Walchem® Metering Pump Maintenance Guide
Prevent Costly Pump Repairs With This Maintenance Schedule & Guide
While Walchem metering pumps are known for advanced electronics, impressive durability and superior mechanical design, Walchem pumps still require regular maintenance and inspection to ensure your pump is performing optimally. Maverick Pumps has the pump product selection and expertise to not only inform your pump maintenance schedule, but supply you with the high quality OEM parts needed to repair your pump with minimal downtimes.Understanding the application requirements and limitations of your pump model can prevent common issues and improve the longevity of your pump.
Maverick’s experienced staff is ready to help. Learn more about metering pump maintenance, suggested maintenance schedule and best practices below or Contact Us today and let us find a solution to your Walchem metering pump maintenance processes.
Prevent Damage from Environmental and Operating Conditions
Metering pumps are made for continuous operation but are still susceptible to breakdown from being overworked. Issues include not only overworking the motor but causing tubing leaks and ruptures by operating your pump at incompatible pressure and flow rates. Even the pump housing is susceptible to damage if not cared for properly.Metering Pump Best Practices Prior to Operation
In addition to performing routine inspection on your pump and pump components, it is important to follow some general pump best practices prior to beginning pump operations. It is imperative to mount your pump near an electrical outlet in an area that is clean, dry, and away from direct sunlight. This includes selecting an operating location that protects your pump from vibration, environmental elements and extreme heat/cold.Metering Pump Operating Guidelines
Several factors should be taken into consideration when selecting and operating a metering pump. It is important to only pump substances that your pump is designed to transfer.- Chemical Compatibility: Only pump substances that are chemically compatible with your pump material.
- Voltage Compatibility: Operate your metering pump within the rated voltage to prevent motor burnout and fire hazards.
- Operating Pressure: Never run your metering pump at a higher pressure than the tubing can handle.
- Temperature Resistance: Only install pumps in areas that fall within the manufacturer’s recommended temperature and humidity range.
- Tubing Requirements: Choose tubing that is compatible with your pumping substance and pressure requirements.
Chemical Metering Pump Handbooks & Suggested Maintenance Practices
Your manual has model-specific details for chemical metering pump maintenance, but we will cover some of the basics below. Also, make sure you use genuine Walchem® replacement parts for optimal performance and to protect the 2-year manufacturer’s warranty.Walchem® metering pumps come in several models, each with varying maximum discharge capacities. These capacities are rated with clean water, so remember to make adjustments if your application involves slurries or high viscosity chemicals.
Step 1: Consult Your Pump Manual
Always reference your manual before performing any repairs or buying replacement parts. Your manual is intended as a how-to metering pump guide, and has important information like part numbers, operating guidelines and useful diagrams. You’ll also find instructions for setup, installation, operation, and disassembly. Parts that might require replacement during routing pump maintenance include:
- Diaphragm
- Valve Seats
- Valve Balls
- Gaskets
- Tubing
- Valve Seals
Step 2: Establish a Maintenance Schedule
Performing regular maintenance is critical due to the high performance demands of chemical metering pumps. This includes visually inspecting the pump housing and all internal components for signs of wear. Remember, safety first! Always disconnect the electrical supply before opening the housing or removing any components.- Every Day: Flush your metering pump system after the last run of the day. This helps clean out residue and prevent components from being exposed to corrosive chemicals or fluids for long periods of time.
- Every Week: Visual inspections should be performed weekly at a minimum.
- Every 6 Months: Check and clean valves for calcification. Valves should also be inspected and replaced if worn or damaged.
- Once a Year: Check the diaphragm for signs of excessive wear.
Metering Pump Commonly Replaced Parts
Check Diaphragms, Valves, and Mechanical Parts: The diaphragm is a critical metering pump component. Any signs of wear should trigger immediate replacement to prevent pump failure.Inspect Tubing and Connections: Check your tubing regularly for cracks, splits, and loose connections, both of which can cause wasteful and potentially dangerous chemical leaks. Always make sure the tubing you use is chemically compatible with your metering application. Some operations might also require UV-resistant tubing.
Calibrate Your Pump: Regularly calibrating your pump is essential to maintain accurate, repeatable dosing.
Keep pump downtime at a minimum by stocking a few spare part kits in your facility. That way, you’re ready to replace components as needed and don’t have to worry about waiting for parts to arrive.
