FM20

CAPTURE
CENTRIFUGAL PUMP DEMONSTRATION UNIT

FM20

ISSUE 2
AUGUST 1996

LECTURERS' NOTES
ParametersFile
All numerical constantsinvolved with the Capture unit are included in
the file PARAM. TXT.
The file can be altered with any text editor (eg. the MSDOS ~nv
command), should the user wish to changeany of the values.
Care should be taken not to damage or corrupt the file. Should this
happen, re-install the software from the floppy disks.
Assignment File
The questions given in the student assignment are all stored in the file
FM_ASGN.TXT.
The assignmentfile already has severalquestionsincluded, but is designed
to allow lecturers to enter their own questions, depending on the
particular course content.
As for the parametersfile, any text editor can be used to edit the questions.
The format should be similar to the questions already included. Answers
should be placed at the end of the question surrounded by the {} brackets.
Font Installation
To ensure correct operation of the Capture software, the
IGreekMathSymbolsl should be installed in Windows.

font

This can be checked by double clicking on Control Panel in the Main

program group of the Program Manager. SELECTFonts and check that
'Greek/Math/Symbols' is included in the installed fonts list.
If it is not, click on Add... and selectthe font 'SYMBOLS' from the list of
fonts in the windows\system directory, then click on OK.
The font should now be shown in the installed fonts list.

The following manual is taken from the help screensavailable within the
software.

ARMFIELD
OPERATING
FM20

- CAPTURE

LIMITED

INSTRUCTIONS
CENTRIFUGAL

AND EXPERIMENTS

PUMP DEMONSTRATION

UNIT

PAGE NO.

SAFETY

RECEIPTOF EQUIPMENT

MINIMUM COMPUTER SYSTEMREQUIREMENTS

INSTALLING THE ARMFIELD INTERFACECONSOLEIFD

INSTALLING THE SOFTWARE

DESCRIPI10N

10

PREPARINGTHE CENTRIFUGAL PUMP

DEMONSTRAnON UNIT FOR USE

13

ROUTINE MAINTENANCE

15

INDEX TO EXPERIMENTS

16

GENERAL SAFETYRULES

SAFETY IN THE USE OF EQUIPMENT SUPPLIED BY ARMFIELD

Before proceeding to install, commission or operate the equipment

describedin this instruction manual we wish to alert you to potential
hazardsso that they may be avoided.
Although designed for safe operation, any laboratory equipment may
involve processesor procedures which are potentially hazardous. The
major potential hazards associatedwith this particular equipment are
listed below.

.
.
.
.

INJURY THROUGH MISUSE

INJURy FROM ELECfRIC SHOCK (Particularly in presence of
water)
INJURy FROM ROTAnNG COMPONENTS
RISK OF INFEC110N THROUGH LACK OF CLEANLINESS

Accidents can be avoided provided that equipment is regularly maintained

and staff and students are made aware of potential hazards. A list of
generalsafety rules is included in this manual, to assiststaff and students
in this regard. The list is not intended to be fully comprehensive but for
guidance only.
Please refer to the notes overleaf regarding the Control of Substances
Hazardous to Health Regulations.

The COSHH Regulations

The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health

(1988)

Regulations

The COSHH regulations impose a duty on employers to protect employees

and others from substancesused at work which may be hazardous to
health. The regulations require you to make an assessment of all
operations which are liable to expose any person to hazardous solids,
liquids, dusts, vapours, gasesor micro-organisms.You are also required to
introduce suitable procedures for handling these substancesand keep
appropriate records.
Since the equipment supplied by Armfield Limited may involve the use of
substanceswhich can be hazardous (for example, cleaning fluids used for
maintenance or chemicals used for particular demonstrations) it is
essentialthat the laboratory supervisor or some other person in authority
is responsiblefor implementing the COSffii regulations.
Part of the above regulations are to ensure that the relevant Health and
Safety Data Sheetsare available for all hazardous substancesused in the
laboratory. Any person using a hazardous substancemust be informed of
the following:
Physicaldata about the substance
Any hazard from fire or explosion
Any hazard to health
Appropriate First Aid treabnent
Any hazard from reaction with other substances
How to dean/ disposeof spillage
Appropriate protective measures
Appropriate storageand handling

Although theseregulationsmay not be applicablein your countryI it is

strongly recommended that a similar approach is adopted for the
protection of the students operating the equipment. Local regulations
must also be considered.
Water-Borne Infections

The equipment describedin this instruction manual involves the use of

water which under certain conditions can createa health hazard due to
infection by harmful micro-organisms.
For example, the microscopic bacterium called Legionella pneumophila
will feed on any scale,rust, algae or sludge in water and will breed rapidly
if the temperature of water is between 20 and 45C.Any water containing
this bacterium which is sprayed or splashedcreating air-borne droplets can

produce a form of pneumonia called Legionnaires Disease which is

potentially fatal.
Legionella is not the only hannful micro-organism which can infect water,
but it servesas a useful example of the need for cleanliness.
Under the COSHH regulations, the following precautions must be
observed:Any water contained within the product must not be allowed to stagnate,
ie. the water must be changedregularly.
Any rust, sludge, scaleor algaeon which micro-organisms can feed must
be removed regularly, i.e. the equipment must be cleanedregularly.
Where practicablethe water should be maintained at a temperature below
20C or above 4SC.If this is not practicable then the water should be
disinfected if it is safe and appropriate to do so. Note that other hazards
may exist in the handling of biocides used to disinfect the water.
A scheme should be prepared for preventing or controlling the risk
incorporating all of the actions listed above.
Further details on preventing infection are contained in the publication
"The Control of Legionellosis including Legionnaires Disease" - Health
and SafetySeriesbooklet HS (G) 70.

USE OF EARTH LEAKAGE

ELECTRICAL SAFETY DEVICE

CIRCUIT

BREAKER

AS

AN

The equipment described in this Instruction Manual operates from a

mains voltage electrical supply. The equipment is designed and
manufactured in accordancewith appropriate regulations relating to the
use of electricity. Similarly, it is assumedthat regulations applying to the
operation of electrical equipment are observedby the end user.
However, to give increased operator protection, Armfield Ltd have
incorporated a Residual Current Device or RCD (alternatively called an
Earth LeakageCircuit Breaker- ELCB)as an integral part of this equipment.
If through misuse or accident the equipment becomes electrically
dangerous, an RCD will switch off the electrical supply and reduce the
severity of any electric shock received by an operator to a level which,
under normal circumstances,will not causeinjury to that person.
At least once each month, check that the RCD is operating correctly by
pressing the TESTbutton. The circuit breaker MUST trip when the button
is pressed.Failure to trip means that the operator is not protected and the
equipment must be checkedand repaired by a competent electrician before
it is used.

