3 Costly Skid System Mistakes—and How to Avoid Them

If you're sourcing a custom fluid process system, it’s easy to focus on price.

But the biggest costs often show up after install. At OptiFlow, we’ve seen three common mistakes derail projects—and they’re all avoidable. Here are a few to consider early on in your research:

1. Underrated Materials that Fail Easily
Low-cost systems often cut corners on material selection. That means corrosion, premature failure, and unplanned downtime. Your components could even be sized to max capacity and you're limiting yourselves for expansion. If your process fluid isn’t compatible with the materials used, you’re paying for a rebuild before the system hits its second year.

Ask for:

Chemical compatibility data
Expected lifecycle estimates
Reasoning behind material selection

2. Poorly Integrated Controls
When controls are treated as an afterthought—or worse, outsourced—you risk delays, limited functionality, and zero remote support. Your system should talk to your plant, not fight it.

Look for:

In-house UL panel capabilities
Custom HMI programming
Built-in remote diagnostics

3. Suppliers Who Disappear After Delivery
Support doesn’t end with shipment. Reliable suppliers offer real project management, field startup help, and service after install.

Make sure they provide:

A dedicated project lead
Post-install service contacts
Documentation and training

Choosing the right skid supplier isn’t just about price—it’s about performance, longevity, and trust. Avoid these three traps, and you’re already ahead. But why stop there? Check out these 12 questions you should ask to do your due diligence in choosing a pump skid supplier.

We're ready to help you along your way. Click the link below to schedule a quick consultation.