Compared with positive displacement pumps, the structure of centrifugal pumps is indeed simpler. If used correctly and regularly maintained, the service life of centrifugal pumps is generally 4 to 7 years. The specific lifespan is affected by various factors, including the type of pump, materials, operating environment, usage frequency, and maintenance conditions. However, the service life mentioned here only refers to the usage time of the entire pump head, and it is inevitable to replace the vulnerable parts during the usage period. Based on the practical experience of the centrifugal pump manufacturer Changsha Zoomlian Pump Industry Co., Ltd., let's talk about the practical situation. The specific situation of the service life of centrifugal pumps is roughly as follows.
1、General lifespan range
The lifespan of a single-stage centrifugal pump is generally 4 to 5 years. The normal service life of a split-case centrifugal pump is generally 5 to 7 years. The lifespan of a multi-stage centrifugal pump is 5 to 8 years. For special centrifugal pumps, such as horizontal wear-resistant multi-stage centrifugal pumps, the lifespan of the pump body can reach more than 10 years.
The overall designed service life of a centrifugal pump is usually 10 to 20 years, but the actual operating life may vary depending on maintenance and usage conditions.
2、Influencing factors
Usage frequency: Pumps that are frequently started and stopped have a higher wear rate.
Maintenance: Regular maintenance can significantly extend the service life of the pump. For example, the replacement cycle of the mechanical seal is 1 to 2 years, and it is recommended to replace the impeller of the pipeline pump every five years.
Environmental conditions: Factors such as temperature, pressure, and the corrosiveness of the medium will affect the lifespan of the pump.
Installation quality: The firmness and correctness of the installation foundation have an important impact on the operating stability of the pump.
3、Service life of vulnerable parts
The service life of vulnerable parts such as the mechanical seal, bearing life, wear ring life, sealing ring, and shaft sleeve. If the material selection is correct, there is no abnormal corrosion and wear, and there is no cavitation, they can be used for about one year. However, if the material is inappropriate or air enters the pump body, replacement may be required at any time. The pump shaft, impeller, and shaft sleeve can usually be used for a longer time.
4、Special design and materials
High-quality design and materials can significantly improve the service life of the pump. For example, the designed service life of some horizontal split-case multi-stage centrifugal pumps that meet the API610 standard can reach 30 years, but the price is also very expensive.
Using high-performance materials and optimized designs can extend the service life of the pump, such as the design of self-lubricating bearings and enclosed bearings.
In some industrial applications, the actual service life of split-case centrifugal pumps can reach 12 years or even longer, especially under good maintenance and usage conditions.
Therefore, the normal service life of centrifugal pumps is generally 5 to 7 years. However, through reasonable maintenance, optimizing the operating environment, and choosing high-quality materials and designs, the service life can be significantly extended.