ABSTRACT
The vulnerability of operating process pumps in parallel is always appreciated by pump purchasers, although API-610 clearly advises against parallel operation for pumps with relatively flat performance curves. Simple benefit-to-cost or life cycle analyses will easily demonstrate that the pursuit of remedial action greatly benefits users. If they were, the Wright Brothers would have worked on repeat pump and bicycle repairs instead of developing a powered flying machine. Although oil ring lubrication is widely used, it is relatively maintenance-intensive and ranks last from the author's experience and risk reduction perspective. With spray lubrication, much needed oil application innovation would benefit the drive end and thousands of repeat failures of pumps would no longer occur. Organizations intent on systematically reducing repeat pump failures may wish to pay close attention to this text; it will certainly enable them to move ahead of organizations that remain complacent or indifferent.
