September 1995

Process Industry Practices

Machinery

REEP001
Seal Flush and Lubrication Guidelines for
Centrifugal Pumps

PURPOSE AND USE OF PROCESS INDUSTRY PRACTICES

In an effort to minimize the cost of process industry facilities, this Practice has
been prepared from the technical requirements in the existing standards of major
industrial users, contractors, or standards organizations. By harmonizing these technical
requirements into a single set of Practices, administrative, application, and engineering
costs to both the purchaser and the manufacturer should be reduced. While this Practice
is expected to incorporate the majority of requirements of most users, individual
applications may involve requirements that will be appended to and take precedence over
this Practice. Determinations concerning fitness for purpose and particular matters or
application of the Practice to particular project or engineering situations should not be
made solely on information contained in these materials. The use of trade names from
time to time should not be viewed as an expression of preference but rather recognized
as normal usage in the trade. Other brands having the same specifications are equally
correct and may be substituted for those named. All practices or guidelines are intended
to be consistent with applicable laws and regulations including OSHA requirements. To
the extent these practices or guidelines should conflict with OSHA or other applicable
laws or regulations, such laws or regulations must be followed. Consult an appropriate
professional before applying or acting on any material contained in or suggested by the
Practice.

Process Industry Practices (PIP), Construction Industry Institute, The

University of Texas at Austin, 3208 Red River Street, Suite 300, Austin,
Texas 78705. PIP member companies may copy this practice for their internal
use.

3pr96 Minor format changes.

2pr96 Minor format changes.
Not printed with state funds.

September 1995

Process Industry Practices

Machinery

REEP001
Seal Flush and Lubrication Guidelines for
Centrifugal Pumps
Table of Contents
1. Introduction ..................................2
1.1 Purpose .............................................2
1.2 Scope ................................................2

2. References....................................2
2.1 Industry Codes and Standards ...........2

3. Seal Flush Plans...........................2

3.1 General..............................................2
3.2 API Plan 1 .........................................3
3.3 API Plan 2 .........................................3
3.4 API Plan 11........................................3
3.5 API Plan 12........................................4
3.6 API Plan 13........................................4
3.7 API Plan 21........................................5
3.8 API Plan 22........................................5
3.9 API Plan 23........................................5
3.10 API Plan 31.......................................5
3.11 API Plan 32.......................................6
3.12 API Plan 41.......................................6
3.13 API Plan 51.......................................7
3.14 API Plan 52.......................................7
3.14.1 General ..................................7
3.14.2 Seal Pot .................................7
3.14.3 Auxiliary Piping/Tubing...........8

Process Industry Practices

3.14.4 Seal Pot Pressure Switch....... 8

3.14.5 Seal Pot Level Switches......... 9
3.14.6 Buffer Fluid ............................ 9
3.15API Plan 53 ....................................... 9
3.15.1 General.................................. 9
3.15.2 Seal Pot Low Level Switch... 10
3.15.3 Seal Pot Low Pressure
Switch.................................. 10
3.16 API Plan 54 .................................... 10
3.17 API Plan 61 .................................... 10
3.18 API Plan 62 .................................... 11

4. Lubrication Methods for

Bearings...................................... 11
4.1 General ........................................... 11
4.2 Product Lubricated Bearings............ 11
4.3 Lubrication of Antifriction Bearings .. 11
4.3.1 General .................................. 11
4.3.2 Grease Method ....................... 11
4.3.3 Wet Sump Method.................. 12
4.3.4 Dry Sump Method................... 14
4.4 Pressure Fed Lubrication................. 14
4.5 Lubricant Contamination
Considerations................................. 15

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PIP REEP001
Seal Flush and Lubrication Guidelines for Centrifugal Pumps

1.

September 1995

Introduction
1.1

Purpose
The purpose of this Practice is to provide designers with seal flush and lubrication
guidelines for centrifugal pumps for chemical plant and refinery applications.

1.2

Scope
This Practice covers guidelines for application of seal flush plans and lubrication
considerations for centrifugal pumps.

2.

References
The following references contain additional information that may be useful to the designer:

2.1

Industry Codes and Standards

American Petroleum Institute (API)

Std. 610 - Centrifugal Pumps for Refinery Service
Std. 682 - Shaft Sealing Systems for Centrifugal and Rotary Pumps

American Society for Mechanical Engineers (ASME)

Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code
Section II - Materials
Section VIII, Division 1 - Pressure Vessels
In this Practice the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code is referred to as the
ASME Code for convenience.
B73.1 M - Specification for Horizontal End Suction Centrifugal Pumps for
Chemical Process
B73.2 M - Specification for Vertical In-Line Centrifugal Pumps for Chemical
Process

3.

