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Slurry Pumps Support

Slurry Pumps Maintenance

What should I check if the gland leaks at first startup?

First, check what type of gland is fitted to the pump – this is important, as adjustment can have a reverse effect when tightening the bolts versus loosening them. For example, in an H gland, tightening increases the flow; in a G gland loosening increases leakage.

The gland has been set up in the factory to leak at startup to prevent burning up the gland.

With water-purged glands (H and P types), check the gland water pressure, which should be 5 psi above duty pressure. If the pressure is too high, put a pressure regulator in the line.

Referring to the manual, adjust the gland when pumping water only. Allow a little excess leakage at this time.

When the plant is at operational tonnage, re-adjust the gland to a drip every 10 seconds.

When should I replace the rubber casing liners and impeller?

• Inspect liners for areas of wear. It is common for some tracking of the wear patterns, especially near the cutwater area (the point of discharge where the liner to impeller distance is at its minimum). Also check at the suction inlet (and suction bush liner where fitted).
• Inspect impellers for wear and damage at the outer tips of the vanes. Inspect inside the impeller at the back face and where the vanes meet the front and back plates.
• Compare wear from previous inspections to assess the rate of wear.
• If this is the first inspection, note the levels of wear for future reference. If the wear is more than 50% of the rubber thickness, order spares if not already in inventory. If the level of wear is unexpectedly high, contact the dealer or the manufacturer for confirmation on expectations — various operational conditions can cause more rapid wear.

What do I do if the pump bearings are running hot?

If this measurement has been taken by hand at 150°F/65°C, the bearing assembly will be uncomfortable to touch. Obtain a suitable temperature reading device and recheck. Check the temperature at both motor-end and wet-end bearings. The maximum operating temperature for these bearings is 248°F/120°C. Higher speeds will result in higher temperatures for the same size pump.