Specifying Your Air Operated Diaphragm Pump

Choosing the Right Air Operated Diaphragm Pump

When specifying an air-operated diaphragm pump, it's essential to gather detailed information to ensure optimal performance. As one source states, these pumps are widely recognized for their versatility, and selecting the correct specifications can lead to enhanced efficiency in various applications.

Key Considerations for Pump Specification

Several important factors should be kept in mind to get the right pump on the first try:

1. Name of the liquid being pumped.
2. Required flow rate.
3. Viscosity at the pumping temperature.
4. Specific gravity of the fluid.
5. Presence of particulates in the liquid, including size and abrasiveness.
6. Maximum and minimum temperatures of the liquid or cleaning agents used.
7. Position of the liquid relative to the pump, whether it is above or below the pump's inlet.
8. Destination of the liquid, ensuring to account for elevation differences.
9. Diameter of any existing or proposed suction and delivery pipes.
10. Certification requirements when necessary.

Identifying the Liquid to Be Pumped

• Utilize chemical compatibility charts to select an appropriate material for the pump body and manifolds.
• Choose diaphragm materials accordingly, typically PTFE-faced, or consider solid nitrile or EPDM options that may be available.

Determining Required Flow Rate

• Refer to flow charts to identify suitable models within the pump range.
• Avoid selecting a pump at its maximum capacity for continuous applications; aim for operation between 25% and 75% of its performance level.

Understanding Viscosity at Pumping Temperatures

• Most flow curves are based on water with a viscosity of 1 cP.
• Increased viscosity may impact pump performance; assess friction losses in piping before finalizing pump specs.
• Over-sizing the pump and running it at lower speeds may be beneficial.
• Position the pump close to the liquid source and maintain straight pipe runs with a diameter matching the pump inlet.

Specific Gravity Considerations

• Flow rates are typically calculated based on water having an SG of 1.
• Higher specific gravities can further complicate pump performance, particularly in situations requiring suction lift.

Particulate Characteristics in the Liquid

• Ensure that ball and manifold clearances are sufficient to allow particles to pass without obstruction.
• For abrasive liquids, consider using hardened components in the pump for better resistance.

Temperature Tolerance of Liquids and Cleaning Agents

• Select pump materials that can withstand maximum temperatures—Stainless Steel and PTFE pumps are rated for up to 135°C.
• Differentiated diaphragm ratings are also available, with standard options reaching temperatures of 100°C and high-temperature alternatives rated at 135°C.

Analyzing Liquid Position and Transportation Needs

• If the liquid is positioned below the pump, you're dealing with a suction lift; standard AODD pumps can typically manage a dry lift of 3.6 meters and a wet lift of 8.2 meters.
• For liquids located in tanks above the pump, consider using reinforced diaphragms for setups exceeding 5 meters in height.

Pipe Size Determinations

• Match the pump's inlet and outlet sizes with the connected pipework whenever possible.
• Avoid constructing a larger inlet connection on the pump than the diameter of the suction pipework.

Certification Considerations

Many pump manufacturers, such as Flotronic, offer models with all necessary certifications to meet various industry requirements.

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