What’s A Drum Pump?
Drum pumps are portable pumps used to empty barrels, tanks, carboys, IBCs, and drums. As a majority of the liquids used in processing and manufacturing plants are delivered in either 100 or 200-litre drums, they usually are too heavy to tip over for the fluids inside to be emptied.
Why Use One?
Drum pumps, for example, REKO pumps, are made to provide a safe and easy way to transfer virtually all chemicals from barrels and drums. There are many models and tube lengths available, so every customer’s needs and requirements are going to be met.
Step 1: Determine Your Application’s Requirements
You must determine what you want the pump for before making your decision so that you pick the right pump series, motor type, tube construction, and accessories.
Required flow and head – Drum pumps are normally used for simple transfer jobs; though some require a higher flow rate (to empty larger tanks or IBCs) or higher (pressure) head capabilities (for the transfer of liquids to elevated positions like to a second floor or the top of a machine, or to pump fluids with a higher viscosity.)
Chemical type or name – This is information is crucial and is critical in ensuring that the materials used to construct the pump’s tube are compatible with the liquid being pumped. Furthermore, it’s crucial that you determine if the liquid is combustible or highly flammable.
Temperature of the liquid being pumped – Drum pump tubes normally have temperature limits with a tube’s maximum temperature threshold being determined by its length, the tube series, and construction.
Specific viscosity and gravity – Each drum pump series has its strengths when pumping liquids with a gravity greater than 1 or a viscosity greater than 1cP. A drum’s capabilities are determined by its design and how powerful the motor driving the machine is!
Container size – The tube length of a drum pump will change depending on the size of the container being emptied. For instance, to empty a standard 45-gallon/200-liter drum, you will need a 100-centimeter-long pump tube. Tanks and IBCs may need longer tubes. The tubes required to empty 15 to 30-gallon drums/containers don’t necessarily have to be that long.
Motor preference – Consider if the site has specific motor style preferences – air, electric, or explosion-proof electric. If you are going for an electric motor, remember to consider the voltage required.
Step 2: Select the Right Tube Material and FTI Pump Series
Once you’ve established your requirements, it is time to choose an FTI pump that will get the job done.
Pick pump tube materials that are compatible with your applications. Start by considering the outer tube’s material. The available materials include CPVC, PVDF, 316 stainless steel, or pure polypropylene.
Make sure you use a chemical resistance guide to pick the right outer tube material. Always go for a material that’s resistant to the substance being pumped. Looking for a chemical resistance guide? You can find one on our “Useful Information” page.
Please note that pump tubes contain other materials in them that’ll be coming into contact with the liquid/fluid being pumped plus the material on the outer part of the tube.
Step 3: Select the Right FTI Motor
Select the most-appropriate motor: using available motor preference information, pick a motor that best suits your needs and that meets all of your requirements. Please note that not all motors can be used on every type of pump.
If the fluid being pumped is combustible or flammable, or the area the pump is being used is hazardous, make sure you use an air drive or explosion-proof motor on a pump tube made of stainless steel that comes with our static protection kit.
Step 4: Pick Your Accessories
Hose – Flexible PVC
Drum Adapters – Ensure the tube fits tightly inside the drum. Adapters are available in various construction materials.
Static Protection Kit – For safer transfer of combustible or flammable liquids when used with air or explosion-proof electric motors or stainless-steel tubes.
Lubricator/Filter Assembly – Ensures a well-lubricated, dry air supply for air drive motors.
Flow Meters – Allow for the accurate measurement of liquids being emptied/pumped
Strainers – Protect pumps from damage by foreign substances/objects.
Nozzles – Allows users to control the flow of liquids