When problems occur regarding water pumps, it’s often essential to get the pump running again as soon as possible. And when things need a quick fix, the best solutions tend not always to be top of mind. Here non-OEM parts can come into play, it can seem like a good solution, getting things running again cheap and fast. But this can cause some serious problems.

Non-OEM parts often require additional effort to install, even when they appear compatible on paper. Small differences in materials or design means the crew must spend valuable time adjusting or adapting the component to make it fit. 

What should be a straightforward replacement, is turned into a time-consuming task, one that interrupts routine operations and eats into already limited man hours.

Also, if the crew is forced “make it work” under tight time schedules or difficult conditions, there’s a real risk of damaging the equipment further.

A pump, for example, that’s forced to run with a poorly fitted non-original seal may develop leaks, lose performance, or suffer internal wear, eventually leading to complete failure. At that point, the ship may face extended operational downtime, emergency part sourcing, or even a full system replacement.

What started as a cost saving decision quickly escalates into a safety risk and a major financial setback

This added pressure is placed on the shoulders of the technical crew. And while maritime professionals are trained to solve problems and work under pressure, their time is not unlimited.

When that time is spent dealing with avoidable issues caused by low quality or non-OEM parts, something else has to give. Often, its scheduled maintenance that gets pushed back. Other important tasks are delayed, follow ups may be skipped. 

Over time, these small sacrifices chip away at the ship’s overall reliability.

In short, non-OEM parts don’t just introduce risk to the system they’re installed in, they have the potential to disrupt the entire maintenance rhythm. They increase workload, stress, and exposure to longer downtime than expected. And while they may reduce the item cost of a part, and the time for delivery, the long term cost in time, labor, and operational stability is far greater.

Considering these risks, are non-OEM parts worth it? 

At IRON Pump, we are ready to help you when problems occur. We provide original spare parts engineered for a perfect fit, minimizing crew workload and keeping your vessel operational.

Our original spare parts are precision engineered to eliminate such issues, ensuring seamless installation and reliable performance.

IRON Pump’s original spare parts ensure a perfect fit every time, backed by rigorous quality control.

Your Trusted Partner for reliability

Our aftersales team understands the critical nature of your operations and stands ready to support you with safe, precision engineered solutions that keep you moving forward: www.ironpump.com/after-sales