FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is a vacuum priming system?

A vacuum priming system is an industrial vacuum system designed specifically for priming centrifugal water pumps. Major components include vacuum pumps, air receivers, priming valves, and control panels.  Priming systems are typically manufactured as simplex or duplex designs using rotary vane or liquid ring vacuum pumps. Fully automatic controls are typically used, however on-demand systems with manual controls are available.  A well designed priming system will ensure safe, long term performance and ease of maintenance.
 

Where are Priming Systems used?

Since introduction of the Q-VAC brand in the early 1990’s, Q-VAC Automatic Priming Systems have been installed in power plants, municipal water systems and wastewater treatment plants, industrial applications, irrigation systems, steel mills, marine applications, siphon control systems, water box priming, and other centrifugal pump priming applications.
 

Why do you need a priming system?

Before any centrifugal pump can operate, it must first be primed; that is, air or gases must be expelled from the suction and impeller area, and replaced with liquid. This is not a problem when the pump is submerged (i.e. submersible or vertical sump pumps) or when the liquid supply is above the pump. However, when suction pressure is negative, air must be evacuated to accomplish pump priming.

What are the Benefits of Priming Systems?

1. Ensures that every pump connected to it is primed and fully flooded.  Only one priming system is needed to prime multiple pumps.

2. Allows the use of less expensive pumps  

3. Increases pump efficiency  

4. Ensures that pumps don't become airbound or lose their prime
    

How is a pump primed?

1. A pressure differential is created in the suction piping.

2. As air from the system is removed, water is drawn up the suction line.

3. When the water level reaches the priming valve, located above each pump, the valve will automatically close.

4. A water level control switch then provides a signal that the pump is primed.