Below is the detailed breakdown of the most critical failure modes.
| Cause | Solution | | :--- | :--- | | (Seal faces run without fluid film) | NEVER run a centrifugal pump dry. Install a low-level cut-off switch. | | Galled faces (Thermal shock or abrasive solids) | Lap faces or replace seal. Install a API flush plan (e.g., Plan 32 for solids). | | Incorrect seal orientation (Spring direction wrong) | Review seal drawing. Ensure spring is facing the correct pressure side. | | Vaporization (Fluid flashes across seal faces) | Increase seal chamber pressure. Use a bypass from discharge. | centrifugal pump problems and solutions pdf