3.2.19 Washing pumps

Washing pumps

Washing pumps are pumps for washing purposes e.g. car washing. There are off-the-shelf sets available on the market. Normal data is usually; volume flow rate approx. 40 litres/min With pressure boosting up to approx 1.5 MPa, equivalent to a delivery head of approx. 150 m. The pump section normally comprises of an electrically driven multi-stage turbine pump. To avoid operation while the fluid flow is shut-off, which would cause overheating of the pump, a so-called minimum flow sensor is included in the set. This monitors the fluid flow through the system and prevents the pump from operating in the event of too small a flow of water. A typical type of washing pump is shown in figure 3.219a.

Figure 3.219a.

 

  1. Shut-off valve. Required for servicing of pump and equipment.
  2. Filter With cleaning plug. Prevents contaminants from entering the minimum flow sensors.
  3. Minimum flow sensor. Starts and stops the pump automatically. Connects With single-phase Cable to the motor safety switch. The pump must operate With a supply pressure where the sensor is fitted.
  4. Non-return valve. Prevents water from flowing back into the pipe.
  5. Vacuum valve is activated in the event of the water supply pipe failing to supply the quantity of water required by the pump.
  6. Motor safety switch. Switches off electric current to the motor and triggers alarm signal in the event of a fault arising. Must always be used when a minimum flow sensor is fitted.
  7. Pressure gauge. Fitted to pump’s delivery flange.
  8. Solenoid valve. Damp-resistant. Opened and closed by coin slot
  9. Valve. Equipped with handle and hose connection.
  10. High pressure hose. If the delivery pipeline is long, a larger diameter should be chosen in order to reduce the pressure drop in the pipeline.
  11. Wash gun. Completely rubber covered with shut-off and regulating facilities. Can be adjusted between hard impact jet and fine spray.
  12. Coin slotmeter. For self-service vending. Can be set to time in minutes. Coin setting as required.