Air Operated Double Diaphragm (AODD) Pumps
Air Operated Double Diaphragm Pumps (AODD) are a type of pneumatic pump that is capable of transferring abrasive, highly viscous fluids, sludge or slurries. Sometimes known as an Air Driven Double Diaphragm Pump, Air Operated Double Diaphragm Pumps are easy to install and operate. They are capable of dry running, self-priming and even submersible operation, an AODD Pump is an extremely versatile option.
They technology behind Air Operated Double Diaphragm Pumps is relatively simple and very well established, the Diaphragm AODD pump is used in a wide range of industries for pumping a variety of fluids. Air Operated Double Diaphragm Pumps have the obvious advantage of being suitable for applications where electrical operation is not desirable or not practical. An Air Operated Double Diaphragm pump can be used in an situation where a suitable compressed air supply is available. As there is not requirement for complicated and potentially dangerous electrical connections, Air Operated Diaphragm Pumps can usually be installed and operated lower skilled operatives. This ease of connection also makes Air Diaphragms pumps very suitable for mobile or temporary installation.
Low and high viscous liquids, alkalis or acids, abrasive and corrosive materials handled easily
No rotating parts mean fluids with solids can be pumped easily
Dry start, self-priming, can run dry without damage or overheating
Portable, simple and flexible installation Can be installed with flooded suction condition and possible to submerged installation
Easy to control flow by adjustment of air inlet and system pressure
Simple design - Easy maintenance
A common application is for the transfer of liquids from delivery containers such as IBCs. Instead of a typical fixed centrifugal transfer pump, an Diaphragm Transfer pump can place beside or on top of the IBC. The use of an Air Operated Transfer Pump allows far greater flexibility of operation. The Air operated Transfer Pump can be brought out as and when required and the IBC does have to be placed in an exact location next to the pump.
AODD pumps are among a wide range of pump types available from Michael Smith Engineers Limited who have been representing Finish Thompson AODD Pumps in the UK since 1978. So we have the knowledge and expertise to help you select the correct Diaphragm AODD Pump for your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum pressure for an air-operated diaphragm pump?
The theoretical maximum discharge pressure for an AODD Pump would be 8 bar. However that would depend on the operating conditions and the flowrate required.
What is the maximum flow rate of diaphragm pump?
The flow rate depends mainly on the size of the diaphragm pump, but also on the pumped liquid and the air supply available. An FTI Air FT30 AODD pump can deliver a theoretical flow rate of over 900 litres per minute.
How much air does an air diaphragm pump use?
This will depend on the size of the air diaphragm pump being used, the flow rate required, and the nature of the fluid being pumped. This can range from less than 10 Nm3/hr for an FTI Air FT05 to over 250 Nm3/hr for an FTI Air FT30.
What are the limitations of a diaphragm pump?
Due to the operating principle of a AODD pump, they are not suitable for applications where pulsation undesirable. In some circumstances they can also be less efficient that other pump types.
What is the operating temperature of a diaphragm pump?
This will depend on the material of construction of the AODD pump. FTI Air double diaphragm pumps are available in polypropylene, PVDF, aluminium and stainless steel. A polypropylene AODD pump ahs a maximum operating temperature of 70°C, for PVDF it is 104°C. For aluminium and stainless steel AODD Pumps, the operating temperature is dependent on the other pump components such as seals, O rings and diaphragms.
What causes diaphragm pump failure?
The most common cause of failure for AODD Pumps and indeed any pump, is selecting the wrong sized pump and/or material for the application. That is why it is essential to consult the chemical compatibility chart prior to selecting a pump for your application. Some components in the pump will fail eventually due to normal wear in tear. In particular the diaphragms are subject to constant flexing and so will inevitably fail at some point. Replacement diaphragm kits are readily available from Michael Smith Engineers Ltd.
What material is used for air diaphragm pump?
FTI Air double diaphragm pumps are available in polypropylene, PVDF, aluminium and stainless steel. Diaphragms, seals, O rings and other components are available in a wide range of materials dependant on the application and the liquid being pumped.
How much do AODD pumps cost?
Prices are shown above for all FTI Air AODD pumps in our standard inventory.
How can I control the flow rate in an air-operated pump?
The recommended method is by the use of a filter/regulator valve, available from this site. The specific model will depend on the size of AODD pump, but a typical model for smaller air diaphragm pumps is shown here.
Does a pump that uses more air volume also use more energy?
Yes, the larger the pump and the higher the flow rate then more air volume is needed. Thus more energy is required to produce that air. This is why it is important that the correct size pump is selected for the application.
