How to Maintain a Liquid Ring Vacuum Pump
Pump Bearings
Many pump models have sealed bearings and do not require periodic greasing. If your pump is equipped with grease zerks, the bearings should be lubricated once per year or every 3000 hours, which ever comes first. Use a high temperature, water resistant grease.
Motor Bearings
Many motors have sealed bearings and do not require periodic greasing. If your motor is equipped with grease zerks, the bearings should be lubricated once per year or every 3000 hours, which ever comes first. Use a high temperature, water resistant grease.
Coupling Insert
Check the insert once per year for excessive wear. Check for signs of excessive black dust, an indication that the insert is wearing. If worn, the insert should be replaced.
Pump Seals
Once per quarter, check the area below the pump bearing housings for signs of sealing liquid. If liquid is present, this may be an indication of seal wear. The seals will have to be replaced.
Inlet Check Valve
This should be checked once per year for corrosion or wear. If the check valve has corrosion or wear it should be replaced.
Gauges
Inspect gauges on a quarterly basis. If any gauge does not move or is non-functional, replace gauge.
Relief Valve
Check once per year to make sure that the valve opens at desired vacuum level. This can be determined by closing inlet isolation valve and observing vacuum gauge reading when relief valve opens. Inspect seat area for signs of foreign material build up, clean seat area as needed.
Water Level Switch
Check once per year to make sure switch is functional in both low and high level conditions.
Y Strainers
Check once per year to make sure that they are not clogged, which will restrict seal liquid flow. If the system has been exposed to heavy intake of particulates or hard water deposits, check Y strainers more frequently. Remove cap from Y strainer, pull out screen, and clean.
Heat Exchangers
Check once per quarter to make sure that they are providing adequate cooling. On air cooled heat exchangers, check to make sure that all fins are free of any debris.
Minimizing Downtime
Many facilities keep a spare backup pump on hand to minimize downtime. Ohio Medical can provide backup pumps and also provides short term pump rental solutions.
Troubleshooting Guide
Find answers to dozens of liquid ring vacuum pump troubleshooting topics in our free online guide.
