Last Updated on July 11, 2023
Submersible pumps are essential for various applications, from flooding basements to providing water to homes and businesses. However, over time, the pump may need to be disassembled for maintenance, cleaning, or repair. You need the right tools and knowledge to disassemble a submersible pump successfully.
To disassemble a submersible pump, prepare by shutting off the power supply and removing the control box. Next, drain the water from the pump and remove the motor shaft and sleeve coupling. After that, extract and preserve the thrust bearings.
Today, we’ll discuss how to disassemble a submersible pump step-by-step, including your necessary tools. By the end of this guide, you’ll have the confidence and knowledge to disassemble your submersible pump easily. So keep reading.
How to Disassemble Submersible Pump: Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re looking to disassemble a submersible pump, following a step-by-step guide is important to ensure a safe and successful project.
- Step 1: Prepare for Disassembly
- Step 2: Drain the Water
- Step 3: Remove the Motor Shaft and Sleeve Coupling
- Step 4: Release the Base and Remove the Foot
- Step 5: Extract and Preserve the Thrust Bearings
- Step 6: Remove the Coupling Flange and Mechanical Seal
- Step 7: Extract the Guide Bearings and Rotor
Step 1: Prepare for Disassembly
Before taking apart your submersible pump, turn off the power supply and unplug it from the outlet to ensure your safety.
After this, gather all the necessary tools, including a wrench set, screwdriver set, pliers, and any specific tools recommended by the pump manufacturer. Having all the tools prepared beforehand will save you time and effort during disassembly.
It’s important to wear safety goggles and gloves before disassembling the pump to protect your eyes and hands. Submersible pumps are typically used in water, which can carry harmful bacteria and chemicals that can cause harm. Also, the pump’s electrical components are exposed during disassembly, which can be dangerous.
Step 2: Drain the Water
Ready to get started? Let’s release any water trapped in the motor cavity by locating and unscrewing the drain at the lower part of the motor. Before you begin, make sure the power supply to the submersible pump is disconnected to avoid any electrical hazards.
To drain the water, locate and unscrew the drain located at the bottom of the motor. Allow the water to drain all the way before continuing.
This is a crucial step because any water left inside the motor can cause damage to the pump. Once the water has drained completely, you can move on to disassembling the submersible pump.
Step 3: Remove the Motor Shaft and Sleeve Coupling
Now it’s time to disconnect the motor shaft and sleeve coupling by carefully removing any fasteners securing them, using an appropriate wrench or tool, and separating them gently – this will ensure that you can access and repair the pump’s internal components without any obstruction.
The motor shaft is the rod that connects the motor to the impeller, responsible for drawing water into the pump and pushing it out. Additionally, the sleeve coupling connects the motor shaft to the pump shaft, which drives the impeller.
To remove the motor shaft and sleeve coupling, follow these steps:
- Identify the motor shaft and sleeve coupling connection.
- Using an appropriate wrench or tool, carefully remove fasteners securing the motor shaft and sleeve coupling.
- Gently separate the motor shaft and sleeve coupling by disconnecting them.
Step 4: Release the Base and Remove the Foot
It’s time to free the base and take off the foot. To start, locate the foot that supports the pump assembly. This may require some careful searching, as it could be hidden or obscured by other components.
Once you’ve found it, remove any fasteners or bolts securing it to the pump housing. Be sure to use the appropriate tools and not damage any other parts of the pump assembly.
With the fasteners removed, you can carefully release the base from the pump housing. This can be a delicate process, as you’ll want to avoid causing any damage to the thrust bearings.
Once the base is released, you can remove it with the foot. Keep all the components organized and labeled so that you can easily reassemble the pump later on.
Step 5: Extract and Preserve the Thrust Bearings
To extract and preserve the thrust bearings carefully, you should take them out individually and keep them in the correct order for future use or repair. Start by identifying the thrust bearings positioned within the pump assembly.
Once located, take them out gently, making sure they remain in order. Store them in a safe place where they won’t get damaged.
Step 6: Remove the Coupling Flange and Mechanical Seal
You can easily remove the mechanical seal and coupling flange by locating the flange on the upper part of the motor and unscrewing any bolts or fasteners securing it. Once you’ve removed the coupling flange, take care to extract the mechanical seal carefully.
Remember the position of the mechanical seal for reassembly or replacement purposes. Removing the coupling flange and mechanical seal is an important step in disassembling a submersible pump. It allows you to access the pump impeller and other parts for cleaning or replacement.
Step 7: Extract the Guide Bearings and Rotor
Now that you’ve safely removed the coupling flange and mechanical seal, it’s time to carefully extract the guide bearings and rotor, taking care to avoid any damage to the stator windings. Have you ever wondered what makes these components so vital to the function of your pump?
The guide bearings play a crucial role in maintaining the alignment of the rotor and stator, thereby preventing any unwanted contact and reducing friction. A misaligned rotor can cause excessive vibration, noise, and damage to the pump’s internal components.
