Sulzer Pumps - Inspection and Analysis

Inspection and Analysis

Problems with rotating machinery can be caused by a wide range of conditions, or combinations of conditions, many of which are not related to the machine itself.

Root cause analysis

For this reason, operators of pumps and other rotating equipment often have difficulty isolating the root cause behind poorly performing equipment.

Widely acknowledged for our class leading pump technology, Sulzer Pumps is your ideal partner to find the cause of a poorly performing pump system.

A typical project consists of a study of the complete installation shaft line; motor, turbine, hydraulic-coupling, gearbox, pump etc. The existing instrumentation schematics are also reviewed to assess their suitability for the inspection process and ongoing monitoring of the installation. Naturally, we are able to provide full instrumentation for the inspection if required.

Measurement

During a typical site inspection, we;

• Confirm pump duty during normal operation and under process upset conditions
(flow, head, speed, balance line flows etc.)

• Record vibration parameters (both absolute and relative figures)

• Collect data during the start up and run down phases

• Temperature measurement (bearings, cooling systems, seal flushes etc.)

• Check mechanical seals for leaks

• Review operation of minimum flow valve or other control device

• Check for other external leaks or abnormal noises

Analysis and recommendations

Measurements are analyzed by our engineers, who prepare a detailed report covering the following areas;

• Comparison of pump current hydraulic and mechanical performance vs original test of
expected performance

• Estimate of balance system wear (where applicable)

• Recommendations for any changes in general operation (e.g. temperature limits)

• Changes to existing maintenance regimes

• Recommendations for any system or process changes

• Recommendations for spare parts holding

• Proposal for pump modifications if applicable

Your key benefits are

• Knowledge of current pump condition without the need for a shutdown

• Potential to extend pump operating time between scheduled maintenance periods

• Recommendations for system and process optimization

• Optimized spare parts stocking

• Potential to upgrade the pump with latest technology and materials

• Direct and indirect cost savings

To learn more about Sulzer Pumps inspection and diagnostic services please contact your usual Sulzer Pumps representative.