Selecting the right pump can be challenging, with so many factors to consider. This is especially true in the food manufacturing industry. You need to find a pump that meets your performance and production requirements—in addition to very specific hygienic standards.
When it comes to selecting a food-grade pump, avoid costly mistakes. Here are some of the most common mistakes, according to DXP Pacific pump experts:
- Misunderstanding the Application
Selecting the best hygienic pump for a food manufacturing application starts with understanding the application itself. How will the pump be used? Which features must it include? What performance specs should it meet? Unfortunately, some operators are too focused on the equipment cost or certain performance capabilities. You need to fully define your pumping requirements and select the right type of pump. Many different types of pumps are used in food manufacturing. Don’t choose the wrong one for the application at hand.
- Selecting the Wrong Hygiene Grade
Once you are confident you have the correct type of pump for your food processing application, you can focus more specifically on the hygienic qualities. Food-grade pumps are manufactured with different hygienic standards. Choosing a grade that is higher than you actually need could lead to excess costs and more complicated maintenance requirements. Selecting a grade that is too low could lead to food contamination and a variety of other problems. Know the hygiene grade required for your application, and find a pump that falls within the proper rating range.
- Choosing the Wrong Motor
The motor is equally important to selecting the proper pump and hygiene grade based on your food manufacturing application. Explosion-proof motors may be critical for some food applications—such as those handling ethanol products. You also need to consider power requirements, variable frequency drive (VFD) capabilities, size, and other factors when finding the ideal motor for your food manufacturing pump system.
- Improper Maintenance Plan
One major factor to consider when selecting and operating a hygienic food-grade pump is maintenance. It must be cleaned properly and maintained correctly to provide the performance you require while continuing to meet your specific hygienic standards. Make sure you use the appropriate cleaning agents and perform the necessary maintenance tasks. Consider the maintenance requirements when selecting your pump, and build a foolproof maintenance plan. Take every precaution necessary to ensure the best performance and hygienic results. You also want to stock spare parts so they are readily available when replacements are needed.
Your pump is a long-term investment in your food manufacturing operation. Take your time to make the best equipment decisions. Prioritize your needs based on your specific application and hygienic requirements. Budget should also be a consideration, but it shouldn’t lead to an improper selection.
It is also useful to talk with pump experts. Speak with the manufacturers or consult with a reputable distributor who can assist with accurate pump selection decisions. This is what we do every day at DXP Pacific. We work with the world’s leading pump manufacturers, and our team is knowledgeable about several types of pumps. Let us be your guide when it comes to pump selection and configuration for your food manufacturing applications. Contact us today to learn more.