12/19/21, 10:11 AM 8 Things to Check When Your Vane Pump Stops Flowing - Hydraulic Parts Source

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8 Things to Check When

Your Vane Pump Stops
Flowing
by Cory Gilbert | Sep 1, 2020 | Blog, Hydraulic Repair, Vane Pumps

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12/19/21, 10:11 AM 8 Things to Check When Your Vane Pump Stops Flowing - Hydraulic Parts Source

Vane pumps tend to stop pumping suddenly as opposed to gear pumps,

which tend to lose efficiency over time. Lack of flow or system pressure
is the most common hydraulic pump problem. Here we’ll talk about 8 flow
problems and how to check for them.

The first step is to detect the problem. Begin by installing a gauge at the
pump outlet or portable pressure meter that easily couples into system
piping. If there is no flow in the system, one or several problems could be
at play. Perform these checks to figure out what is wrong with your vane
pump.

Check #1:
Is There Enough Oil in the Reservoir?
If not, fill the reservoir with approved fluid. There are several reasons for 2
low oil in the reservoir. The first and most common reason are leaks in
the hydraulic system. Whatever oil leaks out of the system from worn
fittings, shaft seals, or leaky conductors must be replaced. The second
reason for low oil level is poor maintenance. If both of these things are

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12/19/21, 10:11 AM 8 Things to Check When Your Vane Pump Stops Flowing - Hydraulic Parts Source

occurring (leaks and poor maintenance), the machine will eventually run
out of oil and the pump won’t work. Low oil levels lead to increased heat,
aeration of the hydraulic fluid, faster fluid oxidation rates, higher energy
consumption, and higher rates of internal wear on system components.

Check #2:
Is the Shaft Turning in the Wrong Direction?
Check if the rotation of the pump matches the arrow on the nameplate. If
not, shut it down immediately. Hydraulic pumps must run in the direction
marked on their nameplate or case. Reversed leads on a 3-phase motor
are the most common cause for wrong rotation. Check that the motor
wiring is correct.

Check #3:
Is the Pump Rotating?
First, check the coupling. If it is not rotating, check the rotation of the
electric motor. Check the pump keys and motor engine shaft to ensure
the shaft is not broken.

Check #4:
Is the Oil Too Thin?
If so, it could be the wrong choice of oil or from the oil thinning out at a
high temperature. A system with this problem may operate normally the 2
first few hours after start-up and then gradually slow as the oil gets
overheated. Check that the oil characteristics are in accordance with the
temperature and pump requirements.

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12/19/21, 10:11 AM 8 Things to Check When Your Vane Pump Stops Flowing - Hydraulic Parts Source

Check #5:
Is There an Air Lock in the Pump Inlet Hose?
If there is, use compressed air to pressurize the reservoir while running
the pump or fill the inlet hose with oil from the pump end. When finished,
make sure to check that no air remains in the pressure line.

Check #6:
Is the Pump Speed High Enough?
Refer to your hydraulic pump’s documentation and check to ensure the
speed is set high enough; this is an especially common issue after a
recent motor replacement.

Check #7:
Is Flow Moving in the Right Direction?
Check the hydraulic circuit and the main sequences to ensure all valves
are set properly and working. Make sure pressure is adequate at the main
relief valve to avoid backflow into the tank. Then, check the directional
valves as they might be stuck in a position that creates problematic
backflow.

Check #8:
2
Is the Actuator Working Correctly?
If not, check the motor for inlet flow leaks as well as the cylinder for inner
seal damage. If you find either of these issues, a repair is in order.

About the author: Steve Downey is an Adjunct Fluid Power Instructor at

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12/19/21, 10:11 AM 8 Things to Check When Your Vane Pump Stops Flowing - Hydraulic Parts Source

Henry Ford Community College and Macomb Community College. He has

worked in the Fluid Power Industry for 30 years in both Industrial and
Mobile Hydraulics. Steve Holds 11 International Fluid Power Society
certifications.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Cory Gilbert
With a personal goal of taking care of the customer at all costs, CEO Cory Gilbert
has been a driving force behind the high level of customer satisfaction at
Hydraulic Parts Source since 2009. Cory has a “whatever it takes” attitude and
helps maintain a customer service team that is accountable, honest, efficient, and
hard-working. One of the first things you’ll learn about Cory in his professional life
is his belief that “customer relationships are everything.”

Cory is a graduate of Alma College with a degree in Finance and Marketing.

Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with friends and family. He is a sports
fan who also enjoys golfing in his free time.

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