A bushing is a hollow cylindrical metal tube that is placed on a pump shaft to protect it from the surrounding environment. Bushings are commonly seen in single-stage pumps. Since a pump shaft is typically exposed to corrosion and wear, the presence of this component in a pump is of great importance.

Application of Bushings:

As mentioned earlier, bushings are primarily used to protect shafts or axles from wear caused by sealing elements in casings. Depending on the design, bushings now have the ability to be recoverable and reusable, providing protection to pump shafts against wear, corrosion, and erosion in leaky connections and sealing chambers.

However, shaft bushings can provide enhanced protection and are more cost-effective than replacing the shafts themselves. For example, a bushing can protect the shaft from contact with the pump fluid while acting as a sacrificial wear component, making it easier and much less expensive to replace the bushing instead of the shaft.

Maintenance Guidelines for Bushings:

As stated in your pump’s manual, you should regularly inspect your equipment within specified time intervals. This inspection should involve opening the shaft bushings to check for wear and replacing the casing sealing elements. To avoid premature replacement, the best practices include regular inspections of pumps for unusual vibrations or wear and having a scheduled overall pump inspection program.

Replacing Bushings:

To replace a bushing, you can follow the instructions provided in the pump manual. The process of replacing a bushing begins with removing the impeller. Once you have removed the bushing, it is essential to clean any rust and dirt from the shaft. If there is excessive dirt and leakage near the shaft sealing element, it is time to fully replace the bushing.

Don’t forget to install a new sealing O-ring and impeller washers when installing a new bushing. It is important to know that your bushing is functioning optimally for the best pump performance.

One of the services provided by Abravan Company is the repair of industrial pumps. If your pump needs inspection and repair, you can contact our experts.

Points to consider when buying bushings:

Pay attention to the bushing’s compatibility with the shaft and its rotation with the bearing bushing. Therefore, it is necessary to purchase a bushing that is suitable for your specific shaft.

When purchasing a shaft protective bushing, ensure that any fluid used in the system cannot leak between the bushing and the shaft.

There should be sufficient axial space for expansion, and the bushing should be securely fitted to the shaft to withstand tangential and axial displacements.