6 Troubleshooting Tips For An AODD Pump

2/1/2021 6 Troubleshooting Tips for an AODD Pump
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6 TROUBLESHOOTING TIPS FOR AN AODD

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Posted by Ed Kupp on Aug 21, 2020 9:00:00 AM
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If you’re a plant manager, there are probably

three things you think about every day:
Performance
Schedule
Budget

All of these must come together so you can
properly do your job. If something happens, like equipment failure, it has a ripple effect
throughout the entire plant and could even result in process shut down. Additionally, if a
machine isn't performing at its best, it slows down production. If production is slowed,
the budget takes a hit.
You don’t have time for drawn-out process issues, repairs or expensive repair parts.
https://www.sandpiperpump.com/blog/6-troubleshooting-tips-for-an-aodd-pump 1/17
Luckily, if you work with air-operated double-diaphragm (AODD) pumps, you don’t have
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much to worry about. AODD pumps are known as the reliable workhorses of industry
and are likely to provide years of dependable, consistent service.
In the unlikely event a pump does fail, it can usually be xed quickly for a reasonable
cost. To avoid downtime, plan ahead and be aware of the common ways to
troubleshoot an AODD pump.
THE 6 COMMON CAUSES OF AODD PUMP

ISSUES
ISSUE #1: THE PUMP WILL NOT CYCLE, OR IT CYCLES AND THEN
STOPS.
Listen to your pump. If there is no air exhaust or continuous exhaust air with no cycling,
you may have a problem.
Troubleshooting Tip #1
Make sure the air supply pressure exceeds the system head.
The x: Increase the inlet air pressure to the pump. Most diaphragm pumps are
designed for 1:1 pressure ratio at minimum ow.
Remember: Inlet air pressure must exceed the system head.
Check the pump’s air distribution system. 
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The x: Refer to the air valve section of the pump’s service manual. Disassemble and
inspect the main air distribution valve and pilot valve. Check for bent or missing pilot
valve actuators. Also, check the air valve and intermediate gaskets to ensure proper
alignment. Additionally, ensure that the parts are assembled properly in accordance
with the manual diagram and assembly steps.
Check for pumped uid in the air exhaust mu er.
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The x: Disassemble the pump chambers and inspect for diaphragm rupture or loose
diaphragm plate assembly.
Check the air exhaust mu er. The pump may experience a gradual reduction in ow
prior to a complete blockage.
The x: Remove the mu er screen to clean or de-ice. When completed, reinstall the
mu er screen.
Make sure the pumping chamber isn't blocked. 
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The x: Disassemble and inspect the wetted chambers of the pump. Remove or ush
any obstructions.
Make sure the discharge line isn't blocked.
The x: Check for an obstruction in the pump valves, manifold or a closed discharge
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line valve.
ISSUE #2: THE PUMP CYCLES, BUT IT PRODUCES NO FLOW.

Listen to your pump. If the exhaust air produces the sound of a smooth and even
rhythm but produces no ow, you may have a problem.
Make sure there isn't excessive suction lift in the system.
The x: For lifts exceeding the published limit for the given pump, usually 20 feet (6
meters) or less, ll the pumping chambers with liquid to prime the pump.
Make sure the suction line isn't blocked.
The x: Remove or ush any obstruction. Check and clear all suction screens and
strainers.
Look for suction side air leakage when the liquid source is below the pump.
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The x: Visually inspect all suction side gaskets and pipe connections.
Look for worn, misaligned or obstructed check valves or check valve seats.
The x: Visually inspect check valves and seats for wear or chemical attach and ensure
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proper seating. Replace as required.
ISSUE #3: THE PUMP CYCLES, BUT ITS FLOW RATE IS

UNSATISFACTORY.
Listen to your pump. If the exhaust air is cycling much faster than normal, you may have
a problem.
Look for excessive suction head pressure in the system.
The x: For ooded conditions exceeding 10 feet (3 meters) of liquid, install a back-
pressure device in the air exhaust.
Make sure the air supply pressure or volume does not exceed system head
requirements.
The x: Decrease inlet air pressure and volume to the pump as calculated on the
pump’s published performance curve.
Make sure your suction line isn’t too small or somehow restricted.
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The x: Install a larger suction line and connection. Your pump needs to meet or exceed
connection recommendations.
Make sure there is no suction side air leakage or air in the product.
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The x: Visually inspect all suction side gaskets and pipe connections.
Make sure the air exhaust mu er isn't restricting the air ow through the pump.
The x: Remove the mu er screen, clean or de-ice and then reinstall.

