Flowserve FPS 14 - Manual (Page 7)

Troubleshooting
PROBLEM – Pump will not fill or is slow to fill
1. Are all of the isolation valves open?
Check the isolation valves on the pump inlet and vent. If these are closed, open the valves and
check for proper pump operation. Check all strainer screens for obstruction. Clean the strainers
if necessary and check for proper pump operation.
2. Is there sufficient clearance?
The clearance is the distance between the base of the pump
and the bottom of the equipment to be drained. The FPS 14
and FPS 23 require a minimum clearance of 36” to fill properly.
Verify the clearance, lower the pump or raise the equipment if
there is insufficient clearance. Consult GESTRA if this is not
possible.
3. Are the check valves installed in the proper direction?
Make sure the flow arrows on both of the check valves are in the same direction and match the
flow arrow on the pump tank. If the check valves are installed incorrectly, reinstall properly and
check for proper pump operation.
4. Are the check valves working properly?
There are two possible problems:
a.) The inlet check valve is stuck closed.
b.) The outlet check valve is stuck open.
i.) If the inlet check valve is stuck closed, condensate will not be able to fill the tank.
To check the inlet check valve it must be removed from the line.
ii.) If the outlet check valve is stuck open, the condensate from the down stream side
will re-enter the pump tank. To verify this, close the outlet isolation valve. If the
pump begins to fill properly the outlet check valve could be stuck partially or
completely open.
If there appears to be a check valve problem, remove them from the pump. Check for any
debris or foreign matter blocking the check valve. Make sure that the check valve disc is not
canted or cocked. Push the disc with your finger, it should move freely and return to the closed
position. You will feel some resistance from the check valve spring when pushing the disc.
If the check valve(s) are good reinstall them and check for proper pump operation.
If the check valve(s) are damaged they must be replaced or repaired.
5. Is the pump cycling?
Listen to the pump. During the proper operation of the pump, each complete cycle should be
noted by two (2) audible sounds. If a Gauge Glass is installed, check to see if the liquid level is
rising and falling. A Cycle Counter or Pressure Gauge will also indicate whether or not the
pump is cycling.
NOTE: If the condensate load is very low when the pump is being check, it would not be
unusual to have to wait for several minutes to verify proper pump operation.
If it is determined that the pump is not cycling, the mechanism must be removed from the tank
and inspected. See MAINTENANCE Instructions.