HagenKB

Optima Air Pump - Weak Output

I changed the diaphragms on an older Optima Air Pump recently. This did not improve the air output of the pump. I am wondering if it is possible that the electric motor is too weak to pump and if it is feasible to replace it (the electric motor). When I p

I changed the diaphragms on an older Optima Air Pump recently. This did not improve the air output of the pump. I am wondering if it is possible that the electric motor is too weak to pump and if it is feasible to replace it (the electric motor). When I p
The "motor" of an air pump almost never needs replacement. This is because the motor really is nothing more than an electromagnet that is changing polarity 60 times a second (our electrical supply is rated at 60 Hz). So the actual change in the electromagnet's polarity is approximately 3600 times per minute. Since it is an electromagnet, it is very passive, there are no moving parts and it simply creates a magnetic field.

The swing arm is ended by a permanent magnet, that follows the changing polarity as it moves back and forth, and thus draws the arm in a horizontal motion. Again, this is a permanent magnet, so it will lose its power extremely gradually, if at all, over the service life of the pump. So, if the motor doesn't wear out, and the swing arm doesn't wear out, what can go wrong?

The diaphragm is usually the place where wear and tear occurs - it is vibrating at 3600 movements per minute, so over time the unit will wear out and require replacement. If the valve assembly is disturbed or changed, this can affect output by misaligning the valve flappers and main body. To trouble shoot this problem, first look carefully at the diaphragm, make sure there are no tears or rips that will cause the air to leak. If this is not the case, then look carefully at the valve and valve body to ensure everything is properly aligned.

Back To Results