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Pump Troubleshooting Guide: Common Problems and Solutions
TSWA Series Horizontal Multistage Centrifugal Pump, Clean Water Type
Pumps play a critical role in water supply, industrial processes, HVAC systems, and municipal applications. During long-term operation, improper installation, system resistance, or wear may lead to operating issues. This guide helps users diagnose common pump problems and apply the correct solutions to restore stable performance.
1. Pump Fails to Prime and the Pressure/Vacuum Gauge Fluctuates
Possible Causes:
- Insufficient priming water inside the pump
- Air leakage in the suction pipeline or gauge connection
Recommended Solutions:
- Add sufficient water to fully prime the pump
- Tighten or seal all leakage points
2. Pump Fails to Prime While the Vacuum Gauge Shows High Vacuum
Possible Causes:
- Foot valve not opening or blocked
- Excessive resistance in suction piping
- Suction lift too high
Recommended Solutions:
- Repair or replace the foot valve
- Clean or replace the suction piping
- Reduce suction lift to within pump operating limits
3. Pressure Gauge Shows Pressure but No Water Discharge
Possible Causes:
- Discharge piping resistance too high
- Incorrect motor rotation direction
- Impeller blockage
- Pump speed too low
Recommended Solutions:
- Clean or shorten the discharge pipeline
- Verify the motor rotation direction
- Remove debris from the impeller
- Increase pump speed to the rated value
4. Pump Flow Rate Decreases or Head Drops
Possible Causes:
- Impeller or pipelines blocked
- Wear ring or impeller severely worn
- Insufficient pump speed
Recommended Solutions:
- Clean the impeller and pipelines
- Replace worn components
- Adjust pump speed to the rated level
5. Pump Power Consumption Is Excessive
Possible Causes:
- Packing gland tightened too much, causing heat
- Friction between impeller and wear ring
- Flow rate too high
Recommended Solutions:
- Loosen the packing gland appropriately
- Eliminate mechanical friction points
- Partially close the discharge valve to reduce flow
6. Abnormal Noise Inside Pump and Failure to Draw Water
Possible Causes:
- High resistance in suction pipeline
- Air entering the suction line
- Cavitation caused by excessive flow rate
Recommended Solutions:
- Reduce suction lift or shorten suction pipeline
- Seal all air leakage points
- Adjust discharge valve to ensure proper operating conditions
7. Pump Vibrates Severely
Possible Causes:
- Cavitation or impeller imbalance
- Misalignment between pump and motor
- Loose foundation bolts
Recommended Solutions:
- Eliminate cavitation and rebalance the impeller
- Align pump and motor shafts
- Tighten all foundation bolts
8. Pump Bearings Overheat
Possible Causes:
- Insufficient, excessive, or contaminated lubrication
- Misalignment between pump and motor
Recommended Solutions:
- Check lubrication level; clean and refill oil
- Correct shaft alignment
Conclusion
Timely diagnosis and correction of pump problems are critical to ensuring stable and efficient operation. Routine inspection, proper installation, and scheduled maintenance are key to preventing system failures. For unresolved issues, users should consult professional technical service teams or the pump manufacturer for further assistance.