INSTRUCTIONS ON

INSTALLATION
OPERATION AND
MAINTENANCE FOR
KIRLOSKAR PUMP
TYPE MHA & MLA

KIRLOSKAR BROTHERS LIMITED

UDYOG BHAVAN, TILAK ROAD, PUNE - 411 002

KIRLOSKAR BROTHERS LIMITED

Udyog Bhavan, Tilak Road, Pune 411 002 (India)

WARRANTY
We warrant that the pump supplied by us is free from defective
material and faulty workmanship. This warranty holds good for a
period of 12 months from the date of commissioning of the
equipment or 18 months from the date of despatch from our
factory, whichever is earlier.
Our liability in respect of any
complaint is limited to replacing part/parts free of charge ex-works
or repairs of the defective part/parts only to the extent that such
replacement / repairs are attributable to or arise solely from faulty
workmanship or defective material.
The warranty holds good only for the products manufactured by us.

KIRLOSKAR BROTHERS LIMITED

IOM/DB/005/01
Page: 1/12

Issue Date: 25/09/2000

Last revision date:

CONTENTS

1.

GENERAL

2.

INSTALLATION

3.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR BOILER FEED PUMPS

4.

OPERATION

5.

TECHNICAL DATA

6.

MAINTENANCE

7.

OVERHAULING

8.

SPARE PARTS LIST AND CROSS-SECTIONAL DRAWINGS

PLEASE FURNISH PUMP TYPES, NAME OF THE PART, PART NUMBER, MATERIAL
CONSTRUCTION AND OTHER NAME PLATE DETAILS WHILE ORDERING SPARE PARTS FOR THE
PUMP.

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1.

GENERAL
1.1

The booklet covers the instructions for following Pumps.

MHA 50 x 65
MHA 65 x 80, 22
MHA 65 x 80, 35
MHA 80 x 100
MLA 100 x 125/ MLL 100 x 125
MLA 125 x 150
MLA 150 x 175
MLA 200 x 225
Please note that Hot Model pumps are suffixed by H e.g. MHA-H, MLA-H.

2.

1.2

Pumps, when properly installed and given due care in operation and maintenance,
should operate satisfactorily for a long period of time. When the pump is received,
some time before the actual use of the pump, it should be inspected and located in
dry place. The coupling should be rotated once in a month to prevent pitting of
bearing surfaces. If the pump is to be stored for along period, then lubricating oil
should be drained from the pump and bearing housing should be dried internally with
hot air and filled with a light moisture-protective such as oil or kerosene.

1.3

Cold Model pumps (without stuffing box cooling arrangement) are supplied for liquids
having temperature up to 90C.

1.4

Hot Model pumps (with St. box cooling arrangement ) are suitable for boiler feed
application and for liquids having temperature above 90C. if the pump is to be used
for boiler feed application, please follow carefully the instructions given under chapter
BOILER FEED PUMPS.

INSTALLATION
2.1

For location, preparing foundation, installation, alignment, general maintenance,

trouble shooting etc. the instructions given in our publication INSTRUCTION
MANUAL ON CENTRIFUGAL PUMPS which is sent alongwith this manual must be
followed carefully.

2.2

The auxiliary piping connection, must be made as under after installation the pump
sets. (Please refer to Fig. 1,2,3, & 4).

-3-

2.2.1

2.2.2

Cold Model Pump

2.2.1.1

Sealing Connection- Sealing pipe connection should be made from second stage of
pump to the stuffing box suction side (This pipe connection is supplied alongwith the
pump)

2.2.1.2

Bearing Cooling Connection The piping connection from driving end bearing
housing to non driving end bearing housing and inlet, outlet connections are to be
made (These connections are supplied with the pump). The cooling water from
external source must be connected to the inlet connection. Similarly piping
connection is to be made to take out cooling water from outlet connection.

2.2.1.3

Pressure leak-off connection (Balance water connection) the pipe connection

supplied with the pump should be made to the balancing chamber. The outlet
connection of this pipe must be kept open to atmosphere. IT IS IMPORTANT THAT
THE FREE FLOW OF PRESSURE LEAK OFF CONNECTION IS NOT
RESTRICTED IN ANY WAY, OTHER-WISE BALANCING DISC WILL FAIL. NO
VALVES ARE PERMITTED IN THIS PRESSURE LEAK-OFF CONNECTION.

Hot model pumps

2.2.2.1

Sealing Connection- The sealing water connection from external source is to be

given to the suction side stuffing box housing (This pipe connection is not supplied
alongwith the pump)

2.2.2.2

Bearing cooling connection- Please refer the instructions given under item No.
2.2.1.2

2.2.2.3

Pressure Leak-off connection- The pipe connection from balancing chamber to the
suction casing should be made. (This pipe connection is supplied alongwith the
pump). No valve should be used in this pipe connection.

PART LIST FOR PIPE CONNECTION

Cooling Water Connection for Bearing Housing and St. Box.
Part No.
Description
531.1
531.2
531.3

Pipes for cooling of brg. housing

531.4
531.5
542
545.1
556
531.6
531.7
531.8

Pipes for cooling of St. box

531.9
531.10
540.1

Socket

-4-

-5-

-6-

542

Elbow

543

Tee

544

Reducer

545.1

Union Joint

556

Adaptor Nut

557

Three-way piece

558.1

Sealing Nut

559.1

Adaptor piece

564

Tube for cooling

Pressure Water Leak-Off Connections

537.1
537.2

Pipes for pressure leak-off

540.2

Socket

545.2

Union Joint

558.2

Sealing nut

559.3

Adaptor Piece

566

Tube for pressure leak-off (for Hot Model)

542.1

Elbow

Stuffing Box Sealing Connection

3.

