Centrifugal Pump Operations and Maintenance

Pump operations and pump maintenance are two closely interrelated topics. Poor mechanical pump maintenance will lead to a loss of hydraulic performance and what may appear to be operational problems. Operational decisions which cause the pump to operate outside of its preferred operation region can lead to physical pump damage which could be misinterpreted as a traditional maintenance issue. It is important to determine the root cause of a problem. This course will cover methods for monitoring pump hydraulic operation and methods for observing and maintaining the mechanical condition of a pump.

• Describe the relationship between pump operations and maintenance • List simple techniques for evaluating the mechanical condition of a pump • List five measurements which will give a complete picture of the hydraulic performance of a pump • Describe cavitation • Describe BEP • Describe some common mechanical problems which can occur with a centrifugal pump