RECEIPT OF EQUIPMENT

.1.

SALESIN THE UNITED KINGDOM

The apparatus should be carefully unpacked and the components checked

against the Advice Note. A copy of the Advice Note is supplied with this
instruction manual for reference.
Any omissions or breakagesshould be notified to Armfield Ltd wi thin
three days of receipt.

2.

SALES OVERSEAS

The apparatus should be carefully unpacked and the components checked

against the Advice Note. A copy of the Advice Note is supplied with this
instruction manual for reference.
Any omissions or breakages should be notified immediately to the
Insurance Agent stated on the Insurance Certificate if the goods were
insured by Armfield Ltd.
Your own insurers should be notified immediately if insurance was
arrangedby yourselves.

MINIMUM

COMPUTER

SYSTEM

REQUIREMENTS

Appropriate CAPTURE Demonstration Unit.

CAP'IURE Interface Device (Cat. Ref.IFD)
Disk containing software (~") entitled "FM20 Centrifugal Pump"
IBM 386 Microcomputer (or 100%compatible)
Windows 3.1
1.44MB3 1/2" floppy drive.
Printer (if copiesof results are required).
NOTE:

An SWAt Integrating Wattmeter may be used to measurethe

electrical power supplied to the electric motor associatedwith
this hydraulic machine. Since this Wattmeter takes readings
of the current and voltage supplied to the electric motor, any
noise on the electrical supply or earth connection will result
in noisy readings from the Wattmeter. Excessivenoise on the
electrical supply will therefore causethe Wattmeter readings
displayed on the computer monitor to be unstable. A
stable/noise free electrical supply is therefore required for
optimum results.

INSTAlliNG

THE ARMFIELD

INTERFACE

CONSOLE IFD

The ARMFIELD POD is the interfacebetween the sensorsand the software

in the PC It plugs into a parallel port on the PC, and any printer that
would occupy this port may be plugged into the output printer port on the
POD.
A program (sortport.exe)is supplied as part of the software, and will run
during the installation process.The program will identify the parallel
port(s) , and, in the caseof computerswith more than one such port, it will
offer the user the choice of locations for the POD.
The sortport.exeprogram may be run after the initial installation of the
software should the user wish to changethe port being used.

INSTAlliNG

THE SOFTWARE

Each item in the Armfield CAPTURErange of equipment is supplied with

a program which runs under Microsoft Windows 3.1.
The application disk contains a set-up program which will install the
software onto your hard disk. The default condition will install the
software into a Windows Group named ARMFIELD. Should you wish to
changethis, you will have the opportunity during the set-up.
To install the software, place the applications disk into the floppy drive A:.
Choose 'File' from the menu bar in the Windows Program Manager, and
then choose'Run' from the drop-down menu. Type
A:SETUP

in the command box, and then choose'OK'.

The installation procedure may take a little while, as the files have to be
decompressed.

. .

Installing the software for the first time:

To ensure correct operation of the Capture software, the font

'GreekMathSymbols' should be installed in Windows.
This can be checked by double clicking on Control Panel in the Main
program group of the Program Manager. Select Fonts and check that
'GreekMathSymbols' is included in the installed fonts list.
If it is not, click on Add... and selectthe font 'SYMBOLS' from the list of
fonts in the windows \ systemdirectory, then click on OK.
The font should now be shown in the installed fonts list.

1]
7

It
9

7~
5

FM 20 CENTRIFUGAL PUMP DEMONSTRATION UNIT

DESCRIPTION
All numerical referencesin bracketsrelate to the diagram on page 9.
The equipment comprises of a centrifugal water pump (6) driven by an
electric motor (19) which is mounted on a support plinth (2) together with
a clear acrylic reservoir (11) and associated pipework for continuous
circulation. Clean water is used as the operating fluid and a drain valve
(10) at the baseof the reservoir allows the water to be drained after use.
Appropriate sensorsare incorporated on the unit to facilitate analysis of
the pump performance when connected to the par~el port of a suitable
microcomputer via an Armfield 'POD' interface (IFD)..In addition to the
tappings required by the pressuresensors,additional tappings (5, 15 and 18)
are included in the pipework to allow appropriate calibration instruments
to be connected.
The flow of water through the centrifugal pump is regulated by a flow
control valve (16) installed in the discharge pipework of the pump.
Adjustment of this valve allows the head/flow produced by the pump to
be varied. A valve (9) in the inlet pipework of the pump allows the effect
of suction lossesto be investigated.
A spare impeller (8) is installed on the plinth to allow visual inspection of
the impeller which is installed inside the volute of the water pump.
The following sensors are used to monitor the performance of the
centrifugal water pump:Differential pressure sensor SPWI connected to Channell

on IFD:.

This comprises of a pressure sensitive piezoresistive device with

appropriate signal conditioning all contained in a protective case
(13) and is used to measure pressure developed across the orifice
plate (14) installed in the discharge pipework of the pump. .The
volume flow rate of water through the pump can be calculated
using this measurement.
The sensoris connectedto the appropriate tappings in the pipework
using flexible tubing. Additional tappings (15)are provided for the
connection of appropriate instrumentation (not supplied) to
facilitate calibration of the differential pressuresensor.
Qifferential pressure sensor SPW3 connected to Channel 2 on IFD:

This comprises of a pressure sensitive piezoresistive device with

appropriate signal conditioning all contained in a protective case(4)
and is used to measure the difference in pressurebetween the inlet
r-

t.

10

and outlet of the centrifugal pump. The head developed by the

pump can be calculated from this measurement.
The sensoris connectedto the appropriate tappings in the pipework
using flexible tubing. Additional tappings (5 and 18) are provided for
the connection of appropriate instrumentation (not supplied) to
facilitate calibration of the differential pressuresensor.
Rotational speed sensor 5501 connected to Channel 3 on IFD:

This comprises of a reflective infra-red opto switch (1) on a remote

lead with appropriate signal conditioning in a protective case(3) and
is used to measure the rotational speed of the motor/pump
impeller.
The opto switch is mounted on a support bracket adjacentto the end
of the motor shaft which incorporates a reflective strip to facilitate
measurement of the rotational speed. An appropriate noncontacting optical tachometer(not supplied) may be used to calibrate
the rotational speed sensor.
A tem~erature sensor STSl connected to Channel 4 on IFD:.