558.3

Sealing Nut

559.4
559.5

Adaptor Piece

560

Tube for Sealing

INSTRUCTIONS FOR BOILER FEED PUMPS

3.1

Location
The pump must be located with sufficient positive suction head taking into
consideration the minimum NPSH required. The suction line should be as short and
direct as possible. It should be large enough to keep the velocity low and the friction
loss to a minimum. A sluice Valve should be installed on the suction side on the
pump. Elbows should be avoided near pump.

3.2

By-pass
A by-pass line must be installed on the discharge side. This by-pass line should be
connected to same point of lower pressure in the boiler feed cycle (not directly to the
pump suction). This by-pass may manually or automatically operated and may
include an orifice set for the safe minimum capacity of the pump. This by-pass line
should be kept open at all times except when the pump is operating at the rated point
or full capacity. It must be kept open especially when operating at reduced capacities.

-7-

3.3

Orifice Installation
The by-pass piping should be taken from the discharge piping at a point between
pump discharge and check valve. Gate valves (not globe valves) should be placed
on both the upstream and down stream sides of the orifice to allow its removal for
cleaning, if necessary. There should be a minimum of 2 feet straight run of pipe on
either side of orifice to reduce turbulence which is a possible cause of noise.

4.

3.4

The re-circulation line should enter the feed water heater a point below minimum
water level and as far from the pump suction as possible, if possible a baffle should
be installed in the heater to prevent the by-pass flow from entering directly onto the
pump suction line. The heat absorbed by the by-pass flow would raise the
temperature of the water in the suction pipe appreciably, whereas it would have little
effect on the large capacity in the heater.

3.5

Important Instructions for operation of Boiler Feed Pump

3.5.1

Never operate with closed discharge valve unless the by-pass line back to source of
supply is wide open. Never throttle on the suction side of the pump, this causes
increased friction and increase the possibility of flashing on suction side. Capacity
should be controlled by throttling the discharge valve or by adjusting the pump speed
(if possible).

3.5.2

Keep the careful check on suction and discharge gauges. At any serious fluctuations,
shut down the unit and check for trouble.

3.5.3

Never subject the pump to severe temperature changes. Bring the temperature up
gradually before starting and bring it down slowly when taking the pump off the line.

OPERATION
4.1

Before starting the pump

Check the following

4.1.1

The pump rotates freely by hand.

4.1.2

Level of the oil in the oil level indicator. (Fill in the lubricating oil, if not, doce earlier)

4.1.3

Sealing water and cooling water connections are properly tightened and adjusted.
Pressure leak-off connection is open to atmosphere or is connected to the suction
casing.

4.1.4

The direction of rotation. It should correspond to the direction of rotation of the pump.

4.1.5

The pump and suction pipe are fully primed with the liquid.

4.1.6

Sluice valve on delivery side is closed.

4.1.7

The cock for pressure gauge connection is closed.

4.1.8

The stuffing box packing is properly tightened.

-8-

4.2

Starting the pump:

4.2.1

Start the pump. Let the prime mover pick up its full speed.

4.2.2

Open the valve on delivery side slowly.

4.2.3

Open the cock of pressure gauge connection.

4.2.4

Throttle the discharge valve to the required duty conditions.

4.3

During running the pump

Check the following things and regulate if necessary.

5.

4.3.1

The pump is running smooth.

4.3.2

The flow of sealing water and cooling water is uninterrupted. Check the temperature
of cooling water outlet.

4.3.3

The pressure leak off water flow is constant and is not getting hot (for cold model).

4.3.4

Power consumption is within the limit.

4.3.5

The bearings are not getting heated up excessively.

4.3.6

Head and capacity developed by the pump is as specified.

4.3.7

Ensure that there is no mechanical friction in the pump.

4.3.8

Leakage through stuffing box is normal. There should be a leakage of 60-80 drops
per minute.

4.3.9

Stop the pump immediately, if any defects are detected. Do not start the pump unless
the defects are rectified.

4.4

During Stopping the Pump:

4.4.1

Close the valve on delivery side.

4.4.2

Stop the motor.

4.4.3

Close the cooling water and sealing water connections.

4.4.4

If the pump is not required to be operated for a long time, drain the casing
completely. Also drain the lubricating oil.

TECHNICAL DATA
5.1

Direction of rotation is clockwise when viewed from driving end. Pumps with anticlockwise rotation will be supplied against order.

5.2

Bearing Instead of conventional ball bearings and roller bearings the journal type
white metal lined bearings are used.

5.3

Lubricant

5.3.1

Bearings are oil lubricated by oil ring.

-9-

5.3.2

Specification of OilThe lubrication oil should conform to the following grades.

Indian Oil Corporation
: Servosystem 317
Hindustan Petroleum
: Enklo 53
Caltex
: Regal Oil B (R & O)

5.3.3

Quantity of oil
Refer technical data chart for quantity of oil in each bearing housing

5.3.4

Re-oiling periodAfter every 1000 hours of running approximately or when oil gets decoloured.

5.4

Stuffing box packing-

5.4.1

Graphited cotton greasy packing conforming to Champion Style No. 3116 to be used
when pump handles clear cold water.

5.4.2

Self-lubricated asbestos packing non-metallic graphited for super heated steam

conforming to Champion Style No. 1800 to be used when pump is handling hot
water.

5.4.3

Please refer to technical data chart for size, number of packings and packing
arrangements is stuffing box.

5.5

Gasket packingPermanite packing of 1 mm thickness.

5.6

O ring specificationsPlease refer to technical data chart for O ring specifications.

5.7

Rubber BushesPlease refer to technical data chart for size and no. of bushes for couplings.

5.8

Axial ThrustAxial thrust is balanced by means of balancing disc and balancing ring arrangement.
Balancing disc to be replaced when balancing disc indicator shows max. wear of 2.5
mm on coupling boss.

