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Comprehensive Guide to Bearing Selection, Lubrication, and Maintenance for Horizontal Split Case Pumps

Bearings, as the core support of the rotor system in a horizontal split case pump, play a decisive role in the reliability, stability, and lifecycle cost of the equipment. Improper selection is a major cause of premature bearing failure and unplanned downtime. This guide aims to provide a systematic and practical framework for bearing selection and operation & maintenance.

Split Case Water Pump

I. Bearing Type Selection

The core of selection is matching the actual operating conditions in terms of load, speed, and running environment.

1. Rolling Bearings

Suitable for the vast majority of applications, they are the mainstream choice.

Deep Groove Ball Bearings: Compact structure, low friction, and high limiting speed. Mainly used to support radial loads and a certain degree of bidirectional axial load. They are an economical choice for small, low-load, high-speed pumps (e.g., domestic water supply pumps, air-conditioning circulation pumps).

Self-Aligning Roller Bearings: High load capacity, good shock resistance, and provide 1.5°–3° self-alignment capability, effectively compensating for misalignment or shaft deflection. Ideal for medium-sized, heavy-duty, or misalignment-prone industrial pumps (e.g., industrial circulation pumps, irrigation pumps).

2. Sliding Bearings

Applicable to extreme heavy-duty and special operating conditions.

Mainly used in ultra-high-power, low-speed, heavy-duty pumps (e.g., large power plant circulation pumps).

They rely on a formed oil film for load support, theoretically providing long service life, but require high-precision forced circulation oil lubrication systems, with high initial and maintenance costs.

Quick Bearing Selection Reference Table

Feature DimensionDeep Groove Ball BearingSelf-Aligning Roller BearingSliding Bearing (Journal Bearing)
Primary Load DirectionMainly radial, can handle bidirectional axial loadRadial and axial (high)Radial
Load CapacityMedium-lowHigh, shock-resistantExtremely high
Limiting SpeedHighMediumLow to medium
Self-Alignment CapabilityNone (standard type)Excellent (1.5°–3°)Excellent (design-dependent)
Lubrication RequirementGrease or oilGrease or oilMust use forced circulation oil lubrication
Maintenance ComplexityLowMediumHigh
Initial CostLowMediumHigh
Typical ApplicationsSmall clean water pumpsMedium industrial circulation pumpsLarge critical pumps (e.g., power plant circulation pumps)

II. Lubrication Method Selection

Lubrication is the “lifeline” of a bearing, with core functions of reducing friction, dissipating heat, and preventing corrosion.

1. Grease Lubrication

Characteristics: Simple system, good sealing, long maintenance intervals.

Drawbacks: Limited heat dissipation, susceptible to soap base shear damage and aging at high speeds.

Key Parameters: Pay attention to NLGI consistency grade (commonly #2) and dropping point temperature.

Applicable Conditions: dn value < 300,000 mm·r/min, small to medium load, intermittent operation, or hard-to-maintain small and medium pumps. For vertical pumps, choose grease resistant to leakage.

2. Oil Lubrication

Oil Bath Lubrication: Bearings partially immersed in oil, simple and reliable structure, better heat dissipation than grease. Oil level must be strictly controlled (typically at the center of the lowest rolling element). Suitable for medium-speed, medium-load horizontal pumps.

Forced Circulation Lubrication: Oil is supplied via pump, cooler, and filter system. Provides uniform lubrication, optimal heat dissipation, and cleanliness. System is complex and costly but is required for large, high-speed, heavy-duty continuous-operation pumps and all sliding bearings.

Lubrication Decision Matrix

Operating ConditionRecommended LubricationKey Reason
Small pump, low-medium speed, intermittent operation, clean environmentGreaseBest economy, simplest maintenance, good sealing
Medium pump, medium speed and load, continuous operationOil bath lubricationBalances heat dissipation, reliability, and cost
Large/high-speed pump, heavy load, 24-hour continuous operationForced circulation oil lubricationProvides optimal heat dissipation, lubrication, and cleanliness, highest reliability
Dusty, humid, or splash-prone environmentGrease or oil with high-efficiency sealsEffectively isolates contaminants, protects internal bearing cleanliness
Vertical pump structureSpecial grease or pressure oil lubricationPrevents lubricant loss, ensures reliable thrust bearing lubrication

III. Integrated Selection and Maintenance Roadmap

Follow the systematic path of “Analysis → Matching → Maintenance” to achieve scientific selection and long-lasting operation.

