Introducing Hydro Richards

Posted on June 22, 2021

Specializing in babbitt bearing manufacturing and service, precision machining, fusion welding, fabrication, and reverse engineering for pump components and rebuilds.

Hydro Richards was founded in 1942 and originally focused on meeting the machining needs of the forest industry and the war effort. Over the past century, we have grown and diversified to meet the needs of our expanding and evolving industrial world.

Our 13,000 square foot production facility is located in the city of Port Coquitlam. This provides us with quick access to material suppliers, subcontractors, the Trans-Canada Highway, the United States border, and the Vancouver International Airport.

Hydro Richards is an active supporter of the provincial Machinist Apprenticeship Program, employing only provincially qualified journeymen machinists. We are compliant with ISO 9001, AWS D1.1, CWB W47.1, and fully support a continuous quality improvement philosophy.

Check out the Hydro Richards website here.

New Service Center Opens in Darwin Australia

Posted on April 8, 2021

Meet Hydro Australia’s newest service center in Darwin.

Hydro Australia provides engineered upgrades, quality pump repair, and on-site field service to pump users in Australia, New Zealand, Vietnam, and Southeast Asia. Hydro engineers can identify and solve the root cause of pump problems and can re-engineer critical equipment to eliminate recurring issues and minimize downtime costs.

As an independent company, Hydro Australia offers an unbiased view of all pump challenges. Hydro Australia is an ideal partner in providing independent analysis, long-term solutions, and expedited turnaround time for your critical pumps and systems.

Introducing: Hydro University

Posted on February 26, 2021

Hydro, Inc., the largest independent pump rebuilder in the world, announces Hydro University.

With over 50 years of experience repairing, rebuilding, and optimizing pumps from all OEMs, Hydro’s team is uniquely qualified to teach and engage the next generation of industrial pump users. Hydro University is a focused resource for providing hands-on, industrial knowledge and applicable pump knowledge to optimize industrial operations and reduce maintenance costs.

“Hydro University is a truly unique offering,” says George Harris, owner and founder of Hydro, Inc. “Hydro has always been a leader in pump repair and pump health. We’re in a digital world now, and e-learning is aligned to 21st-century business. Hydro University lets us use new technologies to share practical knowledge on pump design, efficiency, and reliability. Digital learning through Hydro University is convenient, flexible, interactive, and serves many different learning styles,” Harris adds.

Mike Mancini, Hydro President of Total Solutions and Hydro University trainer, believes that the enhanced graphics make a significant difference in pump learning. “Hydro University uses 3D modeling for pumps in our training. We take you directly inside a pump and show you each element and how its performance affects efficiency, optimization, and energy savings,” Mancini shares. “Knowledge and experience in these areas help you improve your pump performance and reduce maintenance costs,” Mancini shares.

“Pumps are complex equipment, and the proper care of a pump will keep your line running and can even optimize energy efficiency for your overall operation,” states Bob Jennings, Hydro University Trainer and Hydro, Inc. Manager of Energy Upgrades. “At Hydro University, we are teaching about best efficiency points, vibration analysis, affinity laws’ use for system changes, and pump design configurations,” Jennings states.

Hydro University will offer webinars, e-learning courses, seminars, and applied knowledge. On-line classes are available both live and on-demand. Training programs are designed for individuals seeking to expand their knowledge or skills and for companies looking to educate/train groups of employees. Some classes offer certificates for Personal Development Hours and Continuing Education credits. When safe to do so again, Hydro University will offer in-person training programs.

Pump Fundamentals (for Technicians and for Engineers), Introduction to Shaft Alignment, Generic Failure Modes, Inspection Guidelines, and Vibration Fundamentals are a few of the e-learning courses available today. Available webinar topics include NPSH, Pump Curves/Operate at BEP, Basic Pump Design, Introduction to Vibration Concepts, and Pump Testing. Hydro University program offerings are quickly expanding, including the availability of programs tailored to specific customer needs.

For more information visit www.hydroinc.com/hydro-university or contact Hydro University here.

George Harris Rewarded Lifetime Achievement Award From the West Central Association

Posted on October 17, 2018

The West Central Association recently invited George Harris, President and CEO of Hydro, Inc., to be a guest speaker for their 100th anniversary.

The WCA is the Chamber of Commerce for the West Central Area. They are also a delegate agency for Chicago’s Department of Planning and Economic Development. They promote the area to encourage healthy business and a growing community.

George Harris also received an award in recognition of his contributions to the community and to the development of businesses and networking within Chicago’s West Central Area.

George has always been one of the key pillars of the community. He has lived and worked within the city of Chicago all his life and graduating from the University of Illinois with a degree in Engineering. The association was pleased to celebrate the growth of Hydro.

Though it started as a small locally based business, it is now a global company with 19 locations worldwide. Congratulations, George, on an award well deserved!