Bell & Gossett VTP2006 Series VTP – Vertical Turbine Pumps - Manual (Page 26)

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THRUST POT LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE
OIL LUBRICATED THRUST POT
(SEE FIGURE 19)
Pumps are shipped without oil. Oil-
lubricated the bearings must be lubricated
at jobsite.
It is a good practice to flush the oil reservoir before first
time operation and at the time of oil changes to remove
all grit particles in the oil reservoir sump. Use the same
type of oil to flush reservoir as specified for lubrication.
(See page 38 on recommended turbine oil.) Remove
drain plug (Item # 39) before flushing. Flushing oil
may be poured through oil fill opening (item #33) after
removing oil fill plug #39. The proper oil level when
the unit is not running shall be not more than 1/8” to
1/4” from the top of the oil sight gauge (Item #37).
Overfilling may result in overheating of the unit. During
operation the oil level in the sight gauge may be higher
than the recommended range mentioned above. Under
no circumstance is it allowed to rotate the unit when the
oil in the sight gauge is not at the required level.
To avoid oxidation of the anti-friction bearings during
shut-down periods lasting longer than one week, it is
recommended to fill up the oil reservoir until the oil runs
over the oil retainer tube (Item #2) and down the shaft
so that the bearings remain completely immersed in the
oil. Before start -up, do not forget to drain the excess oil
to its required level. Oil change depends on the severity
of the environment. Generally speaking, when the oil
in the sight gauge changes to a darkish brown color it
is time for an oil change. However, for a longer bearing
life, it is recommended that the oil be changes every six
months. Be sure to flush the oil reservoir (see above) with
each oil change.
GREASE LUBRICATED THRUST POT (SEE FIGURE 18)
Lubricating Intervals in Operating Hours
Thrust Operating Speed (RPM)
Rating <1770 1770 2900 3500
2000 lbs 2000 2000 2000 1800
4000 lbs 2000 2000 1600 1400
6600 lbs 2000 2000 1400 1200
The bearing is pre-lubricated at factory. Re-grease the
bearing according the following procedure and per the
schedule in the above table. Following are the re-grease
procedure:
1. Wipe dirt from grease fittings.
2. Check relief port 180º from fitting to make sure it is
open.
3. Fill the grease cavity through the fitting until fresh
grease comes out the relief hole.
4. Ensure the relief port closes.
NOTE: The bearing temperature usually rises after
re-greasing due to an excess supply of grease.
Temperature will return to normal after the
pump has run and purged the excess from the
bearings, usually two to four hours.
For most operating conditions, lithium based NLGI 2
grease is recommended. This is the grease factory used
for pre-lubrication. This grease is acceptable for bearing
temperatures of 5º to 230º F. Temperature extremes
(either high or low) may require different type grease.
Following table lists some various manufacturers’
compatible grease:
Mobil Mobilith AW2
Amoco Amolith EP2
Ashland Multilube EP2
Exxon Unirex N2
Shell Alvania EP LF2
Unocal Unoba EP2
Chevron Dura-Lith EP NLGI2
NOTE: If it is necessary to change the grease type or
consistency, the bearing must be removed and all
the old grease eliminated from the housing and
bearing.
Bearings must be lubricated properly in
order to prevent excess heat generation,
spark and premature failure.
WARNING
WARNING