump casing. The pump will not
prime when dry. Extended operation of a
dry pump will destroy the seal assembly.
PRIMING
After filling the pump casing, reinstall
and tighten the fill plug. Do not attempt
Install the pump and piping as described in INSTALLATION. Make sure that the piping connec-
tions are tight, and that the pump is securely
mounted. Check that the pump is properly lubricated (see LUBRICATION in the MAINTENANCE
AND REPAIR manual).
This is not a self-priming pump, so an external
priming device must be used if the pump is installed on a suction lift. A foot valve may be installed at the end of the suction pipe to maintain the
prime; however, this may adversely affect pump
performance due to friction loss. Many standard
centrifugal models are equipped with a hand-operated vacuum pump, exhaust primer, or ejector for
this purpose. If a priming device was not furnished
with the pump, it may be ordered from the factory
as an option. Before attempting to operate the
OPERATION PAGE C -- 1
to operate the pump unless all connect-
ing piping is securely installed. Other-
wise, liquid in the pump forced out
under pressure could c ause injury to
personnel.
Hand Primers
Hand-operated primers are usually mounted on
the pump a nd, w hen operated, draw air out of the
suction line and pump casing. To prime a pump
with a hand vacuum pump, open t he cock on the
pump priming line. Operate the hand pump until
liquid flows out of the check valve on the bottom of
the primer pump. Once the pump is primed, close
the valve located between the primer and the
pump so that the prime will not be lost.
Page 13
Vacuum Pumps
VGH SERIESOM --05146
HANDLE
DRAIN
COCK
Figure C-1. Hand Primer Assembly
Exhaust Primers
Engine driven pumps normally take advantage of
the engine exhaust gases by usingthem to operate
an exhaust primer. The exhaust is directed through
a venturi which creates a vacuum in the pump casing in order to fill the suction line and pump casing
with liquid. To prime a pump using an exhaust
primer, open the gas cock in the priming line and
engage the exhaust primer until liquid is thrown out
of the ejector nozzle.
Air can be exhausted to prime a pump by using a
vacuum pump. Either a wet t ype or a dry type vac-
uum pump may be used; however, a wet type is
preferred since it will not be damaged if liquid en-
ters it. If a dry vacuum pump is used, provisions
must be made to keep liquid from entering it.
STARTING
Starting procedures will vary slightly depending on
the pump application, type of priming device, and
type of drive. Consult the operations manual fur -
nished with the power source.
Rotation
The correct direction of pump rotation is indicated
by an arrow on the pump body or accompanying
decals. If t he pump is operated in the wrong direc-
tion, the impeller could become loosened from the
shaft and seriously damage the pump.
HANDLE
GAS
COCK
Figure C-2. Exhaust Primer Assembly
Air can be exhausted to prime a pump by using a
vacuum pump. Either a wet t ype or a dry type vacuum pump may be used; however, a wet type is
preferred since it will not be damaged if liquid enters it. If a dry vacuum pump is used, provisions
must be made to keep liquid from entering it.
Auxiliary Ejectors
Ejectors function much like exhaust primers. They
maybeoperatedbysteam,compressedair,water
or exhaust gases. To prime a pump using an ejector, open the gas cock in the priming line and operate the ejector until liquid is thrown out the ejector
nozzle.
The pump must operate in the direction in-
dicated by the arrow on the pump, or ac-
companying decals. Reverse rotation
could loosen the impeller and seriously
damage the pump.
If the pump is driven by an electric motor, consult
the operating manual furnished with the motor be -
fore attempting to start the motor.
If rotation is incorrect on a three -phase motor, have
a qualified electrician interchange any two of the
three phase w ires to change direction. If rotation is
incorrect on a single-phase motor, consult the lit-
erature supplied with the motor for specific instruc-
tions.
OPERATION
Pump speed and operatingpoints must be
within the continuous performance range
OPERATIONPAGE C -- 2
Page 14
VGH SERIES
OM--05146
shownonthepumpcurve.(SeetheParts
List Manual accompanying the pump.)
Leakage
No leakage should be visible at pump mating surfaces, or at pump connections or fittings. Keep all
line connections and fittings tight to maintain maximum pump efficiency.
Liquid Temperature And Overheating
Refer to the Specification Data sheet for the maximum liquid temperature for your specific pump.
Do not apply the pump at a higher operating temperature.
Overheating can occur if operated with the valves
in the suction or discharge lines closed. Operating
against closed valves could bring the liquid to a
boil, build pressure, and cause the pump to rupture or explode. If overheating occurs, stop the
pump and allow it to cool before servicing it. Refill
the pump casing with cool liquid.
be replaced at each overhaul, or any time the
pump casing overheats and activates the valve.
Never replace this valve with a substitute which
has not been specified or provided by the Gorman-
Rupp Company.
Strainer Check
If a suction strainer has been shipped with the
pump or installed by the user, check the strainer
regularly, and clean it as necessary. The strainer
should also be checked if pump flow rate begins to
drop. If a vacuum suction gauge has been in-
stalled, monitor and record the readings regularly
to detect strainer blockage.
Never introduce air or steam pressure into the
pump casing or piping to remove a blockage. This
could result in personal injury or damage to the
equipment. If backflushing is absolutely neces-
sary, liquid pressure must be limited to 50% of the
maximum permissible operating pressure shown
on the pump performance curve.
Pump Vacuum Check
Allow an over-heated pump to completely cool before servicing. Do not remove plates, covers, gauges, or fittings
from an over-heated pump. Liquid within the pump can reach boiling temperatures, and vapor pressure within the
pump can cause parts being disengaged to be ejected with great force. After the pump cools
, drain the liquid from
the pump by removing the casing drain
plug. Use caution when removing the
plug to prevent injury to personnel from
hot li quid.
