Appendix 1 - Impeller Pump Inspection, Common Problems and Operation
1
A self-priming vacuum is created as the
flexible impeller vanes straighten upon
leaving the cam, drawing liquid into the pump.
2
The rotating impeller carries liquid from
the inlet to the outlet port.
As a consequence of their design, flexible
impeller pumps can pass fairly large solids.
3
When the flexible impeller vanes regain
contact with the cam, they bend and the
liquid is discharged from the pump in a
uniform flow.
Liquids can be pumped in the opposite direc-
tion by reversing the rotation of the pump.
Operation: How an Impeller Pump Works
Shurflo recommends replacing your impeller annually. Proper storage of the impellers during a prolonged lay-up can help
maintain the life of the impeller.
Remove the impeller from the housing and store it in a cool, dark place. This will avoid the following:
• Copper bonding of the impeller to the housing
• Vanes “setting” into position as stored in the housing
• Ultraviolet deterioration
Recommended inspection to be performed at any service interval:
Impeller . . . . . Inspect for cracks or tears. Also, inspect for excessive abrasion of vane ends.
Replace annually or if any of the conditions exist (see picture).
Wear Plate . . . . Inspect for wear, flatness, and pin for fatigue. Replace at minor
and major pump rebuild or if wear is evident to maintain
pump flow and suction performance.
Cam . . . . . . . . . Replace at major pump rebuild or if pitting/wear is evident.
Cover . . . . . . . . Replace at major pump rebuild or if wear exists to maintain
pump flow and suction performance.
Mechanical Seal
Replace at minor and major pump rebuild or if leaking.
Lip Seal . . . . . . Replace at minor and major pump rebuild or if leaking.
Shaft . . . . . . . . . Inspect for wear in area of lip seal and rubber impeller. Grooving of
lip seal area or heavy fretting of the impeller end shaft will require shaft replacement.
Bearing . . . . . . Inspect for loss of grease, corrosion or rough rotation. Replace at major pump rebuild
or if in doubt.
Three tips to help you install your new Shurflo impeller:
• Use a non-petroleum-based lubricant (silicone or soapy water) to help slide the impeller into the housing.
• Install the impeller with a twisting motion onto the shaft. Never force an impeller onto the shaft.
• Impeller must be able to move freely on the shaft to properly prime and function.
(Use a small amount of non-petroleum-based lubricant to help hold the o-ring or gasket when replacing the cover.)
Ripped
Vane
Bead Worn
To A Flat
Pitting
Cavitation
Bowed (set)
Tear
SHURflo Bronze Pedestal Self-Priming
Flexible Impeller Pumps
14
Models R30GN, R50GN and R102N
SHURflo Operating Instructions, Performance,
Specifications and Parts Manual
Form L-4095 (12/09)