What to know: Pumping Liquids

What to Know When Pumping Liquids

You're ready to click that purchase button to buy a pump online. Everything looks good, but something in the back of your mind is causing hesitation. At Buy Pumps Direct, we understand where that hesitation comes from. You want to make sure you are buying the right pump so you avoid a costly or hazardous mistake. Sometimes we are so keen to order a new pump, that we forget the most important factor of all:

The fluid you're pumping and its properties.

To make sure you're purchasing the right pump, our team at Buy Pumps Direct has put together a handy resource that'll make sure you make the right decision. 

How Important is the Fluid?

In every buying situation, it's important to consider the uses and environment you're purchase will be in. Just think about some common fluid categories for a moment:

  • Drinking water
  • Food or beverage ingredients
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Waste water
  • Abrasive slurries and other fluids
  • Acidic fluids
  • Toxic fluids

Each of these categories requires a pump to have specific characteristics. For example, if you are pumping a fluid which gives off toxic fumes, you need to ensure that such a pump system will not release these fumes around people unless they are equipped with breathing apparatus. Likewise, if a fluid is acidic, your pump needs to be made of materials which can withstand such corrosion. If you are transporting slurries and other abrasive fluids, then, again, your pump has to be able to withstand abrasion while still being able to move thicker fluids to their destination.

Pharmaceuticals and other sensitive chemicals must be pumped without being contaminated by oils or other lubricants, nor can drinking water or fluids for human consumption contain contaminants of any kind.

The bottom line is that your pump must be up to the job, and that job is going to require specific parameters in order to be done effectively and safely.

So, how do you know if a pump is effective and safe for a fluid?

To guarantee the safety and efficacy of a pump, you must do the following three things:

  • Know the properties of your fluids;
  • Know the physical limitations and specifications of any pump you are buying;
  • Buy from a reputable online supplier such as Buy Pumps Direct.

Choosing the wrong pump can be financially disastrous, resulting in broken equipment. In some instances, it can even be dangerous. For this reason, peruse the Buy Pumps Direct online store and read our specifications for the pumps you are considering. We have all the information you need right there next to each model. If you are still unsure, please feel free to contact one of our trained pump experts, and they will make sure you receive the perfect pump for your needs.