GIW Technical Series

Moving Mounted Pump and Drive Assemblies

When relocating skid mounted pump and drive assemblies care must be taken to avoid damaging
the pump and other components. Standard practice for lifting the pump as a separate item is shown
in the GIW Maintenance Manual. Rigging and moving any pump or mounted pump assembly is the
sole responsibility of the contractor and equipment owner. GIW assumes no liability or
responsibility regarding the suitability of procedures, equipment or attachment points when moving
pumps and drive components assembled on any customer’s structural base or skid.

The following are suggestions to minimize potential damage to the pump and drive components:

Following proper safety procedures, the pump should be shut down, locked out and completely
drained. Disconnect all system piping, gland water supply lines, electrical power, alarms and other
connections.

All couplings must be disconnected, regardless of the design. Any skid or portable sub-base will
flex somewhat as it is being moved. This could result in excess stress on the couplings, shafts or
bearings which may have a negative impact on the equipment when it is restarted. If the unit is belt
driven, relieve the tension on the belts.

Be certain that all guards and other ancillary components are either removed or secured adequately
for the move.

If the pump is being towed to another location, make certain that the chain attachments have
adequate strength and will allow the necessary turning radius without contacting any part of the
pump or drive system.

If the unit is being rigged or lifted, attachments must be adequate for the weight involved. Note that
the actual center of gravity of the unit may different than it appears visually. Depending on the
design of the supporting structure, the entire unit may also be top heavy.

The GIW Maintenance Manual outlines commissioning procedures for the pump. Once the
assembly is installed at the new location, it is a good time to adjust the impeller nose gap before the
suction pipe is installed. Reconnect the system piping and other items. Prior to connecting the
couplings, the motor should be run to verify correct rotation. Once the installation is complete, a
total system alignment must be done for the pump and drive components since structural flex during
the move may have caused a change.

TECH Moving Pump Assemblies 2007-11-15.doc