Industry-Knowledge

Drum and container pumps

Drum and Container Pumps are specialized pumps designed to safely and efficiently transfer liquids from storage containers like drums, barrels, IBCs (Intermediate Bulk Containers), and tanks. They are widely used in industries such as chemicals, pharmaceuticals, food processing, and oil & lubricants.


Types of Drum and Container Pumps

1. Hand (Manual) Drum Pumps

  • Operated by hand cranking or lever action.

  • No electricity required, making them ideal for hazardous or remote areas.

  • Common for oils, solvents, and low-viscosity fluids.

  • Examples: Rotary hand pumps, piston hand pumps.

2. Electric Drum Pumps

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

  • Used for frequent or large-volume liquid transfer.

  • Often have explosion-proof (ATEX) options for flammable liquids.

  • Examples: Centrifugal electric pumps, gear pumps.

3. Pneumatic (Air-Powered) Drum Pumps

  • Use compressed air for safe operation in explosive environments.

  • No electricity, reducing fire/explosion risks.

  • Suitable for corrosive, flammable, or viscous fluids.

  • Examples: Diaphragm pumps, rotary lobe pumps.

4. Barrel Pumps with Flexible Discharge Hoses

  • Feature a long suction tube and a flexible hose for controlled dispensing.

  • Often used for chemicals, fuels, and food-grade liquids.

  • Can be manual or powered.

5. Drum Pump with Metering Function

  • Includes a flow meter or dispenser for precise liquid measurement.

  • Used in labs, pharmaceuticals, and batch processing.

6. Drum Pumps for Viscous Liquids

  • Designed with larger chambers or positive displacement mechanisms.

  • Handles thick fluids like syrups, adhesives, and lubricants.

  • Examples: Gear pumps, progressive cavity pumps.

7. Drum Pumps for Corrosive Chemicals

  • Made from chemically resistant materials (PTFE, PVDF, stainless steel).

  • Used for acids, alkalis, and aggressive solvents.

8. Drum Pumps for Food & Beverage

  • Made from FDA-approved materials (stainless steel, food-grade plastics).

  • Used for edible oils, syrups, dairy, and beverages.

9. Drum Pumps for Hazardous Liquids (ATEX Certified)

  • Explosion-proof design for flammable or volatile liquids.

  • Common in oil, paint, and chemical industries.

10. IBC (Intermediate Bulk Container) Pumps

  • Designed for larger containers (1000L IBC totes).

  • Can be electric, pneumatic, or manual.

  • Often mounted on trolleys for mobility.


Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Drum Pump

  • Material Compatibility (stainless steel, polypropylene, PTFE)

  • Power Source (manual, electric, pneumatic)

  • Flow Rate & Viscosity Handling

  • Explosion-Proof Certification (ATEX, IECEx)

  • Discharge Options (hose, nozzle, direct coupling)

  • Ease of Cleaning & Maintenance