Pump seizure can be a frustrating and disruptive event in any fluidic application. Understanding how to address a seized pump quickly and effectively can help reduce downtime and prevent potential damage to equipment. This article discusses the causes of pump seizure and the measures to prevent it.
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Key takeaways:
- Pump seizure is frequently caused by crystallizing fluids or air introduction, resulting in blockages between the piston and liner, in contrast to stalling, which is usually reversible.
- Prevention techniques include proper flushing, avoiding dry runs, and using flush ports for fluids prone to crystallization or particulates.
- If a pump seizes, operation must be stopped immediately, and engineering support must be contacted – attempts to perform self-repair should be avoided to prevent further damage.
Understanding pump seizure and stalling
Pump seizure
A seizure occurs when the pump head becomes physically blocked and can no longer function. The primary cause of pump seizures is crystallizing fluids that become lodged between the piston and liner, clogging the fluid path. Introducing air into the system can also be a catalyst for crystal formation, increasing the risk of a pump seizure. While remediation is sometimes possible, a seized pump may not return to a working state with its current components.
Stalled pump
Stalling is a different issue, although it is sometimes mistaken for a seizure. When a pump stalls, it stops rotating and produces a loud buzzing sound. Fortunately, this situation can often be resolved by simply turning the pump off and back on again.
Handling a worst-case scenario
In the event of a pump seizure, the pump should never run dry. Pumps should be operated in a wetted state to minimize the risk of additional damage. Although certain materials and physical properties may allow a pump to run dry or partially dry in specific situations, keeping the pump wetted is always the safest option.
If a pump seizure occurs:
- The pump must be turned off and unplugged immediately, as continued operation may result in irreversible damage.
- The pump should then be plugged back in and turned on to determine whether it has stalled or fully seized.
- If restarting the pump restores functionality, the pump is no longer stalled and may be safely used.
- If the pump remains unresponsive, it has likely seized and will require further intervention. In this case, the pump should no longer be used, must be powered off, and Fluid Metering's engineering support team should be contacted for additional assistance.
How fluids can contribute to seizures
Certain fluid characteristics can increase the likelihood of pump seizure:
- Viscosity – Highly viscous fluids can increase the risk of pump seizure, particularly in pumps that become thicker during operation(i.e., due to temperature changes).
- Particulates – A more concentrated presence of solid particles within a fluid can lead to clogging and pump failure.
Preventing pump seizure
Proper operation and storage are essential for maintaining pumps in optimal working condition:
- Use the pump as intended – To minimize wear and tear, pumps should not be operated beyond their recommended parameters.
- Utilize flush ports – If the fluid being handled is prone to crystallization or contains a high concentration of particulates, utilizing additional flush ports may help maintain smooth operation.
- Flush the system before storage – Fluid should never be left in the pump when it is not in use, as this can increase the likelihood of crystallization and clogging.
Troubleshooting and recovery
In the event of a pump seizure, operators should not attempt to adjust or repair the pump themselves.
Fluid Metering’s trained engineering technicians specialize in restoring pump functionality and can safely evaluate the issue to determine the best course of action. Customers are encouraged to contact their experienced engineering team for additional guidance on keeping equipment in optimal condition.
About Fluid Metering, Inc.
Fluid Metering, Inc is a leading manufacturer of precision fluid control solutions, with a legacy of innovation dating back to 1959. As the pioneer of the first valveless rotating and reciprocating piston metering pump, Fluid Metering has continually refined its technology to meet the evolving needs of advanced applications.
Today, the company specializes in the design and production of high-performance dispensing pumps and metering systems, delivering exceptional accuracy, precision, and reliability across a wide range of industries. ISO 9001:2015 certified.
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