Mag-drive centrifugal pumps are workhorses in the liquid management industry. They are not like typical sealed pumps and have specific issues associated with their operation. Listed below are the eight most common concerns about them.
- Can Dry Running Cause Damage?
- Will Temperature Spikes Affect the Magnets in the Pump?
- What Happens When a Mag-Drive Pump Decouples?
- Is Radial Loading Common with Mag-Drive Centrifugal Pumps?
- What is the Appropriate Maintenance Schedule?
- Are Repairs More Expensive Than for Sealed Pumps?
- Can They Handle Toxic or Dangerous Fluids?
- Will Caustic Solutions Damage Components?
Can Dry Running Cause Damage?
When mag-drive pumps are starved of product, it does not necessarily mean the pump is completely dry. Most of the time, some liquid remains in the pump to help keep the bearings lubricated.
One way to address this issue is to upgrade the pump bearings. By using silicon carbide bearings, it decreases the amount of friction occurring during pump operation.
Will Temperature Spikes Affect the Magnets in the Pump?
The short answer is yes. While magnets won’t lose all of their magnetic strength, when exposed to extreme temperature fluctuations, it can greatly weaken them, thus decreasing the efficiency of the pump.
One way to combat this is by having an automated shut off device paired with the pump. Whenever the condition occurs, the pump can be shut off to minimize the chance of damage.
What Happens When a Mag-Drive Pump Uncouples?
If a mag-drive pump operates in a decouple state for a long time, the magnets can become demagnetized permanently. The same monitoring system mentioned above will work for this situation as well.
Is Radial Loading Common with Mag-Drive Centrifugal Pumps?
There is reduced radial loading with mag-drive pumps. The straddle-mounted models with bearings on either side reduces radial loading and helps the pump be more tolerant of changes in operation.
What is the Appropriate Maintenance Schedule?
Mag-drives are designed to be long lasting, with an expected maintenance schedule of 8-10 years.
Are Repairs More Expensive Than for Sealed Pumps?
The argument has raged on for decades regarding whether magnetic drive centrifugal pumps are more cost effective than traditional sealed pumps. While mag-drive chemical pumps are more expensive, over time, they last longer and require little to no maintenance.
Can They Handle Toxic or Dangerous Fluids?
Yes, they can handle corrosive and noxious chemical solutions.
Will Caustic Solutions Damage Components?
Mag-drive pumps can handle caustic agents such as cleaning solutions. This is a huge advantage over traditional seal pumps. If the pump will be used in processing food grade oils, it should be noted to the manufacturer prior to the manufacturing process. This way, the proper steps can be taken.
By taking precautionary steps to address the known issues with mag-drive pumps, they can provide the best liquid handling solutions around. Reach out to Vissers Sales Corp. with questions and concerns. Let us become your partner in your liquid handling needs. Give us a call today.
