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.