Air-Operated Double-Diaphragm (AODD) pumps service various industrial applications from hygienic to water and wastewater markets. AODD pumps are known for their unique design and reliability. These versatile pumps are a popular choice and are used in equipment of all sizes.
Air-Operated Double-Diaphragm pumps are reciprocating positive displacement pumps that operate from energy-generated compressed air. Their design is simple. It features two diaphragms connected by a standard shaft, with two inlet and two outlet valve balls. This simple design makes them an ideal solution for many industrial liquid-handling applications.
The diaphragms are powered by compressed air that moves the diaphragm back and forth, pushing the fluid through the pump. Compressed air is applied to one side of the diaphragm causing the diaphragm to flex. As a result, the liquid is forced out of the chamber on that side of the pump.
At the same time, the other diaphragm is pulled inward by the vacuum created in the opposite chamber. The compressed air is released, causing the diaphragms to return to their original position. The cycle is repeated, and fluid is moved back and forth through the pump.
The AODD pump is versatile and can handle various fluids, including abrasive and viscous liquids. It is also self-priming and can run dry without damaging the pump.
Traditionally, Air Distribution Systems (ADS) for AODD pumps have operated by filling the diaphragm cavity or air chamber with as much air as possible until the end of the stroke. This process displaces the fluid on the wetted side of the diaphragm.
A mechanical mechanism is then triggered, shutting off the air supply to that chamber. Shutting off the air supply signals the air valve to shift and dump any excess air left into the filling chamber.
This process has resulted in time delays in AODD pumps when the pressurized air is transferred from one chamber to the other and overfills the air chamber with excess air. Filling the air chambers leads to the air being vented into the atmosphere without benefiting the pumping process.
The Wilden Pro-Flo SHIFT Air Distribution System (ADS) has reduced the overall amount of compressed air required to operate the pump by optimizing the air used. The purpose of this technology is to maximize efficiency by lowering air consumption. By using the positioning-sensitive air control spool, this new technology eliminates overfilling by automatically restricting the amount of air entering the pump. This process optimizes air savings for increased efficiencies.
Wilden Pro-Flo SHIFTs automated technology results in significant air savings over conventional and advanced AODD technologies. The Wilden Pro-Flo SHIFT AODD Pump series provides up to 60% in air savings while retaining existing flow rates, reducing the total cost of ownership, ease of maintenance, and the ability to be used in harsh operating environments, and no electricity required.
Air-operated double-diaphragm pumps provide a lot of unique benefits to all types of applications and markets.
Depending on the specific requirements, an AODD pump can be a good choice for various applications. Here are some situations where an AODD pump may be an ideal choice:
An AODD pump is versatile and reliable and can handle many different fluids. This makes it an excellent choice for applications where other pump types may not be suitable.
Thanks to their unique operating principle, AODD pumps excel in a wide variety of applications and incorporate numerous features and benefits, including: