Overview
Air Operated Double Diaphragm (AODD) pumps use compressed air alternating between two chambers to displace fluid through a pair of flexible diaphragms. The design is inherently self-priming, dry-run safe, and capable of handling slurries, viscous fluids, and solids-laden liquids without damage. There are no mechanical seals, no impellers, and no electrical components in contact with the process fluid — making AODD pumps a standard specification for hazardous, flammable, and chemically aggressive fluid transfer in industrial and mining environments.
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Key Specifications
|
Parameter |
Typical Range (AODD) |
|
Max Flow |
Up to 285 GPM (larger models) |
|
Max Solids Diameter |
3/8” (standard industrial models) |
|
Drive |
Compressed air (no electrical connection to fluid path) |
|
Self-Priming |
Yes — up to 20 ft suction lift (model dependent) |
|
Dry-Run Safe |
Yes — indefinitely |
|
Fluid Compatibility |
Water, slurries, acids, caustics, solvents, hydrocarbons |
WSI stocks double diaphragm pumps including the 285 GPM model with 3/8” max solids handling, suitable for high-volume industrial transfer and mining dewatering applications.
Industrial & Mining Use Cases
Mining Slurry and Dewatering Transfer: AODD pumps handle abrasive slurries containing fine solids — common in mineral processing, tailings management, and pit dewatering. The absence of close-tolerance rotating parts reduces wear rates compared to centrifugal pumps in abrasive service.
Chemical Transfer in Process Plants: Industrial facilities handling acids, caustics, solvents, and other aggressive chemicals specify AODD pumps for drum unloading, day tank filling, and inter-process transfer. Wetted materials (diaphragm, ball valves, seats) are selected to match the chemical — options include Santoprene, PTFE, Buna-N, and EPDM.
Flammable and Hazardous Fluid Handling: In oil and gas facilities, refineries, and chemical plants, AODD pumps eliminate ignition risk from electrical components in the fluid path. Air-operated design is inherently compliant with ATEX/NEC hazardous area requirements when properly configured.
Wastewater Sludge Transfer: Municipal and industrial wastewater treatment plants use AODD pumps for sludge and biosolids transfer between process stages. The ability to handle high-viscosity, solids-laden fluids without priming or cavitation is a key operational advantage.
Portable Field Applications: AODD pumps require only a compressed air supply — no electrical infrastructure. This makes them practical for temporary dewatering, spill response, and field transfer operations in mining and construction sites.
View available AODD pump models at Water Services Inc
Selection Criteria
· Flow Rate: Size for peak demand with margin. AODD pump output varies with air supply pressure and backpressure — review the pump curve at your operating conditions.
· Solids Content: Confirm max solids diameter does not exceed pump rating. The 3/8” solids-capable models cover most industrial and mining slurry applications.
· Diaphragm Material: Santoprene is the general-purpose standard. PTFE is specified for aggressive chemical service. Confirm compatibility with your fluid before ordering.
· Air Supply: Typical operating range is 20–120 PSI supply air. Higher air pressure increases flow rate and discharge pressure. Ensure your compressor capacity matches peak demand.
· Fluid Viscosity: AODD pumps handle viscous fluids effectively, but flow rate decreases with increasing viscosity. Consult the pump curve for viscous service.
Maintenance Notes
Diaphragms and ball check valves are the primary wear components. Repair kits are available by fluid contact material — WSI stocks Santoprene fluid section repair kits for 1” pump models. Inspect diaphragms at scheduled intervals; replacement is straightforward and does not require specialized tooling.
Shop AODD Pumps and Repair Kits at Water Services Inc
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