Step 1: Four-Dimensional Condition Analysis

Analysis DimensionKey PointsImpact on Selection
LoadMagnitude, direction, and nature (steady/impact) of radial and axial loadsDetermines basic bearing type and size series (e.g., light load → ball bearing, heavy load → roller bearing)
SpeedOperating speed range, calculate dn value (bearing bore mm × speed r/min)Key criterion for bearing type (high-speed → ball bearing) and lubrication method (grease/oil)
Operating RegimeContinuous, intermittent, or frequent start-stopInfluences bearing life calculation and lubrication choice (continuous operation requires high heat dissipation)
Environmental ConditionsTemperature, humidity, presence of vapor, dust, or corrosive mediaDetermines seal type, lubricant type (temperature-resistant, water-resistant, rust-proof), and need for special protection

Step 2: Bearing and Lubrication Matching

Pump Type & Typical ConditionsRecommended Bearing ConfigurationRecommended LubricationNotes
Small domestic/light industrial pump (low load, intermittent)Deep groove ball bearingGrease (general lithium-based)Best cost-performance, simple maintenance
Medium industrial circulation pump (medium load, continuous operation)Self-aligning roller bearingOil bath lubricationGood load and self-alignment capacity, oil bath provides adequate cooling
Large/critical process pump, high-speed pump (heavy load, continuous)Self-aligning roller bearing or sliding bearingForced circulation oil lubricationMeets high reliability and heat dissipation requirements, standard configuration for heavy-duty, high-speed conditions

Step 3: Key Operation & Maintenance Points

Installation

Ensure correct fit tolerances (inner ring tight fit, outer ring loose fit); use thermal or hydraulic tools for mounting, never hammer directly; guarantee excellent shaft alignment (coupling misalignment ≤0.05 mm recommended).

Monitoring and Diagnostics

Monitoring ItemMethod & StandardWarning Signs
TemperatureUse infrared thermometer to monitor bearing outer ring temperature. Temperature rise should not exceed 40°C above ambient, absolute temp generally < 80°CContinuous or sudden rise indicates poor lubrication, wear, or overload
VibrationUse vibration analyzer periodically. Focus on velocity RMS and frequency spectrumExcessive vibration or specific frequency peaks indicate wear, looseness, or misalignment
NoiseUse stethoscope or sound level meterRegular sharp or scraping noise usually indicates bearing damage

Regular Maintenance

Lubrication TypeKey Maintenance PointsSuggested Interval
GreaseAdd the specified grease using a dedicated gun, fill 1/3–1/2 of the cavity to allow old grease to escapeEvery 2000–4000 operating hours or every 6 months, depending on operating conditions
OilCheck oil level (maintain within sight glass), monitor oil quality (color, clarity), perform oil analysis if possibleDaily inspection; first oil change after 500 hours, thereafter every 3000–8000 hours depending on oil condition

IV. Common Misconceptions and Case Analysis

MisconceptionConsequenceCorrect Approach
Using regular grease in high-speed pumpsHigh dn value causes grease shear, thinning, flow loss, coking, leading to bearing seizure from lubrication failure1. Switch to high-speed synthetic grease 2. Or upgrade to oil lubrication (oil bath or circulation)
Ignoring installation alignment and bearing clearanceMisalignment or wrong clearance (e.g., insufficient for temperature rise) causes extra stress on roller bearings, uneven wear, shortened life1. Strictly ensure shaft alignment during installation 2. Select proper initial clearance (e.g., C3 group for most industrial pumps)
Mixing different grease typesDifferent soap bases or thickeners may react chemically, softening or hardening the grease, damaging lubricationNever mix; completely remove old grease when changing, or use same brand/model
Overfilling greaseFilling the cavity completely leads to excessive churning, rapid temperature rise, accelerating grease aging and bearing wearFollow the “1/3 to 1/2” filling principle, allow space for grease expansion and old grease expulsion

Conclusion

Optimization of the horizontal split case pump bearing system is essentially about finding the best balance between reliability, economy, and maintainability. There is no universal “best” solution, only the solution that is most suitable.

