A Quick Guide to Double Diaphragm Pumps!

Positive displacement pumps are used in almost every industry and application.  There are several varieties of industrial pumps, and many of them have advanced significantly in terms of power, design, and technology over time. The most notable examples are AODD pumps. AODD stands for air-operated double-diaphragm. Due to their immense value, they now play a crucial role in the pump selection process.

In this quick guide, we'll look at the air-operated double diaphragm pump. We'll look at how they function, what they're good for, their downsides, and some of their finest uses. Read on!

Overview of an Air-Operated Double Diaphragm Pump

AODD pumps are positive displacement pumps that employ elastomeric diaphragms and check valves to pump fluid. Ball or flap check valves are often utilized, and which one to use depends on the application's solids passing criteria. 

How does a double diaphragm pump work?

To move the diaphragm rod, these pumps employ a basic air valve mechanism.  Flexible diaphragms are circular discs (seen in white) fastened to both ends of the diaphragm rod. The pilot spool (the middle of the three horizontal rods) is pulled back and forth as the diaphragm rod nears the end of its throw.

Key Advantages and Benefits of Double Diaphragm Pumps

1. Simple to use.

Who doesn't enjoy anything simple to use, install, or assemble? One of the main advantages of AODD pumps is their simple design and construction. AODD pumps contain no close-fitting, sliding, or revolving parts; therefore, assembly is simple. They're commonly referred to as "plug and play" pumps.

2. Lightweight and portable.

This feature makes AODD pumps useful in many ways. They can be readily moved from one site to another, and they are also simple to disassemble, fix, and clean as compared to other pumps with numerous electrical components and parts.

3. Safety.

The only fuel needed for AODD pumps is compressed air. AODD pumps do not require electricity or any other fuel source, which may pose a risk to workers who operate or use them regularly. This benefits the food and beverage industries.

4. Flexibility

AODD pumps may operate dry, eliminating the need for oil or costly high-quality lubricants. As a consequence, they don't clog, stall, or cause internal harm. They also have totally sealed units, which means they might be entirely immersed in liquid.  Manufacturers frequently provide AODD pumps in a variety of sizes, with pumps capable of pumping at speeds as low as 1 gallon per minute and additional unique choices for further versatility.

Applications of Double Diaphragm Pumps

Transfer of hazardous or chemical fluids

Because they can safely handle a wide range of fluids without harming them or altering their chemical-physical properties, AODD pumps are frequently employed for transfer. Diaphragm pumps may handle the following kinds of fluids:

• paints, inks, or pigments; 

• solvents and detergents; 

• hazardous or aggressive chemicals; 

• viscous liquids.

Water Removal

AODD pumps are frequently used for drainage or water removal tasks. The AODD pump is an essential instrument for controlling dehydration activities throughout any period of water buildup in a region. The primary concerns of application contexts are:

• construction or industrial areas

• mining or quarrying sites

• drainage tanks close to industrial units

• industrial wells

Cleaning and Spraying

AODD pumps are a great instrument for cleaning surfaces or spraying different kinds of materials because they are efficient and long-lasting. The air-operated double diaphragm pump can distribute cleaning agents, paints, and other fluids at a steady speed while maintaining the right corrosion resistance thanks to its unique design configuration and the use of suitable materials. The following are the primary applications:

• surface cleaning

• paint spraying

• detergent 

• protective fluid spraying

Dosage

Diaphragm pumps are perfect for managing the dosing operations of certain fluid types in recipients with considerable dimensional variability because of their technological features. The primary operations that can be managed are

• Chemical product dosing

• paint and solvent dosing systems

• glues and solvents dosing

• Dosage of food ingredients

• Dosing of chemicals for water purification.

Why Double Diaphragm Pumps?

The AODD pump is a flexible workhorse that allows customers from a wide range of industries to rely on a single pump type to handle a wide range of fluids. As long as there is a compressed air supply available, the pump may be mounted anywhere it is needed, and if circumstances change, it can be easily moved about a factory and switched to other tasks. Whether the fluid being handled demands a delicate pumping action, is chemically or physically hostile, the positive displacement AODD pump is an effective and low-maintenance option.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is a double diaphragm pump?

An AODD pump is a type of pump that uses two flexible diaphragms to move liquids. It works by creating suction and pressure using compressed air or electricity.

What types of liquids can a double diaphragm pump handle?

It can handle water, oils, chemicals, slurries, food products, and even liquids with small solids.

Do these pumps need electricity to work?

Some models run on compressed air, while others are electric. Air-operated pumps are popular because they are safer in explosive or wet environments.

Are double diaphragm pumps easy to maintain?

Yes, they have a simple design, fewer moving parts, and are easy to clean and service.

Can a double-diaphragm pump run dry?

Most models can run dry without damage, making them reliable in applications where liquid flow may stop.