When it comes to selecting air-operated double-diaphragm (AODD) pump materials, there are some rules of thumb.
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For example, metal AODD pumps are commonly used in high-pressure applications and environments that require grounding. Stainless steel, in particular, is a go-to choice for food and personal care applications due to FDA requirements. On the other hand, plastic AODD pumps are frequently used in chemical and petrochemical applications because they resist corrosion.
With consumable parts and accessories such as diaphragms, valve balls, valve seats, and valve seat o-rings, it all starts with chemical compatibility. For instance, FDA-compliant Hytrel is typically used for food processing.
It’s important to remember these are not hard-and-fast rules. Selecting an AODD pump is more complex than following any one general piece of advice. The decision often requires the process of elimination starting with the material you’re pumping, then accounting for your budget and other factors.
While selecting the right materials for an AODD pump is nuanced, it doesn’t mean you’re on your own. Versamatic application engineers and distributors are always available to help you choose the right diaphragm pump materials for your operation.
We wrote this blog post as a guide to common questions about AODD pump material selection.
Which AODD pump should I buy?
The short answer is “it depends.” The Versamatic team has answered this question countless times — so much so that we’ve consolidated our knowledge into an invaluable online Pump Selection Tool. With basic information such as fluid type, desired flow rate, and more, this tool helps you narrow down your choice of pumps to best meet the need of your specific application.
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How do I know what material I should choose for my pumping needs?
Pump users should start by knowing the following four characteristics of the fluid they’re pumping: chemical compatibility, temperature, abrasiveness, and viscosity. Refer to your pump manufacturer’s chemical compatibility guide as a starting point.
Certifications are another important consideration. For example, is your pump ATEX certified (this is a common requirement in mining)? Or, do you need to ensure you’re using FDA-approved materials? Those questions will often drive your pump casting material and elastomer selections.
What materials do AODD pumps come in?
AODD pumps come in two main casting options: metal and plastic. Metal options include aluminum, cast iron, or stainless steel in clamped construction and aluminum or stainless steel in bolted construction. Plastic AODD pumps are constructed of polypropylene, PVDF, and conductive polypropylene.
What are the benefits of metal AODD pumps?
The benefits of metal AODD pumps include:
- Durability and longevity
- Ability to handle solids up to 0.50” (12.7mm)
- Ability to be grounded and ATEX compliant for safety in potentially explosive environments
- Cost-effectiveness (aluminum and cast iron)
- Robustness is ideal for mobile pump applications like mine dewatering
- Abrasion-resistance for abrasive materials like ceramics
- Clamped construction option allows for quick disassembly, cleaning, and maintenance
- Compatible with a wide range of temperatures
- Unaffected by sunlight’s UV rays
What are the benefits of plastic AODD pumps?
Plastic AODD pump benefits include:
- Lightweight construction
- Chemical resistance
- Range and diversity of sizes and applications
- Submergible and portable
- Bolted construction offers leak-free operation
What materials are used for AODD pump diaphragms, balls, seals, and valves?
AODD pump diaphragms, balls, seals, and valves, also known as elastomers, come in a variety of materials. Knowing which one is right for your application is more complicated than the metal vs. plastic discussion. You must account for the price point, temperature, chemical compatibility, abrasiveness, flex life, and other factors.