This comprises of a temperature sensitive semiconductor device

(17) on a remote lead with appropriate signal conditioning in a
protective case(7) and is used to measure the temperature of the
water entering the centrifugal pump.
The sensor is inserted through the wall of the pipe using a
waterproof gland. The sensor may be removed from the gland for
the purpose of calibration using appropriate equipment (not
supplied).
In addition to the above sensors. which are all ~ermanentl~ attached t,Q,the
FM20 unit. an IntegIating Wattmeter (SWA1) ma~ be connected to
ChannelS on IFD:

The Wattmeter is connectedbetween the mains lead (20) from the

pump and a suitable power supply to facilitate measurement of the
electrical power supplied to the motor. The Integrating Wattmeter
may be calibrated using a suitable twin trace oscilloscope (not
supplied).
When using the FM20 program in conjunction with a suitable
microcomputer, measurements from the above sensorsare displayed and
used to compute appropriate calculated variables. These allow the
following performancecurves to be displayed on the monitor or copied to
a printer:

1. Rotational Speed

versus

2. Motor Input Power

3. Pump Total Head
4. Pump Power Output
5. Overall Efficiency

versus
versus

Volume Flow Rate

Volume Flow Rate
Volume Flow Rate

versus Volume Flow Rate

versus

Volurne Flow Rate

12

PREPARING
FOR USE

THE CENTRIFUGAL

PUMP DEMONSTRATION

UNIT

All numerical referencesin bracketsrelate to the diagram on page 9

Before using the unit for the first time attach the two sectionsof delivery
pipework (12)between the dischargeof the centrifugal..pump (6) and the
reservoir (11). Ensure that all unions are tight before filling with water.
Connect the flexible tubing from sensor SPWI (13) to the tappings on the
orifice plate (14) with LOW PI connectedto the top tapping the ffiGH P2
connectedto the bottom tapping.
Place the Centrifugal Pump Demonstration Unit in a suitable location
adjacent to a compatible microcomputer.
Placethe InterfaceIFD alongside the microcomputer. Placethe Integrating
Wattmeter SWAI (if available) alongside the IFD as convenient.
Ensure that all tappings in the pipework of the Pump Unit are connected
to appropriate sensorsor blanked.
Open the inlet valve (9) and close the outlet control valve (16).

Ensure that the drain valve (10)at the baseof the reservoir is fully closed
then fill the reservoir with clean, cold water.
The pressuresensorson the unit require priming with water before initial
operation (and whenever the tank has been emptied and refilled). A
hypodermic syringe and micro-bore tubing are supplied for this purpose.
To prime the tubes with water remove the flexible tubing from the PVC
pipe by removing the pipe clip and gently pulling the tube from the
stainless steel tapping. Fill the syringe with water and gently insert the
micro-bore tubing into the sensor's flexible tubing until it is a few
millimetres away from the sensor. Hold the flexible tubing vertically.

Slowly inject water into the tube until it is completely filled, then remove
the syringe and micro-bore tubing, and replacethe fleXIbletubing on to the
stainlesssteel tapping.
There are two stainless steel tappings at each tapping point. One is
connectedto the sensor,whilst the other is used to connect a manometer
for calibration. It should be noted that there is a difference betweenthe two
points. The sensor tapping is fitted with a nylon restrictor to dampen
pressure fluctuations. The calibration tapping has no restrictor. Ensure the
sensoris connectedto the correct tapping point.

Connect the mains lead (20) from the motor of the centrifugal pump to the
Integrating Wattmeter SWAI. Connect the Wattmeter to the POWER
OUTPUT of IFD.
Connectthe mains supply lead from an appropriate electrical supply to the
MAINS INPUT socket on IFD ensuring that the voltage of the electrical
supply is compatible with the console (indicated on the rear of the
console).
Switch on the mains supply. Switch on the IFD. Check that the pump
operates. Open the outlet flow control valve fully and allow water to
circulate until all air bubbles are expelled.Switch off IFD.
Connecteachof the sensorconditioning boxes to the appropriate SENSOR
SOCKETSon the front of IFD, using the numbered connecting leads, as
follows:Channell to sensor 5PWl (13)
Channel 2 to sensor 5PW3 (4)
Channel 3 to sensor 5501 (3)
Channel 4 to sensor ST51 (7)
Channel 5 to the Integrating Wattmeter SWAl

The equipment is ready for use with the Armfield Windows software.
NOTE:

The apparatus is classified as Education and Training

Equipment under the Electromagnetic Compatibility
(Amendment) Regulations 1994.Use of the apparatusoutside
the classroom, laboratory or similar such place invalidates
conformity with the protection requirements of the
Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive (89/336/EEq and
could lead to prosecution.

14

ROUTINE

MAINTENANCE

To preserve the life and efficient operation of the equipment it is

important that the equipment is properly maintained. Regular
servicing/maintenance of the equipment is the responsibility of the end
user and must be performed by qualified personnel who understand the
operation of the equipment.
In addition to regular maintenance the following notes should be
observed:-

1.

The equipment should be disconnected from the electrical supply

when not in use.

2.

Water should be drained from the equipment when it is not in use.

3.

The exterior of the equipment should be periodically cleaned.00

NOT use abrasivesor solvents.

4.

The reservoir should be periodically cleaned to remove debris and

deposits on the walls. DO NOT use abrasivesor solvents.

FM20
INDEX TO EXPERIMENTS

Experiment

PageNo

Warning!
Introduction - Instructional Objectives.

Introduction - Energy Transfer in a Pump.

PracticalExerciseNo 2 - Pump Inherent Characteristics

PracticalExerciseNo 3 -Pump ConstantSpeedCharacteristics
PracticalExerciseNo 4 -Introduction to Scaling

ii
III

PracticalExerciseNo 1 Using EngineeringUnits

PracticalExerciseNo 5 - Pump Suction

PracticalExerciseNo 6 - SystemCharacteristic- duty point

PE2-1
PE3-1
PE4-1
PEs-I

Warning!
Eachof the practical exercisesdescribedin the Labsheetshelp file requires
the equipment to be set up and in working condition according to the
instructions given in the menu-bar 'Install'. If you have not done this, or
are not sure whether the unit is correctly set up, go back to the 'Install'
pull-down screens,and follow the instructions given there to completion.
The final test of readiness is made under the selection button 'Diagrm'
when the effect on the measured variables of changing the various pump
settings can be seen numerically on screen. For example, adjusting the
position of the rotary dial by hand on the SWAl Integrating Watt meter
will cause the pump speed to change, as well as the flow rate and head
developed by the pump. Similarly, adjusting the valves on the pump inlet
and outlet pipes by hand will also causechangesin pump flow and head.
Check that the changesin thesepump settings give trends in the measured
variables,as displayed in the boxes on screen,which you would intuitively
expect.If no change in pump speed or measured power or flow or head
occurs whatever changesyou make to the power input or to the valve
positions, then clearly something is wrongly set up and you need to
establishwhat the problem is by working through the 'Install' procedures
again.

