What is a common cause of premature wear of a pump sleeve?

Premature wear of a pump sleeve often results from overtightening of the packing gland. When the packing gland is excessively tightened, it can create too much pressure on the sleeve, leading to increased friction and heat. This elevated friction can wear down the sleeve material more quickly than normal operating conditions would allow.

Additionally, excessive pressure from the packing gland can cause deformation or damage to the sleeve itself, further contributing to faster wear rates. Proper adjustment of the packing gland is crucial; it needs to be tight enough to prevent leaks but not so tight that it causes undue stress on the components involved. Ensuring the right balance helps maintain optimal performance and longevity of the pump sleeve.

While insufficient lubrication, under-tightening, and operating at low temperatures can contribute to various issues in pump operation, they are not as directly linked to the specific mechanism of wear associated with overtightening of the packing gland.