Pumps & Systems, February 2008

Maintenance and repair functions constitute a significant component of pumping system life cycle costs, especially in terms of energy consumption. The proper selection and lubrication of bearings can help bring economies and efficiencies into line.

Pumps & Systems, April 2008

Many pump couplings are designed to be a fuse that fails before major damage occurs to expensive pump systems. Premature wear or failure is typically the first symptom of a problem.

Pumps & Systems, November 2007

The benefits of predictive maintenance are becoming readily accepted throughout industry in Europe as well as North America. Guy Mertens, who is responsible for predictive maintenance at the Belgian Refinery Corporation (BRC), added an extra dimension to his predictive maintenance program by using it to identify common machine faults for the maintenance staff to watch for.

Pumps & Systems, May 2008

Bolted flange gasket technology continually evolves with new designs and materials that provide more reliable and durable seals. Plant operators can choose from a wide variety of gasket products that meet the needs of each application; however, selecting the optimal gasket product is only half the battle. 

Pumps & Systems, May 2008

Explore some of the issues associated with vertical pump bearings in general, and nonmetallic bearings specifically. Nonmetallic bearings may not be the best answer in every case but have been an excellent choice for many applications worldwide. In general, these product-lubricated bearings preclude additional contaminants (oils, greases) infiltrating the pumped fluid.

Pumps & Systems, May 2008

For more than 100 years, machine parts composed of mechanical carbon have provided an alternative solution in applications where temperature and atmosphere prevent the use of oil-grease lubricants. Mechanical carbon materials contain graphite, which is relied on for its self-lubricating characteristics. 

Mechanical carbon materials can be an effective solution-and sometimes the only workable solution-for moving/movable machine parts where rubbing must occur with low wear and low friction, and oil-grease lubrication cannot be used.

Pumps & Systems, August 2007

Even when a redundant pumping system is in place, it can be advisable to monitor the condition of the operating units in critical applications where maintaining production depends on motor-pump reliability.

Pumps & Systems, June 2008

A look at how 3-level inverters can help reduce electrical damage to bearings.

Pumps & Systems, June 2008

An argument in favor of IEEE-841's provision for motor bearing protection.