RCM for Centrifugal Pumps

We assemble a cross-functional team including operations, maintenance, and reliability personnel to conduct the RCM analysis. Starting with the pump's operating context, we define primary and secondary functions with performance standards (flow rate, discharge pressure, containment). For each function, we identify functional failures and then analyze individual failure modes — seal face wear, bearing inner race spalling, impeller vane erosion, coupling element degradation, baseplate cracking — documenting failure effects and consequences. Each failure mode is evaluated through the SAE JA1011 decision logic: is the failure evident or hidden? What is the consequence category (safety, environmental, operational, non-operational)? We then select the appropriate task type — vibration monitoring for bearing degradation, seal flush pressure monitoring for seal system fouling, performance monitoring for impeller wear, or failure-finding tasks for standby pump protective devices. Task intervals are set based on P-F interval data. The RCM program is documented as a living analysis that is updated when new failure data emerges or operating context changes.