Seasonal Pump Maintenance and Storage Procedures

Key Takeaways:

• Proper seasonal pump maintenance for microfluidic systems includes flushing, draining, lubricating, and storing pumps in climate-controlled environments to prevent corrosion, freezing, and contamination.
• Before reactivation, pre-season pump inspection and calibration ensure optimal performance—check seals, flush antifreeze, prime the system, and test for leaks or irregularities.
• Engineers using lab pump storage and winterization procedures can extend pump lifespan, reduce repair costs, and maintain consistent performance across seasonal cycles.

Microfluidic pumps used seasonally must be maintained in a systematic manner to ensure their functionality, longevity, and reliability when they are next needed. Here's a comprehensive guide to off-season maintenance:


Before Storage (End of Season)

Thorough Cleaning:

• Flush the pump with clean water or a neutralizing agent to remove any residual fluids, dirt, or contaminants that could corrode internal components.
• Remove stubborn residues with a mild detergent if necessary.

Inspect and Repair:

• Check for leaks, worn seals, damaged hoses, and other problems.
• Replace or repair any damaged components before storing.

Drain the System:

• Drain all liquids from the pump, hoses, and tanks to avoid freezing or internal corrosion while storing.

Lubrication:

• To prevent rusting and sticking, flush with lubricating oil or pump-specific anticorrosion oil to lightly coat internal components.

Winterization:

• If stored in cold climates, flush with a non-toxic antifreeze to coat internal components or keep the pump in an area above freezing temperatures.

Storage Conditions:

• To prevent rust, mold, and UV damage, keep the pump in a dry, climate-controlled environment.
• To avoid floor moisture damage, store the pump on a pallet or shelf.

Cover and Protect:

• Protect the pump from dust and dirt by covering it with a breathable tarp or plastic cover.

Avoid Direct Sunlight:

• Prolonged UV exposure can deteriorate plastics and seals.

Ventilation:

• To avoid condensation buildup, ensure that there is good airflow around the pump.

Before Use (Start of Season)

Visual Inspection:

• Look for rust, corrosion, or pest damage (such as rodents chewing on wires or hoses).

Test Seals and Connections:

• Check and tighten any loose connections or fittings.

Flush the System:

• Remove any antifreeze or lubricating oils using clean water or an appropriate solution.

Prime the Pump:

• If the pump needs to be primed before use, make sure it is done correctly.

Test Run:

• Test the pump with water to ensure proper flow, pressure, and leaks.
• Keep an ear out for unusual noises or vibrations that could indicate internal problems.

Recalibrate:

• Calibrate flow rates and pressures to meet operational requirements.

Routine Maintenance During Use:

• During the active season, perform regular checks and cleanings to ensure peak performance and detect problems early.

Upgrades and Recommendations:

• Stay up to date on any improvements or upgrades suggested by the supplier to improve pump efficiency and/or durability.

Conclusion

You can ensure your microfluidic pumps remain operational and effective across multiple seasonal cycles by combining proper off-season storage, pre-season preparation, and regular use maintenance. Following these steps will help keep your pumps running efficiently and reliably, lower repair costs, and extend service life. Contact us today for more seasonal solutions.