Like any machinery, regularly servicing your slurry tanker will keep it in good working order and prolong its life. A great thing about slurry tankers is they require very little maintenance since the effluent is not being passed through the pump. Here’s our recommendations for servicing your slurry tanker…
Wash Regularly
Giving the outside of the slurry tanker a regular clean will help in noticing any issues like corrosion or leaks. These are the kind of issues that start off small but left unattended can turn into big problems.
Nevada slurry tankers have a clear coating over the galvanisation, so cleaning is easy and can usually be done with a high-pressure hose like you’d use to wash out the cow shed.
If your slurry tanker is painted, more care may need to be taken to ensure paint doesn’t chip off if using a high-pressure hose or water blaster. Any exposed, un-galvanised steel on the tank should be repainted to prevent corrosion and maintain the integrity of the tank.
The inside of the tank requires less cleaning and can usually be done on an annual basis. With a Nevada auto-filling slurry tanker the effluent loads from the front of the tank and is pushed to the back minimising the amount of sand and debris dropping out of suspension and accumulating in any crevices. Tankers that load from the side may require a more regular clean as there is a higher chance of sand accumulation.
Greasing
Every joint and moving part needs grease to keep it lubricated and moving well. Particular attention should be paid to the rotating joint of your auto-filling arm. In this case the grease not only lubricates, but also seals the part to prevent effluent and other corrosive materials getting in.
O Rings
O rings that seal hoses need to be checked regularly. Leaks will slow down loading time. These are easily popped out and replaced where necessary.
Vacuum Pump
The vacuum pump is designed to use oil, so this should be monitored to ensure the oil is dropping through at the correct rate. Vacuum pump oil and oil droppers are available when needed.
Vacuum pump vanes are the other thing to be aware of. If you notice your slurry tanker is taking longer to load than usual this could be a sign the vanes are worn and need repair or replacement. If you suspect this is the case, just give the Nevada service team a call and they can help diagnose the issue. Repair kits are available for most makes and models of slurry tanker.
Release Valves
Pressure release valves and vacuum release valves should always be operating properly, so should be monitored regularly. Failure of either release valve increases the risk of implosion. Replacement valves are available for most makes and models of slurry tanker.
Vacuum Gauge
To be sure your release valves are working the vacuum gauge needs to be working! If not, you can buy a replacement part here.
Suction Line Moisture Trap
The moisture trap on the suction line located between the vacuum tank and pump needs to be emptied from time to time.
Hoses
Occasionally hoses can be squashed flat restricting flow and causing excessive wear on the pump. Flat hoses can be replaced.
RainWave Applicator
Every so often give your RainWave applicator(s) a wiggle to make sure nothing is excessively loose. This could be a sign the spring is fatigued or there is wear on the bushes. If there is, repair kits are available.
Health & Safety
Lastly, let’s not forget about health & safety – check your tyres for wear and make sure the lights are working!