Mag-drive pump Q and A

Magnetic-drive centrifugal pumps are often the solution for a broad range of applications where it would be helpful to eliminate mechanical seals. In this article, we’d like to address some common questions and concerns about mag-drive pumps.

1. Can Mag-Drive Pumps run dry?

A common concern around mag-drive pumps is that they shouldn’t run dry. While dry running can be catastrophic for most centrifugal pumps, a magnetic drive pump can be more vulnerable to damage from running dry because the pump liquid itself lubricates the bearings. We recommend pairing mag-drive pumps with more rugged bearings that are forgiving of upset conditions, such as those with diamond-like coatings. These can run dry for a limited time, helping prevent breakage and reduce friction in dry-run conditions.

2. What impact does temperature spikes have on mag-drive pumps?

The magnets on mag-drive pumps can be affected by spikes in temperature due to upset system conditions. However, a power monitoring device can help prevent any costly damages from upset conditions – such as loss of flow to suction or discharge.

When the power monitor detects lower power (such as when the pump runs dry or against the discharge) or any higher draw in power (such as when running the pump too far to the right of the BEP), it will shut off the pump. The device can also monitor if magnets decouple.

3. What kind of maintenance does a mag-drive pump require

Mag-drive pumps usually last 8 to 10 years or more with very little maintenance. It is one of the best types of sealed pumps for long-running process applications.

4. Are magnetic-drive pumps more costly to repair than sealed pumps?

A traditional sealed pump may have significant repairs over its lifespan, including the replacement of costly seals – and this can end up being more expensive than the total cost of the mag-drive pump’s repair. Mag-drive failures are relatively uncommon, especially if you upgrade bearings, use high-end magnet materials and power monitors. This makes mag-drive pumps cost-effective for many pump applications.

5. Can mag-drive pumps handle toxic or dangerous fluids?

As we’ve discussed at length in when magnetic drive pumps are a no-brainer and the pros and cons of magnetic drive pumps, these pumps are commonly used in applications that pump toxic, corrosive, noxious and high-purity fluids. Mag-drive pumps can handle fluids that are very expensive too, where leakage is simply not an option. Mag-drive pumps are also useful when employee safety is a concern, such as when odours could be harmful or unpleasant, or staff could slip due to leakage.

6. Can a mag-drive pump be de-greased with caustic soda?

Pump manufacturers can configure mag-drive pumps so that their internal rotating components can be cleaned with caustic soda. This is especially beneficial for applications where the pump must be regularly cleaned, such as when processing food grade oils or clearing product build-up.

Do you have any more questions on magnetic-drive centrifugal pumps? We are your industrial pump supplier in Canada and we’d love to answer them. Give us a call on 1-800-367-4180 (toll-free). Our experts are on hand to help you choose, install, maintain, and monitor a variety of equipment. And to answer questions about things you’ve previously tried gone wrong.