Vintage season is the busiest time of year, so it is important to understand your pump and any problems that may occur.
There are many different types of food and beverage pumps available, therefore it can be difficult understanding which type is suitable for your winery. There are wine pumps that allow whole or destemmed grapes to be pumped, or pumps that are best suited for delicate handling of the finished product. Regardless of the stage of winemaking you are at, it is important to regularly maintain your pump and identify any possible problems, and here at Global Pumps we are committed to ensuring you complete this to achieve optimal results.
First things first, learn more about our wine pumps …
Stainless steel centrifugal wine pumps are perfect for transferring wine due to their construction of stainless steel, providing optimal sanitation. Open impeller designs offer minimal maintenance with a steady and consistent output.
Why not pair this pump with sanitary fittings and valves? Ensure integrity with these accessories. Global Pumps recommend that stainless steel 316 materials are used.
Lobe pumps are a type of positive displacement pump, specifically designed for food processing. Lobe pumps offer wineries the ability to handle different liquid viscosity. This type of wine pump is also ideal for those fragile solids, with its gentle pumping action maintaining the integrity of the product.
Pair this pump with remote start/stop pendants, making them even easier to control from distance!
This type of wine pump is capable of handling different liquid viscosities, as well as fragile solids. Helical rotor pumps offer smooth and even performance, reduced turbulence, shear rates and pulsation.
Self priming wine transfer pumps
Air operated diaphragm pumps (AOD)
AOD pumps offer wineries a leak-free pump solution, with variable flow and discharge pressures. They are a popular choice given the self-priming, dry-running capabilities.
Find out more about food grade wine transfer pumps.
Why not add-on a trolley? Move your pump with ease with this handy accessory.
Understanding your pump problem
We answered some of your common questions when it comes to pump maintenance.
Q: My pump is experiencing abnormal flow, what do I do?
A: There are a few reasons this is happening. The suction hose line may have collapsed, there may be a leaking gasket, plugged suction line or a damaged impeller/wear plate. It is important the discharge pressure and suction vacuum is measured and compared to the initial readings taken during installation.
Q: Why is my pump making a lot of noise?
A: Generally, this means the pump experiencing cavitation due to a blocked strainer, plugged, or collapsed lining, a too long suction hose or suction lift being too high. Please note that cavitation is not always extreme noise, it can be bearing failures. It’s important to identify whether the noise is mechanical or hydraulic, which can be done by running the pump dry.
Q: Why is my pump overheating?
A: This is associated with restricted liquid flow in, or out of the pump. Overheating may also be caused by improper clearance which in turn slows re-priming. Wait until the pump has cooled to check components to identify the issue.
Q: Why is my pump leaking air?
A: If the pump is leaking air, use a vacuum gauge to test the components. It is important these components are airtight.
To learn more, check out our top pump problems checklist.
Is your pump problem not listed? Or you are not exactly sure what is going on with your pumping system, give Global Pumps a call. We are committed to ensuring your vintage season runs smoothly and are happy to assist.
