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How coatings are redefining pump protection
The elements have inspired awe since the beginning of mankind – but also frustration. Often, the effect of earth, water, air and fire conspire against our best efforts to improve our lives. For engineers, this can mean an ongoing battle to protect infrastructure in aggressive environments.
The corrosive effect of elemental damage is caused by chemistry. Fortunately, chemistry is also the answer, thanks to the application of tailored coatings that can fight the battle effectively for a very long time.
Consider the use of a high-lift water pump, operating consistently outdoors to move water from its source to supply drinking water to thousands of people. Every week, every month, every year, the pump is under attack from any debris shaken up by the turbulence it creates – but also from the water itself, nature’s most corrosive element.
The impact of repairing a pump is significant, both in terms of cost and inconvenience, in manpower and downtime. Remarkably, though, the application of a coating can keep the pump free from these dangers and protect from long-term wear. We’ve found that, by applying a coating of LOCTITE PC 7255 during routine maintenance, a pump will likely fail mechanically before the coating fades.
Developed to withstand water
To protect pumps and associated pipelines in aggressive environments, we recommend LOCTITE PC 7255. This is a low-friction, sprayable, easy-to-use, ceramic-filled epoxy that offers protection against turbulence, chemical attack, abrasion and corrosion.
Crucially, it is WRAS-compliant, meaning it can be used for applications involving drinking water. This is obviously a key consideration for the water industry, who benefit from long-term assurance that the pump is delivering water with no metal leaching or other contamination.
The high-gloss, low-friction coating can be spray-applied for fast and easy application to complex geometries. Better still, it can restore or increase pump efficiency – because the pump’s metal surface is rough and uneven, the coating can add a layer of smoothness that helps the motor run more efficiently for years to come.
ERIKS and LOCTITE: A Formidable Bond
ERIKS is a key partner in the Henkel Certified applicator programme with 10 specialist service centres around the UK offering national coverage for LOCTITE coatings. We have worked with ERIKS for many years and to date have trained more than 50 ERIKS personnel in best practice.
We also provide consultancy services, ranging from analysing the project to evaluate the amount of coating needed, to estimating potential pump efficiency savings.
For the water pump, the process involves cleaning the surfaces before applying two layers of LOCTITE PC 7255. This is done with a spray gun, a quicker and more efficient method of application, especially for the interior pipework.
A happy partner
Sean Milnes, Engineering Manager, at ERIKS, Chesterfield can attest to the value that LOCTITE delivers for customers working in aggressive environments.
“We’ve seen first-hand the relentless challenges posed by elemental forces like water. That’s why LOCTITE PC 7255 is such a godsend as a long-term solution to protect against damage.
“What’s remarkable is how easy it is to apply – sprayable, low-friction, and WRAS-compliant, making it ideal for drinking water applications. In many cases, the pump itself will fail mechanically before the coating shows signs of wear. That’s the kind of performance our customers rely on.
“ERIKS is proud to be a Henkel Certified Applicator, and we look forward to continuing this important partnership.”
For more information, contact your local ERIKS Service Centre, who will be happy to discuss your options.
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