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GENERAL PROCESS - REF. #GP004 | View PDF
THE CHALLENGE
Positive displacement pumps have sliding seals that wear over time causing the pumps to lose efficiency. Some leakage is normal for this type of pump seal. This leakage collects in the pump casing, where it is usually piped back to the storage tank. Seal wear increases the leakage rate, which causes the pump to lose efficiency, eventually leading to total failure, which can shut down the line. To prevent this, critical pumps are often rebuilt at scheduled intervals. This procedure is an inefficient practice since good pumps are often rebuilt, wasting time and materials.
THE BROOKS SOLUTION
A Brooks Model 1303 flowmeter is installed in the case drain line to monitor the leakage flow. When the pump seals are in good condition the leakage flow is very small. As the seals wear, the flow in the case drain line increases, which is indicated by the rotameter. Monitoring the leakage flow over time saves money for the plant in two ways. Failing pumps can be spotted early and can be taken off line at the next scheduled maintenance, preventing an emergency shutdown, and good pumps can stay in service rather than being taken out prematurely. The glass tube also provides a visual indication of any seal or metal particles in the fluid returning to the tank.
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