How is priming performed when drafting from a static source?

How is priming performed when drafting from a static source?

• A. Connect to the power supply and start the pump immediately.
• B. Pour water into the pump housing while it runs.
• C. Open the intake and hope water fills.
• D. Use a priming device to force water into the pump and suction line, remove air, and then open the intake to establish prime.

Answer: (D)

When drafting from a static source, the pump’s suction path must be filled with liquid and any trapped air removed so the pump can develop suction. A priming device is used to push water into the pump and up the suction line, displacing air in the housing and piping. Once the water fills the suction line and the pump, you open the intake to establish a continuous liquid column, and the pump can start drawing water normally. Starting a pump without this priming step leaves air in the suction, causing loss of suction or cavitation. Simply pouring water into the pump while it runs or hoping water will fill the suction by opening the intake won’t reliably purge air or fill the entire suction path. Using a priming device ensures the system is properly primed before operation, which is why this option is the best approach.

When drafting from a static source, the pump’s suction path must be filled with liquid and any trapped air removed so the pump can develop suction. A priming device is used to push water into the pump and up the suction line, displacing air in the housing and piping. Once the water fills the suction line and the pump, you open the intake to establish a continuous liquid column, and the pump can start drawing water normally.

Starting a pump without this priming step leaves air in the suction, causing loss of suction or cavitation. Simply pouring water into the pump while it runs or hoping water will fill the suction by opening the intake won’t reliably purge air or fill the entire suction path. Using a priming device ensures the system is properly primed before operation, which is why this option is the best approach.