Centrifugal pump maintenance: mechanical seal replacement, impeller inspection and performance testing

Technical analysis: Centrifugal pump maintenance: mechanical seal replacement, impeller inspection, and performance curv

Технічне обслуговування відцентрових насосів: заміна механічного ущільнення, огляд робочого колеса та тестування характеристик - UNITEC-D Industrial MRO
Практичне керівництво для техніків із заміни механічного ущільнення відцентрового насоса, перевірки робочого колеса та валідації робочих характеристик згідно з ISO 9906.

1. Scope and purpose

This manual describes standard maintenance procedures for industrial centrifugal pumps, including mechanical seal replacement, detailed impeller inspection, and performance testing procedures. These actions are critical to prevent leaks, reduce vibrations, and ensure efficient operation of pumping equipment in accordance with ISO 9906 and DSTU EN 809. standards.Maintenance should be performed when signs of wear, seal leaks, or reduced pressure are detected.

2. Safety measures

ATTENTION: Before starting any work, it is necessary to complete the blocking and marking (LOTO) procedure. Ensure that the pump is completely de-energized and that the stop valves on the suction and discharge lines are closed and locked.
The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is mandatory: safety glasses, chemical-resistant gloves, steel-toed safety shoes and protective coveralls.
If the pump has been used for pumping hazardous liquids, be sure to flush it and make sure there is no residual pressure in the system.

3. Tools and materials

Tool/MaterialSpecificationQuantity
Torque wrenchThe range is 10-100 Nm1
Bearing/wheel pullerAccording to the size of the shaft1
Vernier caliperAccuracy 0.05 mm1
A set of probes0.05-1.00 mm1
Surface cleanerFor degreasing metals1
Lubricant for sealsCompatible with the environment1

4. Inspection before service

ElementVerificationCriteria (Accept/Reject)Notes
Pump housingVisual inspection for cracksNo visible defects-
VibrationMeasurement of vibration levelWithin ISO 10816-
Bearing temperatureMeasurements< 80°C-
Inlet/outlet pressureManometersAccording to the pump curve-

5. Step-by-step procedure

  1. Insulation and drainage: Close the valves. Open the drain hole and drain the liquid completely. Error: Incomplete draining can cause hazardous substances to spill.
  2. Disassembly: Dismantle the clutch protective cover. Disconnect the coupling. Unscrew the fastening bolts of the pump housing evenly crosswise.
  3. Inspection of the impeller: Remove the impeller with the puller. Inspect the vanes for cavitation wear, erosion or mechanical damage. Error: Using a hammer to remove the wheel can damage the shaft.
  4. Mechanical seal replacement: Remove the old seal. Clean the seat on the shaft. Install a new seal. The friction surfaces must be perfectly clean. Use the recommended lubricant. The gap between the shaft and the seal should be 0.1-0.2 mm.
  5. Reassembly: Put the wheel back on. Check the axial clearance (allow 0.15-0.30 mm). Tighten the housing bolts with a torque wrench (tighten to 45 Nm for M12 bolts).
  6. Startup: After assembly, rotate the shaft by hand to ensure there is no rubbing. Start the pump by gradually opening the discharge valve.

6. Inspection after service

TestExpected resultActual resultStatus
HermeticityNo leaks--
Vibration< 2.8 mm/s RMS--
Current consumptionAccording to the passport--

7. Troubleshooting

SymptomProbable causeaction
Seal leakageDamaged friction surfaceSeal replacement
High vibrationWheel imbalanceBalancing or replacement
There is no pressureWrong direction of rotationChecking the motor connection

8. Service schedule

The taskFrequencyDurationLevel
Overview of sourcesEvery week15 minLow
Vibration testEvery month30 minAverage
Seal/bearing replacementAnnually8 hoursTall

9. Spare parts

Description of the spare partSpecificationCategory UNITEC
Mechanical sealingSilicon carbide materialPump seals
Working wheelAISI 316 stainless steelPump parts
A set of bearingsC3 gapBearings

Ordering spare parts is available on our website: UNITEC-D E-Catalog.

10. Links

  • ISO 9906: Centrifugal pumps. Acceptance and acceptance tests.
  • DSTU EN 809: Pumps and pumping units for liquids. Security requirements.
  • Documentation of the pump manufacturer.

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