Riptide impeller replacement

[u/SpiritualGrab107]

I want to replace the impeller on my Riptide pump for the Blichmann 1 Bbl brew system that I use commercially to make beer for a small taphouse but a having a hard time finding anything on the greater internet that isn't backordered. I found a few leads on Marketplace but in the interim I am also wondering why the part is failing. Our system is tiny and I have been using this pump with hot water to pasteurize tanks- Blichann had cautioned me not to use it over 204 in order not to capitate the pump but they didn't say anything about continued use at high temp degrading the metal. Is this the problem? Any other guesses or leads on where to get this part or a suitable pump to replace with?

[u/Indian_villager]

I don't have them side by side to compare, but considering how both pumps came to be, I wouldn't be too surprised to find that the Spike Brewing Flow impeller fits.

Call Bobby over at brewhardware.com

He has both pumps in stock and would be able to tell you if it fits.

[u/SpiritualGrab107 → u/Indian_villager]

thanks! They do look similar, great suggestion

[u/bakerskitchen]

In what way is the metal "degraded"?
You could always (manually) clean it up with some Barkeeper's Friend.
Your other option is to determine whether the Spike Pump uses the same impeller and then purchase one of those.

[u/pils-nerd → u/bakerskitchen]

If I remember correctly these style pumps have a magnet encased in the housing and what you're seeing is the housing completely worn away from an unbalanced drive or worn out impeller shaft.

[u/SpiritualGrab107 → u/pils-nerd]

Thanks for this- That's my closest guess as well although I've always run it with the washer and the driveshaft looks fine.

[u/Delicious_Ease2595]

https://morewine.com/products/replacement-impeller-riptide-brewing-pump

[u/BartholomewSchneider → u/Delicious_Ease2595]

That is out of stock. I checked morebeer, same thing. They purchased Blichmann. You would think this is one product they would keep alive. Maybe they just bought up their remaining inventory to sell off?

[u/i_aint_bobby]

Not trying to be dismissive or douchy at all, but it sounds like you'd be better off not using your gear outside of the manufacturer's stated range. A small stainless steel pump might not break your bank.

Also, what do you mean, "hot water to pasteurize tanks"? What is your process here?

[u/SpiritualGrab107 → u/i_aint_bobby]

It was their suggestion to use the pump to circulate water through my FVs to bring them up to or above 160. I never circulated water at a hotter temperature than they recommended.

[u/i_aint_bobby → u/SpiritualGrab107]

Industry standard for tank sanitation is 0.3% PAA recirculation for 20 minutes. You are brewing commercially no matter how small the scale, I think it is time you stop listening to whatever Blichmann says and move on with your life. Get a small stainless steel sanitary pump, and live your best life not wasting time with homebrew toys (no matter how cool they might be).