Drive cooling fan
Common heat-related VFD and servo-drive failure point.
Flowserve Pump Fault Codes — Quick Reference
Flowserve centrifugal pumps are monitored by external condition monitoring systems, variable frequency drives, or Flowserve SIRONAa seal monitoring. Alarms typically originate from: VFD, seal monitoring, temperature sensors, and vibration monitors.
| Fault | Meaning | Quick Fix |
|---|---|---|
| High Bearing Temperature | Bearing running hot | Check lubrication, alignment, and load |
| High Vibration | Imbalance, cavitation, or bearing fault | Check alignment and suction conditions |
| Seal Leak Detected | Mechanical seal leak alarm | Inspect seal faces and plan replacement |
| Low Flow | Flow rate below minimum | Check suction pressure and throttle valve |
| Cavitation Warning | Suction pressure too low | Increase suction head or reduce flow |
| Motor Overload | Motor current exceeded limit | Check specific gravity, VFD settings |
| High Process Temperature | Pump handling hot fluid near limit | Check cooling and fluid conditions |
| Dry Run | No flow / empty suction | Stop immediately and prime pump |
Most Common Faults
High Vibration
Vibration is the top indicator of centrifugal pump health. Common causes: impeller wear or fouling, misalignment after coupling or bearing replacement, cavitation, or bearing failure. Measure vibration at the bearing housings in both horizontal and vertical directions. Compare to baseline readings. An imbalance-type vibration is typically 1× RPM; misalignment often shows 2× RPM and axial vibration.
Cavitation
Low suction pressure causes the fluid to vaporize at the impeller eye, creating implosion events that erode impeller metal. Symptoms include a crackling sound, vibration, and low flow. Increase suction head, reduce discharge valve throttle, or reduce flow rate. Check for plugged suction strainers.
Seal Leak
Flowserve mechanical seals are designed for long life but fail when run dry, exposed to temperature extremes, or when faces are worn. A face-to-face leak shows as weeping from the seal area. Plan a seal replacement — running with a leaking seal damages the shaft sleeve and bearing housing.
Parts Often Needed
| Part | Notes |
|---|---|
| Mechanical seal assembly | Most common pump wear item |
| Impeller | Replace if cavitation-damaged |
| Bearing set (thrust + radial) | Replace on high vibration diagnosis |
| Shaft sleeve | Inspect and replace with seal |
Need Replacement Parts?
Before ordering, match the drive part to the model number, electrical rating, and failure symptom. Check current prices on Amazon - prices and availability change frequently.
Jump to Fix
- High vibration → Check alignment → Measure at bearing housings → Inspect impeller
- Cavitation → Increase suction head → Check strainer → Reduce flow
- Seal leak → Plan seal replacement → Check shaft sleeve condition
When to Call a Pro
Flowserve provides engineering support for pump selection, seal selection, and field service. Complex hydraulic or reliability issues warrant their field service team.