For transferring sulphuric acid (H₂SO₄) from drums, IBCs, or tanks, you need chemically resistant, corrosion-proof pumps that handle its aggressive nature. Here’s what matters:
Sulphuric acid concentration dictates pump material choice:
Concentration | Suitable Materials | Avoid |
---|---|---|
<70% | Polypropylene (PP), PVDF | Metals (except Hastelloy) |
70–98% | PVDF, PTFE-lined SS316 | PP (will degrade) |
Fuming (>98%) | Glass-lined steel, PTFE-only | Most plastics/metals |
Seals: PTFE (Teflon®) or Viton® (for <70% only).
Type | How It Works | Max Flow | Best For |
---|---|---|---|
Electric PP/PVDF Drum Pump | Submersible or drum-mounted | 20 LPM | Dilute H₂SO₄ (<70%) |
Air-Operated Diaphragm | No electricity, safe for fumes | 15 LPM | Concentrated acid (PVDF body) |
Magnetic Drive SS316 | Sealless, zero leaks | 25 LPM | High-purity acid transfers |
Manual Rotary PP | Hand-cranked, no power | 5 LPM | Small batches, budget option |
For 20–50% Sulphuric Acid:
FLUX FLEXI-PVDF ($600–$1,200)
PVDF construction, 15 LPM flow
ATEX-certified for safety
For 70–98% Acid:
Yamada NDP-20-PTFE ($1,500)
PTFE-lined diaphragm, air-powered
No metal parts
For Battery-Operated Use:
Koshin KTL-PP ($400)
Polypropylene, 12V DC
Portable for fieldwork
✔ Leak-proof design – Sealless or double-sealed pumps.
✔ Ventilation – Pump in well-ventilated areas (acid fumes are hazardous).
✔ Grounding – Prevent static sparks (critical for fuming acid).
✔ Drip trays – Contain spills during connections.
Never add water to acid – Always add acid to water to prevent violent reactions.
Flush with water after use – Prevents crystallization in pumps.
Inspect seals monthly – Replace at first signs of wear.
Store upright – Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight (degrades PP/PVDF).
Chemical-resistant hoses (PTFE or PP-lined).
Acid-rated gloves/face shield (for operator protection).
Neutralization kit (for spill control).
Warning:
<30% H₂SO₄: Corrodes steel but safe for PP/PVDF.
>70% H₂SO₄: Attacks plastics; requires PTFE/glass-lined pumps.
Fuming acid: Use peristaltic pumps (no metal/plastic contact).
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Acid concentration (%)
Container size (drum, IBC, tank)
Transfer frequency
Preferred power (electric/air/manual)