Diaphragm or Peristaltic: Best Dosing Pump Option for Wastewater Treatment

For chemical dosing in wastewater treatment, two types of pumps stand out, diaphragm and peristaltic hose pumps. Although they both perform well, they’re unique. The goal is to choose a pump designed for your company’s specific application.

Pros and Cons of These Chemical Feed Systems

There is one important thing to consider when looking for a pump for chemical dosing that’ll perform effectively and reliably. Choose a supplier with experience and vast knowledge of the pump industry. A representative can provide you with even more pros and cons beyond those listed below.

Diaphragm

These pumps have a reciprocating diaphragm that creates suction to move liquids. Of the two types of pump systems, this one is more complex. Compared to a peristaltic pump, it has more valves. For that reason, you’ll need someone who’s relatively tech-savvy to operate it.

The diaphragm pump used for chemical dosing costs less to operate than the peristaltic hose type. Between these two systems, the diaphragm type is more energy-efficient.

The chemical feed system requires regular and proper maintenance. That’ll ensure the pump continues to perform optimally and prevent it from leaking.

To move chemicals and other potentially damaging liquids, the diaphragm chemical metering pump is the better choice. It’s also ideal for overcoming an issue of standing pressure within the flow line. For both peak performance and to prime the pump correctly, you want constant back-pressure.

A diaphragm pump used for chemical dosing does have two disadvantages. First, to achieve optimal performance, the chemical must be gas free. Second, it has the balls located on both the discharge and intake sides. So, if they get clogged, the pump will lose prime/suction capability, thereby compromising its maximum metering capability.

Peristaltic Hose Pumps

Peristaltic hose pumps are the second choice for wastewater treatment. This pump is easy to use. Unlike a diaphragm pump, this one doesn’t have check valves that can potentially clog. Therefore, it’s capable of transferring dirty and thick liquids.

Peristaltic dosing pumps have excellent dry suction capabilities. However, that doesn’t apply to a diaphragm pump. That’s just one more reason why industries choose this particular chemical dosing pump. Unfortunately, it too has a few disadvantages.

For instance, the hose is constantly gets squeezed, which eventually causes it to weaken and deteriorate. There is also a tremendous demand on the motor of a peristaltic type chemical dosing pump. That can cause two problems. First, pumping ability diminishes as time goes by. Second, it increases the risk of the hose rupturing.

Depending on the type of liquids pumped, a weakened or ruptured hose could result in a leak. If that happens, both the casing and equipment could sustain serious damage. The simplest way to avoid the issue is to use the proper hose and inspect it regularly.

Fortunately, manufacturers give the pump hoses distinct ratings, and they estimate the equipment’s life span. So, when replacing the hose, always pay close attention to these two factors.

Superior Performing Pumps

When you’re ready to purchase one of these chemical feed systems, allow us to help. Vissers Sales Corp specializes in pumping equipment for the wastewater treatment and chemical processing industries. We look forward to serving you as a valued customer.