Thousand of pumps retrofitted with these materials have not reported cracking or fracturing of these materials. Conclusions Thermoplastic composite materials have been applied to either the rotating or the stationary wear parts in a broad range of production pumps. The use of these composite materials provides a greater hardness deferential between wear parts, the composite material serving as the sacrificial wear component. These benefits result in tangible savings in the operation and repair of API pumps. As with all materials, thermoplastic composites have their limitations.
Maximum life is obtained when they are applied as wear parts in pumps moving clean media.
There are also chemical compatibility limitations that should be discussed with the material manufacturer.