Thermo Scientific Masterflex Pumps Vs. Solenoid Pumps: No Contest For Dependable Chemical Feed

By Gregg E. Johnson, Thermo Fisher Scientific

Solenoid-driven diaphragm metering pumps have long been a standard for chemical feed applications. They're cheap, relatively accurate and essentially disposable.

But let's face it. These little metering pumps can bring big headaches. Their low suction lift often makes them difficult to restart once they lose prime — and they're prone to stuck check valves, leakage, and clogging. In addition, they often become vapor-locked when feeding outgassing chemicals such as sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl).

Solenoid pumps may be cheap to acquire, but they're often quite expensive in terms of downtime and maintenance. However, the proven peristaltic design of Thermo Scientific Masterflex pumps provides for incredibly high suction lift — and accurate, reliable performance — without clogging, and without check valves that can jam, cause siphoning, downtime and performance and/or liability issues. Masterflex® pumps are self-priming and they can run dry for extended periods without damage. They can't become vapor-locked, either.