FAQ – for Split Case Pump

Here’re the most common spare parts for 2 years’ pump operation.

Split Case Pump Spare Parts & Qty (2 Years)
For Packing Seal Pump
Spare Parts/QtyPump Qty (Including Spare Pump)
1234568≥10
Shaft Sleeve11122345
Bearing Collar11122345
Impeller Collar00011123
Packing Seal123456810
O Ring123456810
Shaft00011123
Impeller 00011123
Wear Ring11122345
Packing Ring00011123
Packing Gland00011123
Bearing11122345
For Mechanical Seal Pump
Spare Parts/QtyPump Qty (Including Spare Pump)
1234568≥10
Shaft Sleeve11122345
Bearing Collar11122345
Impeller Collar00011123
Mechanical Seal11122345
O Ring123456810
Shaft00011123
Impeller 00011123
Wear Ring11122345
Mechanical Gland00011123
Bearing11122345

The split case pump material is mainly depend on the fluid condition as in below table.

Pump PartsFor Clear WaterFor SewageFor Seawater
 CasingCast IronDuctile IronS.S / Super Dulex
ImpellerCast IronCast Steel S.S / Super Dulex / Tin Bronze
Shaft  Steel  SteelS.S / Super Dulex
 Shaft Sleeve Steel    SteelS.S / Super Dulex
Wear RingCast IronCast Steel  S.S / Super Dulex / Tin Bronze
RemarkFinal material depends on the liquid condition or the client’s request.

Here’s the standard installation procedure for split case pump, including pre-installation preparation, pump installation, piping&accessories installation, post installations&checks and test run.

Standardized Installation Procedure for Split Case Pump
Work StageNo.Main StepsKey Operations & Notes
I. Pre-Installation Preparation1Site & Foundation Inspection• Clean the installation site and ensure sufficient space for operation and lifting.
• Check the concrete foundation strength, dimensions, elevation, and anchor bolt positions according to drawings. The foundation surface should be flat and free of oil.
2Equipment Unpacking & Inspection• Verify that the pump, motor, and accessories match the contract specifications.
• Inspect the equipment for any transportation damage and ensure all parts are complete.
• Check that all accompanying documents (drawings, manuals, certificates) are complete.
3Tools & Material Preparation• Prepare lifting equipment (hoist, sling), shims, level, dial indicator, wrenches, feeler gauge, lubricants, sealant, etc.
• Prepare cleaning agents and cloths for cleaning mating surfaces.
II. Pump Body Installation4Lifting & Positioning• Lift the pump using the lifting holes or lugs; never lift by the pump shaft or inlet/outlet pipes.
• Place the pump on the foundation, insert anchor bolts into base holes, do not tighten yet.
5Initial Leveling & Alignment• Place a level on the pump’s inlet/outlet flange or machined surface, adjust shims to roughly level the pump (tolerance ≤0.1 mm/m).
• Use the pump shaft centerline as a reference to preliminarily align the pump.
6Primary Grouting• Pour high-strength non-shrink grout into the anchor bolt holes; the grout layer should be dense and slightly below the foundation surface.
• Curing: wait until the grout is fully cured (usually 3–7 days) before fine adjustment and tightening.
7Final Leveling & Alignment• After grout curing, tighten anchor bolts.
• Recheck pump level with a precision level.
• Motor installation & alignment: lift the motor in place, use a dial indicator or laser alignment device, align the motor to ensure pump and motor shafts are coaxial (radial & axial deviation ≤0.05 mm). Tighten motor anchor bolts after alignment.
III. Piping & Accessories Installation8Piping Connection• Principle: never force pipe connections using the pump flanges to avoid stress on the pump body.
• Piping should be independently supported, ensure natural alignment without stress.
• It is recommended to install expansion joints near the pump inlet/outlet to absorb thermal expansion/contraction and installation errors.
9Seals & Cooling System• For mechanical seals, connect flushing/cooling piping, ensure smooth flow, flushing pressure 0.05–0.15 MPa higher than seal chamber.
• For packing seals, install packing and adjust gland tightness (do not overtighten initially).
10Lubrication & Instruments• Add specified grade and quantity of lubricant to bearing housing to oil mark midline.
• Install pressure gauge, thermometer, etc.; pressure gauge should be between pump outlet and first valve.
IV. Post-Installation Checks & Test Run11Final Checks• Manual rotation: rotate coupling, ensure rotor turns smoothly, no friction or binding.
• Check all bolts are tightened and guards are in place.
• Jog motor: confirm rotation direction matches pump casing arrow.
12Priming & Test Run• Open inlet valve, fill pump with conveyed medium, completely expel air.
• Close outlet valve, start motor.
• Slowly open outlet valve to desired condition, check pressure, flow, vibration, noise, bearing temperature (≤80 ℃), and seal leakage. Test run ≥2 hours.

