common faults and repairs of KAMMAK pumps

KAMMAK dosing pumps are considered reliable workers in professional heating systems, but even they have a limited service life and specific vulnerable points. This article focuses on the most common faults that occur during long-term operation and provides practical solutions for technicians who want to minimize downtime on the site.

Visual signs of leakage and mechanical wear

The most common problem with KAMMAK pumps is liquid leakage through the shaft seal, which is a natural part of their operation in high-pressure pumps, but excessive leakage indicates an imminent failure. If you notice a constant residue of solution on the bottom part of the pump or in the area between the motor and the pumping unit, it means that the ceramic or graphite seal has reached the end of its service life. In this case, an immediate replacement of the sealing kit is necessary, otherwise water may leak into the motor bearings and cause a short circuit.

Shaft Seal Bearings Water leakage Diagram: Leakage through the shaft seal leads to damage of the bearings.

Another visual sign is vibration, which is not caused only by uneven pipe surfaces, but rather by the loosening of components inside the pumping head. In older KAMMAK models, such as for example professional dosing pumps with a rated pressure of 20 bar, piston or valve wear is common and causes a characteristic knocking sound during operation. This vibration is not only noticeable on the handles, but also transfers to the entire pump structure and can lead to pipe or connection cracks if ignored.

Electrical failures and overheating protection

The electrical part of these pumps is designed for demanding conditions, but a common problem is overvoltage or incorrect setting of the thermal switch that protects the motor from overheating. If the pump turns off after a short operation and does not restart even after cooling down, it is often due to permanent damage to the thermal fuse or an excessively high ambient temperature where the machine is located. In such cases, it is necessary to check whether the built-in starting capacitor is not damaged and causing an unbalanced motor operation.

Motor Thermal protection Switch Current flow: In case of overheating, the switch opens and breaks the circuit. If the switch remains open, the motor will not start.

Another electrical problem is a failure of the frequency inverter, if your pump has this function, which is common in newer models designed for precise chemical dosing. The inverter can fail due to moisture entering the electronics or due to a short-term overload during startup. If you manage to determine that the motor is running but does not reach the required pressure, it may be a fault in the control logic of the inverter, which requires professional diagnostics and often replacement of the entire electronics.

Diagnostic steps for electrical problems:

  • Check the supply voltage and phases to ensure that one phase is not disconnected.
  • Test the thermal protection with a multimeter for resistance.
  • Determine whether the cable or plug is damaged due to mechanical stress.
  • Replace the starting capacitor if it is swollen or leaking.

Problems with the hydraulic part and flow

The hydraulic part is the heart of every dosing pump, and the most common cause of performance loss is clogging of inlet or outlet valves with lime deposits. If the pump is operating but the pressure is lower than declared or the flow is irregular, it is necessary to disassemble the pump and clean the valves. In KAMMAK models that use dual piston systems, it often happens that one of the pistons is stuck or worn, leading to asymmetric movement and loss of efficiency.

Inlet valve Outlet valve Piston Diagram: Clogged valves cause pressure and flow drop. Cleaning is necessary after each season.

Another problem is the wear of piston balls or seats, which causes backflow of liquid and thus the inability to maintain stable pressure. This often happens when working with aggressive chemicals that corrode metal parts if suitable materials are not used. For professionals, it is important to regularly check the condition of the pistons and to replace worn parts in time to avoid major damage to the entire system. When using pumps of type professional pumps with high chemical resistance, this inspection is key to the long service life of the machine.

Practical tips for hydraulic maintenance:

  • After each season, disassemble and thoroughly clean the valves and pistons.
  • Use only high-quality lubricants recommended by the manufacturer for piston systems.
  • Check the tightness of connections and hoses to prevent air from entering the system.
  • Ensure that you are using the correct type of chemical compatible with the pump material.

Mistakes during installation and first use

Many faults of KAMMAK pumps are not caused by manufacturing defects, but by incorrect installation or first use, which is common among new technicians. A common mistake is not securing the correct suction pipe, which leads to the formation of air bubbles and subsequent "dry running", which quickly damages the seals and pistons. If the pump starts working unusually loudly or the vibrations are strong, it is often a sign that air has entered the system.

