What’re the Common Troubleshooting Measures for Axial Split Case Pump?
Like all mechanical equipment, the axial split case pump is prone to operational issues over time if not properly selected, installed, or maintained. Troubleshooting and resolving these common failures promptly is essential for ensuring the pump’s reliability and preventing costly downtime. This article outlines two major categories of problems often encountered in axial split case pumps—high pump head and elevated bearing temperature—and provides actionable troubleshooting measures.

1. Operation Failure Caused by Excessive Pump Head
When engineering firms or design institutes specify axial split case pumps, the pump head is typically calculated conservatively. This results in pumps being selected with higher than necessary head values. Operating the pump in a non-optimal zone can lead to several performance issues:
| Item | Description |
| Problem | Pump operates with higher-than-necessary head due to conservative design selection. |
| Effects / Symptoms | – Motor overload (excessive current draw, overheating risk) – Cavitation (noise, vibration, outlet pressure fluctuations, impeller damage, reduced flow rate) |
| Treatment Measures | – Re-evaluate actual system head requirement using current operating data – Reduce pump head by trimming impeller outer diameter – Replace impeller with redesigned one for lower head – Reduce motor speed via frequency converter or gear changes |
| Benefits of Treatment | Restores pump to ideal operating range, improves efficiency, reduces component wear |
2. Excessive Temperature Rise in Bearing Components
Bearings are vital to the smooth operation of axial split case pumps. Excessive bearing temperature often indicates an underlying mechanical or lubrication issue. While the maximum operating temperature for standard bearings should not exceed 80°C, high-performance imported bearings (e.g., SKF) can withstand up to 110°C. However, relying on hand-touch to gauge temperature is not recommended.
Common Causes of Bearing Overheating:
| Item | Description |
| Problem | Bearings overheat due to mechanical or lubrication issues; standard max temp ≤80°C, high-performance bearings ≤110°C |
| Common Causes | – Over-lubrication (too much grease/oil) – Misalignment of pump and motor shafts – Machining errors (poor perpendicularity of bearing housing) – Piping stress (improperly supported discharge piping) – Contaminated lubrication (sand, dirt, metal particles) – Undersized bearings (insufficient capacity in custom installations) |
| Treatment Measures | – Use manufacturer-recommended type and quantity of lubricant – Ensure proper shaft alignment with dial indicators or laser tools – Inspect and correct machining defects before assembly – Install proper pipe supports to prevent stress – Use sealed or filtered grease to avoid contamination |
| Benefits of Treatment | Reduces bearing temperature, prevents premature wear, ensures smooth and reliable pump operation |
Conclusion
The axial split case pump is a reliable and efficient component in high-flow, moderate-pressure applications. However, its performance depends heavily on proper selection, installation, and maintenance. Excessive pump head and bearing overheating are among the most common yet avoidable problems. By understanding the root causes and applying targeted troubleshooting measures, operators can extend the life of their axial split case pumps, minimize unscheduled downtime, and maintain optimal system performance. Always refer to manufacturer documentation and consult experienced engineers when dealing with persistent issues.