Seal Flush Plans

3.1

General
Shaft sealing systems are discussed in API Std. 682 in general terms. Additional
information on shaft sealing systems is available in Appendix D of API Std. 610.
Seal life can be extended by designing systems that provide cool and clean fluids to the
seal cavity and by using bearings and a shaft stiffness that minimize motion of the
seals.

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PIP REEP001
Seal Flush and Lubrication Guidelines for Centrifugal Pumps

September 1995

Seal flush guidelines in Sections 3.2 through 3.18 of this Practice are provided to
assist in the selection of standardized seal flush plans as defined in Appendix D of API
Std. 610 and in Figure A2 of ASME B73.1M and ASME B73.2M.
Selection of an appropriate seal flush plan must take into consideration normal and
transient operating conditions, including standby condition in which pumps with
recirculating flush system have no flow through the seal chamber. Seal materials must
be suitable for expected temperatures and pressures during standby and warm-up (or
cool-down). A continuous flush from an external source may be required if seal
components cannot tolerate anticipated conditions in the seal chamber when the pump
is idle.

3.2

API Plan 1
API Plan 1 (ASME Plan 7301) takes fluid from the pump discharge, reduces the
pressure as it passes through an orifice, and injects the fluid into the seal cavity (seal
face) area through an internal passageway. The fluid then flows from the seal cavity to
the back side of the impeller and then back into the process stream.
The purpose of API Plan 1 is to keep fluid from stagnating in the seal cavity.
Stagnation may result in excessive seal cavity temperature rise and buildup of
contaminants from normal wear.
API Plan 1 should not be used with dirty fluids.

3.3

API Plan 2
API Plan 2 (ASME Plan 7302) has a dead-end seal chamber with no circulation of
flushing fluid, but it has plugged connections in the seal chamber for possible future
circulating fluid. A water-cooled stuffing box jacket may be specified to provide
cooling.
API Plan 2 can be used with clean fluids with high specific heats, such as water, in
relatively low speed pumps.
Extreme caution should be used if API Plan 2 is used in light hydrocarbon services
with low specific heats because of excessive seal cavity temperature rise that can
cause vaporization of the fluid.
API Plan 2 should not be used with dirty fluids.

3.4

API Plan 11
API Plan 11 (ASME Plan 7311) takes fluid from the pump discharge, reduces its
pressure as it passes through an orifice, and injects it into the seal cavity (seal face)
area through external piping or tubing. Fluid then flows from the seal cavity to the
back side of the impeller and then back into the process stream.
The purpose of API Plan 11 is to provide cooling by keeping fluid from stagnating in
the seal cavity. Stagnation may result in excessive seal cavity temperature rise and
buildup of contaminants from normal wear.
API Plan 11 should not be used with dirty fluids.

Process Industry Practices

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PIP REEP001
Seal Flush and Lubrication Guidelines for Centrifugal Pumps

3.5

September 1995

API Plan 12
API Plan 12 (ASME Plan 7312) is identical to API Plan 11 except for an additional
Y-strainer upstream of the orifice and the seal cavity.
Comments on API Plan 12 are the same as those on API Plan 11 with the additional
comment that the coarse filtration provided by a Y-strainer may be of little or no value
for protecting the seal, other than keeping the orifice from plugging.
Note: API Plan 12 has been deleted in API Standard 610, 8th edition.

