Should AODD Pumps be Considered for Chemical Processes ?

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AODD Pumps and Chemical Process

AODD pumps hit the operational sweet spot in many of the fluid handling tasks that are prevalent in the chemical processing industry.  Chemical processors who are looking to optimize their operations would be wise to consider the advantages that AODD pumps can provide in these areas.

There are four key reasons AODD pumps often outperform other technologies in terms of efficient, reliable and cost-effective operation.  Compressed air, Long lasting diaphragms, Versatility & compatibility and Pump construction.

Air – AODD pumps relies on compressed air, which can be found in most chemical-processing plants around the world. Leveraging this readily available air can make the AODD pump a plug- and-play device that requires no infrastructure upgrades to incorporate. Additionally, the use of air to power the pump is the key source of one of its most sought-after capabilities: the ability to deadhead without damaging the pump, system or fluid.   Today’s AODD designs have even incorporated an air saving feature that will save your plant up to 60% of your compressed air costs.

Diaphragms – AODDs are a “set- and-forget” type of pump, provided the right diaphragms are selected for the application. Diaphragm material choice, shape and pump design all play a role.  Long-life diaphragms that have been engineered for use in chemical- processing activities require less maintenance, which lowers repair costs for the operator. One piston diaphragm pump has an outer piston that is completely encapsulated within the diaphragm’s thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) material, which provides several benefits.

Versatility & Reliability – Chemical Process pumps must possess the versatility to perform reliably and efficiently at any number of points in the production hierarchy.  AODD pumps meet this need.

    • They are appropriate for use with high-viscosity fluids and can handle fluids that range from water-like to medium and very viscous liquids.
    • They can run dry and strip discharge lines without getting damaged. If the pressures get to be too much, the pump will just stop running, but it will not break.
    • They are simple devices and their control relies solely on solenoid operators, pump cycle counters and surge-dampener assemblies.
    • Their operating costs can be lower when all of the maintenance, accessories and controllers are included, and in many cases their total cost of ownership is lower over their entire operational lifespan when compared to competitive pump styles.

Pump Construction – Quality pump construction is key when handling dangerous chemicals, and using a pump designed with the right materials is important to the safety of a plant. To satisfy these demands, AODD pumps are available in a wide range of materials of construction in order to meet a variety of chemical handling needs. Common chemical pump materials include polypropylene, Kynar, stainless steel, ductile iron and Hastelloy, while special materials can also be specified as the application demands.

Say Yes to AODD for Chemical Processes

The AODD pump, which possesses a stable of notable operational characteristics, has become a first-choice technology for chemical manufacturers who are searching for a pump that meshes cost-conscious air consumption with reliable production rates. In addition to the features mentioned above, they also

    • operate without seals
    • self-prime
    • run dry
    • achieve suction lift up to 30 feet (9 meters or 14.7 pounds per square inch absolute [psia])
    • resist deadhead pumping conditions
    • operate while submerged
    • pass solids up to 3 inches (76 millimeters [mm]) in diameter

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This article summary was taken from the full article,  written by Erik Solfelt of Wilden Pump. 

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