Introduction

- Instructional

Objectives.

The objectsof the practical work exercisesdescribedin the 'Labsheet' help

screens,are to understand the operating characteristicsof a centrifugal
pump.
In this type of pump (Fig 1),the fluid is drawn into the centreof a rotating
impeller and is thrown outwards by centrifugal action. As a result of the
high speedof rotation, the liquid acquiresa high kinetic energy. The
pressuredifference between the suction and delivery sides arises from the
conversion of this kinetic energy into pressureenergy.

EfficiaM:yE

N-lOOO

N-lSOO

N'".2000

rev/mia

1500 ~p
1000
:ttt1"

Fig.

~
ACentrifuaalPmnp

HaclH

Disc8geQ
FII- 2 ()pa8iDc CI8KtaiIIicI of . C=rifup1 ~

The operating characteristicsof a pump are often conveniently shown by

plotting head H, power P, and an efficiency E against dischargeflow Q for
a seriesof constantspeedsN, as shown in Fig 2. It is important to note that
the efficiency reachesa maximum and then falls, whilst the head at first
falls slowly with Q but eventually falls off rapidly. The optimum
conditions for operation occur when the required 'duty point' of head and
flow coincideswith a point of maximum efficiency.
This Armfield 'Capture' unit, ref FM20, is designed to allow students to
determine the operating characteristicsof a centrifugal pump rapidly and
meaningfully, using 'on-line' data acquisition and analysis. Test results
may be displayed in tabular and graphical forms, and it is a simple matter
to repeat or add to the data to cover areas of the pump performance of
particular interest
At the conclusion of the work, students are asked a series of questions 0 n
an interactive basis, to ensure that a true understanding of pump
characteristicshas been gained.

ii

-[

Introduction - Energy Transfer in a Pump.

Fluid machines are usually characterised in two distinct classes:
rotodynamic or positive displacement. In the former of these, relative
motion is required between the rotating element of the machine (the
'rotor') and the fluid stream, whereas in the latter case the machine
componentsmechanically displace a set volume of fluid. In a rotodynamic
machine, therefore, the changesin fluid velocity and pressure between
inlet and outlet are of considerably greater significance in determining
performance than for a positive displacement machine, where essentially
machine speedis the key operating parameter.
The centrifugal pump, of which the Armfield FM20 unit is a small-scale
example, is a radial flow rotodynamic machine, wherein fluid enters the
rotor or impeller at one radius and leaves at a larger radius. In so doing,
changes in kinetic, potential and pressure energy occur, and any
understanding of pump behaviour and performance assessmentrequires
measurementor calculation of these quantities.
The general relationship between the various forms of energy, basedon
the 1st Law of Thermodynamics applied to a unit mass of fluid flowing
through a 'control volume' (such as the pump itself) is expressedas:-WI = d(V2/2) + g.dz + voLdp + F

(1)

where:is the mechanicalshaft work performed on the fluid

d(v2/2)

is the changein kinetic energy of the fluid

is the changein potential energy of the fluid
is the change in pressure energy, where 'vol' is the volume
per unit mass of the fluid. For an incompressible fluid of
constant density Rho , this term is equal to jdp/Rho or (P2PI where P2refers to the pump dischargeoutlet andpI to the
pump inlet.

is the frictional energy loss as heat to the surroundings or in

heating the fluid itself as it travels from inlet to outlet.

(2)
where subscript 2 refers to the pump outlet and subscript 1 to the inlet.
The term Wa representsthe actual work performed in changing the energy
stagesof a unit mass of the fluid. This may alternatively be presented as
the total dynamic head H of the pump, by converting the units from work
per unit massto head expressedas a length :(3)
It can be assumed for the purposes of the following practical experiments
that the fluid is incompressible (ie. Rho is constant).

iv

FM20

Practical Exercise No 1

- Using Engineering Units

Qbjective:-

To ensure users fully understand the conversion of measured units of

quantity to those of the variables necessaryto calculatepump performance.
Theoretical Background:-

The basic tenns used to define, and therefore measure,pump performance

include
i)
ii)
iii)

discharge,
head.
power input and efficiencies.

Eachof theseis consideredin turn.

i) Discharge Qv

The discharge,or flow rate or capacity,of a pwnp is the volume of fluid

pwnped ~er unit time. In 51 units, this is expressedin cubic metres per
secondm Is, or, for conveniencewith small flows, in cubic decimetres per
seconddm3/s.
The Armfield FM20 unit employs an orifice plate in the pump discharge

pipeline to measure QYI

according to the conventional relationship

between the measured pressure drop dpo across the orifice and the flow
rate :(4)
Where Cd is the orifice discharge coefficient.

(This applies when the orifice diameter d is no more than 50% of the pipe
diameter.)
The appropriate constants needed to use this equation for deducing

dischargeQv from dpoare given in the "Params"sectionof the menu-bar.

Similarly, the calibration of the orifice necessaryto confirm thesevalues of
parametersis describedin the "Calibrt" section of the menu-bar.
ii) HeadH
The term 'head' refers to the elevation of a free surface of water above or
below a reference datum. Terms specifically applied to the analysis of

FM20
pumps and pumping systemsare illustrated graphically in Fig 3, and are
briefly defined below.

T - -~~ff~~
I

I. Pwnp Inlet
2. Pwnp <Altlet

F1ow-

~
- +-~

---

Hydraulic Gradient

v Flow velocity (m/~)

2
P Pressure(N/m - )-2- - -.!!- --

Lioe

--

H Total Head(m)

VI

PI
&g

r=-

h:::~Da1um

"-v
Pump

Line

-:I"
Rho.1 --+- r - ' ' '
\
1-1-

/ z-O
:.--

3>--

Fig 3 Definitions of Head across a pump.

1)

Manometric suction head ~1 is the suction gaugereading (metres)

measured at the suction nozzle of the pump referenced to the
impeller centreline datum.

2)

Manometric discharge head Hm2is the discharge gauge reading

(metres) measured at the dischargenozzle of the pwnp referenced
to the impeller centreline.