Suction opening Discharge opening Air Diagram: Air in the system causes dry running and pump damage. Correct installation of the suction pipe is critical.

Another common mistake is incorrect pressure or flow setting, which can lead to motor overload and burnout. If the pressure is set too high for a given type of pipe or boiler, it can cause damage to hoses or connections, which is dangerous for the operator. Therefore, it is always important to follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding maximum pressure and flow for specific applications, such as boiler or heating system descaling.

What to do at first start-up:

  • Thoroughly flush the system with clean water before using chemicals.
  • Check that the hoses and fittings are tightly and tightly sealed.
  • Set the pressure gradually and monitor the system's response.
  • Ensure that the pump is properly grounded for safety.

Maintenance after the season and preventive measures

Preventive maintenance is key to the long life of KAMMAK descaling pumps, and many problems can be avoided by simple steps at the end of the season. After completing the work, it is essential to thoroughly rinse the pump with clean water to remove any chemical residues and lime deposits that could corrode internal parts. This is the most important step that is often neglected, leading to serious malfunctions when used again.

Input Output Pump Diagram: Regular rinsing prevents corrosion and deposits. After the season, always clean and store in a dry place.

Another step is lubricating moving parts and checking the condition of seals to ensure the pump is ready for the next season. If the pump is not used for a long time, it is advisable to store it in a dry and cool place to prevent corrosion and damage to electrical parts from moisture. Regular maintenance not only extends the life of the machine but also reduces the risk of unexpected failures during work.

List of preventive steps:

  • Thoroughly rinse the pump with clean water after each use.
  • Lubricate moving parts according to the manufacturer's instructions.
  • Check the condition of seals and replace them if worn.
  • Store the pump in a dry and cool place.

Difference between single-phase and three-phase pumps

One of the common questions when choosing a pump is the difference between single-phase and three-phase models, which affects not only performance but also reliability and the machine's lifespan. Single-phase pumps are more suitable for smaller applications and home use, while three-phase pumps are intended for professional use with higher performance and more stable operation. Three-phase pumps have better efficiency and fewer vibrations, which is important for long-term operation in demanding conditions.

Single-phase Three-phase Difference in connection Single-phase: Lower power, more vibrations. Three-phase: Higher power, more stable operation.

Three-phase pumps also have better protection against overheating and are suitable for applications where high pressure and flow are required, such as descaling large boilers or industrial systems. If you plan to work with a KAMMAK pump in a professional environment, we recommend choosing a three-phase model, which offers better stability and a longer lifespan. Choosing the right type of pump is key to efficient and safe work.

Comparison of pump types:

  • Single-phase: Suitable for small applications, lower power.
  • Three-phase: Suitable for professional use, higher power.
  • Stability: Three-phase pumps have fewer vibrations and better operation.
  • Lifespan: Three-phase pumps have a longer lifespan in demanding conditions.

Frequently asked questions

How often should the shaft seal be replaced?

The shaft seal should be replaced approximately once a year or after each intensive season if there is visible water leakage or vibrations. The lifespan depends on the intensity of use and the type of chemicals used.

Why does the KAMMAK pump overheat?

Overheating is often caused by incorrect pressure settings, clogged valves, or lack of cooling, which leads to motor overload and activation of thermal protection.

What to do if the pump has no pressure?

Check if the valves or hoses are clogged, if there is air in the system, or if the piston or seal is damaged, which can cause pressure loss.

Regular maintenance and early fault diagnosis are key to ensuring that your KAMMAK descaling pump operates smoothly for many years. By following these simple rules and procedures, you can minimize the risk of unexpected failures and ensure smooth operation of your heating work.

Do you have a question about this topic?

Not sure or dealing with a specific situation in your home? Write to us - we are happy to help.

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Vytvořil Shoptet | Design Shoptak.cz.