Explore key facets of centrifugal pump ownership, installation, operation, and troubleshooting

The Second Edition of Pump Wisdom: Essential Centrifugal Pump Knowledge for Operators and Specialists delivers a concise explanation of how pumps function, the design specifications that must be considered before purchasing a pump, and current best practices in lubrication and mechanical seals.

This new edition also contains new startup and surveillance tips for pump operators, as well as repair versus replacement or upgrade considerations for maintenance decision-makers, new condition monitoring guidance for centrifugal pumps, and expanded coverage of operator best practices.

Read Pump Wisdom: Chapter 11: Impeller Modifications and Pump Maintenance

Avoid questionable oil storage and transfer practices

Questionable drum storage practices are shown in Figures 12.5 and 12.6. Changes in ambient temperature cause rainwater to be drawn into the drum by capillary action. Capillary action takes place even in the case of seemingly tight bungs (Fig.12.5) as long as rainwater is allowed to collect in the drum top. The drum top will bulge outward (convex shape) when the surrounding air warms up; it will bulge down (concave shape) when the air cools and a slight vacuum is produced in the vapor space inside the drum. The resulting suction effect draws in water.