TECHNICAL DATA
Model

MHA 50 x 65
MHA 65 x 80 (22 )
MHA 65 x 80 (35)
MHA 80 x 100
MLA 100 x 125
MLA 125 x 150
MLA 150 x 175
MLA 200 x 225

Stuffing Box Packing

Speed
RPM

2900
2900
2900
2900
1450
1450
1450
1450

Packing Arrangement
Size
mm Sq.

9.5
9.5
9.5
12.5
12.5
12.5
20
20

- 10 -

Length
mm

2135
1730
1730
2915
2915
2915
4380
4380

Packing
Arrangement &
Position of Lantern
Ring
L from
impeller side
at DE
3+ L + 2
dododododododo-

Packing
Arrangement
at NDE

6
7
7
6
6
6
7
7

Qty. of oil in bearing housing and dimensions of o ring

O RIng sizes in mm.

Pump

Qty of

Model

Oil in cc in

Shaft

Casing

Casing to

St. box

each brg.

Sleeve

To diffuser

Brg.

Cover to

Housing

Cooling

Housing
MHA 50 x 65

170

28 x 3

242 x 4

145 x 3

76 x 4

MHA 65 x 80, 22

170

28 x 3

242 x 4

145 x 3

76 x 4

MHA 65 x 80, 35

170

28 x 3

242 x 4

145 x 3

76 x 4

MHA 80 x 100

500

50 x 3

317 x 6

235 x 3

168 x 3

MLA 125 x 150

500

50 x 3

465 x 7

240 x 5

120 x 7

MLA 150 x 175

500

50 x 3

465 x 7

240 x 5

120 x 7

MLA 200 x 225

500

65 x 3

560 x 7

355 x 7

Details of Rubber Bushes for Coupling

Pump type & stages

No.of
Rubber
bushes

Dimensions of rubber business in mm

ID

OD

Length

1.

MHA 50 x 65 upto 4 stages

15

24

11

2.

MHA 50 x 65 upto, 5 stages & above

18

29

14

3.

MHA 65 x 80 upto 6 stages

18

29

14

4.

- do 7 stages and above

10

18

29

14

5.

MHA 80 x 100, up 4 stages

10

22

37

22

6.

- do - 5 &6 stages

12

22

37

22

7.

- do - 7 stages and above

12

28

45

32

8.

MLA 100 x 125 & MLA 125 x150

9.

- do - upto 5 stages

12

22

37

22

10.

- do 6 & 7 stages

12

28

45

32

11.

- do 8 stages & above

16

28

45

32

12.

MLA 150 x 175 upto 5 stages

12

28

45

32

13.

MLA 150 x 175 between 6 to 9 stages

16

28

45

32

14.

MLA 150 x 175 10 stages & above

16

35

53

45

15.

MLA 200 x 225, 4 stages

12

28

45

32

- 11 -

6.

MAINTENANCE
Preventive maintenance schedule is the periodical checks and the precautions by which
possibilities of failure and break down are made remote.
6.1

Daily Checks

6.1.1

Pressure gauge reading.

6.1.2

Oil level in the oil level indicator.

6.1.3

Bearing temperature.

6.1.4

Voltage and current.

6.1.5

Leakage through stuffing box.

6.1.6

Constant flow of cooling water.

6.1.7

Noise and vibration

6.1.8

Flow and temperature of pressure leak-off water.

6.2.

Periodical Maintenance:

6.2.1.

Replenish the oil.

6.2.2.

Change the stuffing box packing.

6.2.3.

Check the alignment of the pumpset.

6.2.4.

Calibrate the measuring instruments.

6.2.5.

Check the sealing cooling water pipe connections for leakage and blockage.

6.2.6.

Check the wear on the balancing disc and balancing ring. They are to be replaced
when balancing disc wear indicator shows wear of 2.5 mm on ring following
procedure is followed :
a)Indicator position before
wear for R.H. Pump

a)

Indicator position after

wear for R.H. Pump

b)Indicator position after

wear for L.H. Pump

b)

Indicator positions before

wear for L. H. Pump.

A)

R. H. Pump (i.e. clockwise direction when viewed from coupling end)

1)

B)

Before checking wear of balancing disc and balancing ring first stop the
Pump.
2)
Pull the rotating unit towards driver end and observe the position of tip
of wear indicator on coupling boss.
3)
Intially before commissioning of pump the tip of wear indicator lies on
line 1 on the coupling boss.
4)
If the tip of wear indicator lies on line 2 on the coupling boss then
balancing disc and balancing ring is weared out and need replacement.
L.H. Pump (i.e. Anti clockwise direction when viewed from coupling end
1)

Before checking wear of balancing disc and balancing ring first stop the
Pump.

2)

Push the rotating unit away from driver end i.e. towards pump side and
observe the position of tip of wear indicator on coupling boss.

- 12 -

7.

3)

Initially before commissioning of pump the tip of wear indicator lines on

line 2 on the coupling boss.

4)

If the tip of wear indicator lies on line 1 on the coupling boss, then
balancing disc and balancing ring is weared out and need replacement.

OVERHAULING
7.1.

With normal daily operating spell, the pump will be due for overhaul after about
5000 working hours. This work should be carried out by specialized and
experienced personnel.
(Please refer to the cross-sectional drawings & spare
parts list).

7.2.

Dismantling

7.2.1.

Remove the delivery and suction pipe connections.

7.2.2.

Take out cooling water, sealing water connection and other accessories.

7.2.3.

Remove the motor from the base plate.

7.2.4.

Drain the liquid from the pump by removing all the drain plugs.

7.2.5.

Remove oil level indicators of both DE & NDE. Drain the oil from bearing housings.

7.2.6.

