Quiet Sump; the Alternative

The Hype:

Much has been said promotionally, in recent years, about "oil mist" lubrication, coupled with dual-face, magnetically loaded mechanical seals for "mist" containment.

Little attention, if any, has been given to the complexity of the "mist" system and how energy intensive it is, or the fact that it is expensive and far from maintenance free. It is estimated that a 500 pump system, based on pure oil mist and dual face bearing seals, will consume about 162 KW, 24/7. At 7.5 cents per KWH, that and the compressed air to deliver the "mist" would cost the user another $114,000 per year.

The Alternative

Fill the pump bearing frames with a high quality, high film strength, Royal Purple Synfilm synthetic lubricant to the recommended level, which is half way up the bottom rolling elements of the bearings.

Install non-contact, non-wearing, permanent bearing isolators at both ends of the pump bearing frames so as to eliminate contamination and/or loss of lubricant. Inpro/Seal bearing isolators do not consume power to operate.

Enjoy the simplicity and reliability of "quiet sump" energy efficient, undisturbed bearing lubrication for the next 3 years, when only an oil change is recommended.

Installed "oil mist" Systems:

We invite you to retrofit your "misted" power frames with our specifically designed non-contact compound bronze labyrinth bearing isolators to control and eliminate stray mist escapement into the environment. Unlike a contact sealing device that consumes energy and must be individually lubricated for successful operation, the model OM-32 Inpro/Seal bearing isolator consumes no energy, has no need of lubrication, and does not wear out.

Full Disclosure:

This author freely admits to a close association and beneficial remuneration by and from the Inpro/Seal Company and not as a paid independent consultant. It is not my intent to denigrate any systems or products in the field or to confuse the readers with respect to my choice of lubrication systems. I deliberately have avoided any covert conjecture and/or subjective material based solely on what it will profit me or my Company.

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DCO