3.6

API Plan 13
API Plan 13 (ASME Plan 7313) provides circulation from the seal cavity through an
orifice back to the pump suction. The most commonly used function of API Plan 13 is
to reduce pressure in the seal cavity on pumps that generate high seal cavity pressures,
such as a vertical turbine pumps that have discharge pressure on the throat bushing
directly under the seal cavity.
In order to get flow through the seal cavity, it is imperative to bleed off the seal cavity
pressure through an orifice back to the pump suction.
On vertical turbine pumps, API Plans 1, 11, 12, 21, 22, 31, or 41 must be used in
conjunction with API Plan 13. Caution must be taken when using API Plan 13 not to
reduce the seal cavity pressure below the process fluid vapor pressure.
API Plan 13 is also useful in high-head pumps in which the use of an API Plan 11
requires a small orifice [less than 3 mm (1/8-inch)] that can be easily plugged or
produces an excessive flush flow rate.
In pumps that have discharge heads greater than 300 meters (1,000 feet), the use of
multiple orifice breakdown that increases orifice sizes, may be desirable. The use of
multiple orifice breakdown also reduces noise and provides less orifice wear than the
smaller single orifice.
API Plan 13 should not be used on pumps in which specific impeller designs cause
seal chamber pressure to approach or fall below the suction pressure of the pump.
Typical of this design is the reverse vane impeller. Under these conditions there may be
inadequate differential pressure to cause flow sufficient to cool the seal assembly,
resulting in mechanical damage to the seal faces.
When pumping light hydrocarbons or steam condensate at low flow rates, much of the
driver power heats the process fluid due to pump inefficiency. Heating of the process
fluid can cause vapor formation and possible vapor locking of the pump.
A modified version of API Plan 13 (referred to as API Plan 14 in the 8th edition of
API Std 610) that takes seal cavity fluid through an orifice back to the vapor portion
of the suction vessel provides even better protection for the seal. The seal cavity
bypass provides a greater flow rate, and this improves the potential for vapor removal.
API Plan 14 is also often used successfully for highly volatile fluids in systems with
marginal net positive suction head available (NPSHA) which will otherwise not
operate due to cavitation. If it is not possible to install a line back to the suction vessel,
injecting into suction piping at least 5 meters (15 feet) upstream of the inlet flange at a

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PIP REEP001
Seal Flush and Lubrication Guidelines for Centrifugal Pumps

September 1995

point above the seal cavity elevation may be an acceptable alternative. This alternative
may allow time for the vapor to condense.

3.7

API Plan 21
API Plan 21 (ASME Plan 7321) takes fluid from the pump discharge through an
orifice and heat exchanger and then injects the fluid into the seal cavity. This is
basically an API Plan 11 with the addition of the heat exchanger.
The purpose of API Plan 21 is to provide a cooled flush to the seal. The need for a
cooled seal flush can vary greatly depending on the process fluid, type of seal used,
and materials of construction for the seal. Pump and seal manufacturers should be
consulted for specific recommendations.
When pumping hot water at sea level, a cooled seal flush is recommended for pumping
temperatures above 66C (150F). This temperature should be adjusted for higher
elevations to maintain the temperature in the seal chamber approximately 39C (70F)
below the atmospheric boiling temperature of water.
The heat exchanger may use water as a cooling medium or an air fin convective/air
fin-fan if water is scarce. Alternatively, the exchanger may use a suitable process fluid
as the cooling medium.

3.8

API Plan 22
API Plan 22 (ASME Plan 7322) is identical to API Plan 21 except for an additional
Y-strainer upstream of the orifice.
Comments to API Plan 22 are the same as those on API Plan 21, with the additional
comment that the coarse filtration provided by a Y-strainer may be of little or no value
for protecting the seal other than keeping the orifice from plugging.
Note: API Plan 22 has been deleted in API Standard 610, 8th edition.

3.9

API Plan 23
API Plan 23 (ASME Plan 7323) incorporates a pumping ring on the seal that provides
recirculation of the process fluid from the seal cavity through a heat exchanger and
back to the seal.
API Plan 23 has an advantage over API Plan 21 because slightly less power is
consumed, but more importantly, the cooled seal flush fluid does not go back into the
process stream. Another advantage over API Plan 21 is that less cooling water is
required because the cooler removes only seal face generated heat, plus heat conducted
from the pump casing by the shaft and seal chamber.

3.10

API Plan 31
API Plan 31 (ASME Plan 7331) takes dirty process fluid from the pump discharge
into an inertial separator. Clean fluid comes off the top of the inertial separator,
through the orifice, to the seal cavity, to the back side of the impeller, and then back
into the process stream. Dirty fluid comes off the bottom of the inertial separator into
the pump suction.