Loosen the clamping plate (224) with split gland bush (225). Take out split gland
bush and gland packing (430).

7.2.7.

Remove the bearing cover, NDE (276).

7.2.8.

Take out the top bearing cover NDE (367) and remove the oil strainer (365).

7.2.9.

By holding the oil ring (364) in the hand through the opening at the top of bearing
housing, take out oil ring bearing (368) NDE through oil ring by tightening the
release bolts. Lift the oil ring (364).

7.2.10.

Take out the liquid deflector NDE (236) by loosening the set screw.

7.2.11.

Remove the sub-assembly of bearing housing, NDE (240) cooling chamber (221)
and stuffing box cover, NDE (220.1) from the delivery casing (101).

7.2.12.

Clamping plate for gland (224) will also come out alongwith above sub-assembly.
Remove the O ring or paper packing whichever is applicable.

7.2.13.

Loosen the shaft sleeve (310) or shaft sleeve nut NDE (whichever is applicable)
and take out shaft sleeve and O ring.

7.2.14.

Remove the balancing disc (464). Inspect the balancing disc and balancing ring
(463) fro scratches.

7.2.15.

Put wooden support under interstage cross over (124).

7.2.16.

Loosen the nuts of tie bars. Take out the tie bars (342).

7.2.17.

Remove the delivery casing feet bolts and take out the delivery casing (101)
alongwith balancing ring (463) and last stage diffuser (128).

7.2.18.

Remove the last stage diffuser (128) and balancing ring (463). Balancing ring can
be removed by loosening the screws provided.

- 13 -

7.2.19.

Take out the balancing disc keys (326).

7.2.20.

Remove the last stage impeller (151) and take out impeller keys (320).

7.2.21.

Remove the interstage cross-over (124) alongwith O ring (522) and casing ring
(190). Casing ring is to be removed from interstage cross-over only if it has worn
out.

7.2.22.

Remove the diffuser with distributing vanes (129) alongwith interstage bush (358).
Interstage bush should be removed only if it has worn out. Diffuser with distributing
vanes (129) is located in interstage crossover (124) by means of two locating pins.

7.2.23.

Take out the next impeller and follow-up this sequence till first stage inter-stage
cross over (124).

7.2.24.

Remove the first stage interstage cross-over, first stage diffuser with distributing
vanes and first stage inpeller(151).

7.2.25.

Pull out pump coupling (390) and remove coupling key (321).

7.2.26.

Loosen the clamping plate and take out split gland bush DE (225). Remove gland
packing (430) and lantern ring (227).

7.2.27.

Take out the wear indicator (476) fitted to the bearing cover, DE (270).

7.2.28.

Remove the oil ring bearing, DE (368) as per procedure given against item 7.2.7,
7.2.8, 7.2.9. Also take-out liquid deflector (236).

7.2.29.

Dismantle the sub-assembly of bearing housing (240) cooling chamber (221) and
stuffing box cover, DE (220) from suction casing (113).

7.2.30.

Take out the shaft (180) from coupling side alongwith shaft sleeve DE (310).

7.2.31.

Remove shaft sleeve DE (if shaft sleeve nut is provided it should be removed) and
its O ring.

7.3

After dismantling, all parts are to be cleaned and checked thoroughly for wear and
tear. Following parts are to be replaced if the diametrical clearances exceed those
given below:
a.
Impeller / casing ring 1mm
b.
Impeller / interstage bush 1mm
c.
Oil ring / bearing 0.3 mm
d.
Balancing disc/ Balancing ring 2.5 mm

7.4
7.5

Re-assembling procedure is just reverse of the dismantling procedure.

While ordering the spares parts, the details of the nameplate must be quoted in full.
The nomenclature of the spare part, part number, quantity required, material
construction and pump serial number should be specifically and clearly mentioned
in the order.
Keep sufficient stock of spare parts in order to meet the emergency requirement.
The recommended parts are shown with asterisk (*) mark in the part list.

7.6

- 14 -

SPECIFICATION LIST FOR MN/MNX/MLA/MHA PUMP

PART CODE

PART DESCRIPTION

11100
11300
12400
12600
12800
12900
15100*
18000*
19000*
19500
22001
22002
22300
22500
22700
23600
24000
25300
26000
26300
26400
27000
27100
27200
31000*
31100*
32000*
32100
32300
33200
33400*
33500
34100
36400
36500
36800*
43000*
44100
45000
46200
46300*
46400*
46600
47600
50200
51100*
52200*
61100

DELIVERY CASING
SUCTION CASING
STAGE CASING
STAGE CASING WITH DISTRIBUTOR
DIFFUSER
DIFFUSER WITH GUIDE VANES
IMPELLER
PUMP SHAFT
CASING WEAR RING SUC. SIDE
SPACER RING FOR COUPLING
CASING COVER D.E.
CASING COVER N.D.E.
GLAND
BUSH FOR GLAND
LANTERN RING
LIQUID DEFLECTOR
BEARING HOUSING
BEARING CARTRIDGE
DEEP GROOVE BALL BEARING
ANGULAR CONTACT BALL BEARING
ROLLER BEARING
BEARING COVER D.E.
BEARING COVER N.D.E.
THRUST BEARING ADAPTER
SHAFT SLEEVE D.E.
SHAFT SLEEVE N.D.E.
KEY FOR IMPELLER
KEY FOR COUPLING
KEY FOR SHAFT SLEEVE
COUPLING NUT
SHAFT SLEEVE NUT
BEARING NUT
TIE BAR
OIL RING
STRAINER FOR OIL CHAMBER
OIL RING BEARING
GLAND PACKING
GREASE NIPPLE
WHEEL COCK
INTERSTAGE DIAPHRAGM
BALANCING RING
BALANCING DISC
PORT PLATE
BALANCING DISC WEAR INDICATOR
FELT RING
GASKET
O RING
LOCATING PIN

* Recommended Spares

- 15 -

- 16 -

- 17 -

- 18 -

- 19 -

- 20 -

GENERAL INFORMATION & SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

1.0

The products supplied by KBL have been designed with safety in mind. Where hazards
cannot be eliminated, the risk has been minimised by the use of guards and other design
features. Some hazards cannot be guarded against and the instructions below MUST BE
COMPLIED WITH for safe operation. These instructions cannot cover all circumstances;
YOU are responsible for using safe working practices at all times.