3)

Velocity head relatesto the kinetic energy of the fluid when flowing
at a velocity v, ie. v2/2g
therefore, the suction velocity head is v~/2g
and the dischargevelocity head is v~/2g.

4)

Total dynamic head (H) is the head against which the pump must
work when fluid is being pumped. For the pump shown in Fig 3, H
is given by:
(5)

Equation (3) relates precisely to Equation (5) for a control volume

enclosing the pump outlet and inlet, as ~
and ~1 are the
measuredpressuresequal to
Z2+ (P2/RhO) and ~ + (PI/RhO) respectively.
The Armfield FM20 instrumentation is such that (Hm2- HmJ is actually
measured as a differential pressure dpp (pascals), but converted in

PEl-2

FM20
subsequentcalculationsto dpp/Rho.g metres (see'Formulae Used' in this
Help File).
iii) Power Input and Efficiencies
The power P consumedby the fluid in producing the total dynamic head H

at a dischargeQy is givenby Equation(6):

P

= Rho.g.Qy.H

[Nm/s

=Watts]

(6)

However, the fluid friction 'losses' in the pump itself, representedas Fin

Equation(1),requirea hydraulicefficiencyEn to be definedas:Eh =

'Useful' fluid power absorbed (Pu)

x 1000/0

Powersupplied by the impeller (Ph)

Further, the mechanical lossesin the bearings etc. require a mechanical

efficiency Emto be defined as

The Armfield FM20 Centrifugal Pump Unit does not include the direct
measurement of mechanical power Pm for cost reasons, but instead
measureselectrical power PSfto the pump motor. A further efficiency is
therefore required, expressingthe electro-mechanicallosses in the motor
E:E = Powersupplied to the impeller (Pm)xl000/o
e Powersupplied to the motor (Pgr)
The overall efficiency Egris thus:-

It will be seenthat
Egr= ~.~.Ee

PEl-3

FM20

EQuipment Set-U~:-

As describedin the 'install' help section, with the pump running at a

maximwn speedsetting (100% setting on SWA1). The 'Diagrm' screen
button from the menu bar should be selected,in order that the measured
variables are displayed on-line in the appropriate boxes of the pump
schematicdiagram.
Procedure:-

Open inlet valve VI fully. Close dischargevalve V 2 then start the pump

(pump motor startedunder minimum load). Open dischargevalve V 2

fully, and allow the water to circulate until all air bubbleshave dispersed.
Select'Diagmt' and note the value of the volume flow indicated at the

bottomof the screen.Graduallyclosedischargevalve V 2 until the volume

flow is approximately half of the maximum reading.
When the indicated readings of the 5 measured variables are reasonably
constant, select the 'Take Sample' button from the menu-bar. It is only
necessaryto take one set of results for this exercise.Now select the Tables'
button from the menu-bar, and you will seethe results of your test sample
laid out as one row of a Tab.1eunder one of two headings:- 'Measured
Variables' and 'Calculated Variables'. Write down on a piece of paper the
values of the measuredvariables your sample took, as follows:Differential pressureacrossorifice dpo
Differential pressureacrosspump dpp
Motor rotation speed N
Motor Input Power P
Water Temperature

fw

[kPa]:[kPa]:(Hz] :(W] :[DegC] :-

From your own classroom notes, or using the appropriate theory and
equations in the 'Theory' section of the Help menu, you can calculate the
various pump performance variables for yourself and compare your
calculated figures with those computed in this software and displayed as
'Calculated from Measurements'in the row of tabulated results from your
sample. In your own calculation, you will have to use the values of the
various physical constantslisted in the menu choice button 'Params'.

PE14

FM20

PEl-5

FM20

Objective:-

To obtain a head-flow curve for a centrifugal pump operating at inherent

speed.
Theoretical Background:The best way to describethe operating characteristicsof a Centrifugal Pump
is through the use of characteristic curves. (Fig 4). This figure shows the
interrelation of dischargepressureor head H , capacity~ , and efficiency
Egr, and power input Pgr, for a given pump at inherent speed(motor speed
changeswith load). The H - Qy curve shows the relation between total
head and capacity.The pressure increasecreatedby a centrifugal pump is
commonly expressedin terms of the head of the fluid following. This
dischargehead H is independent of the density of the fluid.
In Fig 4, the headincreasescontinuously asthe capacityis decreased;
this
type of curve is referred to as a rising characteristic curve. A stable headcapacity characteristic curve is one in which only one capacity can be
obtained at anyone head. Pump selection should be made such that stable
operating characteristicsare available.

Fig 4. Characteristiccurvesfor a single FM20 centrifugal pump.

The Pgr

- Qy

curve of Fig 4 shows the relation between power input and

pump capacity. The Egr - Qy curve relates pump efficiency to capacity. For a

PE2-1

FM20
pump having the characteristicsof Fig 4, maximum efficiency would occur
at a volume flow rate of 0.7 dm3/ sec,and a total head of 6.75metres.
Equipment Set-Up:Exactly the same as that for Practical ExerciseNo 1. Valve Vt should be
fully open, and remain so for this exercise.
Procedure:i)

Select maximum pump speedN 1 by adjusting the power controller

to 1000/0.

ii)

Openinlet valve V 1 fully. Closedischargevalve V 2 then start the

pump (pump motor started under minimum load). Open discharge
valve V 2 fully and allow the water to circulate until all air bubbles
have dispersed.Select'Diagrm' and note the value of the volume
flow indicated at the bottom of the screen. Decide on suitable
increments in flow to give adequate sample points (typically 15
points between zero and maximum flow).

iii)

Close Valve V2 to correspond to the condition of no flow ie. Qy = O.

When the measured readings as indicated in the boxes on the
schematicdiagram are sufficiently steady,select 'Take Sample'. This
representsthe first point on the characteristiccurve. 00 NOT leave
the pump in this condition of a closed outlet valve V 2 as the water
will heat up and so change in viscosity as to invalidate the results!
Go on to the next point (iv) as soon as possible:-

iv)

Openvalve V 2 slightly, to give the first increment in volume flow

at the bottom of the screen. When readings are steady enoughi select
'Take Sample'.

v)

Repeat step (iv) above for a gradually increasing set of valve V 2

openings, ie. increasing values of flow Qy. The final sample point
will correspond to valve V2 being fully open.

vi)

The recorded set of head-flow data may now be examined and

assessedin the various selectableoptions of 'Graphs', 'Tables' or
downloaded into a spreadsheet. (see 'Software' help screens if
necessary).

