One very dangerous thing that is seen in the concrete pumping industry from time to time is people having their arms, fingers, etc. amputated in the field due to cleaning out the pump with their hands while the pump motor is running. Remember, never put any body part in the hopper, outlet valve or lubrication box while the pump is running. Many of these amputations are caused because the operator thinks that just because the remote is off everything is all right. However, what happens is they press the stop button on the remote and then they stick their arm or hand into a moving part on the pump and then they lean up against the pump or whatever and the remote button is pushed on and their arm is chopped off. It happens just like that, fast!

Remember to read the pump manufacturer’s operating manual before cleaning or repairing your concrete pump. If you have to service the pump and need to put your hands near moving parts, always shut off the pump engine and remove the key and make sure all pressure is at zero.

Most pumping companies will see a steady growth in pump jobs due to the summer months ahead. This is a great time of year to service your pumps and equipment. With more pump jobs it means more money. Don’t forget to invest back into your equipment. Don’t get out on a job and have a problem that could have been avoided.

Check your hoses for wear spots, and holes in the hose. Also, check the hose ends including the inside. Look for thin metal. Check your reducer and the ends of the reducers. Periodically lightly tap your reducers with a hammer. You can actually hear a very bright “ting” if the metal is getting too worn. When this happens, replace it. Here’s a little side note. Did you hear about the guy who lost his vision due to the hose exploding open in his face. His employer had no workman’s comp and either did the general contractor. Don’t gamble in this business. People can get injured and killed.

Here’s a good habit to get into.

Start off with good hoses and clamps. When setting up a job, roll out the hose from one end and when rolling it up, roll it from the other end. That way you can inspect both ends daily. If you come across a bad hose, spray paint it to mark it and put it aside. Then either fix it, cut it into two hoses, or throw it away. If the concrete hose clogs, a damaged or worn hose could burst with the possibility of causing property damage, personal injury or even death. Same thing with the reducers or elbows.. Don’t take chances. Fix it or throw it away. Once again, invest in your equipment.

Pump Maintenance / When was the last time you changed your hydraulic oil?

Don’t forget to check your pumps owner’s manual on when to change the hydraulic fluid, motor oil and all your filters including hydraulic filter, motor oil filter, air filter and fuel filter. Check all your hydraulic hoses and fittings, loose nuts and bolts, loose wires and fittings, etc. Also, always keep an eye on your accumulator pressure. Don’t pump with low accumulator pressure. If you are running low on pressure, charge your accumulator according to your pump manufacturers guidelines. By maintaining your pump you will be able to offer your customers quality and well maintained equipment. Then down the road if you decide to sell your pump you’ll be happy you maintained it. Just keep this in mind. A well maintained pump gets top dollar in the used concrete pumping market.