1.1

KBL products are designed for installation in designated area, which are to be kept clean
and free of obstructions that may restrict safe access to the controls and maintenance
access points.
A Pump Duty Nameplate is fitted to each unit and must not be removed. Loss of this
plate could make identification impossible. This in turn could affect safety and cause
difficulty in obtaining spare parts. If accidental loss or damage occur, contact KBL
immediately.

1.2

Access to the equipment should be restricted to the personnel responsible for

installation, operation and maintenance and they must be trained, adequately qualified
and supplied with appropriate tools for their respective tasks.

1.3

KBL requires that, all personnel that are responsible for installation, operation or
maintenance of the equipment, have access to and study the product instruction manual
BEFORE any work is done and that they will comply with all local and industry based
safety instructions and regulations.

1.4

Ear defenders should be worn where the specified equipment noise level exceeds locally
defined safe levels. Safety glasses or goggles should be worn where working with
pressurised systems and hazardous substances. Other personnel protection equipment
must be worn where local rules apply.

1.5

Do not wear loose clothing or jewellery which could catch on the controls or become
trapped in the equipment.

1.6

Read the instruction manual before installation, operation and maintenance of the
equipment. Check and confirm that the manual is relevant copy by comparing pump type
on the nameplate and with that on the manual.

1.7

Note the Limits of product application permissible use specified in the manual.
Operation of the equipment beyond these limits will increase the risk from hazards noted
below and may lead to premature and hazardous pump failure.

1.8

Clear and easy access to all controls, gauges and dials etc. must be maintained at all
times. Hazardous or flammable materials must not be stored in pump rooms unless safe
areas or racking and suitable containers have been provided.

1.9

IMPROPER INSTALLATION, OPERATION OR MAINTENANCE OF THIS KBL PRODUCT

COULD RESULT IN INJURY OR DEATH.

2.0

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS WHILE HANDLING AND STORAGE

When lifting the pump, use the lifting points specified on general arrangement drawing.
Use lifting equipment having a safe working load rating suitable for the weight specified.
Use suitable slings for lifting pump which is not provided with lifting points. The use of
fork-lift truck and chain crane sling equipment is recommended but locally approved
equipment of suitable rating may be used.
-i-

Do not place fingers or hands etc. into the suction or discharge pipe outlets and do not
touch the impeller, if rotated this may cause severe injury. To prevent ingress of any
objects, retain the protection covers or packaging in place until removal is necessary for
installation. If the packaging or suction and discharge covers are removed for inspection
purposes, replace afterwards to protect the pump and maintain safety.
3.0

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS WHILE ASSEMBLY & INSTALLATION

Do not place fingers or hands etc. into the suction or discharge pipe outlets and do not
touch the impeller, if rotated this may cause severe injury. To prevent ingress of any
objects, retain the protection covers or packaging in place until removal is necessary for
installation.
Do not touch any moving or rotating parts. Guards are provided to prevent access to
these parts, where they have been removed for maintenance they must be replaced
before operating the equipment.
Shaft alignment must be checked again after the final positioning of the pump unit and
connection to pipework as this may have disturbed the pump or motor mounting
positions. If hot liquids (above 80C) are being pumped, alignment should be checked
and reset with the pump and motor at their normal operating temperature. If this is not
possible, KBL can supply estimated initial offset figures to suit extreme operating
temperatures.
Failure to support suction and delivery pipework may result in distortion of the pump
casing, with the possibility of early pump failure.

4.0

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS WHILE COMMISSIONING & OPERATION.

Do not touch any moving or rotating parts. Guards are provided to prevent access to
these parts, where they have been removed for maintenance they must be replaced
before operating the equipment.
Check that the pump is primed. Pump should never be run dry as the pumped liquid acts,
as lubricant for the close running fits surrounding impeller and damage will be incurred.
Failure to supply the stuffing box or mechanical seal with cooling of flush water may
result in damage and premature failure of the pump.
Do not touch surfaces which during normal running will be sufficiently hot to cause
injury. Note that these surfaces will remain hot after the pump has stopped, allow
sufficient time for cooling before maintenance. Be cautious and note that other parts of
the pump may become hot if a fault is developing.
Do not operate water pumps in temperatures below freezing point, without first checking
that the pumped fluid is not frozen and the pump is free to turn. Pumps in these
environments should be drained down during inactivity and re-primed before starting.
In addition to local or site regulations for noise protection, KBL recommend the use of
personal ear protection equipment in all enclosed pump rooms and particularly those
containing diesel engines. Care must be taken to ensure that any audible alarm or
warning signal can be heard with ear defenders worn.
Be aware of the hazards relating to the pumped fluid, especially the danger from
inhalation of noxious and toxic gases, skin and eye contact or penetration. Obtain and
understand the hazardous substance data sheets relating to the pumped fluid and note
the recommended emergency and first aid procedures.
-ii-

5.0

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS WHILE MAINTENANCE & SERVICING

