Protecting Your Pumps: Short & Long-Term Storage

Preparing Your Pumps for Storage

Properly preparing your pump assets for short and/or long-term storage is key to extending their lifespan. Whether your storing pumping equipment for weeks or months, companies need to take appropriate measures to avoid costly problems in the long run.

Our team of pump specialists recommend the following these steps to ensure your pumps survive extended storage and inactivity.

  1. Clean and flush the fluid end with a rust preventative.
  2. Plug all discharge and suction openings.
  3. Drain oil from the power end through the bottom drains.
  4. Open the rear cover of your power end and coat the internal components with an oil-based vapor phase corrosion inhibitor (VpCI) / volatile corrosion inhibitors (VCI). Before applying the coating, make sure the rust preventative will not clog any oil passages.
  5. Coat the power end gears and pinion with an oil-based vapor phase corrosion inhibitor (VpCI) / volatile corrosion inhibitors (VCI).
  6. Remove the breather and plug the opening.
  7. Coat the pinion input shaft and all exposed bare metal with a heavy rust preventative.
  8. Plug drain holes at the bottom of the pump frame.
  9. Plug the lube inlets.
  10. Store the pump inside a dry place until such time at which it is ready to be put into service.

         Note: If a dry environment cannot be guaranteed, place several large desiccant bags in the power end prior to storing.

Pinion Rotation and Rust Preventative Recommended Every 4-6 Weeks

  • We advise you to rotate the pinion once every 4 to 6 weeks. Rotating the pinion less than a half of turn to avoid permanent deformation on the roller bearings.
  • We also recommend you reapply rust preventative on pony rods and plungers to cover the new exposed surfaces.

 

Protecting your equipment during extended downtime is a smart investment for both your equipment and overall future operations.

Need more information? Contact our team of technical experts for additional guidance and insight for about proper equipment maintenance.

 

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