Selecting the right Diaphragm Pump for your operation involves considering several key factors, including the media you’re pumping, the pressure, and facility and requirements of the application.
The Diaphragm range we offer at Tapflo UK are suited to industrial and hygienic applications, including Food & Beverage, Pharmaceutical, Cosmetic and Chemical processing. Built with 70% less components than other AODs. They self-prime up to 9m, handle corrosive & viscous fluids with ease.
What is a Diaphragm Pump?
A Diaphragm Pump is a type of Positive Displacement Pump that uses two flexible internal diaphragms, typically manufactured from PTFE or rubber, which operate simultaneously to generate pressure and transfer fluid through the pump. The diaphragms control the internal valves on either side of the pump, regulating flow direction and the volume of fluid delivered to the discharge outlet.
Tapflo UK’s diaphragm pumps offer reliable, self-priming performance up to 9m. Versatile and durable, they handle high flow rates at relatively low pressures, making them a dependable solution for a wide range of demanding industrial applications.
Selecting the Right Diaphragm Pump
Choosing the right Diaphragm Pump isn’t simply about finding the best pump for the particular media; it also depends on other factors such as:
- Fluid Compatibility: Ensure the pump materials are compatible with the fluid you intend to handle, as some fluids will corrode certain pump components.
- Flow Rate and Pressure: Determine your required flow rate (LPM: Litres Per Minute or GPM: Gallons Per Minute) and the maximum pressure (Bar or PSI) the pump must deliver, then match that with the pump’s specifications.
- Suction and Discharge Ports: Ensure the size and type of suction and discharge ports match piping and system requirements.
- Viscosity: Consider the viscosity of the fluid being pumped. Diaphragm Pumps can handle a wide range of viscosities.
- Temperature Range: Ensure the pump can handle the fluid’s temperature range.
- Solids Handling: If your fluid contains solids, select a Diaphragm Pump designed for solids handling, or install appropriate filters/strainers.
- Chemical Resistance: If you’re dealing with chemicals, choose chemically resistant diaphragm materials.
- Power Source: Determine the power source available (electric, pneumatic, hydraulic) and select a pump that matches it.
- Noise and Vibration: Assess the environment for noise and vibration restrictions, as some Diaphragm Pumps are quieter than others.
- Maintenance and Serviceability: Consider ease of maintenance and spare-part availability for long-term cost-effectiveness.
- Safety Features: Look for safety features like overload protection and leak detection, especially when handling hazardous materials.
- Certifications: Check whether the pump meets industry-specific certifications or standards required for your application.
- Manufacturer Reputation: Choose a reputable manufacturer with a track record of producing reliable Diaphragm Pumps, such as Tapflo UK.
- Consultation: If you’re unsure, consult a Tapflo UK specialist for personalised guidance based on your specific application.
Consulting with manufacturers like Tapflo UK is essential when selecting a Diaphragm Pump. They can recommend the right pump model, size, configuration and assess compatibility with fluids and environmental factors. They can also advise on safety features and compliance.
Additionally, manufacturers offer custom solutions, provide installation and maintenance resources, and expedite troubleshooting and support. They also consider the long-term cost of ownership and energy efficiency to optimise the investment decision.
Looking to customise your Diaphragm Pump? Perhaps you’d like to integrate it into a tailored Bespoke System? Explore our Bespoke Pump Systems to discover how we can fine-tune Diaphragm Pumps, with endless customisation options available, to perfectly match your unique needs and applications.
Diaphragm Pump Industries & Applications
Tapflo UK’s air-operated diaphragm pumps serve many applications and industries. Our range serves both industrial and hygienic sectors, offering Sanitary Diaphragm Pumps, ATEX-rated AODDs, Powder Transfer Pumps, and our Low Energy Air Pump, which suits businesses looking to reduce energy costs and their carbon footprint.
Types of Diaphragm Pump
There are many types of Diaphragm Pumps, all suited to different applications and media, including;
Hygienic: Suitable for food/beverage & cosmetic applications
- Sanitary Diaphragm Pump
- Sanitary Low Energy Diaphragm Pump
- EHEDG Aseptic Diaphragm Pump
- Diaphragm Drum Pump
Aseptic: Suitable for pharmaceutical applications
Chemical/ATEX: Suitable for hazardous or aggressive applications
- ATEX HDPE/PTFE Diaphragm Pump
- ATEX Metal Diaphragm Pump
- Barrier Diaphragm Pump
- Electric Diaphragm Pump
- Diaphragm Drum Pump
Industrial: Suitable for mining, construction, paint, oil & gas applications
Diaphragm Pump Maintenance
Tapflo Diaphragm Pumps are designed for low downtime and low maintenance cost, thanks to a design with 70% fewer parts than standard AODD pumps.
The air valve driving the pump requires no lubrication, eliminating a routine maintenance task and reducing the risk of oil contaminating the process fluid or the surrounding environment. The pumps can also run dry without damage, reducing the risk of costly failures if a supply line runs empty.
To support ongoing maintenance planning, we also offer accessories such as the Guardian System, which protects against dry running, dead-heading, and other inefficient operating conditions that shorten pump life.
Need to troubleshoot your Air-Operated Diaphragm Pump? Take a look at our Troubleshooting Guide for all you need to know!
Diaphragm Pump Accessories
Optional Diaphragm Pump accessories are available, including:
1. Diaphragm Pump Guardian System
Designed by Tapflo UK, the Guardian System protects an AODD pump from running inefficiently — a common cause of wasted energy and premature wear on internal components. It also adds a layer of safety for higher-risk applications, helping extend the installation’s working life.
2. DT Series Pulsation Dampeners
Pulsation and water hammer are two of the most common issues in diaphragm pump systems, and left unchecked, they put unnecessary strain on pipework and instrumentation. The DT Series works in tune with the pump, automatically setting the correct pressure to minimise outlet pulsations. It requires no pre-charging and is available in HDPE/PTFE, Metal, and Sanitary executions, including ATEX-rated and CIP/SIP-compatible options.
3. Insulating Covers
Available in Hygienic (Stainless Steel) and Industrial designs, these covers are custom-made to fit AODD pumps and fit without tools. They serve three purposes: sound insulation for noise-sensitive environments, thermal insulation for temperature-sensitive processes, and integrated electrical heating to keep liquid temperature stable. ATEX-compliant versions are available for hazardous areas.
4. Batch Controllers (Pneumatic & Electronic)
For applications that need precise, repeatable dosing, Tapflo’s Batch Controllers automate the transfer of a set volume of liquid or gas using the pump’s stroke count or elapsed time. The Pneumatic Batch Controller offers predetermined or timed batch control, with ATEX and internally-mounted options available. The Electronic Batch Controller takes this further, reaching a precision of 60ml per batch and adding progress indication and totaliser functions for maintenance tracking.
These accessories help make the pump bespoke to your application, support transfer requirements, and extend the pump’s life, learn more about Diaphragm Pump accessories.
