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The following lubrication issues can lead to pump fires. Here’s how to prevent them.

Lack of lubrication, over-lubrication, wrong lubricant and lubricant contamination

A lack of lubrication, an incorrect lubricant type, lubricant contamination and over-lubrication can all lead to increased friction and therefore heat. Insufficient lubrication results in increased friction between moving parts, especially bearings, seals, and the impeller. The overheating from friction may raise the temperature of pump components to a point where they can ignite the pumped fluid or other nearby materials. Insufficient lubrication can also lead to bearing failure, further exacerbating friction and heat generation. If the pump is handling flammable liquids such as oil, the heat generated by excess friction can ignite the fluid itself causing a fire. Using the wrong type of lubricant for the application may be just as harmful as lacking lubrication altogether, with the same consequences. Equally, contamination of the lubricant from ingress of foreign matter due to worn or damaged seals or from improper lubricant storage and handling methods can also result in ineffective lubrication, with devastating consequences. If a pump fire has occurred, do the following:

Remedies

• Secure the area: Ensure the area around the pump is safe. Immediately evacuate nonessential personnel from the area and alert fire control personnel.
• Perform an emergency shutdown of the involved asset: If safe to do so, immediately shut down the pump to stop the flow of potentially flammable material and reduce heat generation.
• Activate fire suppression systems and take appropriate measures to mitigate and extinguish the fire: If using hand-held fire extinguishers, make certain they are of the appropriate type for the type of fire involved.
• Investigate the cause: Once the situation is under control, thoroughly investigate the cause of the fire, focusing on potential lubrication issues and any other contributing factors. Why did the pump fire happen?

Preventing Future Incidents

• Implement a robust lubrication program that follows the equipment manufacturer’s recommendations. Adhere to the pump manufacturer’s recommendations for the correct lubricant type to be used, the correct quantity, and frequency of application.
• Implement proper lubrication storage and handling procedures, ensuring the correct labeling of all containers, preventing cross-contamination, and proper handling of lubricants when transferring from main storage to local dispensing equipment. Download our Oil & Grease Storage Best Practices infographic for some tips to help outline the best practices for proper lubrication storage.
• Use the correct lubricants for the application. This includes selecting lubricants of the appropriate type for the application that are also suitable for the operating environment and conditions, considering temperature, pressure, humidity and the pumped medium.
• Perform regular lubricant inspections in the machines: Routinely check lubrication levels and ensure adequate lubricant supply.
• Implement a Condition Monitoring program (vibration analysis) to monitor bearing condition. Pay close attention to bearing condition and lubrication during maintenance.
• Ensure that laser shaft alignment is done to the correct alignment tolerances, including proper target specifications for thermal growth, to reduce stress on bearings, couplings, and other components, as well as reducing power consumption and increasing efficiency.
• Inspect mechanical seals regularly and replace them as needed to prevent leaks and maintain proper lubrication.
• Establish Fire Safety Protocols for operating and maintaining pumps in potentially hazardous environments.
• Implement Training and Awareness programs to ensure personnel are trained in proper pump operation, lubrication procedures and fire safety measures.

Ludeca is here to help you with proper lubrication and precision shaft alignment. Check out our 5-Step Acoustic Lubrication Procedure and the Easy-Laser XT Overview for easy alignment.

What is the True Root Cause of Bearing Lubrication?