pumps outside in freezing conditions

[vodeni]

Can anyyone share tips on installation of pumps outside in freezing conditions. We are looking at using vertical turbine pumps to be installed outside, pumping the water from the tank intermittently. I am worried about possible freezing water in the column or around the seal that would prevent pumps from operating.

Thanks all

 

[ione]

Just a couple of tips: hope they could help

1. Use steam tracing to keep your pump warm (or if steam is not available use electric heat tracing).
2. Make the pump run always (using a three valve fitted in your pipeline you can circulate your fluid back to the reservoir and address it to the uses only when necessary): keeping the water flowing will reduce possibility of freezing.

 

[jonr12]

Use and air vent/vac valve before a check valve in the discharge line, and do not use a foot valve. Then the fluid will drain back down when the pump shuts off. The only possibility of freezing would then be downstream from that check valve. There you can insulate and use heat tape on the pipe line.