For transferring sodium hydroxide (NaOH, caustic soda) from drums, you need a chemical-resistant pump that can handle its highly corrosive nature. Here are the best options:
Tuthill RL Series (Stainless Steel or Polypropylene)
Material: 316 SS (for hot NaOH) or polypropylene (PP) (for cold NaOH)
Flow Rate: ~2 GPM
Why? Smooth operation, chemical-resistant, durable.
Lutz Jesco 5500 (Polypropylene or PVDF)
Material: PP or PVDF (Kynar®) for high chemical resistance
Flow Rate: ~1.5–3 GPM
Why? Leak-proof, ideal for aggressive chemicals.
GPI G1201D (316 Stainless Steel or Polypropylene)
Material: 316 SS (hot NaOH) or PP (cold NaOH)
Flow Rate: ~5 GPM
Why? Self-priming, smooth flow, safe for NaOH.
Finish Thompson PD Series (PTFE-Lined or PP)
Material: PTFE (Teflon®) or polypropylene
Flow Rate: ~4–10 GPM
Why? Best for high-purity NaOH (food/pharma).
Goat Throat GT-15 (PTFE-Lined or PVDF)
Material: PTFE or PVDF (no metal contact)
Flow Rate: ~1–3 GPM
Why? No sparks, safe for corrosive NaOH.
✔ Material Compatibility
Cold NaOH (≤50°C/122°F): Polypropylene (PP), PVDF, PTFE
Hot NaOH (>50°C): 316 stainless steel (316 SS), PTFE-lined
❌ Avoid: Aluminum, brass, carbon steel (will corrode)
✔ Seals & Gaskets
EPDM or Viton® (best for NaOH)
Avoid Buna-N (Nitrile) – degrades in NaOH
✔ Safety Features
Drip-proof design (NaOH is caustic)
Grounding wire (for static control)
| Application | Best Pump Type | Recommended Model |
|---|---|---|
| Manual transfer (small batches) | Rotary Hand Pump | Tuthill RL (PP or 316 SS) |
| Electric (fast, continuous) | Self-Priming Electric Pump | GPI G1201D (PP/316 SS) |
| Hazardous/explosive areas | Air-Powered Pump | Goat Throat GT-15 (PTFE/PVDF) |
| Food/pharma-grade NaOH | PTFE-Lined Pump | Finish Thompson PD Series |
Rinse after use (NaOH crystallizes and can clog pumps).
Inspect seals regularly (replace if swelling/cracks appear).
Store properly (keep pump dry to avoid corrosion).
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