Process Industry Practices

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PIP REEP001
Seal Flush and Lubrication Guidelines for Centrifugal Pumps

September 1995

If the process stream is very dirty or is a slurry, API Plan 31 typically is inadequate
and is not recommended. (See Section 3.11 of this Practice.) Also, some solids with a
density less than twice that of the process fluid do not centrifuge out of suspension
effectively, thus making the inertial separator ineffective.
Some pump manufacturers offer an optional internal inertial separator with internal
passageways that eliminates costly external piping/tubing, and can be used in lieu of
API Plan 11 (ASME 7311). An external separator may be the best choice if
contaminants are excessive or extremely abrasive, resulting in the need for periodic
cleaning or replacement of the separator. Below is typical internal inertial separator
particle removal performance:

3.11

PARTICLE SIZE

PERCENT REMOVED

2.5 micron
5.0 micron
8.5 micron

87
94
96-99

API Plan 32
API Plan 32 (ASME Plan 7332) is used to inject an external source of clean and/or
cooled fluid into the seal cavity. This seal flush fluid goes from the seal cavity to the
back side of the impeller and then into the process stream.
Requirements/conditions under which API Plan 32 should be used are as follows:
Requirement for a clean flush to the seal if the process fluid is extremely dirty or is

a slurry that prohibits the use of API Plan 31.

Requirement for a cooled flush to the seal if the process fluid is too hot or if cooling

water is not available for an API Plan 21.

Requirement for a non-corrosive seal flush to provide a buffer zone in the seal

cavity to prevent corrosive process fluid from damaging the seal. An example is an
isobutane flush into a hydrofluoric acid pump.
Requirement for reduction of flashing or air intrusion (in vacuum service) across

seal faces by providing a flush that has a lower vapor pressure or that raises the
seal chamber pressure to an acceptable level.
Caution: The seal flush pressure must be greater than the seal cavity pressure. The
pump manufacturer should be consulted for recommendations. Also, the fluid flush
must be compatible with the process fluid because it will leak into the process fluid.

3.12

API Plan 41
API Plan 41 (ASME Plan 7341) is the same as API Plan 31 except that a heat
exchanger is used to cool the flush going to the seal cavity. If cooling water is not
available, an air cooled heat exchanger may be used. Occasionally, a cool process
stream is used as the cooling fluid.
Caution: Proper selection of heat exchanger materials, pressure ratings, and
temperature ratings is required.

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PIP REEP001
Seal Flush and Lubrication Guidelines for Centrifugal Pumps

September 1995

3.13

API Plan 51
API Plan 51 (ASME 7351) is most effectively applied to vertical pumps. API Plan 51
provides for a non-pressurized, dead-end blanket of buffer fluid on the outboard side
of the mechanical seal.
Some type of auxiliary sealing device is necessary to keep the buffer fluid from leaking
to the atmosphere or on the ground. API Plan 51 is typically used with single seals.
API Plan 51 is used to:
Prevent formation of ice on the outboard side of the mechanical seal that can cause

problems with the seal faces. This is required for cryogenic and many light
hydrocarbon services at start-up below 0C (32F). Methanol is frequently used as
a buffer fluid. Special attention is needed when using methanol or ethanol because
they evaporate through any vent to the atmosphere or to a low pressure area.
Prevent formation of crystals on atmospheric or outboard side of the mechanical

seal. With certain fluids, such as caustic, crystals form on the atmospheric side of a
seal when normal seal leakage comes into contact with air. By providing a blanket
of buffer fluid such as glycol, air is prevented from reaching the outside of the seal,
thus preventing crystal formation.
Note: API Plan 51 has been deleted in API Standard 610, 8th edition.

3.14

API Plan 52
3.14.1

General
API Plan 52 (ASME Plan 7352) is typically used with a tandem seal
arrangement and allows a buffer fluid to provide lubrication and cooling to
the secondary (outboard) seal.

3.14.2

Seal Pot
A non-pressurized seal pot with a capacity of 8 to 20 liters (2 to 5 gallons) is
connected to the seal housing with supply and return piping or tubing. The
piping/tubing should be arranged to allow the buffer fluid to thermosiphon
and the tandem seal design should provide pumping action (centrifugal or
axial flow pumping ring) to cause forced circulation of the buffer fluid in
order to remove heat generated by the seals.
Certain applications may require a heat exchanger either in the supply line or
as cooling coils in the seal pot to cool the buffer fluid and enhance
thermosiphoning.
The seal pot should be high enough to provide a minimum level of buffer
fluid of 30 cm (1 foot) above the seal. However, the recommended level is 1
meter (3 feet). Additionally, the supply and return piping/tubing from the
seal pot to the seal should be adequately sized and arranged to minimize
head losses. Piping/tubing must also be arranged to avoid a vapor trap in the
return line from the seal to the seal pot.

