One thing i've noticed over time in rebuilding these pumps is that grit and
metal filings seemed to get embedded in the composite plastic vanes
(probably debris that got passed the strainer) and scores the pump
housings.

I was leaning towards aluminum vanes since I think they are less likely to
do damage to the cast iron housing. Brass or bronze might be even
better/longer lasting.

Tony


"Ned Simmons" wrote in message
...
On Fri, 28 Sep 2007 20:41:39 -0400, "Tony" wrote:

I'm rebuilding several Blackmer pumps that are used for diesel fuel. They
have outlets of 2.5" and pump about 70 gallons per minute at 375 RPM.

The pump housings are cast iron. I need to replace the pump vanes. The
vanes
slide in a rotor that spins in an ellipitical housing.

The original vanes are made from a plastic molded composite material that
looks just like bondo. The pump company charges over $300 for a set of 6
vanes (rectangular about .375 thick x 4" long x 1" wide,) so it might be
more economical to make my own.

I've been considering canvas phenolic, delrin bar stock, or aluminum flat
stock. I figure I can mill a batch of these vanes in short order.

Any comments or suggestions appreciated on the materials selection.

The vanes in small air motors are often linen phenolic, so as long as
phenolic is compatible with diesel I'd think it would be a good
choice.

--
Ned Simmons