Moreover, the rotor creates the necessary centrifugal force to transfer the fluid from the suction to the discharge port. Thus, any damage to the rotor can significantly affect the pump’s efficiency and performance.
To extract the guide bearings and rotor, follow these steps:
- Use a puller to remove the bearings from their housing. Avoid using excessive force as it may damage the bearings or the rotor.
- Carefully slide the rotor out of the stator, making sure it doesn’t rub against the stator windings.
- Inspect the bearings and rotor for any wear or damage, such as cracks, corrosion, or discoloration. Replace any faulty components as necessary.
What tools are required to disassemble a submersible pump?
Essential tools for disassembling a submersible pump include a stable table, a vice, screwdrivers, keys, and pliers. The table should have enough space to accommodate the pump and give you enough room to move around.
The vice should be strong enough to hold the pump firmly in place while you work on it. The screwdrivers should include both Phillips and flat head types, as you’ll need them to remove screws of different shapes and sizes. Keys and pliers will help you to loosen and tighten nuts and bolts in the pump’s assembly.
What is inside a submersible pump?
Take a peek inside the electric submersible pump, and you’ll find a hermetically sealed motor that’s tightly coupled to the pump body, making it ready for use in a variety of applications.
The motor consists of a stator, rotor, and bearings. The stator is stationary and contains the winding that generates the magnetic field, while the rotor rotates inside the stator and is magnetized by the magnetic field. The bearings support the rotor and allow it to rotate freely within the stator.
The pump body, which is also hermetically sealed, houses the impeller and diffuser. The impeller is responsible for creating the flow of water, while the diffuser helps to increase the pressure of the water.
The impeller and diffuser are designed to work together to pump water efficiently and effectively. The impeller is connected to the motor shaft, which rotates and drives the impeller and diffuser assembly.
Together, the motor and pump body form a completely submersible pump that can be used for various applications, from pumping groundwater to moving water in industrial processes.
Is there oil inside a submersible pump?
Did you know that submersible pumps contain mechanical oil that has excellent cooling capabilities and is water-resistant? This oil is a crucial component in ensuring the proper functioning of the pump.
It is commonly referred to as submersible oil or pump oil and is specifically designed to withstand the harsh conditions of the water.
The use of this oil in submersible pumps is significant as it helps to prevent the overheating of the motor and other components. The oil is circulated throughout the pump to transfer the heat away from the motor and to the outer casing of the pump, where it can then be dissipated.
What is the purpose of oil in the submersible pump?
You’ll be amazed to learn how the mechanical oil in your submersible pump plays a vital role in preventing overheating and ensuring efficient operation for years to come.
Here are some reasons why the oil is so important:
- The oil lubricates the moving parts of the pump, such as bearings and impellers, reducing friction and wear.
- The oil absorbs the heat generated by the pump during operation and dissipates it through the pump’s casing, preventing overheating and damage.
- The oil acts as a barrier between the internal parts of the pump and the water, preventing corrosion and prolonging the pump’s lifespan.
- The oil helps dampen the vibrations and noise generated by the pump, making it operate more quietly.
- The oil lubricates the seals that prevent water from entering the motor, reducing the risk of motor failure.
What type of oil is used in submersible pumps?
When maintaining your submersible pump, know that you should use type 32A hydraulic oil or food-grade oil for food-grade applications to lubricate the bearing chamber. Type 32A hydraulic oil is a high-quality lubricant specifically designed for use in hydraulic systems.
It has excellent anti-wear properties, good oxidation, and high thermal stability. This type of oil has a viscosity that is suitable for submersible pump applications, allowing the oil to flow easily through the bearing chamber and provide proper lubrication.
If you need a food-grade oil for your submersible pump, there are options available that are specifically designed for use in food processing applications. These oils are formulated to meet FDA regulations and NSF requirements for food safety.
Is there a filter in a submersible pump?
If you’re considering purchasing a submersible pump, it’s important to know that these pumps come with built-in self-cleaning intake filters. These filters are designed to protect the pump and other equipment from blockage, which can occur due to suspended solids in the water.
The self-cleaning mechanism ensures that the filter remains clean, allowing the pump to function optimally for an extended period of time. The filter in a submersible pump is an essential component that prevents debris and other particles from entering the pump’s motor and impeller.
The filter’s self-cleaning mechanism is activated when the pump is running, preventing debris build-up and allowing the pump to operate at maximum efficiency.
Disassembling a Submersible Pump: A Challenging But Rewarding Endeavor
Taking apart a submersible pump is not a task for those who shy away from a challenge. It demands a lot of commitment, expertise, and persistence. However, the reward is enormous when you eventually see the intricate design that powers this little machine.
The precise engineering that goes into its construction is truly unique. Furthermore, it must be noted that disassembling a submersible pump allows you to work with some hefty tools and equipment.
Your toolbox will be more impressive than ever before. Armed with a wealth of knowledge and a broad range of practical skills, you may even consider pursuing a career as a plumbing professional. After dismantling this complex system, you will have the confidence to tackle any pump-related issue easily.
