In 1955, Wilden® revolutionized the pumping industry by inventing the air-operated double-diaphragm (AODD) pumping technology. Since then, Wilden has provided a comprehensive line of safe, reliable and energy-efficient AODD pumps designed for critical pumping applications in the general industrial, paint and coatings, oil and gas, chemical process, water and wastewater, hygienic, mining, ceramics, and military and marine markets.
With the following guide on how to properly install AODD pumps, Wilden continues its legacy of not only providing innovative pumping AODD technology but also offering unparalleled customer service and the knowledge needed to help operators ensure their pumps perform the way they were designed to – simply, reliably and efficiently.
Let's get started.
1. Inspect Packaging
Prior to beginning the installation of your Wilden AODD pump, inspect the package for any visual transit damage that may have affected the pump and be sure to review the cautions and warnings on your pump’s manual, which can be found in our Download Library.
2. Install Fastener and Muffler
Tighten all the fasteners according to the torque specifications in the pump’s manual and then install the muffler to ensure reduced sound levels. After the fasteners and muffler are secured, move on to the pump’s piping.
3. Install Piping
All piping should be reinforced, non-collapsible, capable of a high vacuum surface, and supported independently of the pump.
Ideally, install the pump with the shortest pipe lengths and the minimum number of pipes. Fittings should be no smaller than the connection size of the pump.
When pumping liquids of higher viscosity, larger piping should be used to reduce pipe friction losses. Use flexible hoses or connections between the pump and rigid piping, as it can assist in minimizing pump vibration.
Take into account that all pumps can pass solids. Use a strainer at the pump intake to ensure that the pump's rated solids capacity is not exceeded. Note: Periodically inspect the strainer for clogs, as this can affect the pump's performance and increase wear damage to the diaphragm.
4. Choose the Installation Type
After setting up the piping, select the ideal installation type for the pump, whether it’s the suction lift, flooded suction or submersible. Additionally, keep in mind that it’s ideal for pumps to be installed in accessible locations to allow for easy maintenance in the future, regardless of the specific application.
For suction lift installation, install the pump above the fluid line to ensure that the dry suction lift capability of the pump exceeds the height difference. Note: Be sure to take the specific gravity of fluid into account.
If choosing a flooded suction installation, install the pump below the fluid line. A valve needs to be installed between the pump inlet and tank to protect the pump from the inlet fluid pressure exceeding 10 PSIG.
Finally, if selecting a submersible installation, when the pump is installed inside a tank or fluid, ensure air exhaust is piped to the atmosphere prior to a submerged installation.
Once you have selected the installation type for your pump, it’s time to install the airline.
5. Install Airline
Every pump location should have an airline large enough to supply the volume of air necessary to achieve the desired pumping rate. Air should be dry and free from debris to prevent damaging the pump’s air valve.
For best results, the installation should use a 5-micron air filter, air valve and pressure regulator. The air filter will ensure that potential pipeline contaminants will be eliminated. Note: Some of Wilden specialty pumps have a different maximum operating pressure. Be sure to refer to your pump’s manual to take note of the maximum operating pressure. Do not exceed the pump’s maximum operating pressure.
After installing the airline, you can move on to installing the surge dampeners and pressure gauges.
6. Install the Surge Dampener & Pressure Gauge
For applications where pulsation needs to be reduced, a surge dampener is recommended. The surge dampener should be installed on the discharge side to help provide a smoother discharge flow. This function is critical in applications that need to minimize system vibrations to protect and enhance the accuracy of downstream instrumentation. It also extends equipment life by reducing the load on the pump. Mounting feet can also be used to reduce vibration.
Pressure gauges should be installed on the inlet or suction side of the pump and the outlet or discharge side to confirm pressure. These pressure gauges assist with any required troubleshooting and can be used to monitor the pump’s performance. To further protect the pressure gauge, an isolation valve is also recommended.
After installing the surge dampeners and pressure gauges, the pump must be grounded.
7. Ground the Pump
For applications that handle flammable fluids or whenever static electricity is a hazard, the pump, as well as the surrounding equipment, must be properly grounded.
To ground the pump, loosen the grounding screw and install a grounding wire. Tighten the grounding screw. Wires should be a 12 gauge wire or larger. Connect the other end of the wire to a true earth ground. Equipment must be grounded to achieve an ATEX rating. It is recommended to configure the pump with the grounding lug option.
For metering and dispensing applications, some Wilden pumps can be configured with a solenoid pulse control that integrates the pump with external controls, such as an industrial PLC. This provides speed and flow rate control.
8. Start the Pump
Whether the pump is starting for the first time or after service, start the pump slowly to allow the pump to ease into the desired flow rate or performance. This reduces the load on the pump, extending the life of the equipment and components.
Finally, every three months reinspect and tighten the fasteners to the proper torque values. It is also recommended to perform visual inspections periodically until a service schedule is created.
Once all the steps of this guide have been addressed, your AODD pump is ready for operation. Keep in mind that with proper installation, regular visual inspections and required maintenance, you can help ensure your AODD pumps operate simply, reliably and efficiently.
Watch this video for a step-by-step demonstration of how to properly install Wilden AODD pumps. To learn more about Wilden AODD pumping technology, click here.