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PIP REEP001
Seal Flush and Lubrication Guidelines for Centrifugal Pumps

September 1995

Pressurized seal pots (greater than 15 psig) with an inside diameter greater
than 15 cm (6 inches) shall be designed and constructed in accordance with
ASME Code Section VIII using the material properties from ASME Code
Section II, Part D.
All seal pots require ASME Code Stamping unless exempted by a local
jurisdiction or governing agency.
The buffer fluid level in the seal pot must be maintained above the return
line entry position in the seal pot to achieve and maintain the thermosiphon
effect. If the fluid falls below this level, and if circulation is dependent only
on the thermosiphon effect, flow will stop, and cause seal damage. A means
of monitoring this low critical level must be provided in the seal pot and may
be a local sight glass or a remote low level alarm system.
If the primary (inboard) seal leaks, the process fluid leaks into the buffer
fluid. A pressure switch or a high level switch in the seal pot can be used to
detect this leakage.
3.14.3

Auxiliary Piping/Tubing
A flow indicator is sometimes specified in the return line to the seal pot to
ensure that circulation is occurring. In general, flow indicators are not
recommended because they cause extra pressure drop, thus impeding flow.
The return line to the seal pot should be noticeably warmer to the touch
when compared to the supply line to the mechanical seal.

3.14.4

Seal Pot Pressure Switch

For process fluids with vapor pressure greater than atmospheric pressure, a
pressure switch is typically used to detect pressure buildup in the seal pot.
The seal pot is usually vented to a flare through an orifice that is typically 3
mm (1/8-inch) in diameter. Normal seal leakage vaporizes and vents through
this orifice, but if excessive leakage cannot vent fast enough, the pressure
buildup in the seal pot will be detected by the pressure switch.
For most light hydrocarbon applications, the pressure switch should be set
100 - 200 kPa (15 - 30 psig) above the flare system pressure. The pressure
switch could be set higher, but more leakage would occur before detection.
Field adjustable pressure switches are recommended. A block valve between
the seal pot and the orifice allows the operator to stop leakage to the flare
and to keep the pump running on the secondary seal until the pump can be
scheduled for maintenance. Seal pots and seal flush tubing/piping that can be
blocked from atmospheric venting should be designed for maximum pump
discharge pressure.
A pressure gauge should be provided on the seal pot to determine the internal
pressure. Seal pot pressure must be vented before depressurizing the pump,
or back pressure on the primary seal can cause the primary seal faces to
open up and dump buffer fluid into the pump.

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PIP REEP001
Seal Flush and Lubrication Guidelines for Centrifugal Pumps

September 1995

3.14.5

Seal Pot Level Switches

For process fluids with vapor pressures lower than atmospheric pressure or
for process fluids with entrained gases, (for example, carbon dioxide, amine)
that vaporize with leakage across the seal, a high level switch in the seal pot
is typically used to detect seal leakage.
If the buffer fluid level reaches the high level switch, the operator can lower
the level, and then determine how long it takes for the level to build back up.
Build up frequency is the basis for deciding when to conduct maintenance.
Because of the low vapor pressures, a pressure gauge on the seal pot may
not be necessary.
Some purchasers specify a low level switch on the seal to detect a loss of
buffer fluid. Loss of buffer fluid typically occurs across the secondary
(outboard) seal. Buffer fluid can also be lost past an o-ring in the gland
plate, through a leaking piping/tubing fitting, through a leaky drain valve,
etc. Loss of the buffer fluid causes failure of the secondary (outboard) seal.

3.14.6

Buffer Fluid
It is the purchaser's responsibility, not the pump vendor's, to select a buffer
fluid that is compatible with the process fluid and that has lubricating
properties for the secondary (outboard) seal. The buffer fluid should be noncorrosive to the seal pot and piping, should not be too viscous, and should
not freeze in cold weather.

