Case Study – Electric Diaphragm Pumps for Flow Coating Applications

Flow coaters are a common coating tool used in many different industries and applications. Some examples include the manufacturing of ceiling and acoustical tiles, UV coatings for wood flooring, cabinet and furniture components, flexographic inks, primers for doors and door skins and adhesives for packaging and corrugated box manufacturing. These materials (primer in this case study example) are often abrasive or shear sensitive. As a result, air operated diaphragm pumps have become a very common pump technology used to handle both the abrasion and provide minimal shearing of the coating.
A challenge with air-operated diaphragm pumps for this type of application is establishing and maintaining a consistent, pulse-free flow rate to the flow coater. The constant manipulation of inlet air pressures, surge suppressor settings and fluid valve adjustments often creates a “process” within the process. Getting it “tweaked just right” is a common saying.

The Solution – Electric Diaphragm Pumps for Flow Coating Applications

The development of the electric driven diaphragm pump provides a very effective solution for flow coating applications. As with any diaphragm pump, you get excellent abrasion resistance with minimal shear. With the electric driven units, like the Graco 1050E, flow rates can be accurately set, and system pressure can be balanced to provide virtually pulse-free operation without the addition of surge suppressors or flow control valving.  Take a look at the video below and listen carefully (sound up) as we explain the process and how the Graco 1050E worked flawlessly for this door manufacturer’s flow coating process:

Benefits of the Husky 1050E Double Diaphragm Pump:

• Up to 80% more efficient than air-operated diaphragm pumps
• Can stall under pressure – preventing pump failures from clogged lines or closed valves
• Can reduce pulsation without adding pulsation dampeners
• Easily cart-mountable
• Can run dry
• Self-priming
• Available in 3 gearbox options
• Seal-less diaphragm pump design eliminates leaking and failures

If you have a flow coating application or any type of fluid transfer application that requires industrial pumps, please don’t hesitate to contact us for more information or to discuss how we may be able to help improve your process.