Before attempting any maintenance on a pump particularly if it has been handling any
form of hazardous liquid, it should be ensured that the unit is safe to work on. The pump
must be flushed thoroughly with suitable cleaner to purge away any of the product left in
the pump components. This should be carried out by the plant operator and a certificate
of cleanliness obtained before starting work. To avoid any risk to health it is also
advisable to wear protective clothing as recommended by the site safety officer
especially when removing old packing which may be contaminated.
Check and ensure that the pump operates at below the maximum working pressure
specified in the manual or on the pump nameplate and before maintenance, ensure that
the pump is drained down.
Wear a suitable mask or respirator when working with packing and gasket components
which contain fibrous material, as these can be hazardous when the fibrous dust is
inhaled. Be cautious, if other suppliers components have been substituted for genuine
KBL parts, these may then contain hazardous materials.
Be aware of the hazards relating to the pumped fluid, especially the danger from
inhalation of noxious and toxic gases, skin and eye contact or penetration. Obtain and
understand the hazardous substance data sheets relating to the pumped fluid and note
the recommended emergency and first aid procedures.
Isolate the equipment before any maintenance work is done. Switch off the mains
supply, remove fuses, apply lock-outs where applicable and affix suitable isolation
warning signs to prevent inadvertent reconnection. In order to avoid the possibility of
maintenance personnel inhaling dangerous fumes or vapours, it is recommended that the
maintenance work be carried out away from the pump locations by removal of bearing
housing and shaft assembly to a suitable to a suitable maintenance area.

_____________
Ref:

Proposed draft standard prEN 800:

Pumps and pump units for liquids;
General safety requirements

-iii-

INCORRECT

CORRECT

INCORRECT LAYOUT OF SUCTION PIPE

CORRECT LAYOUT OF SUCTION PIPE

CONCENTRIC TAPER PIECE

ECCENTRIC TAPER PIECE

REDUCED SUCTION PIPE

INCREASED SUCTION PIPE

SHORT BEND

GENERAL
INSTRUCTIONS
FOR
INSTALLATION
OPERATION &
MAINTENANCE OF

KIRLOSKAR
CENTRIFUGAL
PUMPS

LONG BEND

INSUFFICIENT
D

FOR RECOMMENDATIONS OF
SUITABLE SUCTION AND
DELIVERY PIPE SIZE PLEASE
CONTACT OUR AUTHORISED
DEALER
OR
NEAREST
REGIONAL OFFICE

D SPACE AROUND

FOOT VALVE
D

SUFFICIENT
SPACE AROUND
FOOT VALVE

Registered users Kirloskar Brothers Ltd.

GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS
FOR INSTALLATION, OPERATION
& MAINTENANCE OF

KIRLOSKAR CENTRIFUGAL PUMPS

WARNING
The equipment supplied is designed for specific capacity, speed, pressure and temperature. Do not use the
equipment beyond the capacities for which it is manufactured. The equipment manufactured is also shop
tested for the satisfactory performance and if it is operated is excess of the conditions for which it is
manufactured, the equipment will be subject to excessive stresses and strains.
LOCATION
The pump should be located as near the liquid source as possible. This will minimise the suction lift and pump
will give better performance.
Ample space should be provided on all sides so that the pump can be inspected while in operation and can be
serviced conveniently whenever required.
FOUNDATION
The foundation should be sufficiently substantial to absorb any vibration and to form a permanent rigid
support for the base plate. This is important in maintaining the alignment of a direct connected unit. A
concrete foundation on a solid base is advisable. Foundation bolts of the proper size should be embedded in
the concrete located by a drawing or template. A pipe sleeve about two and one-half diameter larger that the
bolt should be used to allow movement for the final position of the foundation bolts.
ALIGNMENT
Pumps and drivers that are supplied by the manufacturers, mounted on a common base plate are accurately
aligned before despatch. However as the alignments are likely to be disturbed during transit to some extent
and therefore must not be relied upon to maintain the factory alignment. Re-alignment is necessary after the
complete unit has been levelled on the foundation and again after the grout has been set and foundation bolts
have been tightened. The alignment must be checked after the unit is piped up and re-checked periodically.
FLEXIBLE COUPLING
A flexible coupling will not compensate for misalignment of the pump and driver shafts. The purpose of the
flexible coupling is to compensate for temperature changes and to permit the movement of the shafts without
interference with each other while transmitting power from the driver to the pump.
TYPE OF MISALIGNMENT (SEE FIGURE 1)
There are two types of misalignment between the pump shaft and the driver shaft.
(a)
Angular misalignment : Shafts with axis concentric but not parallel.
(b)
Parallel misalignment : Shafts with axis Parallel but not concentric.
ANGULAR MISALIGNMENT

PARALLEL MISALIGNMENT

Figure 1

LEVELLING THE UNIT

When the unit is received with the pump and driver mounted on the base plate, it should be placed on the
foundation and the coupling halves disconnected. The coupling should not be reconnected until all alignment
operations have been completed. The base plate must be supported evenly on wedges inserted under the four
corners so that it will not be distorted or sprung by the uneven distribution of the weight. Adjust the wedges
until the shafts of the pump and driver are in level. Check the coupling faces, suction and discharge flanges
for the horizontal or vertical position by means of spirit level.
FLEXIBLE COUPLING ALIGNMENT (SEE FIGURE2)
The two halves of the coupling should be at least 4 mm apart so that they cannot touch each other when the
driver shaft is rotated. Necessary tools for approximately checking are straight-edge and on an outside caliper.

