Diaphragm pumps are used across many industries because they can handle a broad range of liquids, chemicals, slurries and other challenging media. Their ability to provide reliable fluid transfer makes them suitable for applications where conventional pumps may not be the best choice.
However, selecting the right Diaphragm Pump can be challenging. Pump performance depends on factors such as the type of media being pumped, viscosity, solids content, flow rate, and application requirements.
This guide explains the common industrial and hygienic industries and applications that Diaphragm Pumps suit, why they work well for different media, and how to identify the most suitable diaphragm pump model for your needs.
Common Hygienic & Sanitary Applications for Diaphragm Pumps
Food and Beverage
The versatility of a Diaphragm Pump means our Sanitary range (Sanitary Diaphragm Pump and Sanitary Low Energy Diaphragm Pump) is perfectly suited to the food and beverage industry. This range is designed for applications intended for human consumption and can be used to produce many products, such as dairy and beer. It is crucial for pumps being used in this industry to offer a sterile and hygienic environment for the product, which is why Tapflo’s Sanitary Diaphragm Pumps offer full FDA Approval and are manufactured to a high-quality sanitary finish of Stainless Steel AISI 316L.
Pharmaceutical and Cosmetics
For higher hygiene standards, we can offer our EHEDG Aseptic Pump or our USP VI Approved Pump, which are more commonly used in the Pharmaceutical and Cosmetics industries to meet the most demanding cleanliness standards.
Common Industrial Applications for Diaphragm Pumps
Pulp, Paper & Adhesives
Diaphragm Pumps can transport glue, adhesives, sodium silicate, resin solutions, and many other media in the Pulp & Paper Industry. For example, in cigarette paper production, a pump applies resin to the paper.
Our HDPE & PTFE Diaphragm Pumps are best suited to this application as they are robust, reliable and versatile. Or if you don’t want to use compressed air, the Electric Diaphragm is a good option.
Paint, Printing & Varnish
Tapflo Diaphragm Pumps can also be used for the transfer, recirculation, and blending of ink, solvent-based liquids, resins, and pigments. Advantages of using an AOD pump in this industry include competitive pricing, the ability to handle high viscosities, and variable speeds. We offer many options for this industry, including Mobile Decanting Trolleys for large drums.
Tapflo’s HDPE & PTFE Diaphragm Pump and Metal Diaphragm Pump are best suited for this application, as they can handle all viscosities. Alternatively, if you don’t want to use compressed air, the Electric Diaphragm is a good option.
Construction, Mining & Sludge
Diaphragm Pumps can be used in construction, mining, and sludge handling. Often, companies in these industries look for equipment that improves process control, reduces energy use, or integrates smart system automation whilst fitting their budget. Diaphragm Pumps can meet all these requirements.
Our Metal Diaphragm Pump is an ideal solution for these applications, as it can handle viscous, abrasive media and is available in an ATEX-certified model. A Filter Press Diaphragm Pump is a good option for straightforward slurry pressing. If you don’t want to use compressed air, the Electric Diaphragm Pump is a good option.
Surface Coating
Diaphragm Pumps are also excellent at transporting chemicals, including those used for Surface Coating, from storage tanks, containers, and baths. Diaphragm Pumps such as the HDPE & PTFE model can handle aggressive chemicals, high temperatures, and viscous, chemically aggressive liquids; self-prime up to 9m; deliver discharge pressures up to 16 Bar; and handle temperatures up to 100°C.
Water Treatment
HDPE & PTFE and the Barrier Diaphragm Pumps are ideal for a range of Wastewater Treatment applications, including transferring flocculent fluids, sludges, and water, as well as dosing acidic and alkaline chemicals for pH control and water treatment.
Petrochemical
The ATEX Metal Diaphragm Pumps can be used for offshore oil drilling to carry oil to the surface and lubricate the drill. Other petrochemical applications include offshore mud drilling, where rocks are brought to the surface for testing.
Common Chemical Applications for Diaphragm Pumps
Tapflo diaphragm pumps are widely used across chemical applications, handling everything from acids and alkalis to alcohols, solvents, and shear-sensitive products such as latex and emulsions, as well as chemical waste. Their sealless, self-priming design lets them gently transfer aggressive or abrasive media without degrading the product, making them suitable for demanding processes across the chemical sector. The ATEX models (ATEX HDPE/PTFE and ATEX Metal) are best suited for hazardous media or environments.
Don’t see your specific application? Contact one of our pump experts today, and we will be happy to assist you however we can.
FAQs
Deciding between a Diaphragm and a Peristaltic Pump?
If you’re unsure whether your application suits a Diaphragm or Peristaltic Pump best, take a look at the key information and differences between the two and what each is best suited for.
How do I choose between a hygienic and industrial diaphragm pump?
Hygienic (sanitary/aseptic) pumps are built for food, beverage, cosmetic and pharmaceutical processes requiring wash-down or CIP compatibility; industrial pumps are suited to harsher, non-hygienic environments.