PE2-2

FM20

Practical Exercise
Characteristics

No

Pump Constant Speed

Objective:To obtain the head-flow curves for a centrifugal pump at a range of pump
speeds,and to relate theseparametersto pump efficiency.
Theoretical Background:Pump Operating Characteristics
Pump manufacturers provide information on the performance of their
pumps in the form of characteristiccurves, such as those shown in Fig 5
for a typical, variable speedcentrifugal pump.

Eft:.:icll:y %

'i

b.l
0.2
DiIcb.F Q (cu.m/~)

8.3

Fig 5 Typical characteristic curves for a 375mm dia impeller pump

(courtesy of Smith &; Loveless, quoted in 'Environmental
Engineering' by HS Peavy, DR Rowe &; G Tchobanoglous, McGrawHill 1985)

The curves allow engineers to seethe maximum efficiency of a particular

design of pump for a range of operating speeds,and hence helps with the
selection of pumps for a required pressure-flow. Other charts may show
the influence of changein impeller diameter, or altering the blade angle.
Equipment Set-Up:Exactly as PracticalExerciseNo 2, with pump suction valve V 1 fully open
throughout the exercise.

PE3-1

FM20
Procedure:i)

Choose a relatively low pump speed ego 10Hz, and repeat the
procedure of ExerciseNo 2 above. Remember to take the series of
sample points in ascending steps of increased flow, and also to
correct the power controller setting to ensure the pump speedis the
samefor all head-flow readings.

ii)

Now increasethe pump speedto a new, somewhat higher setting

ego 15Hz or even 20Hz, and repeat the taking of samples for
gradually increasingvalues of flow rate, as in i) immediately above.

iii)

Your recorded tables and corresponding graphs of head-flow at

different but fixed pump speedsshould look like those in Fig 2 of
the 'Introduction' section. It is instructive to superimpose the
efficiency curves on to the graph, to indicate those combinations of
head, flow and speedwhere efficiency is at a maximum.

1
PF3-2

FM20

Practical Exercise No 4

Introduction to Scaling

Objective:-

To predict the head-flow characteristic at one pump speed from

measuredat another speed.
Theoretical Background:It is not practicable to test the performance of every size of pump in a
manufacturer'srange at all speedsat which it may be designed to run.
Hence a mathematical solution is r~uired whereby assumptions can be
made as to the operating characteristicsof a pump running at one speed,
impeller size, etc from experimental results taken at another.
The multiplicity of such curves, which result from dimensional plotting,
can be reduced to a single curve if appropriate dimensionless groups are
used. It turns out that, provided that the effects of fluid viscosity on pump
performance are small and that cavitation (seelater) is not occurring, the
characteristicof a given type and shapeof pump is representedby:

gH = function of JgL
N.D3
N2I)T
where N
and
D

= pump speed (rpm or Hz)

= impeller diameter (m)

For a single curve of the type suggestedby Equation (9) to represent more
than one operating condition of the particular type of pump, the criterion
of 'dynamic similarity' must be fulfilled. That is, all fluid velocities at
corresponding points within the machine are in the same direction and
proportional to impeller speed.When this is the case,as for a particular
pump operated at different speeds,a simple graph of data is formed, as
depicted in Fig 6:

PE4-1

FM20
~50-.

~4.0.

-bb

.~3.0(.)

'if
Key:

X<;o o<>~

x 2500 rpm
0

<>

(.)

82.0-

0+

+ '<>

3500
4500
5000

\,9;.~

~
/:+-

-0

~ 10
::c
. -

~rve

I"\L

~x

detenoraDon
.
. m
. y,i"/:+- .

perfonnanceat high speeds

(effect due to cavitation)
I
I
I

<)

0.02
0.04
0.06
Flow coefficientQ/(ND)

Fig 6 Dimensionless
head-discharge characteristic of a particular
centrifugal pump operated at different speeds. (ack. to IIFluid
Mechanics, Thermodynamics of Turbomachinery" , SL Dixon,
Pergamon 1966.)

Use of these so-called 'affinity laws' allows performance of geometrically

similar pumps of different sizes or speeds to be predicted accurately
enough for practical purposes.Exactaccuracywould require that effectsof
surfaceroughness of the pump, the viscosity of the fluid, etc. to be taken
into account.
The methods used for forming these dimensionless groups will not be
entered into here, but the groups themselves are known by the following
names:
P / pN3Ds

=P

Q/ND3=cj)
gH/N2D2 = 'II

the power coefficient

the flow coefficient
the head coefficient

Theselaws are most often used to calculate changesin flow rate, head and
power of a pump when the size, rotational speed or fluid density is
changed. The following formulae are derived from the above
considerations,and allow calculation of head H, power P and efficiency E
at one speedN] to be deduced from those measuredat another speedN2:
Q)
Q2

--Nt
-N2

HI = -1.N2
H2
N2

(10)

PE4-2

FM20

Pt -P2

N31
N3

More generally, the relationship between two geometrically similar

machines with characteristic diameters Dt and D2 operating at rotational
speedsNt and N2 is shown in Fig 7. For any two points at which values of

~gH
N2-D2 ) and
are the same (theseare termed 'correspondingpoints'), it follows that:-

H2=H1

Q2

OJ

Nt

N2
QtN-;

O2

(~
Dt )

and

(11)

~ NO~
~ ;2
.~

:I:
~
(U
Q)
:I:

FQt

y
v

01

-~

VolumeF~ Q

)3

(W;

Q~
O
/ N .1

q;

Fig 7 Relationship of performance characteristics

similar machines operating at different speeds.

PE4-3

for geometrically

FM20

Equipment Set-Up:.
Exactlyas PracticalExerciseNo 2, with pump suction valve V 1 fully open
throughout the exercise.
Procedure:i)

As discussed,there is no need to perform further test runs to gain

all pump performance characteristics,as in Experiment 3, as the
results so far obtained can be used as they are to test the 'scaling
laws'.

ii)

From the Equation (10) in the Theory section, the Head H and Flow
Qy at one speed N 1 are, for dynamically similar pumps (here of
coursethe samepump), related to those at another speedN2 by:
Ql/Q2 =N1fNz

iii)

and

H1/H2 = N~ /N~

Therefore take anyone pair of readings of H and

at a chosen

speedN 1 and predict the values of H and Qy at another speedfor

which you happento havethe measuredvaluesof H and Qy aswell.
A comparison between predicted and measured values will be
instructive. It is of coursepossible to predict the entire characteristic
curve of H - Qy at one speedfrom the measuredresults at another.