1
2
3
4

Tank under Vacuum

Vacuum equalizing line
Valve
Line supplying the
seeling liquid
5 Valve
6 Connecting line
7 Valve

MEASURING
WEDGE

3
4
5

7
6

STRAIGHT EDGE

Figure 2

A check for parallel alignment is made by placing a straight-edge across both coupling periphery at the top,
bottom and both the sides. The unit will be in parallel alignment when the straight-edge rests evenly on the
coupling periphery at all positions. Care must be taken to have the straight-edge parallel to the axis of the
shafts.
A check for angular alignment is made by using an outside caliper across the width of the coupling faces at
various points.
Coupling alignment can be checked with dial gauge indicator as shown in Fig. 2.
GROUTING
When the alignment is correct, the foundation bolts should be tightened evenly but not too firmly. The unit
can then be grouted by working soft concrete under the edges. Foundation bolts should not be fully tightened
until the grout is hardened, usually 48 hours after poring.
FACTORS THAT MAY DISTURB ALIGNMENT
The unit should be periodically checked for alignment. If the unit does not stay in line after being properly
installed, the following are possible causes:
(a)
Setting, seasoning of the foundation
(b)
Pipe strains distorting of shifting the machines
(c)
Wear of the bearings
PIPING
Both suction and delivery pipes and accessories should be independently supported near the pump so that
when the flanges bolts are tightened no strain will be transmitted to the pump casing. It is usually advisable
to increase the size of both suction and delivery pipes at the pump nozzles in order to decrease the loss of
head from friction and for the same reason piping should be arranged with as minimum bends as possible, as
these should be made with along radius wherever possible. The pipe lines should be free from scales, welding
residuals etc., and have to be mounted in such a way that they can be connected to suction and delivery
flanges without any stress on the pump. Adequate supports should be given to pipe lines to that weight of
the pipe lines does not fall on the pump. The use of minimum number of the bends and other fittings will
minimise the frictional losses.
SUCTION PIPE
The suction pipe should be as short as possible. This can be achieved by placing the pump near the liquid to
be pumped. The suction pipe must be kept free from air leaks. This is particularly important when the suction
lift is high. A horizontal suction line must have a gradual rise to the pump. Any high point in the pipe will be
filled with air and thus prevent proper operation of the pump. A concentric taper piece should not be used in a
horizontal suction line as it forms an air pocket in the top of the reducer and the pipe. Use an eccentric piece
instead.
The end of the suction pipe must be well submerged to avoid whirlpools and ingress of air but must be kept
clear of nay deposits of mud, silt, grit etc. The pipe must be clear from any side of wall by at least 450 mm.
The end of the suction pipe should be provided with a strainer of sufficient open area.
DELIVERY PIPE
A check (non-return) valve and a gate of sluice valve (regulating valve) should be installed in the discharge
line. The check valve placed between the pump and the gate valve is to protect the pump from excessive
pressure and to prevent water running back through the pump in case of failure of the driving machine.
Discharge piping should be provided with a sluice valve adjacent to the delivery flange to control the
discharge, if required.
VACUUM EQUALISING LINE (AND LIQUID LINE) (SEE FIGURE 3)
If the pump draws from a system under vacuum an equalising pipe must be carried from the highest point of
the suction line, however, as close to the suction flange of the pump as possible, to the top of the feed tank
to keep gas bubbles that might have been entrapped in the flow from entering the pump. The line should be
fitted with an isolating valve which should be closed only for maintenance work on the pumpset.
Apply sealing liquid (external sealing) to the shaft seal cage to prevent entry of air in the case of pumps with
packed stuffing box. It is convenient to tap the sealing liquid from the delivery line above the non-return valve.

FOOT VALVE
It is advisable to install a foot valve to facilitate priming. The foot valve should have sufficient clear
passage for water. Care must be taken to prevent foreign matter from being drawn into the pump or
choking the foot valve and for this purpose an efficient strainer should be provided.
STUFFING BOXES AND PACKING
Stuffing boxes should be carefully cleaned and the packing placed in them. Be sure that sufficient
packing is placed at the back of the water seal cage. If the water to be pumped is dirty or gritty,
sealing water should be piped to the stuffing boxes from clean outside source of supply in order to
prevent damage to the packing and shaft. In placing the packing, each packing ring should be cut to
the proper length so that ends come together but do not overlap. The succeeding rings of packing
should not be pressed too tight as it may result in burning the packing and cutting the shaft. If
stuffing box is not properly packed, friction in stuffing box prevents turning the rotor by hand. On
starting the pump it is well to have the packing slightly loose without causing an air leak, and if it
seems to leak, instead of putting too much pressure on the gland, put some heavy oil in the stuffing
box until the pump works properly and then gradually tighten up the gland. The packing should be
occasionally changed.
BALL BEARINGS
Correct maintenance of ball bearings is essential. The bearing manufacturers give the following as a
guide to relubrication periods under normal conditions.
Three monthly when on continuous duty.
Six monthly when on eight-hour per duty.
The bearings and housings should be completely cleaned and recharged with fresh grease after 2500
hours or the nearest pump overhaul time.
PRIMING
No pumping action occurs unless the pump casing is filled with liquid. Pump casing and suction pipe
must therefore be completely filled with the liquid and thus all air removed before the pump is started.
Several different priming methods can be used depending on the kind of installation and service
involved.
(1) Liquid level above pump level
Pump is set below liquid level of source of supply so that liquid always flows to pump under positive
head.
(2) Priming with foot valve
(a) When pump is installed on suction lift with foot valve at the end of suction line, fill pump
with water from some outside source till all air is expelled and water flows through air
vent.
(b) When there is liquid under some pressure in the discharge pipe, priming can be effected
by byepassing the pressure liquid around the check and gate valve. Of course, the initial
priming must be effected from some outside source.
NOTE: in this case, the foot valve must be capable of withstanding pump pressure and
possible surge.
(3) Priming by ejector: An ejector operated by steam, compressed air or water under pressure and
connected to air vent on top of casing can be used to remove air from and prime the pump on
suction lift installations.
(4) Priming by dry vacuum pump : a hand or power pump sucks in all the air from the casing and the
suction pipe, and thus primes the system.
STARTING
The pump must not be started without being primed. Be sure that the driver rotates in the proper
direction as indicated by a direction arrow on the pump casing.
RUNNING
On account of its simple construction, the centrifugal pump requires practically no attention while
running. Lubrication of the bearings and manipulation of the glands are the only things that need
attention from the operator.
STOPPING
Before stopping the pump, close the gate valve. This will prevent water hammer on check valve.
STUFFING BOXES
Do not tighten the glands excessively. A slight dripping of water from the stuffing boxes when pump
is running keeps packing in good condition.
CASING RINGS
Casing rings are fitted in the casing to reduce the quantity of water leaking back from the high
pressure side to the suction side. These casing rings are fitted to maintain a small clearance and
depend on the water in the pump for lubrication. When they are worn out, the clearance becomes
greater and more water passes back into the suction. They must be replaced from time to time to
restore the pump efficiency to its normal value.

