This week, we continue our popular “How to…” series, where we take a closer look at the ins and outs of installing, maintaining, inspecting, and using our range of specialised products. So far, we’ve covered several essentials, from Swivel Joints and Couplings to Breakaway Couplings and Loading Arms, providing step-by-step guides to make these tasks simpler. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to our products, these insights aim to give you the confidence to handle them with ease.
In this edition, we’re turning our attention to the Model 2249 Floating Suction Unit. While the name might sound a bit technical, don’t be put off—installing this unit is much more straightforward than you might think. Floating Suction Units are crucial in ensuring clean, efficient fuel or liquid transfers in storage tanks, and with our guide, you’ll soon master the process. Let’s break it down step by step and take the complexity out of the equation, so you can approach your next installation with assurance.
How to install your Model 2249 Floating Suction Unit:
Installing our Model 2249 Floating Suction Unit involves just three simple steps—yes, only three! When you receive one of our flotation devices, it will arrive securely packed in a crate, similar to the one shown in Picture 1 below. Naturally, for ease of transport, the Floating Suction Unit will be partially disassembled. But don’t worry, the straightforward assembly process will have your unit up and running in no time.
Now your crate has arrived at your chosen destination, it is now time to get it installed into your Storage Tank.
Step 1:
First, it’s important to note that our Model 2249 Floating Suction Units are specifically designed to fit through a 24-inch manhole. You’ll need to carefully transfer the disassembled parts into the tank before starting the installation process. Once inside, you can begin the straightforward assembly and get your unit ready for operation.
Step 2:
To assemble the Model 2249 Floating Suction Unit, join the intermediate flanges of the tubes, ensuring they are correctly aligned. Be sure to match the punched line markings on the flange sides and follow the numbering sequence as shown in Picture 2 below. Additionally, connect the restraining cable plates (position 12) to the intermediate flanges of the tubes. This step is crucial to limit the operating angle between the two sections of the floating unit, ensuring smooth and controlled movement.
Step 3:
Next, reconnect the sample point piping along the arm, which was disconnected for packing purposes. Once this is in place, attach the flexible hose flanges to their designated connection points for the sampling line, as indicated in Picture 2 below.
Step 4:
Install the floats on top of the Model 2249 Floating Suction Unit, ensuring that all components are correctly positioned (refer to Picture 2 below). Important: Do not to overtighten the locking nuts (as shown in Picture 3) as this allows the floats to rotate freely during the arm’s floating movement. This flexibility is crucial for the proper functioning of the unit, ensuring smooth and efficient operation.
As illustrated in Picture 3, the key aspect of assembling the Model 2249 Floating Suction Unit is ensuring that the suction head is positioned to face the bottom. Additionally, the floating inspection rope must be connected to the blind flange of the inspection hole, located on the tank’s manhole. This setup allows for easy monitoring of the floating conditions when needed.
Once you’ve carefully followed all these steps, your Model 2249 Floating Suction Unit should be fully operational, ready to efficiently draw fuel from just below the fluid’s surface.