Choosing Sulfuric Acid Pumps

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  • Choosing Sulfuric Acid Pumps

  • Why You Need Specialized Pumps for Sulfuric Acid

  • Sulfuric acid is a strong protonating and oxidizing agent capable of corroding metals and degrading elastomers within a short time. Even at lower concentrations, it can cause damage to pump internals, seals, and connections—leading to leaks, equipment failure, and safety hazards.

  • A high-quality sulfuric acid transfer pump ensures:

  • Safe and leak-free chemical transfer

  • Corrosion-resistant performance

  • Compatibility with varying acid concentrations

  • Reduced maintenance downtime

  • Long service life under harsh operating conditions

  • Key Considerations When Selecting a Sulfuric Acid Pump

  • 1. Acid Concentration
  • Different concentrations of sulfuric acid react differently with materials. For example:

  • 80% H₂SO₄ is highly dehydrating and aggressively corrosive

  • < 70% may be less reactive but still damaging to many materials
  • Choosing the right material for pump internals depends heavily on the acid concentration used.

  • 2. Temperature and Specific Gravity
  • Sulfuric acid becomes more aggressive at elevated temperatures. High specific gravity also places more stress on pump impellers and motors, requiring robust mechanical strength.

  • 3. Chemical Compatibility
  • Materials that are generally suitable for sulfuric acid handling include:

  • Kynar (PVDF): Excellent resistance to concentrated acids

  • Polypropylene (PP): Common for lower concentrations

  • Teflon (PTFE/Mica Teflon): Excellent chemical resistance

  • Viton: Used for O-rings and gaskets

  • Ceramics and Carbon bushings: Suitable for seal areas

  • 4. Net Positive Suction Head (NPSH)
  • Sulfuric acid has a low NPSH, so the pump must be designed with a tight hydraulic envelope to avoid cavitation and leakage.

  • 5. Solids Handling Capability
  • Some sulfuric acid processes involve entrained solids. A suitable pump must be designed to handle solids without damaging internal components or seals.
  • Tags:ah slurry pumps | slurry pumps vertical | sulfuric acid pump
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