What's wrong with oil drum pumps that don't pump liquid

Common Issues Why Oil Drum Pumps Fail to Pump Liquid

If your oil drum pump isn’t transferring fluid, the problem usually falls into one of these categories:

1. Priming Issues (Most Common Cause)

Symptoms:

• Pump runs but no liquid comes out.

• Gurgling or air bubbles in the discharge hose.

Possible Causes & Fixes:

Manual Piston Pumps

• Not primed properly → Fill the pump tube with liquid before use.

• Air leaks in suction → Check O-rings, tighten connections.

Electric/Pneumatic Pumps

• Dry running → Ensure the pump is submerged before starting.

• Loose fittings → Inspect suction hose connections.

2. Clogged Intake or Discharge

Symptoms:

• Weak or no flow despite priming.

• Unusual straining noise.

Possible Causes & Fixes:

Blocked Strainer/Filter

• Clean the intake screen at the bottom of the dip tube.

Obstructed Discharge Hose

• Check for kinks, bends, or debris in the hose.

Valve Malfunction

• Stuck check valve → Disassemble and clean.

• Worn valve seals → Replace if cracked or deformed.

3. Mechanical Failures

Symptoms:

• Pump handle moves too easily (no resistance).

• Leakage around seals.

Possible Causes & Fixes:

Worn Piston or Diaphragm

• Replace if torn or hardened (common in manual pumps).

Failed Seals/O-Rings

• Inspect for cracks, swelling, or wear → Replace with compatible material (Nitrile, Viton).

Broken Gear or Impeller (Electric Pumps)

• Check for grinding noise → Replace damaged parts.

4. Viscosity & Fluid Compatibility Issues

Symptoms:

• Pump struggles with thick fluids.

• Slow or no flow despite proper priming.

Possible Causes & Fixes:

Oil Too Thick

• Use a rotary gear pump (for high-viscosity oils).

• Warm the drum (if safe) to reduce viscosity.

Wrong Pump Material

• Plastic pumps may degrade with solvents → Switch to stainless steel/PTFE.

5. Air Leaks or Suction Problems

Symptoms:

• Pump loses prime quickly.

• Fluid spurts intermittently.

Possible Causes & Fixes:

Loose Fittings

• Tighten hose clamps, couplings, and seals.

Cracked Dip Tube

• Inspect for hairline cracks → Replace if damaged.

Insufficient Submersion

• Ensure the dip tube reaches the drum’s bottom.

6. Motor or Power Issues (Electric Pumps)

Symptoms:

• Motor hums but doesn’t pump.

• Pump runs slower than usual.

Possible Causes & Fixes:

Low Voltage/Battery

• Check power supply → Recharge or replace batteries.

Burnt Motor

• Smell for burning odor → Replace motor if seized.

Clogged Impeller

• Clean out debris blocking the impeller.

Troubleshooting Flowchart

1. Check if pump is primed → If not, prime properly.

2. Inspect for clogs → Clean strainer/discharge hose.

3. Test for air leaks → Tighten fittings, replace seals.

4. Verify fluid viscosity → Use correct pump type.

5. Assess mechanical parts → Replace worn seals/pistons.

When to Call a Professional?

• If the pump still doesn’t work after basic fixes.

• For ATEX/explosion-proof pumps (safety-critical).

• If internal gears/motor are damaged.