3.15

API Plan 53
3.15.1

General
API Plan 53 (ASME Plan 7353) is typically used with double seals and is
similar to an API Plan 52 except that it is a pressurized system with a
minimum blanket pressure 140 kPa (20 psi) higher than the zone between the
primary (inboard) seal and the back side of the impeller.
Occasionally, if process pressures vary significantly, the blanket pressure is
set at the relief valve setting. If process pressure exceeds 3,500 kPa (500
psig), setting the blanket pressure at the relief valve setting results in
unnecessary secondary seal stress and reduced reliability. A more effective
way to minimize stress on the secondary (outboard) seal is by the application
of a controlled differential blanket pressure at a level 140 kPa (20 psig)
higher than the zone between the primary (inboard) seal and the back side of
the impeller.
API Plan 53 provides lubrication and cooling for both the primary (inboard)
and secondary (outboard) seals. Supply and return piping/tubing should be
arranged to allow the buffer fluid to thermosiphon. The double seal design
should provide pumping action to cause forced circulation of the buffer fluid
in order to remove heat generated by the seals. Certain applications may
require an exchanger in the supply line or cooling coils in the seal pot to cool
the buffer fluid and enhance thermosiphoning. A sight flow indicator in the

Process Industry Practices

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PIP REEP001
Seal Flush and Lubrication Guidelines for Centrifugal Pumps

September 1995

return line to the seal pot is not recommended. Occasionally, a separate

pump is used to provide positive circulation.
3.15.2

Seal Pot Low Level Switch

A low level switch in the seal pot detects a loss of buffer fluid from leakage
across the primary and/or secondary seals, or leakage through some other
path, such as loose fittings. A means of adding make-up buffer fluid under
pressure to the seal pot while the pump is running is necessary, or the pump
must be shutdown and depressurized, and the seal pot depressurized. The
make-up buffer fluid is then added, the seal pot repressurized, and finally the
pump is repressurized and restarted.

3.15.3

Seal Pot Low Pressure Switch

A low pressure switch in the seal pot is used to detect loss of pressurization
of the buffer system. Loss of buffer fluid pressure can upset the primary
(inboard) seal, thus allowing process fluid to flow into the API Plan 53
system. Typically, a constant external pressure source prevents loss of
proper pressurization.

3.16

API Plan 54
API Plan 54 (ASME Plan 7354) is typically used with double seals and allows for
circulation of a clean high pressure fluid from an external system to supply lubrication
and cooling for both the primary (inboard) and secondary (outboard) seals.
API Plan 54 does not have instruments for detection of seal leakage. Leakage of the
secondary (outboard) seal can be detected visually by leakage to the atmosphere. API
Plan 54 is also used occasionally with tandem seals with a low pressure clean fluid
being used to provide lubrication and cooling of the secondary (outboard) seal.
Leakage across the primary (inboard) seal is more difficult to detect than when using
an API Plan 52.
Careful consideration should be given to the reliability of the barrier fluid source. If
the barrier fluid source is interrupted or contaminated, expensive seal failures may
occur.
Occasionally, if process pressures vary significantly, the seal flush pressure is set at
the relief valve setting. If process pressure exceed 3,500 kPa (500 psig), setting the
seal flush pressure at relief valve setting results in unnecessary secondary seal stress
and reduced reliability. A more effective way to minimize stress of the secondary
(outboard) seal is by application of a differential back pressure controlled at a level
140 kPa (20 psig) greater than the zone between the primary (inboard) seal and the
back side of the impeller.

3.17

API Plan 61
API Plan 61 (ASME Plan 7361) provides plugged connections in the gland plate to
allow for future use as an API Plan 62.

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PIP REEP001
Seal Flush and Lubrication Guidelines for Centrifugal Pumps

September 1995

3.18

API Plan 62
API Plan 62 (ASME Plan 7362) allows an external fluid quench (steam, gas, water,
etc.) between the outboard seal and the throttle bushing or auxiliary sealing device.
Applications include steam quench on hot oil pumps to prevent coking, water quench
on caustic or salt pumps to prevent contact with air (thus preventing the formation of
crystals on the outboard side of the seal), and nitrogen quench (purging) to carry
certain vapors away that may leak across seal faces.

4.

Lubrication Methods for Bearings

4.1

General
Lubrication method used for centrifugal pump bearings depends on the type of
bearing, the size of the pump, and cost considerations.

4.2

Product Lubricated Bearings

Product lubricated bearings are typically used in vertical and sealless pumps that have
sleeve bearings. The product is used as a hydrodynamic fluid for centering the pump
shaft within one or more sleeve bearings.
Except for sealless pumps, sleeve bearings are typically made of rubber, carbon,
carbon filled PTFE, or metal, often bronze. Compatibility of the pumped fluid with the
bearing material is critical to the success of product lubricated bearings. If the pumped
fluid is chemically active or contains solids, special consideration is required for
materials.
In some cases, an external source of clean product may be required for the lubrication
of the bearings.
Product lubricated bearings may have axial or helical grooves.

