#TechnicianTuesday: Cracked Casing, Tight Deadlines, and No Backup: How RSI Delivered a Like-New Pump

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This #TechnicianTuesday, we’re proud to highlight the skill and dedication of the Renewal Service Industrial (RSI) team, who recently tackled an urgent pump repair project with precision and efficiency.

The Challenge:

RSI faced an urgent challenge when a customer brought in a Paco KT-12206 pump for repair. Initially a standard repair job, it quickly turned into an emergency when the customer’s backup unit failed. This placed immense pressure on the RSI team to deliver a fully restored pump in a limited timeframe. Salesman Steve Rummans personally picked up the unit, bringing it to RSI for immediate evaluation and repair.

Our Solution:

The RSI team swiftly devised a comprehensive plan to restore the Paco KT-12206:

Step 1: Detailed Teardown & Inspection 

  • The unit was completely disassembled for a full evaluation. 
  • The inspection revealed the need for a new shaft, sleeves, bearings, case rings, mechanical seals, oil seals, along with gaskets, o-rings, and hardware.

Step 2: Component Replacement & Restoration 

  • Sourced all necessary parts cost-effectively to minimize expenses for the customer. 
  • Installed new shaft, sleeves, bearings, and seals to restore mechanical integrity.

 

Step 3: Casing & Impeller Rehabilitation 

  • The pump casing was sandblasted, revealing hairline fractures. 
  • The team identified and repaired these fractures after the unit initially failed a pressure test, ensuring it passed subsequent tests. 
  • Belzona 1111 was used to bring the casing back to spec, restoring its structural integrity. 
  • Belzona 1311 ceramic coating was applied to both the casing and impeller, providing enhanced resistance to future wear and extending the life of the components.

 

Step 4: Final Coating & Assembly 

  • Completed the restoration with a durable two-part epoxy paint, giving the unit a like-new appearance.
  • Conducted a thorough final assembly, ensuring all components were installed to precise specifications. 
  • The installation of the rotating assembly required precision to ensure the hub of the impeller did not rub on the case rings.

As an extra touch, the team took the time to paint the raised lettering on the pump red. This level of attention to detail impressed the customer, who said that none of their other vendors take the time with the details like painting the raised lettering red. They were also very impressed with the repair.

Safety Insights:

Joe Langston emphasized the importance of safety, stating, “With a unit of this size, proper care with the overhead crane is essential. Using properly rated chains and straps, and wearing all appropriate PPE, ensures that the job gets done safely and efficiently.”

Technical Challenges:

  • Sourcing parts quickly and affordably without compromising quality. 
  • Addressing and repairing hairline fractures in the casing. 
  • Making brand new case rings out of stock material because the customer rings were not usable. 
  • Meeting tight deadlines due to the customer’s emergency situation.

Expert Insights:

Joe Langston led the project with the support of Will Schaechter, Dillon Biddle, Steve Erichsen, Nate VanHoe, and Vince Payne. Their collective expertise ensured the project stayed on track. When the unit failed its initial pressure test, the team quickly diagnosed and resolved the issue, demonstrating their problem-solving skills and commitment to quality.

The workers were also proud of the fact that the timeline was met despite the unit’s rarity and the challenges presented.

Conclusion:

Thanks to the dedication and teamwork of RSI’s skilled professionals, the Paco KT-12206 was fully restored and returned to the customer, ready to perform like new. This project highlighted RSI’s ability to tackle urgent repairs with precision and efficiency, solidifying their reputation for dependable service.