Plating International, Inc.

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The Advantages of Using an Air Diaphragm Pump

One Pump, Many Benefits

Though there are many types of pumps—including positive displacement, centrifugal, lobe, gear, screw, hose and piston/plunger—there is one option that combines versatility with reliability.

A hybrid displacement pump, known as an air-operated double-diaphragm (AODD) pump, requires little maintenance and can handle a vast variety of fluids in the harshest of environments.

AODD Pump Features & Advantages

AODD pumps defy classification. In terms of pressure versus capacity characteristics, as well as portability, they resemble a centrifugal pump. The similarities end there.

AODD pumps are powered by air (some models are also offered with natural gas capability), which keeps the pump diaphragm balanced while pumping. This extends diaphragm life over that of mechanically operated diaphragm pumps, which means low maintenance and less downtime.

In addition to requiring little maintenance, air diaphragm pumps offer many other benefits. They:

  • Require no electricity and can be fully grounded to ensure safe operation of the pump.

  • Pump solid-laden fluids without damaging the pump or the product.

  • Are self-priming and can dry-run.

  • Can be run in continuous or intermittent cycles without damaging the pump or the system.

  • Have a low initial purchase price and require no additional setup controls, making them a great value compared to other pumping technologies.

  • Deadhead safely with no pump or product damage and seamless restarting.

  • Are shear sensitive and don't shear or separate product.

  • Are submersible (some models); they can be submerged completely without safety or performance issues.

  • Have a seal-less design and require no expensive mechanical seals or packing.

  • Offer variable flow and head pressures and perform without sophisticated controls.

  • Have a variety of porting options, including bottom discharge to address a wide range of fluid characteristics

The basic workings of an air diaphragm pump.

AODD Pump Applications

The versatility of AODD pumps allows them to be used in a multitude of markets, including:

Aerospace Automotive Building products Ceramics Chemical Coatings and paint Construction Food and beverage Marine Mining Packaging Pharmaceutical and personal care Pulp and paper Oil and gas Wastewater

Comparing AODD Pumps Against Other Industrial Pump Types

A pump that fails to meet your application or environmental requirements can have a devastating effect on your business. You can experience leaks, loss of flow, unplanned downtime, lost revenue, safety risks for your employees and even environmental issues if fluid escapes your facility.

Because pumps are vital to keeping your systems running properly, it's crucial that you select the type that best meets your needs.

The chart below helps break down common application requirements and pump types: