tørrløping

Tørrløping, literally meaning "dry running" in Norwegian, refers to the practice of attempting to start or operate a pump when there is no fluid to pump. This condition can arise from various issues, such as a depleted fluid source, a blockage in the intake line, or a malfunction in the level control system. When a pump runs dry, it can experience several detrimental effects.

The absence of fluid means the pump's impeller and other internal components are not lubricated and cooled by the pumped medium. This can lead to excessive friction and heat generation. Consequently, materials like seals, gaskets, and even the impeller itself can degrade rapidly, leading to premature wear and potential failure. In some cases, the buildup of heat can cause catastrophic damage to the pump casing.

Different types of pumps react to dry running in slightly varied ways. Centrifugal pumps, for instance, may overheat quickly due to the lack of internal cooling. Positive displacement pumps, depending on their design, might suffer from increased wear on gears, screws, or pistons as they attempt to move a vacuum instead of a fluid.

Preventing dry running is a critical aspect of pump maintenance and operation. This is often achieved through the implementation of dry-running protection devices. These can include low-level sensors in the suction tank, flow switches that detect a lack of flow, or built-in motor protection systems that monitor temperature or current draw, signaling a problem when operating without fluid. Regular checks of fluid levels and intake lines are also essential preventative measures.