A pump gets air locked when air or gas accumulates inside the pump or piping, preventing the liquid from flowing and the pump from operating correctly.
Understanding Air Lock
An air lock, also known as vapor lock, happens when a pocket of air or gas obstructs the normal flow of liquid through a pump system. This trapped air disrupts the pumping action and stops the liquid from being moved effectively.
Sources of Air in a Pump System
According to the provided reference, air or gas can get into a pump system through several ways:
- Outgassing:
- When liquids warm up or are agitated, dissolved gases come out of the solution. This process can introduce air into the pump.
- Chemical reactions within the fluid can also produce gases, which can lead to air locks.
- Leaks:
- Damaged seals or connections can draw air into the system. Any point where the system is not completely airtight presents a potential entry for air.
How Air Lock Disrupts Pump Operation
When air accumulates, it forms a compressible pocket. This pocket can prevent the pump from properly drawing in liquid or expelling it. Because the air is compressible, the pump's impellers or pistons might be unable to generate enough pressure to push the fluid. The pump then runs with reduced efficiency or fails to move the fluid at all.
Common Situations Where Air Lock Occurs
- Initial Filling: When filling a new or recently drained system, air can get trapped during the initial fill process.
- After Maintenance: Maintenance activities that involve opening the system can introduce air.
- Leaks: As mentioned earlier, leaks are a common cause, particularly in older systems.
Solutions for Air Lock
- Bleeding the System: A common way to fix an air lock is to bleed the system, which means letting trapped air out through strategically placed valves or openings.
- Check Valves: Properly installed check valves can prevent backflow, minimizing air from getting trapped.
- Priming: Certain pumps require priming which is the process of filling the pump with liquid before operation, to ensure that air is displaced.
- Regular Maintenance: Regularly checking and maintaining seals and connections can reduce the risk of leaks and air intrusion.
