Air-operated double-diaphragm (AODD) pumps are a popular choice among various industries because of their ability to handle fluids of various kinds, including viscous, abrasive, and shear-sensitive materials, while offering reliability, cost-effectiveness and performance. If you are a buyer trying to understand
AODD pumps, how they work, their features, and what to keep in mind before buying them, this article is for you.
First things first, what are AODD pumps? Well, AODD pumps are positive displacement pumps that work by using compressed air as the primary source of energy. A typical AODD pump features two diaphragms, which are connected by something called a shaft. Once powered on, compressed air is supplied to the pump to move one diaphragm outward. This creates a suction effect in one chamber, letting the fluid in via the inlet valve. While all this happens, the other chamber has the second diaphragm pushed inward by the compressed air, forcing the liquid out via the outlet valve. This continuous motion allows for a steady, consistent fluid movement.
Advantages of AODD pumps
AODD pumps are self-primed
Designed for dry suction lift, AODD pumps can operate even in dry run conditions. This capability is essential in industries where inconsistent fluid supply is a recurring issue.
AODD pumps are versatile
Built with robust material that can last for years, AODD pumps are known for handling various kinds of fluids, no matter how viscous they are or how many solids they contain.
AODD pumps are safe
AODD pumps are powered by compressed air and can work under high-pressure conditions, making them a safe option for operators.
Which industries use AODD pumps?
Oil & gas industry
The oil and gas industry uses AODD pumps with a slight change – they use natural gas to power the pump. In oil & gas applications, AODD pumps are used to displace various kinds of fluids, including ultra-pure and solid-laden fluids.
Chemical Processing
The chemical processing industry requires pumps which can handle aggressive and corrosive fluids without giving up. And AODD pumps do exactly that.
Food & beverage
AODD pumps are known to maintain hygiene standards, which are non-negotiable when handling food-grade materials. In the food industry, AODD pumps are used to transfer liquids, semi-solids, pastes, etc.
Pharmaceutical
AODD pumps are designed to offer a leak-free operation, making them ideal for the pharmaceutical industry, where a contamination-free environment is everything.
Mining
AODD pumps are known to effectively handle slurries and other aggressive fluids associated with the mining industry.
Factors to consider while buying an AODD pump
Now that you have gone through the basics of
AODD pumps, there are a few things you should consider from a buyer’s perspective before you decide to select an AODD pump.
Flow rate
Before zeroing in on a pump make and model, you need to consider the exact flow rate of the fluid that your facility needs to handle. Most reputed AODD pump brands have multiple design options to handle various flow rates.
Compatibility with the fluid
It is also important to check if the fluid to be handled is compatible with the shortlisted AODD pump. You must check the material used in making the house of the pump, diaphragms, seats, balls, etc., to ensure it performs well for years. At the same time, you should also check if the pump can handle the viscosity of the fluid. For example, highly viscous fluids require larger suction and discharge ports for effective movement.
Pressure and temperature range
Every application has to work in certain temperature and pressure ranges. It is a good idea to check if the selected AODD pump can operate within those ranges.
Logistics and Mounting Options
Based on the location of your facility, it is suggested that you also factor in the logistics part of things. You can select between portable or fixed-mounted AODD pumps per your application’s requirements.
Certifications and Standards
This should actually be one of the first things to consider. Any pump that is not certified by a recognised body is a waste of resources.
The brand
Lastly, it is strongly advised to go for a brand that is known by industry members for its quality products.
One such brand is Sandpiper, which has been a pioneer in the AODD pump space since 1965. Working under the IDEX umbrella, Sandpiper operates out of Ahmedabad in India. All Sandpiper pumps are self-primed, have low shearing, feature all bolted construction, and are designed for leak-proof performance. Sandpiper pumps have excellent solid handling capability and are abrasion-resistant.
Below are a few compelling reasons to consider Sandpiper pumps:
- Capability to handle high pressures
- Ball check valve design which offers high-flow pumping
- Durable diaphragms and diaphragm connecting rods
- Five-year limited product warranty on all pumps
To know more about Sandpiper pumps and their features,
please visit their website:
https://www.idexindia.in/sandpiper/