4.3

Lubrication of Antifriction Bearings

4.3.1

General
Lubrication methods for antifriction bearings include grease, wet sump, and
dry sump.
The reliability of antifriction bearings is heavily influenced by the bearing
fit, alignment, and the temperature and cleanliness of the lubricant.
Consequently, the lubricant should be maintained uncontaminated and at a
temperature low enough to preclude its deterioration.

4.3.2

Grease Method
The grease lubrication method is typically limited to non-critical pumps that
operate at relatively low speeds and temperatures, and that have a driver
power of 7.5 kW (10 hp), or less, for horizontal pumps, and 45 kW (60 hp),
or less, for vertical pumps.

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PIP REEP001
Seal Flush and Lubrication Guidelines for Centrifugal Pumps

September 1995

The grease lubrication method is used more often in vertical pumps than in
horizontal pumps.
Grease may be packed in the bearing and sealed at the factory or it may be
in the bearing housing surrounding the bearing. If the grease is in the bearing
housing, whether on the pump or driver, the bearing vent plug should be
removed and the vent left open until the pump has operated at a stable
temperature. This procedure minimizes the common tendency to over grease
the bearing.
4.3.3

Wet Sump Method

4.3.3.1

General
The wet sump lubrication method is the most common in
centrifugal pumps. This method is also referred to as oil flooded.
Variations of the wet sump method are the simple-wet-sump
method, the wet-sump-with-ring-oil method, the wet-sump-withflinger method, and the wet-sump-with-purge-mist method.

4.3.3.2

Simple-Wet-Sump Method
In the simple-wet-sump lubrication method, the lower section of
the bearing housing serves as a small sump. The sump oil level
should be maintained at the centerline of the lowest roller
element in the bearing. This is accomplished by a constant level
oiler with a typical capacity of 100 cc (4 ounces). Problems
encountered with the simple-wet-sump method are the following:
If the oil level is high, frothing and foaming may occur.

Unnecessary heat will be generated and additional power is

required.
Proper level is confined to a small range. If the oil level falls

below the lower rolling element, no further lubrication is

possible.
With vented bearing housings, there is a tendency for water

vapor to condense inside the bearing housing, particularly on

standby units. Water condensate displaces the lubricant and
causes pitting of the lower rotating elements, resulting in
shortened bearing life.
The simple-wet-sump method is the standard lubrication method
on many ASME B73.1 pumps. If contamination or heat buildup
is possible, other lubrication methods should be considered to
improve reliability.
4.3.3.3

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Wet-Sump-With-Ring-Oil Method
In the wet-sump-with-ring-oil method, a ring rides on the top of
the shaft and within the oil sump. The ring is not attached and

Process Industry Practices

PIP REEP001
Seal Flush and Lubrication Guidelines for Centrifugal Pumps

September 1995

merely rests on top of the shaft. The ring typically rotates at

about 50% of the shaft speed.
The oil level must be maintained so that the bottom of the ring is
immersed in the oil sump, thus lifting and distributing the oil as
the ring turns.
One advantage of the wet-sump-with-ring-oil method, as
compared to the simple-wet-sump method, is that the oil level is
below the lowest rolling element, thus eliminating frothing and
reducing heat and energy requirements.
Maintenance of the proper oil level is critical to reliable
operation. The ring bore should be immersed in the oil 6 mm to 9
mm (1/4-inch to 3/8-inch).
Problems can be encountered on startup or in cold climates if the
oil in the sump is too viscous. If the oil is too viscous, the ring
may rotate at a considerably reduced speed and may be unable to
provide oil to the rolling elements.
4.3.3.4

Wet-Sump-With-Flinger Method
In the wet-sump-with-flinger method, a flinger (disc) is attached
to the pump shaft. A flinger works better than a ring when the oil
is very viscous. The flinger must be immersed in the oil in the
same manner as in the ring oil method.
The wet-sump-with-flinger method is the standard lubrication
method for most API single stage overhung pumps. This method
is generally more reliable than the simple-wet-sump method.

