Pumps for pumping ketchup out of drums

For pumping ketchup (a thick, viscous, and often shear-sensitive product) out of 55-gallon drums, you need a sanitary, high-viscosity pump that can handle its texture without separation or damage. Here are the best options:

1. Sanitary Rotary Lobe Pump (Best for High-Volume Transfer)

Why?

• Handles thick, pulpy ketchup smoothly (low shear).

• FDA-compliant, 3-A certified (hygienic for food use).

• Easy to clean (CIP/SIP compatible).

Key Features:

• Stainless steel (316L) or polished surfaces.

• Gentle pumping action (preserves texture).

• Flow rate: ~5–50 GPM (adjustable).

Top Brands:

• Alfa Laval

• SPX FLOW (Waukesha)

• Fristam

2. Sanitary Piston Pump (For Precision Filling/Portioning)

Why?

• High-pressure capability (for thick ketchup).

• Accurate dosing (good for packaging lines).

Key Features:

• PTFE seals (resists acids in ketchup).

• Pulsation dampener (for smooth flow).

Best For:

• Factories filling bottles/tubs.

Brands:

• Waukesha Cherry-Burrell

• GEA

3. Progressive Cavity Pump (For Ultra-Thick Ketchup)

Why?

• Handles extreme viscosity without separation.

• Self-priming & gentle (good for sticky products).

Key Features:

• Stator (rubber) resists abrasion from tomato solids.

• Flow rate: ~1–20 GPM.

Brands:

• Moyno

• Seepex

4. Sanitary Peristaltic Pump (For Small Batches or Sensitive Ketchup)

Why?

• Zero contamination risk (only the tube touches product).

• Reversible flow (helps clean drum completely).

Limitations:

• Slower than lobe/piston pumps.

Best For:

• Craft producers, small-scale operations.

Brands:

• Watson-Marlow

• Verderflex

Key Selection Criteria

✔ Viscosity Handling – Ketchup ranges from 5,000–50,000 cP (thicker than syrup).
✔ Material – 316L stainless steel, FDA elastomers (EPDM, PTFE).
✔ Cleaning – Must be CIP/SIP capable (avoid bacterial growth).
✔ Shear Sensitivity – Avoid centrifugal pumps (can break down texture).

Accessories for Ketchup Pumping

• Drum unloader kit (tilting stand for full evacuation).

• Heated hoses (if ketchup is refrigerated/thickened).

• Sanitary tri-clamp fittings (quick disassembly).

Avoid These Pumps for Ketchup

❌ Centrifugal pumps – Can’t handle viscosity, may aerate.
❌ Gear pumps – Risk of squeezing out oils, causing separation.

Top Maintenance Tips

• Flush with warm water immediately after use (prevents drying/clogging).

• Inspect seals regularly (ketchup’s acidity can degrade some materials).

• Use food-grade lubricants if needed.