Thermo Scientific Masterflex Pumps Outperform AOD Pumps With Less Energy Use, Less Process Downtime

By Gregg E. Johnson, Thermo Fisher Scientific

Air-operated diaphragm (AOD) pumps are often chosen due to their relatively low initial cost. Users, however, often find this first cost doesn't look as good once the pump's high life cycle costs start factoring in — including high energy consumption, expensive rebuild parts, and expensive downtime.

AOD pumps have numerous points of failure, including diaphragms subject to rupture, air valve mechanisms that freeze up, check valves and seats prone to abrasive wear and clogging. They are also inefficient due to the consumption of compressed air. Fluid changes and cleaning AOD pumps are a big hassle, too – plus, they generate a lot of noise.

Like AOD pumps, Thermo Scientific Masterflex® peristaltic pumps handle a wide variety of solids and viscosities, but Masterflex pumps consume 4-6 times less energy and won't damage shear-sensitive products. Maintenance requirements for AOD pumps are often time-consuming and expensive, involving check ball, diaphragm, and seat replacement, and performing air motor rebuilds.

Masterflex pumps, as well as our Ponndorf hose pumps, can be serviced in place by simply changing or sliding the hose or tubing. The pump's hosing or tubing is its only wear component.