POINTS FOR ERECTING AND OPERATING HAND PUMPS.
Foundation—For the smaller sizes a foundation is not necessary, other than a good floor. With the large sizes it is advisable to have a substantial foundation. Concrete, well rammed into place, surmounted by a capstone, is as good as any. The foundation allows the pump to be run at a higher speed; a plan showing location of bolt-holes, position of flanges, and general dimensions, so that there may be no delay in setting the pump upon arrival at its destination.
Fig. 180.
Suction Pipe—The suction pipe should be as short and direct as possible, avoiding all turns not necessary. Place a strainer and foot-valve, Fig. 180, on the suction pipe. It is better for the pump to have a slight suction except when hot water is pumped, than to supply the water to the pump under a slight head.
Discharge Pipe—Make the discharge piping as straight as possible, using long bends.
Packing—The stuffing boxes should be carefully packed and the gland brought up firmly against the packing; screwing up the gland by hand should be sufficient.
Large sizes of suction and discharge pipe are desirable, because the friction of the water in the pipes thus reduced makes the pump work easier.