How to Get Vespel® CR-6100 in a New Pump

A technical guide for specifying high-performance polymer wear components in API pump projects.

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All of the major API pump manufacturers use Vespel® CR-6100 for both new pumps and aftermarket upgrades. This guide explains how to make sure it is included in your next project from the start.

Frequently Asked Question

“Are the OEMs using Vespel® CR-6100?” is a question we hear every month. The answer is definitely, “yes.” All of the major API pump manufacturers use Vespel® CR-6100 for both new pumps and aftermarket upgrades.

A related question arises: “If Vespel® CR-6100 is so great, why don’t the OEMs include it as a standard material?”

To answer that, we need to look at how pumps are usually purchased. Most pumps are sold into projects. The EPC contractor generally selects the pump with the lowest price which meets the bid specification. Therefore, if the bid spec allows bronze or cast iron wear rings, the OEM will probably quote bronze or cast iron because they are the cheapest materials. These materials might result in a higher life cycle cost, but procurement personnel will not care if their decision is driven by the initial price.

The OEMs are happy to quote and supply Vespel® CR-6100 — all you have to do is ask for it in the specification.

Specifying in the Bid Spec

If you want to maximise your pump reliability and efficiency, specify Vespel® CR-6100 for the stationary wear components in your next project. When it is part of the specification, the OEMs are happy to quote and supply Vespel® CR-6100.

If your company does not allow using brand names in the project specification, you can use the generic description for Vespel® CR-6100 from API 610, Table H.3:

PFA/CF reinforced composite, 20% mass fraction random X-Y oriented carbon fiber.

For clarity, you can add the note: “one example of which is DuPont™ Vespel® CR-6100.”

In short, if you want Vespel® CR-6100 wear rings, vertical pump shaft bearings, or throttle bushings in your new pumps, all you have to do is spell it out in the bid spec.

Direct Questions to Boulden

If there are any questions from the Project Engineer, EPC contractor, or OEM, please ask them to contact Boulden. They will be happy to answer any questions and make sure that the Vespel® CR-6100 is used correctly throughout the project.

A wide range of sizes is available in stock and ready for immediate shipment.

Questions about this case study?

For enquiries about Vespel® CR-6100 pump components or project specifications, contact Soletec at Info@soletec.com.

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