March 29, 2006
Repair or Reliability Focus
When a pump is received at the maintenance department for service, there are two ways of considering the extent of the repairs to be carried out. Using the traditional “Repair” approach, the pump should be brought back to the “as new” condition with original materials, parts and clearances. Such an approach will be perfectly adequate if the cause for repair is the result of normal wear and tear, and everyone is satisfied with the length of time the pump has run since the last repair.
However, if the cause for repair is the result of premature failure, then bringing the pump back to the “as new” condition will invite the same failure for the same reason in the future. Under such conditions, the more enlightened companies usually follow the “Reliability” approach.
The Reliability approach is one where the pump is upgraded every time it is taken out of service for an overhaul. It is particularly effective if the pump has been subjected to premature failure.
With the Reliability approach, a number of upgrades are considered universally beneficial for most pumps, and particularly for the end suction, single stage units that make up over 80% of the pump population in most areas.
1. Change packing to mechanical seals.
2. Introduce large bore seal chambers.
3. Replace a component seal with a cartridge design.
4. Establish appropriate seal environmental controls.
5. Eliminate shaft sleeves and enlarge shaft diameter.
6. Eliminate lip seals and introduce bearing isolators.
7. Introduce Oil Mist lubrication systems.
8. Dynamically balance all impellers.
The extent to which these upgrades are accepted will depend solely on the company’s desire for reliable equipment in their plant. This is a topic that needs extensive discussion with everyone concerned before and during the repair process, to ensure an appropriate balance between the desire for reliability and the investment that may be necessary.
Until next month… keep on pumping.
Ross Mackay
www.practicalpumping.com
A Public Mackay Pump School in Michigan
p.s. Owing to public demand, we have decided to offer a public school in the Detroit, MI, area on June 21, & 22. This school will only be held if there are enough people attending, so if you are interested in attending, please let me know at the earliest opportunity to ensure that we hold the date viable.
Inquire about A Public Mackay Pump School in Your Area
Save Expenses in these Cities
To save on travel expenses when bringing Ross in to your organization, consider scheduling your session when Ross is speaking for other clients in your area. Check out these locations.
March 22 & 23, Calhoun, TN,
April 28 & 29, Ottawa, ON.
May 6, Montreal, PQ,
May 11 & 12, Dubai, UAE
May 15 & 16, Dubai, UAE*
June 14 & 15, Toronto, ON*
June 21 & 22, Detroit, MI*
June, 27 & 28, Las Vegas, NV
September 12 & 13, Chattanooga, TN*
* These dates are open to the public. The rest are on-site programs where Ross will be working with specific organizations. Dates are added frequently, so call us to discuss the timing you would prefer at 1-800-465-6260
