How to Size a Pump Motor: Horsepower, Service Factor, and Safety Margin
A step‑by‑step guide to calculating the correct motor size for a centrifugal pump, including horsepower, service factor, and safety margin. Learn the governing formulas,…
PumpCalcs reference library
Author: John C. Wilcox
87 resources
Methods · worked examples · references
Pump Making Noise? How to Tell Cavitation From Air, Bearings, and Recirculation
Pump noise can signal serious hydraulic or mechanical problems. This article explains how to differentiate cavitation, air entrainment, bearing vibration, and recirculation by listening,…
Pump Bearing Lubrication: Grease vs Oil and How Often to Relubricate
Choosing between grease and oil for pump bearing lubrication determines efficiency, reliability, and maintenance cost. This article explains the governing formulas, compares typical consumption…
Why Pumps Overheat and How to Prevent Thermal Damage
Pump overheating arises from inefficiencies that convert electrical power into unwanted heat. This article explains the governing heat‑balance equation, shows how to calculate temperature…
Mechanical Seal Failure: Root Causes and How to Diagnose Them
Mechanical seals prevent fluid leakage in pumps, but they can fail due to pressure, temperature, speed, or lubrication issues. This article outlines the principal…
How to Calculate Total Dynamic Head (TDH) Step by Step
Total Dynamic Head (TDH) quantifies the energy a pump must add to a fluid to overcome elevation, friction, pressure, and velocity effects. This article…
System Curves Explained: How to Find the Duty Point
{ “title”: “System Curves Explained: How to Find the Duty Point”, “slug”: “system-curves-explained-how-to-find-the-duty-point”, “excerpt”: “Understanding system curves and locating the duty point is essential…
Pump and Motor Shaft Alignment: Methods, Tolerances, and Common Errors
Proper shaft alignment between a pump and its driver motor is critical for reliability, efficiency, and vibration control. This article reviews alignment concepts, calculation…
Suction Lift vs Flooded Suction: Designing the Suction Side Correctly
Understanding the difference between suction lift and flooded suction is essential for reliable pump operation. This guide explains the governing NPSHA equation, design methodology,…
Pump Storage and Long-Term Layup: Protecting Idle Equipment
Long‑term layup safeguards pumps that are taken out of service, preventing corrosion, seal damage, and bearing wear. This reference outlines best‑practice storage conditions, protective…