Sustain Pumping Equipment Performance by Monitoring Its Key Components

08 August 2022

Industrial plants rely on various types of pumps to ensure that they can move air or liquid around their premises without any issues.

But no matter what types of pumps industries use, they must all ensure that they can operate throughout their operations. Two ways to sustain the performance of pumping equipment pieces are to monitor their main components and service them whenever necessary.

If you currently maximise various pumping equipment, monitoring and servicing the following components can help you keep their performance at optimum levels.

Suction Line

One part of the pumps that must be monitored regularly is the suction line. The suction line covers the components connected from the extraction point to the pump. Using a vacuum gauge, you must check if the pumps’ suction line, fittings, and pipe plugs are airtight. Once the pumps are shut down, the vacuum gauge must provide the product level to the gauge tap. If the vacuum falls off upon shut down, it means that atmospheric pressure is infiltrating the suction pipe, forcing the pump to drop its static lift.

If necessary, you must replace seals and hoses that are leaky and have deteriorated already. You must also replace any worn suction flap valve.

Hose Lining

The lining in a suction hose is often made from rubber. And while it can last for a long time, it can still pull away from the fabric, which may cause blockage on the lining. Once the pump generates a high vacuum and low discharge pressure, the suction hose lining may only block the suction flow. With a collapsed lining, your gauge readings during the pump operation will be higher than normal. When this happens, you must replace the hose right away.

Suction Strainer

Suction strainers can be found on the suction inlet or piping of a pump, ensuring that its components will be protected from any solid foreign matter. They often maximise a coarse mesh screen, capturing any large particulates whenever the fluid flows into the pump. Inspecting and cleaning your suction strainer can help it carry out its function without any issues. Now, if your gauge readings become higher than normal, it may mean that some particulates are clogging the strainer. One thing that you can do to prevent this is to use the right strainer size.

Pump Elements

The pump itself must also be monitored and checked to ensure that it can perform optimally.

In monitoring your pump, you must check the impeller vanes, wear plate or wear rings, volute casing, and other hardware every six months. If possible, you can check them more frequently to avoid obtaining damages. These elements, after all, can wear faster if abrasive liquids and slurries are being pumped. Aside from checking their conditions, you must also assess the clearance between the impeller and the wear plate or wear rings. Ensuring that they have optimal clearance prevents them from rubbing against each other.

Any seals and bearings must also be checked to know if they are still in great condition. If they are worn already, they must be replaced right away.

If you need help with your industrial pumps, you can contact us at Fluid Sealing.

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