PE4-4

FM20

Practical Exercise No 5 - Pump Suction

Objective:To investigate the effect on pump performance of different suction
conditions at the pump inlet.
Theoretical Background:-

CAVITAllON AND SUcnON HEAD

In both the design and operation of a rotodynamic machine, careful
attention has to be paid to the fluid conditions on the suction side. In
particular, it is important to check the minimum pressure that can arise at
any point to ensure that 'cavitation' does not take place.
i)

Cavitation.

If the pressureat any point is Jessthan the vapour pressure of the liquid at
the temperature at that point, vaporisation will occur. This is most likely
to arise in the suction side and , if so, the pump may not be capableof
developing the suction head necessaryto ensure the correct operating
point is achieved. Moreover, the vaporised liquid appears as bubbles
within the liquid, and these subsequently collapse with such force that
mechanical damage may be sustained. This condition, known as
cavitation, is accompaniedby a marked increasein noise and vibration in
addition to the loss of head.
ii)

Suction head

For any pump, manufacturers specify the minimum value of the 'net
positive suction head' (NPSH) which must exist at the suction inlet point
of the pump. NPSH is the amount by which the pressure at this point
must exceedthe vapour pressure of the liquid. For any installation this
must be calculated,taking into account the absolute pressure of the liquid,
the level of the pump, and the velocity and friction heads in the suction
line. The NPSH must allow for the fall in pressure occasionedby the
further accelerationof the liquid as it flows onto the impeller and for
lossesin the pump itself. If the required value of NPSH is not reached,
partial vaporisation may occur, with the result that both suction and
delivery headsmay be reduced.The loss of suction head is more important
becauseit may causethe pump to be starved of liquid.

PEs-I

FM20
Equipment Set-Up:As for the previous Exercises,but choosea pump speedN and outlet valve

settingV 2 (and thus flow rate)correspondingto one of the data points of

ExerciseNo 3. This makes comparisoneasier.Probablya pair of mid range

valuesof N and Qy are the mostsuitable.

Procedure:-

This procedure is as Exercise2 but changesthe inlet valve, and leaves the
discharge valve fully open.
i)

Initially, start with the inlet valve V fully open. Take Sample,
which should produce a head and efficiency result corresponding
precisely to that from Exercise3.

ii)

Now dose the inlet valve V 1 somewhat,and Take Sample.

iii)

Close the inlet valve a further amount, restore the pump speedand
Take Sample. Continue this restriction of the inlet, taking data
samples at the same constant speed, until the pump no longer
draws any water from the feed tank. Then stop the pump operation
immediately to prevent damage.

iv)

The resulting tabulation and graphs of pump head and efficiency

under the gradually worsening conditions at the inlet can then be
compared with those for the same speed and flow with an
unrestricted inlet.

PF5-2

FM20

Practical
point

No 6 - System Characteristic - duty

Exercise

Objective:To obtain a Head - Flow curve for the piping system through which the
fluid has to be pumped.
Theoretical Background:Analysis Of Pump Systems
Systemanalysisfor a pumping installation is conducted to selectthe most
suitable pumping units and to define their operating points. System
analysis involves calculating head-capacitycurves for the pumping system
(valves, pipes, fittings etc.) and the use of these curves with those of
available pumps. The s~tern curves are a graphic representation of all
possibleduty points in so far that the total dynamic head (static lift plus
kinetic energy losses)is plotted against discharge flows from zero to the
expectedmaximum, and a typical set are shown in Fig 8.

51

ISI

101

20'

DischargeQv

Fig 8 Typical head-discharge curves for a pumping

valves etc).

installation

(pipes,

As noted previously, pump characteristiccurves illustrate the relationship

between head, discharge, efficiency and power over a wide range of
possibleoperating conditions, but they do not indicate at which point on
the curves the pump will operate.The operating point (or duty point) is
found by plotting the pump head-discharge curve with system headdischargecurve, as in Fig 9. The intersection of the two curves represents
the head and discharge that the pump will produce if operated in the

PE6-1

FM20
given piping system.It will be seen that the optimum operating condition
is achieved if this operating point coincides with the maximum point in
the efficiency-dischargecurve of the pump.
40""1

PumpbeedoCap8citycurve
~~

r90
''--SO

~.

10
DischargeQ

15

Fig 9 Definition sketch for determination of pump operating point.

Equipment Set- Up:-

It is necessaryto use the pump outlet pressure tapping to measure the

head against which the fluid must be pumped relative to atmospheric
pressure. The connection between the pump inlet pressure tapping and
the low pressureport on differential pressure sensorSPW3must therefore
be temporarily broken. To do this, remove the small bore tubing from the
pressuretapping adjacentto the inlet of the pump then temporarily blank
the tapping using a short length of flexible tubing with clamp to prevent
leakagethrough the tapping. The free end of the flexible tube which is still
attachedto the low pressure side of sensor SPW3 should be left open to
atmosphere with the end positioned approximately at the same height as
the centreline of the pump (height datum for measurements).
The pump motor may now be switched on and water circulated as in the
previous Exerciseset-ups.Inlet valve VI should be fully open.
Procedure:i)

Selecta position for the outlet valve V2 such that it is partly closed

ii)

Flow control of the pump will be made by altering the speedsetting

on the power controller rather than by altering the outlet valve as
in the previous Exercises.

and forming a significant resistance to flow ego2/3rds shut. This

setting will be maintained throughout this Exercise (unless you
have to repeat the results at a different setting to achieve a better
range, for example).

FM20
Iii)

Select maximum speed as the starting point (5WA1 set to 1000/0).

When the readings of pump outlet pressure and orifice pressure
drop are constant, Take Sample. (The pump outlet pressure, now
measured relative to atmospheric pressure,represents the 'system
pressure',as conditions in the vesselto which the water is returned
remain constant.)

iv)

Decreasethe speedslightly by adjusting SWAI, ie. decreasethe flow

rate Qv, and Take Sample for the new conditions of system pressure.
Continuation of this measurement at gradually decreasedflow will
provide the data in Tables or Graphs as the 'system' head-flow
curve, as describedin Theory section6.

Note: It will not be possible to reduce the speed continuously down to

zero.

