TroubleshootingB 5-6Part 1044132-04 2019 Nordson CorporationMinimizing Pressure DeviationsUse the following guidelines to minimize pressure deviations.Air SupplyCorrect sizing and installation of the pump air supply system will reducepressure deviation problems. One indication of an inadequate air supply isexcessive needle deflections on the air line gauge as the pump strokes.Fluctuations of 0.35 bar (5 psi) or less are normal. Fluctuations above 0.35bar (5 psi) indicate a restricted air supply.If it is inconvenient or expensive to install a larger air supply line, an airaccumulator can be installed at the pump. This will minimize the airpressure drop that occurs when the pump reverses at the end of eachstroke and ensure an adequate air volume during pump changeover.Air ExhaustRestricted exhaust air can have the same effect as a restricted air supply.The restriction can be caused by ice build-up, wrong size or design ofmufflers, or contamination. Icing can be caused by high cycle rates at highair pressures, by a moisture laden supply air, or by restricted mufflers.If the pump needs to be operated at high cycle rates and air pressures tomaintain the desired fluid pressure and flow rate, a larger pump may beneeded. The air supply must be clean and dry. Use of a refrigerated airdrier and air filter/separators is recommended. Another way to reduce icebuild-up and exhaust noise is to exhaust the air into a large common pipemanifold fabricated from 3- to 4-inch PVC pipe.Correcting Siphon ProblemsUse the following guidelines to isolate and correct siphon problems.CavitationA large percentage of pump problems are the result of siphoning problemsor cavitation. Pressure variations can be caused by restricting the suctionor siphon side of the pump. When the pump does not fully prime on the upstroke, the pump will race or dive on the early portion of the down stroke.When the plunger contacts the fluid, a hydraulic shock and pressure spike iscreated. This hydraulic hammer also reduces packing, plunger, and siphoncheck valve life.