RotoMeter Rebuild

In this video, we’ll cover the cleaning and disassembly of a GP Reeves rotometer. To begin, use a 1/16-inch Allen wrench to remove the motor from the distribution block. Loosen the two set screws, one on each side, that hold the motor to the pump. Once the screws are loose, you can separate the motor from the pump body while maintaining the Lovejoy rubber insulator connector between the motor and the drive.

Next, detach the pump from the block using the same Allen wrench. Loosen the three set screws that secure the pump to the block, then carefully separate the pump from the block. At this stage, if there is material buildup on the block, you’ll want to clean it. Remove the pressure sensor and lower lock, and clean both using denatured alcohol, which effectively removes most materials.

Remove the top cap of the pump by unscrewing it, which will expose the coupling and the screw assembly inside. Use a 34/36 spanner wrench to unscrew and separate the stator tip from the pump body. Once removed, the stator will be exposed and ready for cleaning. To disassemble further, use a small 14-millimeter wrench to loosen and remove the stator. Submerge the stator and other components in alcohol to begin the cleaning process.

Press down on the screw to remove it from the body, taking care to clean off any material before pushing it through the packing. Separate the seals and screws, and use a pick to carefully remove the remaining seal from the bottom cavity of the pump. Be cautious to avoid damaging the seal during removal.

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With the body fully disassembled, clean each component thoroughly. Pay special attention to seals and O-rings, ensuring no cracks, deformations, or material residue remain. If seals are damaged, replacements can be obtained by contacting GP Reeves. To avoid cross-contamination when switching materials, ensure all components are completely free of residue.

When cleaning seals, note their orientation to ensure proper reassembly. For instance, the spring side of the seal should face the top, and the seal cage should be assembled with the groove side outward. Clean all parts using denatured alcohol and, if available, compressed air to remove debris from inside the seals.

Once all components are clean and inspected, reassemble the pump. Begin by applying a light layer of lithium grease to the seals and O-rings to protect them during reassembly. Insert the first seal into the motor end of the pump, ensuring the spring side faces the exit. Add grease to the other seals and components before reassembling the screw and stator into the body. Secure each component using the appropriate tools, such as the spanner wrench and 14-millimeter wrench.

Reattach the pump to the block by aligning the seals and setting the body into place. The rotometer design allows for a 360-degree rotation of the inlet, enabling customization for your application. Once aligned, tighten the three set screws securely but avoid over-tightening, as excessive force may deform the machined aluminum parts.

Finally, reattach the motor to the pump body. Align the small hole on the motor with the pin on the body to ensure proper alignment. Rotate the motor slightly to connect the fins of the coupling, and then slide the motor into place. Tighten the set screws evenly to secure the motor, being careful not to over-tighten.

Your rotometer is now fully cleaned, reassembled, and ready to be reconnected to your system. If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out to us.