Fig. 204 on the opposite page represents the pipe connections, etc., of a pump with the delivery opening on the opposite side. D represents the foot valve and strainer placed on the lower end of the suction, which should be not less than a foot from the bottom of the well; the distance named provides for the gradual filling of the well. C is the suction pipe proper, screwed into the elbow, E, which changes its direction into the suction chamber, which contains the strainer, A. This strainer can be removed for cleaning by lifting the bonnet secured by stud bolts on top. In connecting large pumps it is customary to attach a vacuum chamber, F, which in the absence of any regular pattern, may be made of a piece of pipe of the same diameter as the suction and screwed into a T, instead of the elbow, E, with a regulation screwed cap on top as shown in the dotted lines.
A priming pipe is shown by the letter J, often used to fill the pump on starting. The discharge pipe connection is shown at G with the air chamber attached.
This figure is introduced for the purpose of showing an approved method of piping a pump. It may be observed that the flange joints in this design are so arranged that they may be disconnected without unscrewing any part of the suction pipe; this feature is almost essential in view of needed repairs.
The foregoing description of the parts of a pump relate to the water end solely; there remain the more complex and widely differing parts of the steam-end which constitute the distinguishing characteristics of the pumps built by the different makers. There remain also the particular parts belonging to the large pumping engines, air-pumps, etc.
These will be described under their respective chapters with much added and essential matter. Particular details as to the conditions of service under which it is proposed to operate pumps are to be found on the next page.