AODD Pump Selection Guide
Choosing the right diaphragm pump matters. The wrong material or size will cost you more in the long run. Here’s how to get it right first time.
Six Steps to Specifying the Right Pump
Required flow rate
What volume per hour or minute do you need to transfer? AODD pumps range from fractional litres/min (¼” pumps) up to 1,000+ litres/min (3″ pumps). Flow rate determines the basic pump size.
Fluid characteristics
Is the fluid corrosive, abrasive, viscous or flammable? Fluid type determines the wetted materials — body material (polypropylene, PVDF, aluminium, stainless) and diaphragm/valve material (PTFE, Santoprene, Neoprene, EPDM).
Required discharge pressure
What pressure does the pump need to overcome? AODD pumps can typically generate pressure equal to the air supply pressure (up to 8 bar on most models). Check the pump curve for your required pressure at the required flow.
Suction conditions
Is the pump flooded or does it need to lift fluid? AODD pumps can typically self-prime and lift fluid up to 7 metres, but this reduces with viscosity. Also consider whether dry-running is possible — AODD pumps tolerate it better than most.
Body material
Polypropylene and PVDF for chemical duty. Aluminium and stainless for general and food applications. Grounded metallic bodies for flammable fluids. The fluid’s chemical compatibility table should be checked for every wetted material.
Diaphragm and valve material
PTFE for the widest chemical resistance. Santoprene for good general duty and long life. Neoprene for oils and fuels. EPDM for water-based fluids and mild chemicals. Valve balls must match fluid compatibility too.