A roller pump with an air motor (pneumatic drive) is an excellent choice for transferring antifreeze, oils, fuels, and other viscous fluids from drums or containers. These pumps are durable, explosion-proof, and require no electricity, making them ideal for industrial and hazardous environments.
Motor Type: Pneumatic (air-powered)
Flow Rate: Up to 6 GPM (22.7 LPM)
Pressure: Up to 29 psi (2 bar)
Materials:
Housing: Aluminum or stainless steel
Rollers: Nitrile (Buna-N) or Viton (chemical-resistant)
Pros:
Smooth, pulse-free flow.
Self-priming (up to 10 ft suction lift).
No seals—reduces leakage risk.
ATEX-certified (safe for flammable liquids).
Cons: Requires clean, dry compressed air (90 psi max).
Motor Type: Pneumatic
Flow Rate: ~2 GPM (7.5 LPM)
Materials:
Housing: Stainless steel
Tubing: Santoprene or Viton (resists glycol-based antifreeze)
Pros:
Zero leakage design (no drips).
Explosion-proof (no sparks).
Works with closed-head drums (no need to open the bung).
Cons: Slower flow rate than ARO.
(Not a roller pump, but a great alternative for antifreeze)
Motor Type: Pneumatic
Flow Rate: Up to 10 GPM (38 LPM)
Materials: PTFE, polypropylene, stainless steel
Pros:
Handles high-viscosity fluids.
Dry-run capable (won’t burn out).
Good for bulk transfers.
Chemical Compatibility
Ensure rollers/tubing are made of Nitrile, Viton, or EPDM for glycol-based antifreeze.
Air Supply Requirements
Most need 60–90 psi compressed air.
Add an air filter/regulator to prevent moisture damage.
Flow Rate Needs
Roller pumps: Best for low-to-medium flow (1–6 GPM).
For faster transfers, consider a diaphragm pump (like the Graco Husky).
Explosion-Proof Certification
If working in hazardous areas, ensure ATEX or OSHA compliance.
For precision & safety: GoatThroat GT-1 (best for closed drums).
For higher flow rates: ARO Expert Series Roller Pump.
For bulk transfers: Graco Husky 1050 (diaphragm alternative).