If a pump starts to drop in efficiency because of mechanical wear, the pump must be removed from service for a general overhaul. Boiler systems require critical pumps such as feedwater pumps, vacuum pumps, oil pumps, and sump pumps.
PUMP PREVENTITIVE MAINTENANCE:
– Bearings, unless sealed, require lubrication.
– Clean and grease pump and motor bearings.
– When bearings are worn, they should be replaced.
– If worn bearings are not replaced, damage to the shaft or bearing housing can result.
-Packing glands and mechanical seals require lubrication or flushing with water to ensure proper operation.
– When shaft pump seals start leaking, the seal must be completely replaced.
– Shaft packing can be adjusted with the packing gland nuts to ensure minimum leakage from the pump. When there is excessive leakage due to packing or shaft wear, the packing and/or shaft must be replaced.
Proper preventative maintenance and service on a quarterly basis to pumps can extend pump life for many years. Friends don’t let their friends keep using leaky and noisy pumps. There is a better way!