Air-operated double diaphragm pumps are one of the most reliable and flexible types of industrial pumps used today. They are commonly used to transfer liquids, chemicals, oils, inks, food products, sludge/slurries, grease and many other fluids across a wide range of industries.
At Fluid Equipment Services (FES), Graco Husky diaphragm pumps are among the most popular pumping solutions because they are durable, efficient and suitable for demanding industrial applications.
What is an Air-Operated Diaphragm Pump?
An air-operated diaphragm pump, often called an AODD pump, is a type of positive displacement pump that uses compressed air to transfer fluids from A to B.
Inside the pump are two flexible diaphragms that move backwards and forwards when compressed air passes through the air valve. The air valve moves from side to side, pushing and pulling the diaphragms in and out alternately. As the diaphragms move, they create suction and pressure which draws fluid into the pump through the inlet and pushes it out through the outlet.
Because these pumps are powered by compressed air instead of electricity, they are widely used in hazardous areas and tough industrial environments. Many Graco Husky pumps are also ATEX rated for use in explosive or flammable atmospheres.
How Does an Air-Operated Diaphragm Pump Work?
An air-operated diaphragm pump works in four simple steps:
1. Compressed Air Enters the Pump
Compressed air enters one side of the pump through an air valve system.
2. The Diaphragms Move
The air pushes one diaphragm outward while pulling the other diaphragm inward.
3. Fluid Is Drawn Into the Pump
As one diaphragm moves back, suction is created which draws fluid into the pump chamber through an inlet valve.
4. Fluid Is Pushed Out
The opposite diaphragm pushes fluid out through the discharge valve.
This cycle repeats continuously, with the air valve switching from side to side, creating a smooth flow of fluid through the system.
Many Graco Husky diaphragm pumps use a stall-free low pulsation air valve which helps provide smooth operation and reduces downtime during maintenance.
What Fluids Can Air-Operated Diaphragm Pumps Handle?
One major advantage of diaphragm pumps is their ability to handle many different fluid types.
Common Fluids Handled by Graco Husky Pumps:
- Water
- Oils and grease
- Chemicals
- Solvents
- Paints and coatings
- Inks and dyes
- Adhesives
- Sludge and waste fluids
- Food products
- High viscosity materials
- Shear sensitive fluids
FES supplies pumps capable of handling fluids ranging from water-like liquids to highly viscous materials such as mastics and grease.
What Industries Use Air-Operated Diaphragm Pumps?
Air-operated diaphragm pumps are used across many industries because they are versatile and reliable.
Industries Using Graco Husky Pumps:
- Chemical processing
- Food and beverage manufacturing
- Automotive industry
- Lubrication systems
- Water treatment
- Paint and coating applications
- Printing and ink transfer
- General manufacturing
The Graco Husky range is widely used in food, chemical, motor and general industrial applications.
Why Are Air-Operated Diaphragm Pumps Popular?
There are several reasons why businesses choose air-operated diaphragm pumps over other pump types.
Key Benefits of Air-Operated Diaphragm Pumps:
Safe for Hazardous Environments
ATEX rated models are available, making them suitable for flammable or explosive areas.
Can Run Dry
Diaphragm pumps can safely operate without fluid in the lines, without damaging internal components.
Self-Priming Design
They can start pumping without needing to be manually primed.
Low Maintenance
Modern Graco Husky pumps feature leak-resistant centre sections and easy-to-service components.
Handles Difficult Fluids
They are ideal for abrasive, corrosive and viscous materials.
Wide Range of Material Choice
They are available in a variety of different materials, meaning they can be specced to each particular application.
How Do You Choose the Right Diaphragm Pump?
Choosing the correct pump depends on several factors:
Important Things to Consider
- Type of fluid
- Fluid viscosity
- Required flow rate
- Pump material chemical compatibility
- Air supply available
- Temperature of fluid
- Pressure requirements
- Hazardous area certification
FES helps customers select the correct Graco pump for their application and provides full technical support and after-sales care.
Why Choose FES for Graco Husky Pumps?
FES has specialised in air-operated pumping equipment since 1985 and is an authorised UK distributor for Graco pumps.
Fluid Equipment Services supply:
- Genuine Graco pumps
- Genuine Graco spares
- Technical support
- Pump accessories
- Complete pumping systems
FES also offers expert advice for difficult pumping applications across multiple industries. If you’re unsure of which pump you need, then please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Contact us Today on 01457 866 926.