If you work with adhesives, you know they don’t just stick where they’re supposed to. They love to gum up your equipment, especially around the packing gland. Left unchecked, this buildup leads to inefficiency, costly repairs, and downtime you can’t afford. 
At Professional Pump, we know a thing or two about keeping pumps running smoothly. We bring top-tier expertise and solutions to keep your operation moving—without the sticky mess. Here’s how to prevent adhesive buildup before it becomes a nightmare:
1. Choose the Right Packing Material
Not all packing is created equal. Standard packing won’t cut it when you’re dealing with aggressive adhesives. Opt for PTFE or graphite-infused packing designed to resist buildup and last longer. A small upgrade here can save you big headaches down the line.
2. Dial in the Flush System
A proper flush system keeps the packing gland clean and lubricated, preventing adhesive from hardening around it. If your flush isn’t doing the job, it might be time to adjust flow rates or upgrade to a more effective system. 
3. Upgrade to a Mechanical Seal
If packing just isn’t cutting it, a mechanical seal can eliminate the problem altogether. Single or double mechanical seals prevent adhesives from infiltrating the gland area, reducing maintenance and improving reliability.
4. Keep It Clean
Routine cleaning is your first line of defense. When adhesives harden, they become nearly impossible to remove without shutting everything down. Regularly flushing and inspecting the gland area keeps buildup at bay.
5. Consult the Pros
When adhesives are causing more trouble than they’re worth, it’s time to call in the experts. At Professional Pump, we don’t just sell solutions—we engineer them. Whether it’s selecting better packing, upgrading to a mechanical seal, or fine-tuning your flush system, we’ll help you keep your pumps running efficiently.
Stop fighting adhesive buildup and start optimizing your process. To learn more about pumping adhesives, check out our eBook - An Engineer’s Guide to Pumping Adhesives, or simply reach out to Professional Pump today!