Have you ever received a pump before it was ready to be installed on a job? Have you ever purchased a new pump to serve as a “plug and play” back-up for a critical application? Or, have you ever replaced a pump and had the old one repaired to have an extra on-hand? If so, you may find the below beneficial.
Below are some general suggestions from Taco Comfort Solutions for long term storage of a pump. The applicability of all, or some of these suggestions depend on several factors such as type of equipment, length of storage, and condition of the environment in which they are stored in.
- Drain the casing completely and dry it thoroughly, including its bearing housing and stuffing box or seal chamber. Apply a coat of soluble rust preventive solution both internally and externally.
- Cover all openings. Flanged openings (such as suction and discharge) should be covered with blind flanges with elastomer gasket. Threaded openings should be covered with steel plugs or caps.
- Remove the shaft coupling; it may cause the shaft to develop a permanent sag during prolonged storage.
- Wrap the exposed shaft and key with corrosion inhibitor waterproof paper or waxed cloth.
- Protect the bearing housing from moisture by placing bags of vapor phase inhibitor crystals around the housing.
- Cover the equipment with industrial strength placstic, preferably transparent to allow its visual inspection, including its nameplate, without uncovering the unit.
- Store the unit in its normal operating position in a dry, temperature controlled environment.
- Inspect the unit periodicaly and turn the shaft a few times plus ¼ turn at least once a week. Turning the shaft prevents pitting of finished surfaces. The extra ¼ turn is to displace the shaft from developing a permanent bow during prolonged storage.
The above tips will help your pump is ready for duty when called upon.
Image: Taco Comfort Solutions 1600 Series pump