Worthington Central Hydraulics
Application: Central Hydraulics for Hot Strip Mill
Pump Details: Worthington Type 3-WT-810
Pump Type: Multi-Stage Split Case Diffuser
A Hot Strip Mill experienced repeated failures of two 10-stage split case diffuser style pumps, which were designed to produce up to 1,400 PSI fluid pressure. Unable to consistently run the two pumps, production was drastically reduced and the mill suffered a high scrap rate.Hydro was asked to evaluate the pump and propose a repair plan that addressed the underlying issues. After a thorough evaluation, Hydro found that a previous repair shop had manufactured the shaft from incorrect material and had not used accepted manufacturing techniques. This caused stress risers to occur in the threaded areas, leading to shaft failure. In addition, a review of their system revealed deterioration of the pump’s base plate and leaks through the piping system, which contributed to the overall instability of the pump while in operation.
Hydro manufactured a new shaft, impellers, and diffusers from upgraded material and made modifications to reduce turbulence in the pump and increase rotor stability. Rotor centralization, a process of centering the impellers within the stationary hydraulic components, was also performed. These pumps have run for over five years, saving the mill over $500,000 in lost production and maintenance costs.