Yamada Pump Blog

When someone asks me about a Yamada 1/2” pump, most people think about the NDP-15 series pump. However, there is another option called the DP-15. This pump uses the NDP-15 polypropylene liquid side, but uses the DP-10 air section.

The DP-15 is only pump available with a polypropylene liquid end and has the same elastomer options as the NDP-15 series pumps. Be advised: there is a significant difference in the maximum flow rates. The DP-15 series has a maximum flow rate of 7.4 GPM, while the NDP-15 series has a 13.5 GPM maximum flow rate.

While the NDP-15 series is good for higher flow rates, the DP-15 is ideal for low flow rates, extended dead head and dispensing applications. Both pumps share a common liquid end kit, but require different air motor kits. The DP-15 uses a K115-AM air motor kit and the NDP-15 uses a K15-AM motor kit.

Lately we have seen several pump failures due to improperly installed shaft cushions (p/n 770582). We have noticed that the problem occurs when a shaft cushion is installed in a pump that does not require it.

For instance, the shaft cushion is used on all NDP-40 and NDP-50 pumps with rubber diaphragms, including Santoprene® and Hytrel® elastomers. However, the shaft cushions are not to be used on NDP-40 and NDP-50 pumps with PTFE diaphragms or any NDP-80 series pump.

The purpose of the shaft cushion is to prevent the center disk from impacting the air chamber wall when operating at the far right of the performance curve. This isn’t an issue with the NDP-40 and NDP-50 pumps outfitted with PTFE diaphragms because the pumps are destroked and will not travel far enough to impact the chamber. This can, however, happen with the NDP-80 series pumps. A shaft cushion cannot be used because it will interfere with the center disk as it makes contact with the pilot valve.

Lastly, if you have a rebuilt NDP-80 pump and cannot get it to cycle, check to see if it was rebuilt (incorrectly) with shaft cushions. Below is a quick reference guide to follow when determining whether you can install shaft cushions in your pump.

Posts

Dave’s Corner: DP-15 Pump vs. NDP-15 Pump

Dave’s Corner: Shaft Cushions