FloJet Question

[Rudy]

I replaced an ARO diaphragm pump with a FloJet G57 to pump the alkaline presoak in my touchless automatic. We need about 4 GPM, and the ARO is overkill. Since the FloJet can pump about 5 GPM....it was recommended to me as an effective, cost saving alternative.

I had a Kalrez on the shelf...so I plumbed it in. It worked like a champ...until today. It lasted about a week and a half. I had a spare Viton FloJet on the shelf...so I swapped it out....and I'm back running.

I've never had one apart...on the recommendation of what I've read on this forum. I wouldn't think that a new Kalrez FloJet would fail so quickly.

What could be wrong?

It appears to pump at about half capacity.....or at least a reduced capacity. With everything the same....it sounds much slower than when I first installed it. Instead of PUMP...PUMP...PUMP...PUMP.......It sounds like PUMP..............PUMP...............PUMP.............

What could be going on?

I'm running dry air at 80psi.

 

[MEP001]

It sounds like a mechanical issue, and it should be under warranty unless you had it sitting on the shelf for a long time.

When I've had them fail, it's usually a ruptured diaphragm. When that happens, some air is flowing along with the liquid. That can also cause the pump to behave like you describe.

 

[Washmee]

How clean is the air supply that runs the pump? Flo- jets need clean dry air to operate or they will exhibit the symptoms you just described.

 

[Eric H]

Before you disassemble the pump, take the exhaust filter off and give it a try. I have had problems with the filter clogging up and restricting the air flow thru the pump causing it to slow down.

 

[Earl Weiss]

FWIW I think you are running the air pressure way to high. As a rule of thumb I figure 10 psi = 1GPM on the flow jet although it's very unscientific because there are so many variables.

I know they are rated to 100psi but I rarely run any over 60 and usualy much less. I think my Tunnel pre soak is at about 40 PSI.

On an initial install if lines are open it will naturaly pump faster. Look at any inlet foot valve for restrictions as well.

 

[cwguy.com]

When you say "dry air at 80psi" does that mean for the pump? If you provide air for the lp function what psi is that?

I went down the same path as you.... But with sandpiper pumps then flojet now procon. I wish someone told me to switch to procon first. I really love procon pumps.... Yes they are more expensive then flojet and you do need a controller.

The best feature I think is if your air compressor dies.... You still have a lp chemical coming out.

 

[Randy]

When you say "dry air at 80psi" does that mean for the pump? If you provide air for the lp function what psi is that?

I went down the same path as you.... But with sandpiper pumps then flojet now procon. I wish someone told me to switch to procon first. I really love procon pumps.... Yes they are more expensive then flojet and you do need a controller.

The best feature I think is if your air compressor dies.... You still have a lp chemical coming out.

"Procon Pump" I've been telling you guys that for years. We've got one Flo-jet pump left on the Foam brush.

 

[cwguy.com]

"Procon Pump" I've been telling you guys that for years. We've got one Flo-jet pump left on the Foam brush.

Actually foam brush is the best lp function to use a flojet on. All the rest seem to kill the pump.... You know it is probably your fault Randy it took me so long to switch to procon? LOL

Also the main reason I think air flojets are bad are because it constantly has pressure on it. I know mep1 has a magic hook up method but before that I always had problems.

 

[MEP001]

I don't have any "magic hook up method." I dead-head them to the solenoids. They usually last around five years like that.

 

[cwguy.com]

This is what I was talking about.
http://cwguy.com/?p=2384

 

[Rudy]

I used to "dead head them to the solenoids".....that is....until a solenoid failed....and emptied a 55 gallon barrel of soap. $$$$$$$

NO MORE!....

Now, everything at my wash has a solenoid on the air input to every pump. Now, if something on the output "leaks" for ANY reason (solenoid, busted hose,.....aliens....).....No pumping.

Nuff said.

 

[cwguy.com]

Nuff said.... That is exactly why I hate them and posted that picture!

How about using motor pumps? Also maybe introducing air every time needed causes a problem?

 

[Randy]

I used to "dead head them to the solenoids".....that is....until a solenoid failed....and emptied a 55 gallon barrel of soap. $$$$$$$

NO MORE!....

Now, everything at my wash has a solenoid on the air input to every pump. Now, if something on the output "leaks" for ANY reason (solenoid, busted hose,.....aliens....).....No pumping.

Nuff said.

Rudy How do you control the solenoid valves?

 

[MEP001]

I used to "dead head them to the solenoids".....that is....until a solenoid failed....and emptied a 55 gallon barrel of soap. $$$$$$$

NO MORE!....

Now, everything at my wash has a solenoid on the air input to every pump. Now, if something on the output "leaks" for ANY reason (solenoid, busted hose,.....aliens....).....No pumping.

Nuff said.

I figured I'd eventually have that happen and add a solenoid for the air, but so far the worst I've gotten is a slow drip from the foam brush, so slow that it takes five minutes for the pump to cycle.

 

[washnvac]

Rudy How do you control the solenoid valves?

I use an MX10 multiplexed control by IDX. When product solenoid is triggered, air solenoid to flojet turns on. When done product, air solenoid off. I also put in a slow bleed ball valve, so all pressure is relieved in about 30-45 seconds after air solenoid goes off. This set up has solved a lot of issues.

 

[Rudy]

For multiple bay setups (like foam brush), I use a 24V AC PLC that has sufficient inputs. The output controls the air to the pump.

 

[cwguy.com]

Okay.... I guess I will ask the question....

What is the reason for all the effort to use an air flojet pump? The air flojet with a controller, solenoid and engineering time.... all that cost makes the flojet pump an expensive setup. An electrical pump might cost double but it eliminates problems? So why is the air pump better?

I am interested in the positive qualities of air flojets.... Plus I believe the flojets use to be cheaper.... Back in the day.

 

[MEP001]

I can change out a FloJet in about 30 seconds. Comes in handy when something stops pumping while I'm there, I just ask the customer to hang on and I can swap it out.

I also have a backup compressor set to come on 5 PSI below the main one, so loss of air pressure is the least of my concerns.

A FloJet costs a little more than half of a Procon pump and motor.

I do like not having more 110V running around the stands.

 

[washnvac]

Okay.... I guess I will ask the question....

What is the reason for all the effort to use an air flojet pump?

Same as MEP. All my guys can change those out in a minute. With the air solenoid set up, they are generally very reliable. Once your set up is complete, that is a one time thing. That costs is still less than a procon pump/motor and controller.

 

[2Biz]

A cheaper and just as effective way of controlling the air solenoid would be to use a series of relays with outputs all connected to the solenoid. I've found Ebay to be a very good source for relays and bases....