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Sterling SIHI

LEM / LEMR / LEMA / LEMB

Sterling SIHI LEM / LEMR / LEMA / LEMB — Liquid ring vacuum pump for marine condensate, drainage, and vacuum applications.

Components & Design

Component data being added…

Technical Data

Type Liquid ring displacement vacuum pump (single-stage)
Speed Range Up to 1,200 rpm (LEMA/LEMB) or standard rpm (LEMR)
Pumping Speed 3-51 m³/h (LEMB), 4-50 m³/h (LEMA), up to 12,000 m³/h larger models
Pressure Range 33 to 1,013 mbar (low vacuum)
Design Uncomplicated robust construction, threaded or flange connections

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Common failures & inspection points

Mechanical seal leakage or degradation

Monitor seal flush flow rate and discharge temperature daily on critical pumps. Inspect visible signs of leakage around seal area. Replace seals at manufacturer-recommended intervals (typically 2,000-5,000 operating hours depending on application). Verify mechanical seal material compatibility with pumped liquid.

Coupling misalignment causing vibration and bearing wear

Measure coupling alignment using dial indicators or laser alignment tools to maintain within 0.1 mil/inch angular tolerance and 0.002 inch per inch axial tolerance. Check for parallel, angular, and axial misalignment. Verify alignment after any mechanical work or maintenance. Re-check monthly during operation.

Bearing failure due to misalignment, inadequate lubrication, or wear

Inspect bearing oil for water content and discoloration. Feel all bearing housings for excessive temperature (baseline + 10°C or more indicates problems). Check oil rings and filling ports. Verify lubrication grade matches OEM specification. Establish baseline vibration readings (horizontal, vertical, axial) at bearing locations; any increase >25% signals developing bearing issues.

Cavitation and impeller damage from low NPSH or suction-side restrictions

Verify positive suction head is sufficient (minimum recommended 0.5-1.5 m depending on pump model). Check suction strainers for blockage and clean as required. Monitor discharge pressure for fluctuations. Listen for cavitation noise (grinding/rattling sound). Inspect impeller for erosion/pitting during disassembly. Verify suction piping diameter and validate with NPSH calculations.

Vibration increase indicating imbalance, misalignment, or internal wear

Establish baseline vibration signature when pump is new or after overhaul. Measure at bearing housings in three axes (horizontal, vertical, axial). Monitor periodically using vibration analysis equipment. Alert threshold: any reading increase of 25% above baseline. Investigate root causes: imbalance, misalignment, bearing wear, cavitation, or loose mounting bolts. Recalibrate after repairs.

Type-general inspection and maintenance points for this equipment category — not model-specific.

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Equipment Model #149470 · ✓ still in production