Priming a Hydra-Cell pump involves preparing it to move fluid efficiently by ensuring the hydraulic chambers are properly filled. One method, particularly relevant for certain procedures like maintenance or initial fill, involves using compressed air.
Priming the Hydra-Cell Pump: The Compressed Air Method
According to information from Hydra-Cell service and maintenance materials, a specific method for priming the hydraulic cells involves utilizing compressed air. This technique is used to manipulate the pump's internal components to facilitate the filling process.
Here’s how this method works:
- Block the Discharge Port: The first step is to effectively seal or block the pump's discharge port. This prevents air or fluid from escaping through the outlet side during the process.
- Apply Pressure to the Inlet Port: With the discharge port blocked, compressed air is then applied to the pump's inlet port.
- Diaphragm Manipulation: The pressure from the compressed air applied to the inlet port serves a crucial purpose: it holds the diaphragms back.
- Hydraulic Cell Priming: By holding the diaphragms back, the internal hydraulic cells are exposed or configured in a way that allows them to be primed. This means they can be properly filled, often with hydraulic fluid specific to the pump's design.
Essentially, this method uses air pressure to mechanically position the diaphragms, creating the necessary conditions within the pump's hydraulic section for successful priming.
Summary of the Compressed Air Priming Steps:
| Step | Action | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Block Discharge | Block the pump's discharge port. | Prevent escape from the outlet. |
| 2. Apply Air to Inlet | Apply compressed air to the inlet port. | Provide force to manipulate diaphragms. |
| 3. Position Diaphragms | Air pressure holds diaphragms back. | Create space/condition for priming. |
| 4. Prime Cells | Hydraulic cells become ready for fill. | Ensure proper hydraulic system operation. |
This compressed air technique is a specific procedure described for facilitating the priming of the hydraulic side of the Hydra-Cell pump, often detailed in service guides.
