Optimizing Pump Performance for Acid Solutions

An OEM specialising in solutions for hot-dip zinc galvanising was having problems with pump reliability due to unplanned downtime from component failure as a result of material incompatibility to corrosion. 

The existing failed pump was stripped and assessed to find that because of the high temperatures combined with the abrasive solids and acidic mixture of hydrochloric and sulphuric acid, the Hastelloy B metal parts were prematurely failing. However, the EPDM rubber components were still intact. Upon thorough evaluation, an alternative Pemo model was recommended with an EPDM-coated impeller and Titanium grade 2 core, with all other metal parts also upgraded to Titanium grade 2. This presented a unique manufacturing challenge, as Titanium requires a controlled environment for welding. In response, Pemo’s technical team developed a specialized process to produce the Titanium core with precision and efficiency.

The newly installed impeller performed exceptionally well, with the pump operating reliably for many months before requiring routine maintenance. The wear levels observed were in line with expectations, and the impeller remained functional for many years before ultimately reaching the end of its lifecycle due to mechanical stress rather than chemical degradation.

This case underscores the importance of a tailored approach when dealing with highly specialized applications. By working closely with the customer to analyse the process conditions in detail, Pemo demonstrated its commitment to delivering optimized solutions. The ability to rapidly adapt and provide a customized, high-performance alternative not only resolved the challenge but also reinforced Pemo’s reputation for technical excellence and customer-focused innovation.