Case Study: Prevent Costly Pump Damage By Fitting a Strainer and Check Valve Correctly
Tue, Jun 6, 2023
Without the right check valves and strainers installed correctly on your refuelling pump, you could risk your equipment getting damaged, meaning costly repairs and downtime.
In this article we explore why fitting and using a strainer on a suction hose, and suction filtration is crucial for the longevity and efficient operation of your fuel transfer pumps, using 2 real-life customer examples.
Filtering Out Debris
The main purpose of a check valve and strainer is to filter out debris and unwanted particles from entering the pump. By fitting a strainer on the suction hose, you create a barrier that prevents large solid objects, such as rocks, sticks, or leaves, from entering the pump. These foreign objects can clog the machinery, obstruct the flow, and cause significant damage to the pump, leading to needed repairs or even pump failure.
Case Study 1
A customer contacted us, as one of their agricultural clients had a relatively new Piusi BP3000 that had stopped working. When they returned it for our technical team to diagnose the fault, we found that a plastic glove had got sucked up into the diesel pump, causing the rotor to jam. As the pump was left on, it burnt the windings and brushes.
The pictures here show why it is so important to fit a strainer onto the suction hose of a pump to prevent large debris entering the pump and causing expensive damages and work downtime. This farmer now can’t refuel his tractor equipment until a new pump is purchased, as the damaged BP3000 can’t be repaired.
Enhancing Pump Efficiency
When debris enters the diesel transfer pump, it not only poses a risk of damage but also hampers the pump's efficiency. A clogged impeller or suction line can restrict flow, reducing the pump's performance. This can result in decreased pressure and inefficient operation. By incorporating a check valve and strainer, you ensure a continuous flow, allowing the refuelling pump to operate at its optimal capacity, delivering maximum performance and efficiency.
Extending Pump Lifespan
Fuel transfer pumps are an essential investment, and protecting their lifespan is crucial for avoiding expensive replacements. By utilising a strainer and check valve, you can significantly extend the life of your pump. The strainer acts as a first line of defence, preventing abrasive particles from entering the pump and causing wear and tear on internal components. Regularly cleaning the strainer also prevents the accumulation of sediment, which can corrode the pump over time. By reducing the risk of damage and maintaining clean operation, a strainer helps prolong the lifespan of the diesel pump, saving you money in the long run.
Case Study 2
This BP3000 fuel pump was brought to us for repairs after the pump sucked up a crisp packet which damaged the pump rotor. The reason for the pump damage was that the fuel transfer pump was installed without suction filtration. The use of a filtration strainer or suction filter is always highly recommended by our technical team, especially when it comes to portable refuelling pumps, because it prevents debris and metals from being sucked into the rotor.
Even if you think your fuel tank may look clean, lots of debris and nasties can be lurking at the bottom of the tank, and a prime example of this is the crisp packet which damaged this pump shown in the photo. Installing suction filtration is a cost-effective solution that can save you lots of hassle, and prolong the life of your pump, so it might be time to consider installing a filtration strainer and check valve to your pump installation.
Fitting and using a strainer on a suction hose is a simple yet effective measure to prevent costly damage to refuelling pumps. Additional recommended protection for your pump would be to add proper water and particle filters, that prevent smaller debris from entering the vehicle that is being refuelled, to ensure both large and small debris is filtered out.
By filtering out debris, enhancing pump efficiency, and extending the pump's lifespan, a strainer acts as an invaluable safeguard. Check valves are easily removed and cleaned to stop them from blocking when they gather lots of dirt.
Investing in a strainer and check valve today can save you from expensive repairs and ensure the smooth and uninterrupted operation of your pump tomorrow.
Save time and money with the right check valve and strainer
Fitting a strainer and check valve correctly can prevent costly pump damage and downtime for your business.
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