4.3.3.5

Wet-Sump-With-Purge-Mist Method
The wet-sump-with-purge-mist method incorporates a variety of
features from the other wet sump methods, plus an oil mist purge
that is typically supplied from a central oil mist generating
console.
The main advantage of the wet-sump-with-purge-mist method is
the elimination of atmospheric contamination. This increases the
mean time between failure of bearings.
The wet-sump-with-purge-mist method does not take full
advantage of the energy savings that can be attributed to the dry
sump method.
Drain cups should be installed with the wet-sump-with-purgemist method because the sump oil level increases gradually.

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PIP REEP001
Seal Flush and Lubrication Guidelines for Centrifugal Pumps

4.3.4

September 1995

Dry Sump Method

The dry sump lubrication method (pure oil mist) uses a central oil mist
generator that provides compressed dry air, saturated with oil mist, directly
to the bearing housing.
The main advantages of the dry sump method are as follows:
The central oil mist generator that serves several pumps requires less
manpower for routine maintenance servicing.
Since the lubricating oil is once through, bearing wear particles are
washed out and not recycled. The need for oil changes is eliminated.
Antifriction bearings tend to operate at a cooler temperature compared to
sump oil systems.
By adding a transparent collection chamber at the bottom of the dry
sump, oil mist condensate can be collected and examined for color
changes or spectrometric examination. Thus, early detection of bearing
distress is possible.
50% less lubricating oil will be consumed compared to the wet sump
method, even with the once through oil.
Less energy is consumed compared to the wet sump method.
The positive pressure within the bearing housing precludes ingress of
atmospheric contaminants, thus reducing the potential for corrosion or
wear from atmospheric contaminants.
Reduction of bearing failures and maintenance costs.

4.4

Pressure Fed Lubrication

Pressure fed lubrication may be used for pumps with hydrodynamic radial or thrust
bearings. The pressure fed lubricant acts both as a coolant and a lubricant. This type
of lubrication system is almost never used for pumps with driver power less than
225 kW (300 hp).
Hydrodynamic bearings are more commonly used on horizontal between-bearing type
pumps. They are seldom used on overhung type pumps. Hydrodynamic bearings are
typically lined with bearing babbitt. Babbitt materials lose strength rapidly with
increasing temperature.
The oil film in pressure fed lubrication may be as thin as 0.005 mm (0.0002-inch).
Therefore, the oil should be filtered to remove particles larger than the minimum oil
film thickness.
Because the oil also serves as a coolant, pressure fed lubrication should have oil
coolers. The coolers are typically water cooled or fin fan.
API Std.610 should be used as a guide for long life pumps in main process stream
services that use pressure fed lubrication. Large utility pumps, intermittent duty
pumps, or pumps with integral speed increasing gear boxes may use a manufacturers

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Process Industry Practices

PIP REEP001
Seal Flush and Lubrication Guidelines for Centrifugal Pumps

September 1995

standard force fed lubrication system if it has filtration, cooling, prelube pump, and
indications of pressure and temperature.

4.5

Lubricant Contamination Considerations

Pumps that are outdoors, especially standby pumps, can have problems with
contamination of the bearing lubricant.
For new facilities with many pumps, it may be economically feasible to use the wetsump-with-purge-mist lubrication method (4.3.3.5) or the dry sump lubrication method
(4.3.4) to assist in keeping the bearing lubricant uncontaminated. These lubrication
methods can be used with standard lip seals for bearing isolation.
For facilities with only a few pumps, it is probably more economical to use the simplewet-sump lubrication method (4.3.3.2) , the wet-sump-with-ring-oil lubrication method
(4.3.3.3), or the wet-sump-with-flinger lubrication method (4.3.3.4). If these
lubrication methods are used, they should be used in conjunction with the following
features for bearing isolation:

Labyrinth-type bearing isolation seals that provide a positive static seal or

magnetic-type bearing isolation seals. These types of bearing isolation seals
provide a tight seal that precludes the ingress of atmospheric contaminants. Some
labyrinth-type bearing isolation seals do not provide an atmospherically tight seal
in static conditions.

A diaphragm expansion chamber, occasionally referred to as a vent, that is

typically cylinder shaped and has an internal elastomeric diaphragm that precludes
the ingress of atmospheric contaminants.

A bullseye-type level gauge to observe bearing oil level and eliminate the constant
level oiler. The constant level oiler does not function properly with diaphragm
expansion chamber and bearing isolation seals that provide tight sealing of the
bearing housing. Internal pressures vary from slightly positive to slightly negative
as the operating temperatures vary throughout the day.

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