If overheating does occur, stop the pump immediately and allow it to cool before servicing it. Ap-
proach any o verheated pump cautiously.
With the pump inoperative, install a vacuum gauge
in the system, using pipe dope on the threads.
Block the suction line and start the pump. At operating speed the pump should pull a vacuum of 20
inches (508 mm) or more of mercury. If it does not,
check for air leaks in the seal, gasket, or discharge
valve.
Open the suction line, and read the vacuum gauge
with the pump primed and at operation speed.
Shut off the pump. The vacuum gauge reading will
immediately drop proportionate to static suction
lift, and should then stabilize.If the vacuum reading
falls off rapidly after stabilization, an air leak exists.
Before checking for the source of the leak, check
the point of installation of the vacuum gauge.
Operational Checks
Check the pump for proper operation when it is first
started and periodically thereafter to identify minor
problems.
As a safeguard against rupture or explosion due to
heat, some pumps are equipped with a pressure
relief valve which will open if vapor pressure within
the pump casing reaches a critical point. It is recommended that the pressure relief valve assembly
OPERATION PAGE C -- 3
Check t he pump for unusual noises or excessive
vibration while it is operating. If noise or vibration is
excessive, stop the pump and refer to Troubl e -
shooting in the Maintenance And Repair Manual
for possible causes.
Page 15
To avoid serious damage to the pump,
check for unusual noises or excessive vibration while the pump is running. If noise
or vibration is excessive, stop operation
and refer to the troubleshooting chart in the
Maintenance and Repair manual.
STOPPING
VGH SERIESOM --05146
BEARING TEMPERATURE CHECK
Bearings normally run at higher than ambient temperatures because of heat generated by friction.
Temperatures up to 160_F(71_ C) are considered
normal for bearings, and they can operate safely to
at least 180_F(82_ C).
Checking bearing temperatures by hand is inaccurate. Bearing temperatures can be measured accurately by placing a contact-type thermometer
against the housing. Record this temperature for
future reference.
Never halt the flow of liquid suddenly. If the liquid
being pumped is stopped abruptly, damaging
shock waves can be transmitted to the pump and
piping system. Close all connecting valves slowly.
On engine driven pumps, reduce the throttle
speed slowly and allow the engine to idle briefly before stopping.
If the application involves a high discharge
head, gradually close the discharge
throttling valve before stopping the pump.
After stopping the pump, lock out or disconnect
the power source to ensure that the pump will remain inoperative.
Cold Weather Preservation
In below freezing conditions, drain the pump to
prevent damage from freezing. Also, clean out any
solids by flushing with a hose. Operate the pump
for approximately one minute; this will remove any
remaining liquid that could freeze the pump rotating parts. If the pump will be idle for more than a
few hours, or if it has been pumping liquids containing a large amount of solids, drain the pump,
and flush it thoroughly with clean water. To prevent
large solids from clogging the drain port and preventing the pump from completely draining, insert
a rod or stiff wire in t he drain port, and agitate the
liquid during the draining process. Clean out any
remaining solids by flushing with a hose.
A sudden increase in bearing temperature is a
warning that the bearings are at the point of failing
to operate properly. Mak e certain that the bearing
lubricant is of the proper viscosity and at the correct level (see LUBRICATION in the Maintenance
And Repair manual). Bearing overheating can
also be caused by shaft misalignment and/or excessive vibration.
When pumps are first started, the bearings may
seem to run at temperatures above normal. Continued operation should bring the temperatures
down to normal levels.
LUBRICATION
Do not remove plates, covers, gauges,
pipe plugs or fittings from an overheated pump. Vapor pressure within the
pump can cause parts being disengaged to be ejected with great force. Allow the pump to completely cool before
servicing.
On a new pump, check the oil level in the bearing
cavity before initial startup, after the first two weeks
of operation, and every month thereafter.
Before installing or removing a lubrication plug, a lways clean the area around the plug to prevent
contamination.
Self Lubricated Seal Assembly
The self lubricated seal assembly is lubricated by
the medium being pumped, or by a flow of fresh liq-
OPERATIONPAGE C -- 4
Page 16
VGH SERIES
OM--05146
uid from an external source. Flushing liquid may
be taken from the pump discharge and supplied
through auxiliary piping.
When handling abrasive or tacky liquids, supply
fresh lubricating liquid from an external source. Be
sure the liquid supplied to the seal is compatible
with the liquid being pumped, and that its flow is
controlled to prevent dilution. Consult the factory if
flushing is required.
Bearings
Bearing housings are fully lubricated when
shipped from the factory. Check the constant level
oiler regularly and keep it full of oil. When lubrication is required, flip the transparent oiler cup open
and fill it with SAE No. 30 non-detergent
Under normal conditions, drain the bearing housing once each year and refill with clean oil. Change
the oil more frequently if the pump is operated con-
oil.
tinuously or installed in an environment with rapid
temperature change.
Monitor the condition of the bearing lubricant regularly for evidence of rust or moisture condensation. This is especially important in areas where variable hot and
cold temperatures are common.
For cold weather operation, consult the factory or a
lubricant supplier for the recommended grade of
oil.
Power Source
Consult the literature supplied with the power
source, or contact your local power source representative.
OPERATION PAGE C -- 5
Page 17
For U.S. and International Warranty Information,
Please Visit www.grpumps.com/warranty
or call:
U.S.: 419−755−1280
International: +1−419−755−1352
For Canadian Warranty Information,
Please Visit www.grcanada.com/warranty
or call:
519−631−2870
THE GORMAN-RUPP COMPANY D MANSFIELD, OHIO
GORMAN-RUPP OF CANADA LIMITED D ST. THOMAS, ONTARIO, CANADA
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