Published: October 5, 2023

SPX’s Universal 3 (U3) PD Pump Makes In-Place Seal Replacement a Snap.

When it was introduced in 2018, the Universal 3 Series positive displacement pump was Plant Engineering Magazine’s Product of the Year. Developed by Waukesha Cherry-Burrell (SPX FLOW), it’s since become the go-to PD pump for viscous or chunky fluids and slurries – in a variety of sanitary applications.

The U3’s innovative design offers several advantages – including a convenient, front-loaded seal design for easy access and rapid in-place repair.

The Universal 3 proudly follows in the footsteps of Waukesha’s Universal 1 and Universal 2 series pumps. It’s built on the same heavy-duty 304 stainless steel gear case. Long life, superior performance and exceptional value are all part of its DNA.

Easy access design simplifies seal replacement.

With most positive displacement pumps, you need to take the whole unit apart to replace the seals. This extends downtime and can make it hard to do the replacement yourself. In many cases, processors end up replacing the pump and sending the original out for repair.

Not with the Universal 3.

The U3’s handy front-loaded seal design allows quick and easy access for convenient in-place replacement. Just pop off the cover plate and remove the rotors for access to the seals. Removing the pump head is no longer required. You’re back in business in no time.

Three seal options. Numerous pump models and configurations.

Speaking of seals, the Universal 3 gives you the choice of three seal options:

  • A single mechanical seal
  • Double concentric mechanical seals (for more severe service applications)
  • Single or double o-ring seals (an economical solution for operating pressures less than 100 psi).

The incredible range of available pump models is another reason the Universal 3 has become the pump of choice across so many sanitary processing applications.

There are 12 standard models in various sizes and configurations and another eight rectangular flange models. In addition to standard top shaft positioning, lower shaft positioning is available.

Looking for mounting options? The Universal 3 is available with adjustable feet, a portable base with rubber wheels and SS tubular bases. It covers all the bases.

Impressive performance.

Everything about the Universal 3 is engineered to increase performance and lifespan. This makes Universal 3 the perfect pump for so many applications involving viscous fluids and slurries.

When developing the Universal 3, Waukesha Cherry-Burrell shortened the shafts to reduce overhung loads, increase torque capacity and improve seal life. With no bearings in fluids, no sliding or rolling contact and no rotor-to-rotor contact, they’ve managed to further improve product life.

Other performance features worth noting include:

Low Slip, High-Efficiency Flow: The Universal 3’s two rotors are geometrically designed to ensure tight clearances.

Operating Pressure Up to 500 psi: Depending on the model,  the Universal 3 can effortlessly operate up to 500 psi (34.5 bar) – with high suction capabilities.

Process Temperatures Up to 300°F (149°C): Across all U3 models.

Displacement Per Revolution: 0.0082 Gal (0.31 L) to 0.752 Gal (2.847 L)

Nominal Capacity To: 8 GPM (1.8 m3/hr) to 450 GPM (102 m3/hr)

For full specifications on all models click here.

Pumps for life™ lifecycle program

SPX FLOW not only promises long life but delivers on it. When you buy a new Universal 3 PD pump and maintain it with Genuine SPX FLOW parts, you qualify for the Pumps for Life™ Lifecycle Program. This allows you to trade in your old U3 pump for a new pump at a remanufactured price! They truly are committed to your long-term success.

The verdict: Dependable, versatile, long life performance

As you can see, there’s a reason the Universal 3 has displaced so many other PD pumps on plant floors across Western Canada… and North America. Make that several reasons.

Talk to a Jadler sales representative to discuss your processing requirements and see if Waukesha Cherry-Burrell’s Universal 3 is the right fit for you.

fabrication and installation