6.

0 DISCUSSION

EXPERIMENTAL RESULTS & DISCUSSION

Explain your discussions about this experiment with your tutor. You could write your discussion
by answering these questions:
1. Can you explain the basic operating principle of a gear pump and shut off valve?
• Gear pumps are piston type rotary pumps which operate on the positive displacement
principle. The positive displacement rotary pumps that transport liquids using rotating gears.
• Shut-off valves of the type restrict the flow of media. They must be capable of total flow
shut-off.

2. Does a gear pump have a specific direction of rotation?

• Most gear pumps rarely, rotate in two directions. They also have a specific direction of rotation
which is reversing gear pump rotation. This type of rotary gear pump moves liquid in the same
direction regardless of the direction the gear returns.

3. Looking at the materials used – whose correct standard designations you are familiar with
from the parts list – which media could the pump or shut off valve be suitable for?
i. MSS Standard SP-61 forms leakage allowances for both metal and soft-seated valves. This
standard provides guidance for testing valves typically used in “full open” and “full closed”
service, such as check, isolation, and stop valves, as opposed to throttling and control valves.

4. Explain the method of operation of the pump?

• Pumps operate by certain mechanism (usually reciprocating or rotary), and consume energy to
perform mechanical work for moving the fluid. Pumps operate through many energy sources,
including manual operation, electricity, engines, or wind power, come in many sizes, from
microscopic for use in medical applications to large industrial pumps.

5. Identify how the gear pump and shut off valve will likely fail. Explain the method for
troubleshooting the problems and the solutions for the problems.
• Gear pump (Cavitation): Cavitation causes metal erosion, which damages hydraulic
components and contaminates the fluid. In extreme cases, cavitation can cause mechanical
failure of system components.
Solution:
i. Regularly checking joint rings on any suction piping to make sure they haven’t perished.
ii. Check all O-rings and any secondary mechanical seals.
iii. Ensure all piping has no cracks or signs of erosion.
• Shut off valve (Leakage/Porosity): Small holes in the seats or metal parts where media can
leak very slowly, causing external leakage or contamination back into the process.
Solution:
i. Perform regular testing and inspection: The best way to ensure that valve leakage doesn’t
damage a system or cause undue harm to the environment is to perform regular valve testing
and inspection. Early detection will allow you to fix minor problems before they become major
ones.
ii. Select the appropriate valve size: Oversizing is one of the most common causes of valve
leakage, particularly for control valves. Fortunately, it is also the most preventable through
correct valve sizing and selection.