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Pumping problems are frustrating in any fluid handling application because they typically result in lost production time and wasted resources. Air-operated double-diaphragm (AODD) pumps are known for being easy to operate and user-friendly — simply plug in your air and connect your suction and discharge lines and you’re ready to go. But you can still run into pumping challenges from time to time.
One of the most powerful workhorses of the industry is also one of the simplest types of technologies inside factories and plants: AODD pumps.
AODD pumps are known across many industries for their versatility, reliability and ease of maintenance. AODD pumps thrive in the harshest environments, safely and effortlessly carrying a wide range of fluids to keep processes working at the highest level.
However, AODD pumps may fail if the model or material selected was not designed to handle a highly corrosive chemical. In addition to creating a hazardous environment for workers, spills cause unplanned downtime and lost revenue due to leaked product and pump damage. Here’s what to know when choosing an AODD pump to avoid pump failure.
The beauty of an AODD pump is in its simple technology. Just a few working parts ensure flawless pumping. Those working parts, however, must be compatible with your application.
Buyers, plant managers and maintenance personnel need to consider the right material for their pump. Fortunately, there are only two main categories of pump materials: metal and plastic. It sounds like a simple choice. But, if you make the wrong choice, the pump can prematurely fail, costing you time and money.
Learning more about when to use metal pumps versus when to use plastic pumps will help you make the best decision for your application.
Metal AODD pumps—which are primarily made of aluminum, cast iron, stainless steel or Alloy C and available in bolted or clamped construction—give exceptional performance in applications where higher pressures are a concern, solids/slurries handling is needed, and potentially hazardous environments may be encountered that require the pumps to be grounded.
Metal pumps are chosen because:
The durability of metal pumps is imperative for applications requiring solids and slurries handling in hazardous environments, including those containing chemicals, oil and gas. Metal AODD pumps can be used in adhesive dispensing, lubrication and original equipment manufacturing.
High-pressure pumps use two air chambers to create additional pressure. These pumps are constructed of metal so they can handle the higher pressure. These pumps are ideal in specialty applications where pressure is paramount and flow rate is critical, including filter press feeds, mine dewatering and slurry transfer.
Plastic AODD pumps offer superior chemical resistance and rugged, leak-free construction. In a world with a staggering number of chemicals in use (the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates about 85,000), plastic AODD pumps can handle even the most aggressive fluids. They tend to resist corrosion, can withstand corrosive atmospheres and are lighter than metal pumps, making them easily portable. Depending on the size, plastic AODD pumps can cost less than metal units.
Common plastic AODD pump materials include Polypropylene, PVDF and Conductive Polypropylene (Conductive ATEX). Their applications are endless and include:
Plastic AODD pumps can be used outdoors but they tend to work best in controlled environments. They can be damaged if the fluid within the pump is allowed to freeze when exposed to cold temperatures. Plastic AODD pumps and components are not UV-stabilized, meaning ultraviolet radiation can negatively affect material properties. Do not expose plastic pumps to UV light for extended periods of time.
Now that you know more about when to choose metal AODD pumps versus plastic AODD pumps, you may have figured out the solution to the problem faced by the manufacturer of the highly corrosive chemical.
If you guessed that the pump construction materials weren’t compatible with the fluid being pumped, you’re correct. That situation proves the importance of matching the pump to the application.
Most AODD pump manufacturers offer pumps for a wide variety of applications. Reputable companies will provide a chemical compatibility chart to ensure your pump is application-appropriate.
Trusted for almost 40 years by global brands you know and use daily, Versamatic manufactures AODD pumps for a wide range of industries and applications. Versamatic’s full line of bolted metal, bolted plastic and clamped metal AODD pumps are offered in a variety of sizes and flow rates.
With outstanding durability and reliability, Versamatic pumps operate in some of the most demanding conditions in the world. All Versamatic products, including a comprehensive line of accessories for metal and plastic AODD pumps, are backed by decades of engineering expertise and an industry-leading after-sales support team to keep your pumps working at the highest level possible.
When you have a pumping problem, you need to solve it — fast. Whether you’re looking for help troubleshooting your air-operated double-diaphragm (AODD) pump, you need to buy replacement parts, or you have to purchase a new pump altogether, the best place to start is with one of your pump manufacturer’s independent factory-authorized distributors.
As a reliable global air-diaphragm pump manufacturer, Versamatic has the AODD pumps that are the first choice for customers around the world who value reliability, quick delivery and convenience. Our dedicated team of distributors is always available to provide excellent service and advice.
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