Pumpenschmieren

Pumpenschmieren is a maintenance practice in which lubricants are supplied to the moving parts of a pump to reduce wear, friction, and heat buildup. The term combines Pumpe (pump) and Schmieren (lubricate) and is used to describe lubrication strategies that ensure reliable operation of pump bearings, gears, seals, and piston assemblies.

Lubrication methods fall into several categories. In grease-lubricated systems, bearings are packed or supplied with grease that remains in place between operating surfaces. Oil-lubricated systems use circulating or splash lubrication with oil to form a lubricating film between contacting parts. Some setups implement forced lubrication, where a small pump delivers oil to critical areas, while others rely on splash or drip lubrication. The choice depends on pump design, operating conditions, temperature, and sealing arrangements.

Common applications include industrial centrifugal pumps, gear pumps, diaphragm pumps, and pumps used in process industries, water treatment, mining, and marine environments. In high-demand scenarios, reliable lubrication is essential to prevent bearing failure, seal wear, and shaft misalignment, which can lead to leaks or unscheduled downtime.

Maintenance considerations focus on correct lubricant selection, adhering to manufacturer specifications, maintaining clean intake paths, monitoring lubricant temperature and cleanliness, and scheduling regular refill or replacement. Contamination, over- or under-lubrication, and incompatible lubricants are common risks that can compromise pump performance and longevity.

See also Schmierung, Wartung, Schmierungssysteme, and Pumpentechnik.