Pump Maintenance
P-80 Lubricants are the “Product of Choice” for Pump, Hose & Seal Maintenance, Repair and
Assembly
When things are running smoothly it’s easy to overlook common maintenance chores and
rationalize that it’s not worth the time to regularly inspect and replace parts. But nothing could
be farther from the truth. The reality is that most facilities have several pumps performing a
variety of functions that are integral to the successful operation of the plant. If a pump
malfunctions it can be the cause of an entire plant shut down.
Pumps are the cogs in the wheel that keep your facility functioning efficiently, whether they are
used for manufacturing processes, HVAC, or water treatment. To keep pumps running properly,
a regular maintenance schedule should be implemented and followed.
1. DETERMINE MAINTENANCE FREQUENCY
Consult the original manufacturer’s guidelines. Consider the timing to schedule your
maintenance. Will lines or pumps have to be disabled? Select a time when the system is
down and use common sense when deciding the time and frequency.
2. OBSERVATION IS KEY
Get to know your system and make a point to observe your pump while it is still running.
Make note of leaks, unusual sounds or vibrations and unusual odors.
3. SAFETY FIRST
Make sure machines are properly shut-down before performing your maintenance and/or
systems check. Proper isolation is important not only for electrical systems, but for
hydraulic systems as well.
4. MECHANICAL INSPECTION
1. Check that mounting points are secure
2. Inspect the mechanical seal and packing
3. Inspect the pump flanges for leaks
4. Inspect the couplings
5. Inspect and clean filters
5. LUBRICATION
Lubricate the motor and pump bearing per manufacturer’s guidelines. Be sure not to over
lubricate. More bearing damage occurs as a result of over greasing than under greasing. If
the bearing has a vent cap, remove the cap and run the pump for 30 minutes before
reinstalling cap. This will allow excess grease to work its way out of the bearing.
6. ELECTRICAL/MOTOR INSPECTION
1. Check that all terminations are tight
2. Inspect motor vents and windings for dust/dirt build-up and clean according to
manufacturer’s guidelines
3. Inspect starter/contractor for arcing, overheating, etc.
4. Use a megohmmeter on the windings to check for insulation failure
7. REPLACE DAMAGED SEALS AND HOSES
If any hoses, seals, or O-rings show wear or damage, replace immediately. Using a temporary
rubber assembly lubricant will ensure a tight fit and prevent leaks or slips.
International Products Corporation (IPC) offers a unique line of temporary rubber lubricants. Our
P-80® lubricants are available in six water-based formulas that offer superior lubrication and are
compatible with a variety of surfaces. P-80 lubricants are environmentally friendly, most are
biodegradable.
There are numerous lubricants out there, including good old soap and water, so why do you need
specially formulated rubber lubricants?
Many pump manufacturers advise against the use of oil, petroleum jelly or other petroleum or
silicon based products for elastomer seal lubrication. Using such products could cause seal
failure due to swelling of the elastomer. P-80 rubber lubricants are temporary, once dry the
lubrication ceases and parts stay in place. Additionally, these lubricants will not reactivate in the
presence of water and they will not dry out rubber parts.
Seals
Sealing solutions are critical to pumping to prevent leakage and, ultimately, failure. These are
especially important in harsh conditions, whether from particulates, extreme temperature, or
corrosive or heavily viscous fluid. The selection of the right seal can have as much impact on the
system success as pump selection. These articles help with that selection and with the monitoring
and maintaining of all types of seals
Bearings
Bearings are small parts of pump systems that play a critical role. They bear the load of the
pump, allowing rotation. They must be properly lubricated and temperatures monitored to
prevent failure. These articles explain the causes of bearing failure and how to prevent them -
thus protecting overall system life
Valves
Valves regulate and control flow and pressure in pumping systems. They also play an important
role in site safety. Understanding the types of valves and how they work can help end users
select the right valves for their application’s use
Motors
Motors are the most common source of power used by pumping systems. This technology is
heavily regulated. Pumps by themselves are not variable speed, an option that many systems
need to operate with peaks and ebbs during the run cycle, such as power generation. The addition
of a variable frequency drive (VFD) gives it that capability
Instrumentation/Controls
Pump systems have long been operated through monitors and controls. In recent years, growth of
the industrial internet of things (IIoT) has exponentially increased the way sites can collect, store
and analyze data to improve operations. This is the fastest growing industry sector