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Make sure the discharge manifold or line isn't restricted.
The x: Check for restrictions, product buildup or semi-closed discharge line valves.
Restricted or undersized air line
The x: Install a larger air line and connection. Air line piping should be the same size
as the connection on the air inlet to the pump. Both pressure and volume need to be

considered when sizing. Consult owner’s manual for pump requirements
ISSUE #4: THE PUMP CYCLE IS UNBALANCED.

Listen to your pump. If you hear an out-of-rhythm exhaust, you may have a problem.
Make sure the check valves are unobstructed.
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The x: Disassemble the wet end of the pump and manually dislodge any obstruction in
the check valve pocket.
Make sure there are no worn or misaligned check valves or check valve seats.
The x: Inspect check valves and seats for wear and proper seating. Replace as
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required.
ISSUE #5: THE PUMP CYCLE PRODUCES EXCESSIVE VIBRATION.

Listen to your pump. If you hear excessive pipe vibration and check valve chatter, you
may have a problem.
Look for rigid pipe connections to the pump.

The x: Install exible connectors on the pump suction and discharge and install a
pulsation dampener on the discharge side of the pump.
ISSUE #6: THE PUMP'S DIAPHRAGM FAILS PREMATURELY (PRIOR

TO 10 MILLION STROKES).
If this happens, the likely culprits are:
Temperature: The product being pumped is too hot or too cold.

Chemical resistance: A chemical being pumped isn't compatible with your pump.
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System conditions: The system conditions are not ideal for your pump. Refer to
the pump manufacturer’s general pump installation recommendations.
Check your pump’s diaphragms for cracks, bubbles, melting, or other deformation.
The x: Determine the correct elastomer for the process temperature. Adjust the
process temperature to be within the published operating range of the selected
diaphragm. Consider alternate diaphragm materials if the temperature cannot be
adjusted.
Check your pump’s diaphragms, check balls and gaskets for cracks, bubbles, erosion or
other deformation.
The x: Determine the correct elastomer for the process based on the Warren Rupp /
Sandpiper corrosion guide.
Look for wear on the air side of the diaphragms. Look for diaphragm bolt holes that
have become deformed and are oval-shaped.
The x: Install a back-pressure device on the air exhaust side.
CHOOSING A PUMPING PARTNER 

Though AODD pumps are known for their “set it and forget it” qualities, they need to be
properly maintained. Like any piece of equipment, AODD pump parts can prematurely
fail if not operated properly.
To avoid unplanned downtime, it’s important to pick a pump manufacturer that offers
exceptional technical guidance.
For more than 50 years, SANDPIPER’s expert service has supported customers
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
throughout the life of their pumps. We provide the best solutions for your most di cult
pumping challenges, and our accessories ensure your systems perform optimally.
Trust SANDPIPER to provide the very best pumping equipment to solve your most
challenging application needs.
Topics: AODD Pumps, Diaphragm Pump Troubleshooting, AODD Pump Troubleshooting
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the broadest range of products for a wide variety of applications. Contact a local
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workmanship.
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2/1/2021 6 Troubleshooting Tips for an AODD Pump

6 TROUBLESHOOTING TIPS FOR AN AODD

Tweet Share Like Share

If you’re a plant manager, there are probably

THE 6 COMMON CAUSES OF AODD PUMP

Remember: Inlet air pressure must exceed the system head.

ISSUE #2: THE PUMP CYCLES, BUT IT PRODUCES NO FLOW.

ISSUE #3: THE PUMP CYCLES, BUT ITS FLOW RATE IS

The x: Remove the mu er screen, clean or de-ice and then reinstall.

ISSUE #4: THE PUMP CYCLE IS UNBALANCED.

ISSUE #5: THE PUMP CYCLE PRODUCES EXCESSIVE VIBRATION.

ISSUE #6: THE PUMP'S DIAPHRAGM FAILS PREMATURELY (PRIOR

Temperature: The product being pumped is too hot or too cold.

The x: Install a back-pressure device on the air exhaust side.

CHOOSING A PUMPING PARTNER 

Topics: AODD Pumps, Diaphragm Pump Troubleshooting, AODD Pump Troubleshooting

Noti cation Frequency*

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER

First Name* Last Name*

800 North Main Street

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