Our previous posts have discussed what dry running is in the damage that it can cause up to and including complete pump failure. Very costly repairs or total pump replacement may be required if your pump is left dry running even for under a full minute. A possible dry-running situation is the best way to prevent it from occurring.
Grundfos Dry Running Protection
One of the most important monitoring functions of water pumps is dry running protection. Bearings, seals and the shaft could be damaged beyond repair if pumps run dry on all types of liquid pumps, including Grundfos booster pumps. It is always a good recommendation to install dry-running protection on all booster sets and liquid transfer pumps.
How to Detect Liquid Shortage to Prevent Dry Running
Three of the most common methods to detect water shortage and prevent dry running on Grundfos pumps include:
- Pressure/level switch – using a pressure switch on the suction manifold or a float switch relay in the supply tank
- Pressure transmitter – measuring the inlet pressure with an analog pressure transmitter in the suction manifold
- Level transmitter – measuring the level in the supply tank with an analog level transmitter
These are the three most common methods to protect Grundfos pumps and boosters against dry running.
Predictive Maintenance Prevents Costly Damage
Measuring and condition monitoring pump performance is one of the best ways to prevent costly damage caused by dry running. Predictive maintenance helps to prevent more expensive reactive maintenance issues and should also reduce preventive maintenance procedures. The use of instrumentation for better monitoring and management of fluid levels is one of the most important ways operators can prevent dry running.
Provide Ongoing Staff Training
As human error is one of the most prevalent causes of dry running, providing better training to operators on proper pump management is a viable option. Operators must be aware of the methods to detect dry running, the serious issues that arise if it occurs, and how to recognize a dry running situation and act swiftly to prevent further damage.
Other solutions include implementing a different type of pumping system that is less sensitive to dry running conditions, as well as implementing a predictive and preventive maintenance schedule. This can help to alleviate potential failure, although malfunctions can still occur. Speak with an experienced pump supplier with any questions on how you can prevent dry running in your pump operation.
IPE Offers Pumps and Process Equipment Solutions
Illinois Process Equipment, IPE, is recognized as a leading supplier of high-quality pumps and process equipment in the Midwest. IPE offers a wide range of quality pumping equipment from the top brands as well as a host of pump services and solutions.
IPE helps our customers to prevent dry running by offering predictive maintenance tools and pump measuring equipment. We differ from other pump suppliers with our commitment to our customer success and highly technical expertise. Contact us with any questions and to learn more about recognizing and preventing dry running in your pump process.
