So, what’s the next step?

It is important to know the equipment, the process, and the tools with which you are working. Identify the limits and the conditions around you. Have manuals and training materials available for reference. Establish procedures that are consistent and repeatable. Talk with co-workers, and share tips and tricks for maintenance. Use gauges and meters on the pumps and piping to compare to the specified or target values, as well as comparative information.

One of the hardest parts for most of us as engineers, mechanics, and all-around tinkerers is to keep up with maintenance, and then also think we can fix it if it does break. Be prepared to make the tough call and evaluate the repair versus replace situation on equipment. At a certain point, the equipment will start to increase in cost beyond what it becomes worth to use.

So, to make sure that we are not stuck without the battery, we need to look and know the equipment we use, make sure it is right for us, and then steadily maintain it. Kurt Vonnegut said, “Another flaw of the human character is that everybody wants to build, and nobody wants to do maintenance.” But in real life, if we don’t do the maintenance, we can’t build. After all, if our battery is dead, the car won’t go.

10 Keys to Pump Maintenance

1. Know the application.

2. Pick the right equipment.

3. Daily inspection and maintenance — look and listen to what is happening.

4. Watch abrasive and corrosive factors.

5. Check fluids and leaks.

6. Maintain wear parts.

7. Lubricate.

8. Perform proper weekly checks on engines and drives.

9. Watch for abuse or misuse.

0. Monitor performance.

Thomas Aldridge is a sales engineer with Griffin Pump & Equipment Inc.