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Pump Troubleshooting Guide: Operating Faults, Causes, and Solutions
PN/PNL Mud Pump – Horizontal & Vertical Single Stage Slurry Pump
This guide outlines common pump operating faults, identifies the likely causes, and lists recommended corrective actions. It is designed for industrial operators and maintenance personnel who require clear and practical troubleshooting information.
1. Excessive Shaft Power Consumption
Possible causes:
- Friction between the impeller and the wear plate
Recommended solutions:
- Adjust the clearance between the impeller and the wear plate
2. Insufficient Pump Head
Possible causes:
- Clearance between the impeller and wear plate is too large
- Large particles blocking the impeller passage
Recommended solutions:
- Adjust the impeller–wear plate clearance; if performance is still inadequate, replace both components
- Remove the inlet piping and clear any large particles
3. Bearing Overheating
Possible causes:
- Lubricating oil level too high or too low
- Lubricant contaminated with impurities
- Bearing wear
Recommended solutions:
- Maintain the proper oil level according to the oil indicator
- Replace with clean lubricant
- Replace worn bearings
4. Pump Vibration During Operation
Possible causes:
- Unbalanced or worn impeller
- Bearing wear or lubricant contamination
- Insufficient inlet flow or excessive air intake
Recommended solutions:
- Replace the impeller
- Replace the lubricant or install new bearings
- Increase inlet flow or add clean water to stabilize operation
5. Packing Leakage
Possible causes:
- No sealing water supplied to the packing gland
- Packing wear
Recommended solutions:
- Inspect the sealing water system and introduce pressurized water into the packing gland
- Replace the packing
Conclusion
Proper adjustment of impeller clearance, regular lubrication maintenance, and timely replacement of worn components are essential to maintaining pump reliability and performance. For severe or persistent faults, contact a qualified technician or the pump manufacturer for further assistance.