This table will show you how to disassemble and maintain the split case pump.

Standardized Disassembly & Maintenance Procedure for Split Case Pump
Work StageNo.Main StepsKey Operations & Notes
I. Pre-Disassembly Preparation1Shutdown & Isolation• Safety first: slowly close the outlet valve, cut off power, and apply lockout/tagout (LOTO).
• Close the inlet valve, open the pump vent and drain valves, completely drain the medium. For toxic or hazardous media, perform purging and verify safe conditions.
2Disconnect External Connections• Remove coupling guard and connecting bolts.
• Disconnect all pipes, instrumentation lines, and cooling/seal water lines if the pump will be lifted as a whole.
Seal open ends to prevent foreign object entry.
3Tools & Preparation• Prepare pullers, hydraulic wrenches, copper bars, lifting equipment, and various wrenches.
• Prepare parts boxes and labels to organize and mark removed bolts and small parts for easier reassembly.
II. Pump Body Disassembly4Remove Accessories• Remove pressure gauges, thermometers, and other instruments.
• Open bearing housing oil drain and collect used lubricant.
5Remove Coupling & Bearing End Covers• Use a puller to smoothly remove the half-coupling from the pump shaft; avoid hammering.
• Remove bearing end covers and gland bolts in sequence, then remove the covers.
6Lift Out Rotor Assembly• Remove bearing housing bolts on both sides of the pump and horizontally lift the entire rotor assembly (shaft, impeller, bearings, sleeves) smoothly. Avoid collisions.
7Disassemble Split Case Pump Body• Loosen and remove pump casing bolts in a diagonal sequence.
• Lift the pump casing carefully and place on a padded or wooden platform. Protect the split case mating surface—avoid dents or scratches.
8Remove Internal Components• Before disassembly, measure and record key clearances (e.g., impeller to wear ring, bearing clearance).
• Use special wrenches to remove impeller locknut, then remove impeller. Remove shaft sleeve, mechanical seal or packing housing sequentially.
III. Inspection, Maintenance & Reassembly9Parts Cleaning, Inspection & Measurement• Clean all parts thoroughly, inspect for wear, corrosion, cracks.
Focus on:
– Impeller: cavitation, wear, dynamic balance.
– Wear ring/seal ring: measure wear gap; replace if exceeding limits (typically >1.5× original gap).
– Pump shaft: check straightness (total runout ≤0.05 mm).
– Bearings: check clearance, rolling surface for pitting or spalling.
– Mechanical seals: check stationary/rotating faces and spring elasticity.
• Decide whether to repair or replace parts.
10Reassembly (Reverse Order of Disassembly)• Core principle: clean, align, and tighten evenly.
• Replace all seals (O-rings, gaskets). Apply a thin layer of sealant (e.g., anaerobic) on split case mating surfaces.
• Lift pump casing, tighten bolts diagonally in stages to manufacturer torque.
• Reinstall rotor assembly, adjust impeller axial clearance to manufacturer spec.
• Install bearings and adjust bearing clearance.
• Reinstall coupling and perform precise pump-to-motor alignment (same as installation standard).
11Final Verification• Manually rotate to ensure smooth, unrestricted motion.
• Connect piping, add new lubricant to specified level.
• Conduct final verification according to installation procedure “Priming & Test Run” to ensure normal operation parameters.

