Why are liquid ring vacuum pumps preferred across industries like chemicals, pharma, power, and
food processing? The reason is simple: they are tough, reliable, and can easily
handle wet or saturated gases.
But even the most rugged pump won’t give you its best unless
you manage and maintain it regularly. So, how can you get the most out of your
liquid ring vacuum pump?
How Does a Liquid Ring Vacuum Pump Actually Work?
A multi-blade impeller spins inside an off-centre casing partially filled with water or another seal liquid such as oil. As it rotates, the liquid forms a ring, creating small chambers that suck in and compress gas. Thus, the vacuum is created.
Get to know advanced design features:
- Single-stage or double-stage pumps for different vacuum levels
- Closed-loop water systems with heat exchangers (to save water and energy)
- Corrosion-resistant builds for longer life
- Smart automation options with PLC/SCADA/DCS integration
Common Pump Problems and How to Fix Them
1. Insufficient Vacuum
- Possible Causes: Low seal liquid, high temperature, leaks, or wrong pump size.
- Quick Fix: Top up water, check joints/valves for leaks, and confirm the pump is sized right.
2. Low Pumping Speed
- Possible Causes: Blocked pipes, poor liquid flow, or too much backpressure.
- Quick Fix: Clean your pipes, regulate flow, and use control panels to balance levels.
3. Excessive Noise or Vibration
- Possible Causes: Cavitation, dirt in the system, or worn bearings.
- Quick Fix: Filter your water, maintain levels, and replace bearings routinely.
4. Overheating
- Possible Causes: Poor cooling, high ambient temperature, or heavy gas load.
- Quick Fix: Install a heat exchanger, monitor load, and add temperature sensors.
5. Seal & Bearing Wear
- Possible Causes: Corrosive fluids, lack of lubrication, or misalignment.
- Quick Fix: Use compatible seal liquids, lubricate on schedule, and check alignment.
Tips for Daily Operations
- Keep seal water flowing steadily.
- Maintain seal water between 15–25°C with a heat exchanger.
- Avoid cavitation with proper suction pressure.
Tips for Daily Operations
- Daily check water levels, flow, and temperature.
- Monthly Clean filters and heat exchangers.
- Always use treated or soft water to avoid scaling.
- Follow a preventive schedule for seals, bearings, and motor.
Automation enhancement
- Auto water tanks with level sensors
- Heat exchanger controls via flow & temp sensors
- Remote monitoring with SCADA or HMI
Safety First
Don’t forget your safety interlocks: alarms and auto shutdowns for low water flow, overheating, motor overload, or low tank levels. Such small but relevant things will save your equipment from major damage.
Final Takeaway
A LRVP is one of the key equipment of your process and it needs to be taken care of. With proactive maintenance, closed-loop cooling, and smart automation, you will enjoy:
Longer pump life, Lower operating costs and Minimal downtime
The reliability of your liquid ring vacuum pump depends on maintenance and also on your technology partner. Tekman Industries has been delivering advanced vacuum solutions tailored to India’s evolving industrial needs for decades. From closed-loop water recovery systems that save up to 90% of water and support sustainability goals like Jal Shakti Mission to automation-ready LRVP setups, Tekman ensures your operations stay efficient, cost-effective, and future-ready.
Partnering with Tekman is a long-term advantage, connect with us now.
