Drum pumps are fluid handling equipment that safely and efficiently transfers liquids from barrels, drums, and containers. They are critical systems that prevent spills, reduce manual handling and labor, as well as ensure a safe working environment for personnel across various industries and applications. Due to their capabilities, drum pumps provide a suitable solution for chemical processing, food and beverage operations, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and more.
How Does a Drum Pump Work?
Generally, drum pumps operate by positioning the suction pipe into the container of the liquid to be transferred, and then the pump is activated to create a vacuum inside the suction pipe. The suction forces the liquid to travel upward from the drum and is discharged from the spout for controlled and efficient transfer. Drum pumps utilize a manual or powered motor, a pump tube, intake and discharge, as well as seals to achieve their operation. These components work together by:
- Motor: Sits on the immersion tube to power the pump.
- Immersion tube: Inserts into the container for transfer and is attached to the top for security.
- Pump: Located at the lower end of the immersion tube, operates to push liquid through the tube to the discharge.
Benefits of Drum Pump Equipment
Drum pumps provide a safe and efficient method for fluid transfer. Compared to traditional methods of siphoning or pouring, drum pumps reduce the need for manual efforts, such as lifting, for a streamlined solution in your facility. They offer portability and ease of use benefits to reduce downtime and improve productivity while providing a cleaner working environment through the following advantages:
- Faster and more controlled fluid dispensing
- Consistent flow rates for operational efficiency
- Minimizes risks of spills or leaks
- Reduces direct contact with hazardous or corrosive materials
Types of Drum Pumps for Fluid Handling
Depending on the needs of your operation, different types of drum pumps are designed to suit specific properties for fluid handling applications. It is essential to choose the right pump system configuration to reduce spills, contamination, and equipment damage while improving productivity and minimizing facility downtime. Types of drum pump systems include:
Piston Drum Pumps
Designed with a manual piston action to draw in and dispense fluid,
piston drum pumps are suited to low-volume transfers, oils, and lubricants. This pump configuration uses powerful suction and consistent flow to deliver a simple, effective solution that is suitable for viscous fluids and cost-effective operations.
Rotary Drum Pumps
Using manual rotary action and a crank to move fluid,
rotary drum pumps offer a steady and smooth flow for fluid transfer applications. Their continuous flow capabilities, ease of use, and versatility provide an ideal solution for applications that involve solvents, fuels, and light oils.
Electric Drum Pumps
Electric drum pumps use an electric motor to power the pump mechanism. It is a highly efficient design with the capability to handle large volumes with reduced manual effort, providing effective operation for frequent transfers, corrosive fluids, or hazardous chemicals.
Air-Operated Drum Pumps
Air-operated drum pumps utilize pneumatic power to operate the equipment. This type of drum pump offers intrinsic security in hazardous environments with variable flow rates for a solution that prioritizes workplace safety, as well as handles flammable substances where compressed air is available.
Find Drum Pump Solutions for Your Facility at Springer Parts
Springer Parts provides a selection of state-of-the-art
pump solutions for industrial and hygienic process equipment, including drum pumps and
replacement pump parts. With direct replacement and OEM components, our inventory is competitively priced, about 20-40% cheaper than OEM, featuring specifications and warranties to meet or exceed OEM offerings. To discover pump solutions that match your requirements,
contact us.