During split case pump operation, the user will meet various of pump faults, here’re the most common problems and solutions.

Split Case Pump Common Faults and Solutions
ProblemCausesSolutions
1. Pump not priming / Cannot discharge liquid1. Suction pipe, suction valve, foot valve not primed; air ingress.
2. Pump casing or suction pipe contains trapped air.
3. Motor rotation reversed.
4. Suction inlet leakage or failure.
5. Suction lift exceeds allowable maximum.
1. Prime suction line and foot valve; eliminate air leaks.
2. Vent casing & suction line.
3. Correct motor wiring/rotation.
4. Repair suction inlet.
5. Reduce suction lift or add booster.
2. Flow insufficient / Small discharge1. Inlet valve closed or partially closed; suction screen blocked.
2. Impeller blockage, foreign objects.
3. Wear at suction port (seal ring), impeller or casing wear.
4. Suction line contains air.
5. Pump speed too low.
1. Fully open inlet valve; clean filter/screen.
2. Remove blockage/clean impeller.
3. Repair/replace worn components.
4. Purge air from suction.
5. Restore correct operating speed.
3. Low head / Insufficient pressure1. Impeller clearance too large or impeller damage.
2. Low rotation speed.
3. Cavitation.
4. Suction pipe diameter too small.
5. Discharge head exceeds pump capacity.
1. Adjust or replace impeller.
2. Increase speed within rating.
3. Improve suction conditions or reduce NPSH.
4. Increase suction pipe size.
5. Reduce discharge head.
4. Excessive vibration / Abnormal noise1. Shaft misalignment.
2. Bearing damage.
3. Loose motor mounting.
4. Coupling or impeller imbalance.
5. Motor vibration.
6. Base/frame loose.
7. Improper pipe support causing resonance.
1. Re‑align pump & motor.
2. Replace bearings.
3. Secure motor base.
4. Correct balance; inspect coupling.
5. Reduce motor vibration.
6. Tighten base.
7. Add pipe supports.
5. Bearing overheating1. Improper lubrication (insufficient, wrong type, contaminated).
2. Bearing damage.
3. Poor alignment.
4. Bearing housing misfit.
5. Insufficient cooling.
6. Excessive rotational speed.
1. Re‑lubricate with correct grease/oil.
2. Replace bearings.
3. Realign pump & motor.
4. Adjust housing fit.
5. Improve ventilation/cooling.
6. Operate within speed rating.
6. Mechanical seal leakage• Seal faces worn, uneven, O‑ring aging, spring failure.
• Packing not lubricated or tightened.
• Replace mechanical seal and O‑rings; inspect shaft finish.
• Adjust packing gland; ensure correct packing and tension.
7. Motor overload / Tripped protection1. Insufficient power supply.
2. Phase loss / Power imbalance / Poor wiring.
3. Excessive load (impeller blockage), pump stalled.
4. Excessive starting current.
5. Motor overheating.
6. Short‑circuit or earth fault.
1. Restore proper supply voltage.
2. Check wiring and phases; correct imbalance.
3. Remove blockage; clear shaft rotation.
4. Use soft start or reduced voltage starter.
5. Improve cooling.
6. Find & repair electrical fault.
8. Cannot start or slow start1. Power supply abnormal (voltage drop).
2. Starter contactor open.
3. Motor winding open circuit.
4. Control circuit faulty.
1. Check power and restart.
2. Check and replace contactor.
3. Repair/replacement of winding.
4. Correct control wiring.
9. Pump vibration increases at no load1. Rotor imbalance, bent shaft.
2. Loose rotating parts.
3. Coupling looseness.
4. Pump suction/delivery line back‑pressure issue.
1. Balance rotor or repair shaft.
2. Tighten rotating assembly.
3. Tighten coupling.
4. Eliminate back‑pressure and correct piping.
10. Efficiency drop / Performance deterioration1. Wear of impeller & casing.
2. Internal passage clogging, scale/slag.
3. Air entrainment in suction.
4. Operating point far from BEP.
1. Replace worn parts.
2. Clean flow passages; flush.
3. Eliminate suction air leaks.
4. Adjust operating conditions toward BEP.

This table will show you how to perform the daily maitenance and and care for split case pump.

Daily Maintenance and Care for Split Case Pumps
Maintenance CategoryMaintenance ItemDetails & Standards
I. Pre‑Operation Inspection1. Visual & Connection Check• Check the pump body, motor, coupling, etc., for cracks, deformation or damage.
• Check all connection fasteners (especially pump‑to‑base and base bolts) for tightness to prevent leakage or vibration.
• Check piping and joint areas for looseness.
2. Lubrication Inspection• Oil lubrication: Check if the oil level in the oil chamber is at the center mark; whether the oil is clean.
Replace promptly if oil is turbid or contains impurities.
• Grease lubrication: Check if the grease is sufficient and clean.
Note: Water‑based bearings use grease X; motors use grease Y — the two must not be mixed.
3. Turn Shaft & Rotation Confirmation• Manually rotate the coupling to check if the pump shaft rotates freely with no friction noise.
• Start motor briefly to confirm the rotation direction is consistent with the direction indicated by the pump arrow.
4. Seal & Suction Check• Check the mechanical seal and packing seal condition.
• Open pump suction valve and drain water until the casing is full, then vent air (no dry running).
II. Monitoring During Operation1. Parameter Monitoring• Pressure & Flow: Monitor inlet and outlet pressures and flow to ensure operation within the rated range for optimum efficiency.
• Bearing Temperature: Bearing temperatures should remain between 40–60 °C, and the motor temperature should not exceed 80 °C. If overheated, check lubrication and cooling systems.
2. Vibration & Noise• Listen to running noise: should be smooth hum. If there are abnormal noises, impacts, etc., stop and inspect immediately.
• Observe vibration condition; abnormal vibration may indicate imbalance, bent shaft, uneven wear, or cavitation.
3. Seal & Leakage Monitoring• Mechanical seal: Normal leakage rate should not exceed 5 drops per minute.
• Packing seal: Through adjustment tighten, leakage rate should be controlled at about 10‑15 drops/min (approx. 30 ml/min) depending on packing size. Adjust to desired leakage.
4. Instruments & Motor• Check all instruments (pressure gauge, temperature gauge, etc.) for normal readings.
• Check motor current and electrical system; no abnormal heating.
III. Periodic (Planned) Maintenance1. Lubrication Management• Oil lubrication: Change first after 100 operating hours, then every 500 hours.
• Grease lubrication: Generally replenish or change every 3 months; follow manufacturer service schedule.
2. Seal System Maintenance• Packing seal: Replace packing rings as needed; ensure stuffing box is properly tightened and align packing ring gaps at 90°–120°.
• Mechanical seal: Check flushing liquid pressure; it should be 0.05–0.1 MPa. Replace seal if excessive wear or leakage.
3. Bearing & Coupling Check• Monthly manually check coupling and shaft for smooth rotation, no abnormal noise.
• Periodically check bearing housing for dirt, wear and proper lubrication.
4. Impeller & Flow Passage Cleaning• Every 3 months or based on water quality, check impeller for buildup, corrosion, wear; clean off sediment, debris.• Check impeller clearance; if gap is too large (e.g., >0.1 mm), replace as required.
5. Alignment & Tightening• Periodically check alignment between pump and motor; allowable deviation ≤0.05 mm.
• Retighten base bolts and major fasteners as needed.
IV. Shutdown & Long‑Term Stop1. Normal Shutdown• Procedure: close outlet valve first → power off → close inlet valve and pressure gauge valves.
2. Winter Anti‑Freeze• When ambient temperature is ≤ 0 °C, after shutdown drain water from pump body, and ensure piping is drained to prevent freezing.
3. Long‑Term Storage• Drain all internal water and clean thoroughly.
• Apply rust preventive oil (shaft, impeller, contact areas), reinstall and protect for storage.
V. Cleaning & Record Keeping1. Equipment Cleaning• Weekly wipe pump body, motor, and base surfaces; especially clean motor cooling fins.
• Regularly clean around instrument panels to prevent dust accumulation.
2. Operation Records• Establish and maintain operation & maintenance logs including operating hours, pressures, temperature, vibration, lubrication replacement time, fault handling, etc., to facilitate equipment condition tracking and planned maintenance.
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