pump equipment maintenance routines

Top Ten Tips for Pump System Maintenance have been developed to help operators across industries ensure that their pumps and pump system are in the best position to meet the demands of the coming months.

1. Check the air pressure in your pressure tank.
   
   The pressure tank helps ensure smooth operation of your pumping system and reduces cycling, prolonging the life of your pumps and motors. For best results, the air pressure must be maintained at the correct levels, typically this is 10% below the start pressure of the system.
2. Ensure any non return/one way valves are operating correctly.
   
   Often these are the highest wearing part of your system and can have a big impact on system performance if they are worn or leaking.
3. Check and clear all hydraulic lines to any pressure switches and/or pressure transducers.
   Swarf and / or scale build-up can restrict flow and sensory probe performance. Take care to see that the level of scale removal does not amount to unnecessary works that can transfer an issue further upstream.
4. Check the operation of any isolation valves.
   Ensure these are fully open and clear of obstruction to help ensure you achieve maximum performance from your pump.
5. Check your individual pumps for any indication of reduced performance and general wear and tear.
   Checking the individual pump current draw and shut off head is a good place to start. Look for leaking mechanical seals and noisy bearings. Regrease bearings if applicable. The majority of control systems assume that the hydraulic performance each pump in a system is the same. Any variation, if undetected, may interfere with the correct operation of the pump control system.
6. Check the operation of any filters or strainers on the system to ensure no blockages.
   Even self cleaning filters should be manually cleaned at least once per year.
7. Review your system parameters and setpoints
   Ensure your pump system is still meeting your site requirements and remains within performance limits of the pumps.
8. Have the operation of the cooling fan in your control panel checked.
   An ineffective fan could lead to overheating in your switchboard and ultimately render your control system inoperable.
9. Check the condition of the filters in the vents of your control panel to ensure uninterrupted airflow.
   This very simple maintenance issue is often overlooked and could mean the difference between a working control panel and one that will overheat.
10. Consider the general condition of all cable connections in your switchboard.
    Vibration, deterioration and oxidation can all impact on the viability of your panel as can any bugs, spiders or spider’s webs that may have built up over the year
    
    *IMPORTANT: All maintenance on your control panel/switchboard should be conducted by an experienced and licensed electrical or plumbing trades person as applicable.

For help with any of these items, or for further information on any aspect of pump system maintenance contract own on Ph: 1300 192 837.