Precautions for Using Centrifugal Pumps in High-Temperature Weather

Centrifugal pumps are common fluid conveying equipment, widely used in industrial production and civil fields. Summer, being a high-temperature season, brings specific considerations for the use of centrifugal pumps. Understanding and adopting targeted preventive measures is crucial to ensuring stable equipment operation and extending service life.

Ⅰ. Pre-Startup Inspection

A comprehensive inspection is required before starting a centrifugal pump in a high-temperature environment:

• Lubrication System Check: High temperatures can thin lubricating oil, reducing its viscosity and protective effect. Ensure the oil level meets standards and replace it with high-temperature-resistant lubricating oil if necessary. Check for oil leaks, as even minor leaks may lead to insufficient lubrication under thermal stress.
• Sealing Performance Check: Mechanical seals are prone to aging due to heat. Inspect the sealing materials for cracks, wear, or hardening, and promptly replace damaged seals to prevent fluid leakage.
• Cooling System Check: If the pump is equipped with a cooling jacket or fan, ensure these systems are operating normally. Clean dust or debris from the heat sink to maintain heat dissipation efficiency, as a blocked cooling system is a major cause of equipment overheating in high-temperature weather.

Ⅱ. During Operation

Continuous monitoring and timely adjustment during operation are key to mitigating high-temperature risks:

• Temperature Tracking: Use an infrared thermometer or built-in sensors to monitor the temperature of the pump casing, bearing housing, and motor. The motor temperature should be controlled within the range specified by the manufacturer.
• Flow and Pressure Regulation: High-temperature environments can increase fluid viscosity, affecting flow rate. Avoid prolonged operation of the pump under partial load, which can cause internal reflex and generate excessive heat. Maintain optimal flow and pressure by adjusting valves to ensure the pump operates near its design conditions.
• Vibration and Noise Detection: Abnormal vibration or noise may indicate problems such as misalignment, bearing wear, or cavitation. If such abnormalities occur, shut down the pump immediately for inspection to prevent catastrophic damage.

Ⅲ. Post-Shutdown Maintenance

Proper maintenance after shutdown helps reduce long-term damage caused by high temperatures:

• Gradual Cooling: Avoid rapid cooling after shutdown, as thermal shock may cause cracking of metal components. Allow the pump to cool naturally to room temperature.
• Cleaning and Drying: Remove residual fluid from the pump to prevent corrosion, which accelerates in the high-humidity environment of hot weather. Clean the outer surface to remove dirt, as dirt acts as an insulator and traps heat.
• Component Inspection: Regularly check for signs of heat damage, such as discolored gaskets, warped impellers, or burned motor winding. Proactively replace worn parts to avoid unexpected failures during subsequent operation.

Ⅳ. Special Scenarios

In extremely high-temperature environments, additional measures are required:

• Adjustment of Operating Time: Avoid running the pump during high-temperature periods; instead, schedule operation for early morning or evening to reduce thermal stress.
• Insulation and Shading: Install sunshades or insulation layers around the pump and motor to reduce direct sunlight. For outdoor-installed equipment, consider temporary cooling systems to lower the ambient temperature.

Ⅴ. Conclusion

Centrifugal pumps require special care in high-temperature weather. From pre-startup inspections to post-shutdown maintenance, every step is crucial. By focusing on lubrication, cooling, and seal integrity, operators can effectively mitigate high-temperature risks and ensure stable operation of the equipment in hot conditions. Proactive maintenance not only avoids high downtime costs but also optimizes energy efficiency, making it a key operational norm for industrial and commercial pump systems. For more application tips and insights, please follow Teffiko. We will continue to share professional content tailored for industrial pump users. For inquiries, please contact sales@teffiko.com.