PE6-3

GENERAL SAFETY RULES

1

Follow Relevant Instructions

Before attempting to install, commission or operate equipment, all

relevant suppliers/manufacturers instructions and local regulations
should be understood and implemented.
It is irresponsible and dangerous to misuse equipment or ignore
instructions, regulations or warnings.
Do not exceed specified maximum operating conditions (eg.
temperature,pressure,speedetc.
'

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(

Installation

Use lifting tackle where possible to install heavy equipment. Where

manual lifting is necessarybeware of strained backs and crushed
toes. Get help from an assistant if necessary.Wear safety shoes
where appropriate.
Extremecare should be exercisedto avoid damage to the equipment
during handling and unpacking. When using slings to lift
equipment, ensure that the slings are attached to structural
framework and do not foul adjacent pipework, glasswareetc. When
using fork lift trucks, position the forks beneath structural
framework ensuring that the forks do not foul adjacent pipework,
glassware etc. Damage may go unseen during commissioning
creating a potential hazard to subsequentoperators.
Where special foundations are required follow the instructions
provided and do not improvise. Locate heavy equipment at low
level.
Equipment involving inflammable or corrosive liquids should be
sited in a containmentareaor bund with a capacity500/0greater than
the maximum equipment contents.
Ensure that all servicesare compatible with the equipment and that
independent isolators are always provided and labelled. Use reliable
connectionsin all instances,do not improvise.
Ensure that all equipment is reliably earthed and connected to an
electrical supply at the correct voltage. The electrical supply must
incorporate a Residual Current Device (RCD) (alternatively called
an Earth Leakage Circuit Breaker - ELCB) to protect the. operator
from severeelectric shock in the event of misuse or accident.
Potential hazards should always be the first consideration when
deciding on a suitable location for equipment. Leave sufficient space
between equipment and between walls and equipment.

e
f

.L

A voiding fires or explosion

Ensure that the laboratory is provided with adequate fire

extinguishersappropriate to the potential hazards.
Where inflammable liquids are used, smoking must be forbidden.
Notices should be displayed to enforcethis.
Beware since fine powders or dust can spontaneously ignite under
certain conditions. Empty vessels having contained inflammable
liquids can contain vapour and explode if ignited.
Bulk quantities of inflammable liquids should be stored outside the
laboratory in accordancewith local regulations.
Storagetanks on equipment should not be overfilled. All spillages
should be immediately cleaned up, carefully disposing of any
contaminatedcloths etc. Bewareof slippery floors.
When liquids giving off inflammable vapours are handled in the
laboratory, the area should be ventilated by an ex-proof extraction
system. Vents on the equipment should be connected to the
extraction system.
Students should not be allowed to prepare mixtures for analysis or
other purpose without competent supervision.

b
c
d

e
f

g
8

Handling poisons, corrosive or toxic materials

Certain liquids essentialto the operation of equipment, for example

mercury, are poisonous or can give off poisonous vapours. Wear
appropriate protective clothing when handling such substances.
Clean up any spillage immediately and ventilate areasthoroughly
using extraction equipment. Bewareof slippery floors.
Do not allow food to be brought into or consumed in the laboratory.
Never use chemicalbeakersas drinking vessels.
Where poisonous vapours are involved, smoking must be
forbidden. Notices should be displayed to enforcethis.
Poisonsand very toxic materials must be kept in a locked cupboard
or store and checked regularly. Use of such substancesshould be
supervised.
When diluting concentrated acids and alkalis, the acid or alkali
should be addedslowly to water while stirring. The reverse should
never be attempted.

c
d

A voiding cuts and bums

Take care when handling sharp edged components. Do not exert

undue force on glass or fragile items.
Hot surfaces cannot in most cases be totally shielded and can
produce severe burns even when not "visibly hot'. Use common
senseand think which parts of the equipment are likely to be hot.

Commissioning

Ensure that equipment is commissioned and checked by a

competentmember of staff before permitting students to operate it.

Operation

Ensure that students are fully aware of the potential hazards when
operating equipment.
Studentsshould be supervisedby a competent member of staff at all
times when in the laboratory. No one should operate equipment
alone. Do not leave equipment running unattended.
Do not allow students to derive their own experimental procedures
unless they are competentto do so.
Serious injury can result from touching apparently stationary
equipment when using a stroboscopeto 'freeze' rotary motion.

d
5

Maintenance

Badly maintained equipment is a potential hazard. Ensure that a

competent member of staff is responsible for organising
maintenanceand repairs on a planned basis.
Do not permit faulty equipment to be operated. Ensure that repairs
are carried out competently and checked before students are
permitted to operate the equipment.

Using Electricity

At least once eachmonth, check that ELCB's (RCCB's)are operating

correctlyby pressing the TEST button. The circuit breaker must trip
when the button is pressed(failure to trip meansthat the operator is
not protected and a repair must be effected by a competent
electricianbefore the equipment or electrical supply is used).
Electricity is the commonest cause of accidents in the laboratory.
Ensurethat all membersof staff and students respectit.
Ensure that the electrical supply has been disconnected from the
equipment before attempting repairs or adjustments.
Water and electricity are not compatible and can cause serious
injury if they come into contact. Never operate portable electric
appliances adjacent to equipment involving water unless some
form of constraint or barrier is incorporated to prevent accidental
contact.
Always disconnect equipment from the electrical supply when not
in use.

c
d

10

Eye protection

Gogglesmust be worn whenever there is a risk to the eyes.Risk may

arise from powders, liquid splashes,vapours or splinters. Beware of
debris from fast moving air streams. Alkaline solutions are
particularly dangerousto the eyes.
Never look directly at a strong source of light such as a laser or
Xenon arc lamp. Ensure that equipment using such a source is
positioned so that passers-bycannot accidentally view the source or
reflectedray.
Facilities for eye irrigation should always be available.

11

Ear protection

Ear protectors must be worn when operating noisy equipment.

12

Clothing

Suitable clothing should be worn in the laboratory. Loose garments

can causeserious injury if caught in rotating machinery. Ties, rings
on fingers etc. should be removed in these situations.
Additional protective clothing should be available for all members
of staff and studentsas appropriate.

13

Guardsand safety devices

Guardsand safety devices are installed on equipment to protect the

operator. The equipment must not be operated with such devices
removed.
Safetyvalves, cut-outs or other safetydevices will have been set to
protect the equipment. Interference with these devices may createa
potential hazard.
It is not possibleto guard the operator against all contingencies. Use
common senseat all times when in the laboratory.
Beforestarting a rotating machine, make sure staff are aware how to
stop it in an emergency.
Ensure that speed control devices are always set at zero before
starting equipment.

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e

14

First aid

If an accidentdoesoccur in the laboratory it is essential that first aid

equipment is available and that the supervisor knows how to use it.
A notice giving details of a proficient first-aider should be
prominently displayed.
A 'short list' of the antidotes for the chemicalsused in a particular
laboratory should be prominently displayed.

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