Compact automatic self-priming vacuum unit engineered to prepare vertical centrifugal fire pumps for immediate operation in marine and industrial emergency firefighting systems. Designed for fast, reliable suction of the fire pump casing and outlet piping so the main fire pump can be started without delay.
Key features and performance
- Self-priming vacuum capacity: up to 80 m3/h
- Maximum suction lift: 8.5 m
- Applicable outlet/piping diameters: DN100 to DN450
- Typical discharge (priming) time: approximately 8–45 seconds depending on pipe diameter and system resistance
- Required supply for working (circulating) water: ≈1.5 m3/h at 0.2–0.5 kg (as supplied by the circulating tank or external source)
- Direction of rotation: clockwise (as marked)
- Suction port and inlet fitted with a filter screen to prevent foreign objects entering the vacuum pump
Installation and piping notes
- Can be mounted horizontally on the fire pump body or installed separately in-line with the fire pump outlet
- Connect the vacuum pump suction port to the fire pump outlet; fit a gate valve on the fire pump outlet for isolation
- Working water must be supplied from a circulating water tank (tank should be located higher than the vacuum pump) or from an external water source meeting the specified flow/pressure
- Ensure filter screens are installed on suction and inlet to protect the vacuum pump from debris
- Do not operate the vacuum pump without working water
Control and operation modes
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Manual start: press the start switch → contactor closes → vacuum pump runs → solenoid valve opens and priming begins. Once water is discharged from the vacuum pump outlet, start the main fire pump. Press the vacuum pump stop switch to stop the vacuum pump and close the solenoid valve.
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Automatic start: press the start button → contactor and solenoid energize and the vacuum pump runs. When the vent water flow switch detects priming flow, an intermediate relay actuates, the contactor and solenoid de-energize and the vacuum pump stops. A normally-open contact closure provides a passive start signal for the fire pump control box so the main fire pump can start automatically.
Benefits
- Rapid priming reduces main pump start delay in emergency situations
- Protects pump internals with inlet filtration
- Flexible mounting and piping allow integration into new systems or retrofit installations
- Manual and automatic control modes support local and remote / PLC-based fire pump control schemes
Safety and maintenance reminders
- Never run the vacuum pump dry; always confirm working water supply before starting
- Confirm rotation direction before commissioning
- Inspect inlet screens and clean regularly to avoid loss of suction performance
- Follow local codes and the fire pump control box manufacturer’s requirements when wiring control signals
Product Details
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