OTC Insights Team
Established in 1963, OTC Industrial Technologies is one of the largest industrial distributors & service providers in the United States. We're committed to seeing industrial operations advance through expert technical solutions & unmatched support using our years of experience.
Industrial pumps are an important component of manufacturing processes. To avoid downtime or costly repairs, they must be regularly evaluated for maintenance. A little preventative work can save a lot of time and money in the long run.
Industrial pump evaluation doesn’t have to be difficult. Let’s look at a few steps you can use to assess an industrial pump for maintenance and some tips on getting the most out of your industrial pump!
Industrial Pump System Maintenance Step-by-Step
Every manufacturer, and manufacturing facility, is different. Not every step we cover will apply to your pumps or internal requirements, but they should give you a good baseline for setting requirements and evaluating your current processes.
1. Set a Maintenance Schedule
The first step in setting up a maintenance schedule for your industrial pump is to determine how often it will need to be serviced. This will vary depending on the type of pump, the application it is being used for, and the environment it's operating in.
Consult your pump's manual, manufacturer, or speak to your supplier to get an idea of how often it should be serviced. Keep in mind, it's necessary to inspect your industrial pump regularly, so the schedule you set should be one you and your team are comfortable with.
2. Create a Maintenance Checklist
With so many pumps and pump applications, you’ll need a checklist that covers the key maintenance evaluation priorities for each. This could include visual inspections, listening for strange noises, checking the flow rate and basic pump operation metrics, or using vibration analysis.
Anyone conducting an evaluation should follow the checklist, taking note of each item on the list. If you notice any problems with your pump, be sure to address them as soon as possible.
3. Keep Industrial Pumping System Clean
Another important step in maintaining your industrial pump is to keep it clean. This includes both the pump itself and the area around it. Make sure any debris and material that can’t be handled by the pump are kept away from the intake.
If your pump is in a dirty or dusty environment, be sure to clean it regularly to ensure smooth and efficient operation.
4. Make Safety a Priority
When working with industrial pumps, always remember to put safety first. Be sure to read the manual and follow all safety instructions before performing any maintenance on your pump. Keep safety equipment on hand for pump inspection and set guidelines for safety that everyone must follow.
Make sure that everyone conducting an inspection is trained, and that their training covers safety procedures. If an employee isn’t comfortable working on a pump, be sure to contact a qualified technician.
5. Schedule Machine Inspection
A regular, in-depth inspection should be scheduled for your pumps. This includes a machine inspection that takes the pump offline.
During this inspection, check that mounting points are secure, the mechanical seal and packing are in good condition, and inspect for leaks from the pump flanges and couplings. Also, always ensure the filter is clean.
6. Schedule Pump Lubrication
It is important to keep the bearings and seals of your industrial pump lubricated. This will help extend the life of your pump and prevent costly repairs. Be sure not to over-lubricate. If the bearing has a vent cap, check the level of lubricant, and add more if necessary.
7. Replace Damaged Seals and Hoses
If you notice any damage to the seals or hoses of your industrial pump, be sure to replace them as soon as possible. Damaged seals and hoses can cause slips or leaks, which can lead to costly repairs.
Depending on the frequency of seal and hose damage, you may need to keep replacements on hand. If damage isn’t that frequent, it’s still a good idea to have a supplier available who can quickly ship replacement parts when needed.
Work with A Qualified Technician on Your Pumping System
By following these steps, you can ensure that your industrial pump is properly maintained and running smoothly. Regularly scheduling maintenance checks and evaluations will save time and money in the long run, and shouldn’t take that long.
Industrial pumps are an important part of modern manufacturing. Pumps must be regularly evaluated for maintenance to keep them running smoothly and prevent costly breakdowns.
If you want expert advice on industrial pump repair, don't hesitate to get in touch with OTC for assistance. Contact OTC by filling out the contact form on our website for more information on industrial pump maintenance.
