3 Early Warning Signs Of High-Pressure Pump Failure
A high-pressure pump is at the center of many industrial and manufacturing operations. Unfortunately, these vital pieces of equipment can be overlooked when it comes to routine maintenance and servicing. A high-pressure pump failure could be costly for your company. It's important that you are able to identify some of the early warning signs that there is a problem with your pump so you can invest in repairs before a total failure occurs.
Here are three of the most common indicators that your high-pressure pump is in need of professional attention.
1. Reduced Flow Rate
Your high-pressure pump is designed to maintain a steady flow rate when pumping materials through a system. Any significant reduction in this flow rate should be cause for concern.
Flow reductions typically occur because a pump is no longer able to maintain the proper pressure rating. If you don't have a pump technician identify the cause of a flow rate reduction quickly, your high-pressure pump could stop pumping materials altogether.
2. Pressure Drop
High-pressure pumps are used in applications where the materials being moved through the pump must maintain a high-pressure rating in order to perform effectively. Any unexplained drops in pressure could indicate that your pump is struggling to perform.
Fortunately, most modern high-pressure pumps are regulated by computer programs that monitor performance. Your computer program should provide you with a warning when pressure levels drop below the defined parameters so that you can invest in immediate repairs to preserve the life of your high-pressure pump.
3. Excessive Vibration
A high-pressure pump that is functioning properly should run smoothly. If you begin to notice your pump vibrating excessively while it is in operation, this could be a sign that a pump failure is in the near future.
Excessive vibration can be caused by a wide range of faulty components. Only an experienced pump technician will be able to evaluate your pump and identify the component to blame. Allowing excessive vibration to continue could result in loose motor bearings, damaged fasteners, and premature wear on your high-pressure pump.
Maintaining your high-pressure pump can help you improve your industrial or manufacturing processes and extend the life of your equipment well into the future. The best way to take care of your pump is to be mindful of potential failure warning signs. Reach out for professional help if you notice a reduction in your pump's flow rate, a drop in pressure, or excessive vibration while in operation.