What Are the Best Pumps for Electroplating?

The Best Pumps for Electroplating | Finish Thompson

Both function and aesthetics are important considerations for electroplating processes. The applications involved must be precise and reliable to facilitate effective electroplating and achieve the desired results. From mixing the electrolytic solution to emptying tanks to treating wastewater, pumps are key to these processes.

For each application, certain pumps are better suited than others. Whether these applications are for the automotive industry, electronics, medical settings, oil and gas market, or aerospace engineering, choosing the best pumps for electroplating is crucial. Pumps play an integral role in electroplating and choosing the best pump available is imperative.

Typical Pump Applications for Electroplating

Plating tank mixing: Solution-mixing is a vital component of electroplating. Multiple pumps are involved in mixing chemicals, adjusting pH levels, and circulating tank solutions. The right pump provides quick, efficient mixing for optimal plating solutions.

Filter systems: Creating high-quality finishes through electroplating requires effective filter systems. With the right pumps in place, the process of effectively removing contaminants and particles to achieve optimal cleanliness can be achieved. The right pump and motor will provide the desired flow rate and pressure for filter applications. Often, sealless mag-drive pumps are an ideal choice for these systems because they eliminate leak issues.

Tank emptying and filling: Electroplating processes require repeated tank emptying and filling. For top production, pumps must be capable of emptying and filling tanks quickly and efficiently. They must also offer appropriate placement options to integrate with the electroplating systems, such as horizontal placement or positioning above or below a tank.

Chemical transfers: Pumps for electroplating handle harsh chemicals that are used in tank solutions and cleaning processes. Pumps transfer chemicals from storage tanks or assist with the mixing of chemical solutions. Various drum pumps are often used in these applications. Any pump chosen must be built to withstand these conditions and safely manage the chemicals involved.

Wastewater treatment: As with many industrial processes, electroplating creates wastewater, which must be treated appropriately. The right pumps are important to assist with this treatment process, from transferring the water itself to handling the chemicals used during treatment.

Finish Thompson Offers a Complete Line of Pumps for Electroplating

This industry has diverse needs, and Finish Thompson offers diverse solutions to meet them. Learn more about Finish Thompson's comprehensive pump offerings for the electroplating market.

DB Series Pumps

These sealless centrifugal pumps are designed to handle the harshest chemicals. Their corrosion-resistant design makes them ideal for the corrosive chemical transfers involved in electroplating and anodizing.

  • Mag-drive design eliminates mechanical seal
  • Run-dry capability reduces risk of system failure

SP Series Pumps

These magnetically coupled centrifugal pumps offer a self-priming option. To integrate with various electroplating systems, they can lift fluid from as deep as twenty-five feet or pull liquid from the top of a tank.

  • Eliminates side-wall bulkhead fittings
  • Corrosion-resistant design for harsh chemical environments

UC Series

Constructed from ductile iron, with ETFE lining, these pumps offer reliability in extreme electroplating applications. Plus, there is no seal, so there are no leaks.

  • Mag-drive engineering provides dependable, leak-free operation
  • ANSI dimensional, corrosion-resistant design

GP Series Pumps

The GP series is available with a wide range of impeller diameters for electroplating application flexibility. These pumps deliver maximum suction pressure and accept NEMA or IEC metric motors.

  • Modular design for component interchangeability
  • Corrosion-resistant construction

AC Series Pumps

With heavy-gage 316 stainless steel construction, AC pumps provide long, dependable operation for harsh electroplating environments. They are built to handle higher loads and high temperatures.

  • Centrifugal design provides pulseless flow
  • Compact horizontal pump available in multiple sizes

VKC Series Pumps

This vertical mag-drive pump series provides reliable operation and flexibility for a variety of electroplating applications. The sealless design eliminates the need for wetted shaft bearings.

  • No aeration and no microbubbles
  • Airtight design reduces emissions

Drum Pumps

Finish Thompson’s drum pumps are ideal for use with barrels, totes, IBCs, drums, and other containers used for electroplating applications. Top choices for this industry include:

EF Series

  • Ideal replacement for hand pumps
  • Handles plating solutions, cleaners, acids, and bases

PF Series

  • High flow rates and high discharge pressure
  • Handles plating solutions, cleaners, and viscosity up to 2,000 cP

AODD Pumps

FTI Air pumps are powered by compressed air and can handle solids and abrasives. Their streamlined design makes them easy to operate and maintain.

  • Chemical resistance for use with corrosive electroplating chemicals
  • Non-stalling air valve provides reliable and durable operation

About Finish Thompson

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.