5 Common Problems That Cause Pumps To Fail

Do you notice excessive vibrations, heat, and power exertion coming from your industrial pump? If so, it likely has damage preventing it from operating properly. Failure to address these problems leads to delays in production, safety hazards, and expensive part replacements.

There are several common problems that cause pumps to fail. Educating yourself on these issues will help you stay on top of your equipment. Don’t wait until it’s too late; check these components and practice healthy habits to extend the life of your industrial machines.

Impeller Damage

Pumps use impellers to move energy from a motor and increase pressure. Without them, pumps wouldn’t be able to perform their functions. Because of their spinning nature, impellers are susceptible to wear and tear over time.

Erosion degrades impellers and makes them less effective. Untreated damage creates pressure drops and reduces flow. All these features negatively affect an industrial pump’s efficiency and cause setbacks.

Unlubricated Bearings

Industrial equipment produces heat. While this in itself isn’t totally uncommon, overheating is a common problem that causes your pump to fail and may result in an unsafe working environment. If you have a heat issue that you can’t seem to fix, look at your bearings first.

Unlubricated bearings degrade faster than those with proper lubrication. You should also look out for contaminated grease, as this could add to your problems. Avoid overloading these components as well, since this can also lead to extensive damage.

Misaligned Couplings

When it comes to industrial machines, precise alignment is essential. Pumps and motors need to be perfectly level to work together effectively. You’ll know you have an alignment problem if you notice extreme vibrations and wobbling in either of these mechanisms.

Proper installation will help you avoid misalignment. However, it can still happen after prolonged use. Inspect pump couplings often to prevent a problem before it starts.

Leaking Seals

Seals must be tight in order to contain fluid. While identifying this problem is easy, addressing the concern can be challenging. If you’ve tried multiple methods and still struggle with leaking seals, there are a few steps you can take.

First, consider the kind of fluid your pump handles. If it’s highly corrosive, you might need seal rings with a stronger material. It’s also possible that you’re using the wrong-sized rings, allowing fluid to leak through no matter the circumstance.

Irregular Maintenance

Still, the most common issue professionals see in industrial pumps is a lack of regular maintenance. Inspections allow you to catch developing problems and find solutions promptly. An unmaintained pump will always fail and require expensive repairs.

Sometimes, you need a fresh set of eyes to look at your equipment. That’s why Illinois Electric Works offers Midwestern pump repair services at your convenience. Contact us today to get your industrial pump back in working order.