GIW Technical Series

IMPELLER REMOVAL TECHNIQUES

Removing the impeller from a pump for routine maintenance can usually be accomplished by
securing the impeller against rotation and applying reverse torque to the shaft through a spanner or
lever attached to the overhead crane. A few sharp hits with a hammer will generally loosen the plug
threads if they have been properly coated with anti-seize and two release gaskets were used.

As the wear life of GIW wet end parts continues to improve, the corresponding maintenance
interval increases. Longer life and harsh duty conditions can cause the impeller to lock tighter on
the shaft over time and make routine removal difficult.

WARNING!
Under no circumstances should heat be applied to the impeller! Air and moisture trapped in the
internal cavity can expand and cause the impeller to explode!

WARNING!
Never run the motor backwards to loosen or remove the impeller! This can cause mechanical
damage as well as putting personnel at risk.

In those cases when normal maintenance procedures can not remove the impeller, a technique using
a drop bar and the impeller inertia can be used to break the threads loose. The end of a weighted bar
is lifted and allowed to drop, turning the impeller in the normal operational direction. When the end
of the bar hits a stop plate on the floor, the shock of the sudden stop combined with the inertia of the
impeller will generally loosen the plug threads.

See the illustration on page 2. Mild steel should be used. Fabricate a plate that bolts to the coupling
half or sheave on the pump shaft. This can be made to attach in the gap between the coupling
sections. Using a length of beam, plate or steel tubing, add the longest practical arm that will safely
rotate from near vertical to the floor or other solid stop point. On the end of the arm add a weight
which doubles as an impact face. For most slurry pumps, 200- 400 lbs (90 – 180 kg) is sufficient. A
ring or other release point is installed on top. Be certain that all parts are welded adequately as the
impact forces can be severe. If plate is used for the arm, it should have a brace or gussets to prevent
bending.

Use proper safety practices and keep all personnel clear of the area. Place a steel plate on the impact
area of the floor to avoid damaging the concrete. Verify that the arm will rotate the impeller in the
correct direction. Raise the arm with the overhead crane to a near vertical position and release it.
Allow the arm to drop and hit the plate. In exceptional cases, it may take multiple hits.

Once the impeller is free to turn on the threads, install the impeller lifting device and complete the
removal procedure.

TECH Impeller Removal 2007-11-15.doc

IMPELLER REMOVAL TECHNIQUES
Page 2 of 2

Plate bolted to
coupling half or
pulley adapter
Optional lifting plate for
installation and storage

Eye for
release

Arm - about 5’ (1.5m) or

longest practical length Weight

Release

Drop rotates same

as pump rotation

Pump must be
anchored to sub-
base or foundation Steel plate to
for safety protect floor