Industry-Knowledge

Oil drum rotary pumps

Oil drum rotary pumps are specialized pumps designed to transfer fluids, such as oils, fuels, lubricants, and other viscous liquids, from standard oil drums (typically 55-gallon/208-liter barrels). These pumps are commonly used in industrial, automotive, and maintenance applications where efficient and controlled dispensing is required.

Types of Oil Drum Rotary Pumps

  1. Manual Rotary Drum Pumps

    • Operated by hand-cranking a rotary handle.

    • Suitable for small-scale or occasional use.

    • Often made of durable materials like steel, aluminum, or polyethylene.

  2. Electric Rotary Drum Pumps

    • Powered by an electric motor for continuous, high-volume transfer.

    • Ideal for industrial or frequent use.

    • May include features like auto-shutoff or flow control.

  3. Pneumatic (Air-Powered) Rotary Drum Pumps

    • Use compressed air for operation, making them safe in flammable environments.

    • Common in hazardous or explosive atmospheres.

  4. Gear Pumps

    • Use rotating gears to move fluid efficiently.

    • Good for high-viscosity oils and lubricants.

Key Features to Consider

  • Material Compatibility: Choose a pump made of materials (e.g., steel, aluminum, plastic) that resist corrosion from the fluid being pumped.

  • Flow Rate: Measured in gallons per minute (GPM) or liters per minute (LPM).

  • Viscosity Range: Some pumps handle thin fluids (like diesel), while others are designed for thick oils or grease.

  • Hose & Nozzle Options: Some pumps come with flexible hoses and dispensing nozzles for precise control.

  • Safety Features: Explosion-proof motors (for electric pumps) or grounding straps for flammable liquids.

Common Applications

  • Transferring motor oil, hydraulic fluid, or fuel from drums.

  • Dispensing lubricants in manufacturing plants.

  • Draining used oil from machinery.

  • Loading/unloading fluids in automotive or agricultural settings.

Popular Brands

  • Lutz Pumps (manual & electric models)

  • Finish Thompson (corrosion-resistant pumps)

  • GPI (Gear Pump International)

  • FLUX (for high-viscosity fluids)