Myriad manufacturing processes rely on a chemical drum pump. These pumps make it simple and safe to transfer harsh substances from barrels, tanks, drums, and IBCs/totes. They range from modest to highly-engineered devices and are used for pumping a wide variety of chemicals. Across the spectrum, regardless of the application, selection and use of a chemical drum pump is most effective when specifiers and operators follow five key principles.
Effective use of a chemical drum pump requires selecting the right pump for the job. Several factors are important to consider.
What is the required head and flow for your application? If your process involves unique operations, you may need to choose a pump that is designed for higher flow and pressure rates.
Will you need to transport pumps throughout a facility? Do you need a pump with a small footprint for tight spaces? Keep any portability needs and space parameters in mind for the most effective use of a chemical drum pump.
What substances will the pump need to handle? If any corrosive or toxic chemicals will be involved in the application, select a pump with appropriate materials of construction for these harsh conditions.
Each chemical drum pump features tubes that have temperature limits. Consider the maximum temperature of any fluids that may travel through these tubes and choose the appropriate pump construction to safely handle that temperature level.
If you will be pumping fluids with high specific gravity or viscosity ratings, you’ll need to select a specialized pump that can handle your application.
Each chemical drum pump is compatible with specific motors for optimal functioning. In addition, certain motor types are better suited for some uses than others. Common motor styles include electric, explosion-proof electric, and air. Cordless styles are also available for maximum flexibility. Be sure to consider the environment in which the pump will be used when determining whether a particular motor is suitable for the application.
One or more accessories may enhance a chemical drum pump performance or make it more suitable for a specific application. Pump manufacturers offer complete lines of accessories to make your chemical drum pump as effective as possible, including:
These are available in a variety of materials. Adapters help create a tight tube fit in the barrel allowing the tube to maintain a vertical position in the barrel.
Various nozzles allow pump operators to control the flow of the liquid.
These accessories protect pump operation by preventing damage by dirt and debris.
These helpful tools allow pump operators to measure and control the amount of liquid that is pumped, to precise amounts.
When flammable or combustible liquids are involved, these kits are used to ensure safe transfers.
The effective use of a chemical drum pump requires adherence to proper safety standards. Follow these protocols to reduce risk and increase production.
Any personnel that will be installing, operating, or maintaining a chemical drum pump must be properly trained and qualified to perform these duties.
Before using or servicing a chemical drum pump, always wear the appropriate personal protective equipment. This may include goggles, faceshields, gloves, helmet, and other garments to protect the operator from injury.
Always use and store the chemical drum pump in an upright position.
Before operating a chemical drum pump, ensure the power supply is appropriate for the motor and the motor is in the off position.
When pumping is complete, or if you will be switching chemicals, it is highly recommended to flush the chemical drum pump with clean water or other neutralizing fluid compatible with the pump materials and fluids being pumped.
For optimal performance from a chemical drum pump, always follow manufacturer specifications for installation, operation, and maintenance. While various pump styles may require different handling and care, the following tips will help optimize chemical drum pump operation in most applications.
If the pump operates dry (without fluid), this can cause overheating. The pumping elements may seize up, and the pump may fail.
Always make sure the pump’s discharge hose is properly secured to the pump tube and is being held near the open discharge end before operating the motor.
Prior to starting the chemical drum pump, insert the tube into the fluid to be dispensed and the hose into the container to be filled. If the fit is not tight, use a bung adapter to secure the tube and ensure a safe transfer.
You can follow all the best tips for effective use of a chemical drum pump, but if the pump is not a quality product, it still won’t deliver optimal results. For top performance, look for a manufacturer that offers reliable pumps.
Important manufacturer qualities include durable product construction, a complete line of pumps and accessories to serve diverse applications, an established reputation in the field, and industry-leading warranties. Finish Thompson meets all of these qualifications and more.
Our complete line of robust drum pumps can handle the toughest transfers, and our pump accessories meet the needs for a full range of applications.
Finish Thompson Inc. designs and manufactures pumps for the safe transfer of a wide variety of corrosive liquids. Products include centrifugal sealless magnetic drive pumps with run-dry capability, mechanically sealed pumps, drum and barrel pumps, vertical mag-drive pumps, multi-stage pumps, and the FTI Air line of air operated double diaphragm (AODD) pumps. For durable solutions for your applications, contact Finish Thompson Inc.
