Articles
Low Air Flow Freezes Pumps!
The primary reason for molten metal pump freezing is "slow starts." A slow-start is defined as slowly increasing the motor RPM. When a transfer pump is slow-started, the hot metal flows gradually into a cooler riser. As the metal temperature decreases, it solidifies or freezes inside the riser. This slow-start condition typically results in permanent damage and the need to rebuild the pump or at the very least replace the riser.
Pump Installation Planning Guidelines – Part 2 – Pump Startup Scheduling
In this article, we will examine the fine detail of the pump startup scheduling and expectations.
In this article, we’ll cover pump startup scheduling. We’ll cover prerequisites before getting started, special considerations, and how to plan for contingencies when things don’t go as planned.
Air Supply Considerations for an Air Motor on a Molten Metal Pump
This article reviews important considerations for using an air motor with a molten metal pump. We will review the benefits of an air-powered motor, what an ideal setup looks like, and factors to consider in your setup.
3-Phase Motor Running Backwards?
This post is one of the most frequently viewed on our website. This can be attributed to the high frequency of worn and damaged wiring. With proper electrical maintenance and pump startup procedures, this problem can be 100% eliminated.
Motors must be wired correctly to ensure proper pump operation. Incorrect wiring may cause the pump to turn backwards, resulting in several negative outcomes.
Re-use of a Graphite Pump - Not a Warped Idea!
Unlike stainless steel pumps, graphite pumps can be quickly and easily reintroduced into the molten metal bath, and the pump will operate with the same efficiency as when removed from the melt. This capability is because graphite retains its structural and dimensional integrity while stainless steel becomes flexible and deforms at molten metal operating temperatures. Once removed from the metal bath, especially an aluminum bath, the stainless steel pump must be discarded due to excessive deformation. Molten metal pump base showing posts, shaft, shaft bearing, and base all made of graphite treated with a proprietary oxidation inhibitor process not available elsewhere.
NEVER RUN A PUMP DRY!
The molten metal IS the lubrication for the impeller and base-volute. Running the pump dry will result in damage.
Pre-Storage Pump Inspection - Maintenance Pumps
Before putting a pump away for storage, it must be inspected. This article covers the step-by-step process to take before stowing a pump.
Preparing the Pump for Storage - Operational Assessment and Removal from Metal
About 10% of pumps are used exclusively for scheduled furnace maintenance. Between usages, these pumps need to be properly stored and maintained.
Maintenance Pumps and Typical Use Cases
About 10% of molten metal pumps are used exclusively for maintenance applications. It is not uncommon to use a maintenance pump once every year to eighteen months. This article covers the typical ways that maintenance pumps are used.
SLOW STARTS FREEZE RISERS
This article reviews the three basic cases for energizing a pump, based on pump type.
Pump Installation - Lowering the Pump into the Molten Metal
This article reviews the standard procedure for introducing a pump into a molten metal bath.
Graphite Properties and Application in Molten Metal Pumps
Graphite is the refractory material of choice for many non-ferrous molten metal pump applications. This article provides a list of graphite characteristics that are important in pump applications.
Preheating Stations
While not an absolute requirement, most molten metal pump operators benefit from utilizing a preheat station. These benefits include less downtime between pump changes, reduced risk of damage to the pump, decreased preheat time, and improved safety.
Hoist Considerations
Before you use that shiny new electric hoist, consider this. Hoists that are not equipped with variable speed controls can be hazardous to your health and the health of your molten metal pump.