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In chemical industries, safely transferring corrosive materials is a task that demands durable, reliable equipment. This case study looks at how a 3-inch stainless steel diaphragm pump with PTFE lining is used in chemical unloading operations—where industrial acids and aggressive fluids are involved.

This pump has proven to be a robust solution for environments where chemical compatibility, reduced maintenance, and operational safety are priorities.

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Why Diaphragm Pumps Are a Good Fit for Chemical Transfer

A diaphragm pump uses flexible diaphragms to move fluid in and out of a chamber, allowing it to handle corrosive or abrasive liquids without the moving parts ever touching the fluid. This makes it ideal for chemicals that might damage traditional pump types.

In this case, the diaphragm pump is designed specifically for chemical transfer applications, with materials selected to resist attack from strong acids and other aggressive substances.

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Key Features That Make This Pump Industry-Ready

1. 3-Inch Stainless Steel Outer Casing

The pump’s external housing is constructed from stainless steel, which offers excellent resistance to mechanical wear and environmental exposure. In industrial environments where the pump may face physical impacts or be exposed to corrosive vapours, stainless steel ensures lasting performance.

Its 3-inch size is especially well-suited for high-flow operations, making it practical for tasks like unloading chemical tankers. Larger diameter pumps reduce transfer time and keep operations moving efficiently.

2. PTFE (Teflon) Diaphragm

PTFE is known for its non-reactive properties, making it an ideal diaphragm material when transferring substances like sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, and similar industrial chemicals. It doesn’t break down under exposure to harsh liquids, and it helps avoid contamination of the fluid being pumped.

This feature ensures a clean transfer process and significantly lowers the risk of diaphragm failure due to chemical attack—common problems in systems using less resistant materials.

3. PTFE-Coated Intermediate Body

The internal parts of the pump are also protected with a PTFE coating, shielding them from corrosive attack. This is a crucial advantage in environments where the internal surfaces come into direct contact with strong acids or bases.

Together with the diaphragm, this internal protection extends the pump’s operational lifespan, enabling it to handle aggressive fluids over long periods without frequent maintenance or part replacement.

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Application Example: Used in Chemical Unloading Operations

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The Ovell 3-Inch Stainless Steel Diaphragm Pump is widely used in environments that require the safe handling of bulk corrosive fluids. A key application is in chemical unloading operations, where raw materials arrive in tanker trucks and must be transferred quickly and safely into storage or process systems.

In this setting, the pump is connected directly to unloading lines, where it transfers highly corrosive liquids such as sulfuric acid and hydrochloric acid from the tanker into secure containment. Because of its air-operated double diaphragm design and PTFE-lined components, it handles these aggressive fluids without degrading or leaking—ensuring worker safety and protecting surrounding infrastructure.

Its 3-inch diameter supports high-volume flow, which is crucial during bulk unloading to reduce transfer time and minimise vehicle waiting periods. This not only improves operational efficiency but also helps maintain scheduling consistency within the plant.

In addition to tanker unloading, this chemical diaphragm pump fits seamlessly into daily workflows in chemical manufacturing and handling. Its ability to withstand harsh fluids means it’s regularly used in:

• Industrial chemical storage facilities – to transfer chemicals between tanks or from storage to processing units without risk of corrosion or contamination.
• Acid neutralisation systems – where precise and controlled movement of acids and neutralising agents is required.
• Waste treatment operations – for safely handling waste acids or alkaline solutions before disposal or recycling.
• Process chemical feeding – where chemicals are introduced into production lines or reactors in controlled volumes.

In all these cases, the pump brings a combination of durability, chemical compatibility, and low maintenance, allowing operators to work confidently with dangerous materials. It also supports cleaner operations by reducing spill risks and ensuring complete transfer of fluids, helping to maintain both safety and environmental compliance.

By integrating this diaphragm pump into critical points of the process, industrial facilities benefit from greater reliability, reduced maintenance costs, and the assurance that their fluid handling systems are up to the task—no matter how aggressive the chemicals involved.

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Benefits in Industrial Chemical Handling

1. Long-Term Reliability

Thanks to its corrosion-resistant build and quality components, this pump offers long operational life even in aggressive environments. The PTFE lining prevents internal degradation, helping companies avoid unplanned repairs and extending service intervals.

2. Reduced Maintenance Costs

Lower failure rates and a design that withstands chemical attack mean less money spent on parts, labour, and system downtime. For companies looking to optimise maintenance schedules, this pump supports a more predictable and cost-effective routine.

3. Safe Handling of Corrosive Liquids

Whether in chemical unloading or process transfer, safety is a top priority. This pump helps reduce the risk of chemical leaks or failures by using materials that are well matched to the fluids being handled.

4. Consistent Flow for Critical Tasks

The 3-inch design supports efficient fluid movement without sacrificing safety or reliability. Whether unloading a tanker or feeding a process line, the pump maintains steady flow even under challenging conditions.

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Conclusion: A Reliable Solution for Chemical Unloading and Transfer

The 3-inch stainless steel diaphragm pump is a purpose-built solution for the chemical industry. Its corrosion-resistant design, efficient fluid handling, and long-term reliability make it well suited for applications like chemical unloading, where safety and performance are essential.

For industrial operators seeking a dependable way to move aggressive fluids without costly downtime or safety risks, this pump is a proven choice.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What chemicals can this diaphragm pump handle?
It’s ideal for aggressive liquids such as sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, and other strong industrial chemicals due to its PTFE-lined diaphragm and coated internal components.

2. Is this diaphragm pump suitable for bulk fluid transfer?
Yes, the 3-inch diameter supports high-volume transfer, making it suitable for tanker unloading and large-scale chemical operations.

3. Why is PTFE used in this pump?
PTFE (Teflon) is non-reactive and resists attack from a wide range of acids and alkalis, ensuring long service life and reliable performance.

4. Where is this pump typically used?
It’s used in industrial settings where chemical unloading and transfer take place, including chemical processing plants, storage terminals, and waste treatment facilities.

5. What are the maintenance needs of this pump?
The combination of durable stainless steel and PTFE components reduces the need for frequent maintenance, offering a more reliable and cost-effective setup.

6. Does it require electricity to operate?
No, this is an air operated diaphragm pump, making it suitable for locations where electric equipment may not be allowed or where pneumatic systems are preferred.