Almost everything we use in our everyday lives has a direct relationship to chemistry in one way or another. Hundreds or industries rely on dangerous, toxic, sometimes explosive chemicals to perform everyday tasks in countless processes and applications. For this reason, the global output of the chemicals industry is expected to accelerate in the next few years. In fact, as a whole, the chemical industry has experienced increased growth in all major sectors since the economic downturn of 2008.
One example of this growth can be seen through the growing opportunities within the industry for pumping technologies that have been specifically designed to handle the challenges associated with the transfer of dangerous chemicals. In most cases, Air-Operated Double Diaphragm (AODD) pumps are the ideal pumps of choice for safely and efficiently handling and transferring dangerous chemicals. Here are some important features that must be evaluated before putting a pump into the service of dangerous media:
- Containment: the seal is critical
- Ability to run dry
- Gentle handling of fluid (shear-sensitivity)
- Consistent flow rates and deadheading
- Self-priming
When reviewing the list above, it becomes even more evident that AODD pumps are the superior choice when it comes to handling dangerous chemicals. AODD pumps are reciprocating, positive-displacement type pumps that only have a few wetted parts and are driven by an air distribution system rather than an electric motor. This allows AODD pumps to run dry and shut-off without damage, while their self-priming capabilities give AODD pumps superior suction lift over competitive technologies. Designed without the need for mechanical seals, AODD pumps remove the potential for chemical leakage and product exposure often associated with mechanical seal failures. AODD pumps also provide users with consistent flow rates for increased energy consumption. In addition, AODD pumps provide a gentle pumping action, which eliminates shearing that can damage or alter the chemical properties.
For more information on the benefits of selecting AODD pumping technology, check out the following items:
Chemical Pumps On Display
When speaking specifically about technologies for the dangerous chemicals market, close to 200,000 attendees at the recent ACHEMA 2012 Show in Germany had the opportunity to view some of the leading pumping solutions for the safe and efficient transfer of dangerous chemicals. At this year’s ACHEMA – the largest chemical trade show in the world – an emphasis was placed on providing solutions that not only have the ability to safely handle chemicals, but also do so in the most energy-efficient manner possible.
If you could not attend the show, you can take a tour of two of the Pump Solutions Group (PSG®) booths from the show by clicking on the videos below:
