Container Changes for Pumps

Let’s discuss the process of changing material containers on GP Reeves pumps. This procedure applies universally to models such as the GSP, GSPM, GDP, GDPM, GNDP, and G6 DP. Before beginning, gather some shop rags, a long skinny screwdriver, an empty bucket, trash bags, and a scraper.

Ensure you are wearing proper safety equipment and following your company’s lockout/tagout procedures. Take note of the regulator settings before starting, as they will be needed later. The changeout process consists of two parts: removing the empty container and installing the new one. Begin by shutting off the pump by either turning the knob or pressing the button labeled “Pump Shut Off.” This will stop the pump from cycling during the container change. You should hear air being relieved from the circuit, and the pump pressure gauge should read zero if it was shut off correctly.

Next, open the inductor air assist. Depending on your pump model, do this by either turning the valve to point parallel with the fitting body, pulling out the knob, or turning it to the “On” position. This step allows air into the empty container, preventing a vacuum from forming. Then, rotate the ram elevator control valve to the “Ram Up” position. As the ram begins to move, feather the valve by alternating between the “Ram Up” and “Stop” positions to prevent the container from being lifted from the pump frame. When the inductor is about half an inch from the top of the container, rotate the valve to the “Stop” position and turn off the inductor air assist. This prevents air from continuing to pressurize the container, which could cause the seal to pop out and spray material.

Once the air assist is off, move the ram elevator control valve back to the “Up” position and allow it to travel up and out of the container until it stops. At this point, you can remove the empty container. Keep the valve in the “Up” position throughout the container change. Do not attempt to transfer the remaining material from the empty container to the new one, as this can introduce air bubbles into the material, which could be hazardous when returned to the pump.

For grease systems, if there will be a significant delay before installing a new container, wrap the inductor with plastic wrap or a garbage bag to minimize contamination. If you are using a moisture-cure material, do not let the inductor rest before placing it into the new container, as the material may begin to cure inside the pump.

When installing a new container, first check for tears, gouges, or wear on the edges of the inductor. Ensure the solvent cup has enough solvent and clean off any material that has accumulated on top of the inductor plate. Inspect all hardware and fasteners for any issues. If you are using the same material, the material on the bottom of the inductor does not need to be cleaned. However, if switching to a different material, it is recommended to clean it. For moisture-cure materials, make sure the material on the inductor has not hardened.

Load the new material container into place. Using an inductor liner is recommended for adhesives and sealants to prevent curing on the inductor seal. Ensure the center hole of the liner is large enough to clear the inductor vents and center it on the container before lowering the inductor. Having two people can make this process easier—one to operate the elevator and one to position the liner. Replace the liner if it is damaged or if material has cured on it. If your container locators are properly adjusted, the container should slide into place easily. Otherwise, the locators may need adjustment.

The most important step is to ensure the container is centered beneath the inductor plate. Once centered, begin lowering the inductor. As the inductor reaches the top of the container, start the material bleeding process. Refer to our detailed cleaning process video for more information. If you’ve never bled your pump before, we strongly recommend watching that video to avoid unnecessary messes.

Once the pump is properly bled and all valves and ports are securely shut, turn the pump back on by rotating the red “Pump Shut Off” knob, pulling the black button, or turning the black knob to the “On” position. Verify the pump is active by checking that the air pressure on the pump regulator has returned to its original setting. If you adjusted the ram regulator, return it to its original pressure setting before continuing. For pumps equipped with a solenoid valve, the pump will only operate when the solenoid is activated.

If you kept air out of the pump during the material change and bled and primed the pump correctly, it should cycle no more than once or twice after being turned back on. If this happens, congratulations—you’ve successfully changed the material container and can resume normal operation. For additional confirmation or troubleshooting, perform a final bleed and prime at the pump bleed valve. Check out our “How to Bleed Your Pump” video for detailed instructions.