SPARE PARTS
A set of ball bearings, a set of casing rings, and a set of gland packing rings must always be kept at hand to
ensure uninterrupted service from the pump. While ordering for spare parts, always give type, size and serial
number of the pumps as stamped on the name plate.
PUMP TROUBLE
When investigating trouble with Kirloskar pumps, always remember that pumps have been tested at the
factory and are mechanically correct when sent out. Discounting the possibility of damage during transit,
most of the trouble in the field is due to faulty installation. Investigation shows that the majority of troubles
with centrifugal pumps result from faulty conditions on the suction side.
BREAK DOWN-CAUSE-CHECK POINTS
In case of breakdown we recommend the location of the fault by using the following table.
BREAKDOWN
Pump does not deliver

CHECK POINTS
1
18
1
11
22
1
20

7
19
2
12
56
3
21

8
23
3
13
57
7
22

9
25
4
14
58
9
23

10
26
5
15

11
56
6
17

12
57
7
18

14
58
8
19

10
24

11
53

12
57

Pump delivers too much

16

56

57

58

Delivery is interrupted

1
14
58

3
15
62

6
16

7
19

8
22

9
23

After stopping pump runs in reverse

direction

52
1
19
19
39
55

2
20
20
40
58

5
22
22
43

6
54
31
44

7
55
32
47

Stuffing box leaks excessively

24

27

28

29

Fumes from stuffing box

22
42

23
43

24

25

Pump rotor locked in standstill position

22

45

46

50

23
42
19
37
47

24
45
20
38
48

25
47
21
39
49

Motor will not start

14

22

60

Motor gets hot or burns out

14
58

22
59

Motor is difficult to start

14

22

Pump delivers at reduced capacity

Delivery performance deteriorates

Very noisy
Unsteady running of pump

Pump is heating up and seizing

Bearing temperature increases

15

17

9
20

10
21

13
62

14

19

10
25

11
26

12
56

13
57

8
56
33
48

11
57
35
49

12
62
36
50

13

15

37
51

38
54

30

31

47

48

49

53

26

27

28

29

30

41

26
48
22
40
51

27
49
31
41
54

28
50
32
42
55

29
54
33
43
58

30

40

41

34
44

35
45

36
46

27
60

28
61

40

43

50

55

56

57

27

28

45

46

50

58

59

60

CHECK POINTS
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.

Suction pipe, foot valve choked.

Nominal diameter of suction line too small.
Suction pipe not sufficiently submerged.
Too many bends in the suction line.
Clearance around suction inlet not sufficient.
Shut off valve in the suction line in
unfavourable position.
Incorrect layout of suction line (formation of air
pockets).
Valve in the suction line not fully open.
Joints in the suction line not leak-proof.
Air leaking through the suction line and stuffing
box etc.
Suction lift too high.
Suction head too low (difference between
pressure at suction connection and vapour
pressure too low).
Delivery liquid contains too much gas and/or
air.
Delivery liquid too viscous.
Insufficient venting.
Number of revolutions too high.
Number of revolutions too low.
Incorrect direction of rotation (electric motor
incorrectly connected, leads of phases on the
terminal block interchanged).
Impeller clogged.
Impeller damaged.
Casing rings worn out.
Separation of crystals from the flow of
pumping liquid (falling below the temperature
limit/equilibrium temp).
Sealing liquid line obstructed.
Sealing liquid contaminated.
Lantern ring in the stuffing box is not
positioned below the sealing liquid inlet.
Sealing liquid omitted.
Packing incorrectly fitted.
Gland tightened too much/slanted.

29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
42.
43.
44.
45.
46.
47.
48.
49.
50.
51.
52.
53.
54.
55.
56.
57.
58.
59.
60.
61.
62.

Packing not suitable for operating conditions.

Shaft sleeve worn in the region of the packing.
Bearing worn out.
Specified oil level not maintained.
Insufficient lubrication of bearings.
Ball bearings over-lubricated.
Oil/Grease quality unsuitable.
Ball bearing incorrectly fitted.
Axial stress on ball bearings (no axial clearance
for rotor).
Bearings dirty.
Bearings rusty (corroded).
Axial thrust too great because of worn casing
rings, relief holes obstructed.
Insufficient cooling water supply to stuffing box
cooling.
Sediment in the cooling water chamber of the
stuffing box cooling.
Alignment of coupling faulty or coupling loose.
Elastic element of coupling worn.
Pump casing under stress.
Pipeline under stress.
Shaft runs untrue.
Shaft bent.
Rotor parts insufficiently balanced.
Rotor parts touching the casing.
Vibration of pipe work.
Non-return valve gets caught.
Contaminated delivery liquid.
Obstruction in delivery line.
Delivery flow too great.
Pump unsuitable for parallel operation.
Type of pump unsuitable.
Incorrect choice of pump for existing operating
conditions.
Voltage too low/power supply overloaded.
Short circuit in the motor.
Setting of starter of motor too high.
Temperature delivery liquid too high.