A complete guide to drum transfer pumps

Contents

What is a drum transfer pump & how does it work?

What are drum transfer pumps used for?

Electric Vs Pneumatic

What are the benefits of using a drum transfer pump?

Can drum transfer pumps be used in hazardous (ATEX) environments?

How do you install a drum transfer pump properly?

What maintenance do drum pumps need?

Can I use a drum pump to handle viscous or abrasive fluids?

Debem drum transfer pumps available from Crest Pumps

What is a drum transfer pump and how does it work?

A drum transfer pump is a simple, portable pump used to move liquid out of drums, barrels, and containers in a safe and controlled way. The pump is lowered into the drum and transfers the liquid directly into another container, tank, or process line, without the need for tipping or manual handling.

Most drum transfer pumps work by drawing liquid up through a suction tube and pushing it out through a discharge hose. Dependant on the model, this is done using either an electric motor or compressed air (pneumatic). The pump sits inside the drum, keeping the liquid contained & reducing the risk of spills.

What are drum transfer pumps used for?

Drum transfer pumps are commonly used to handle:

• Chemicals and corrosive liquids
• Oils, lubricants, and fuels
• Solvents and cleaning fluids
• Acids and alkalis
• Water and light industrial liquids

They are widely used in chemical processing, manufacturing, maintenance, water treatment, and general industrial applications.

Electric Vs Pneumatic

The two most common types are:

• Electric drum transfer pumps – Best suited to applications where a reliable power supply is available and higher flow rates are required.
• Pneumatic drum transfer pumps – Powered by compressed air, making them ideal for hazardous or ATEX-sensitive environments where electrical equipment is restricted.

Both electric and pneumatic are designed to do the same job, but each has its own advantages and limitations dependant on the application.

Electric are a popular choice where a mains power supply is readily available. They typically offer higher and more consistent flow rates making them well suited to applications where speed and efficiency are important. Electric pumps are generally quieter and do not require a compressed air supply which can simplify installation. However, they are not always suitable for hazardous or ATEX-classified environments unless specifically certified.

Pneumatic are powered by compressed air and are often chosen for use in hazardous or explosive applications. They are both robust and can cope well in harsh industrial condition. On the downside, they usually require an existing compressed air system, can be noisier in operation, and may offer slightly lower flow rates compared to electric models.

In practice, the choice between electric and pneumatic pumps comes down to the operating environment, safety requirements, available utilities, and performance needs. Selecting the right type ensures both safe operation and efficient liquid transfer.

What are the benefits of using a drum transfer pump?

Using a drum transfer pump offers several practical advantages:

• Safer handling of hazardous or aggressive liquids
• Reduced risk of spills, splashes, and contamination
• Faster and more consistent transfer compared to manual methods
• Improved operator safety and ergonomics
• Better control over the transfer process

Can drum transfer pumps be used in hazardous (ATEX) environments?

They can, but only if the pump is suitable for the environment and the liquid being handled. Pneumatic drum transfer pumps are often chosen for ATEX applications because they remove the risk associated with electrical motors. Always check the pump’s certification and suitability before use with flammable or explosive fluids.

How do you install a drum transfer pump properly?

Installing a drum transfer pump is straightforward:

1. Check that the pump materials are compatible with the liquid.
2. Insert the pump vertically into the drum so the suction tube reaches close to the bottom.
3. Secure the pump to keep it stable during operation.
4. Connect the discharge hose and power or air supply.

Once installed, the pump is ready for use.

What maintenance do drum pumps need?

Drum transfer pumps are generally low maintenance, but regular checks and good housekeeping will significantly extend their working life and help prevent unexpected failures.

Routine maintenance should include visually inspecting the pump tube, seals, and hoses for signs of wear, cracking, or chemical attack. Any damaged components should be replaced promptly to avoid leaks or safety risks. After use, especially when transferring chemicals, the pump should be flushed or cleaned according to the fluid being handled to prevent residue build-up or cross-contamination.

It’s also good practice to check fastenings, connections, and mounting points to ensure the pump remains secure during operation. When not in use, drum transfer pumps should be stored clean, dry, and upright, ideally dedicated to a specific fluid where possible. Following these simple steps helps maintain reliable performance and reduces downtime.

Can I use a drum pump to handle viscous or abrasive fluids?

Drum transfer pumps are generally best suited to low to medium viscosity liquids. Oils, light lubricants, detergents, and many chemicals can be handled effectively, provided the pump is correctly sized for the application.

As viscosity increases, performance can be affected. Higher viscosity fluids can reduce flow rates, place additional load on the motor, and increase wear on internal components. In some cases, a standard drum transfer pump may struggle to move very thick liquids efficiently or reliably.

Abrasive fluids present a separate challenge. Liquids containing solids or abrasive particles can accelerate wear on the pump tube, impeller, and seals. While some drum pumps may cope with small amounts of non-abrasive solids, they are not typically designed for heavily abrasive media.

For highly viscous or abrasive fluids, alternative pump types or specialist designs may be more suitable. It’s always advisable to check viscosity limits and fluid characteristics before selecting a pump, and to seek expert advice if the application falls outside typical operating conditions.

Debem Drum Transfer Pumps Available from Crest Pumps

At Crest Pumps we stock a selection of Debem drum transfer pumps designed for safe, reliable transfer of corrosive and industrial liquids. These are trusted solutions for chemical handling, combining simplicity with robust performance.

Shared Features Across the Debem Range

Regardless of power type, Debem drum pumps share several practical design traits:

1. Open impeller and simple centrifugal action — easy to operate and maintain.

2. Portable and lightweight build — convenient for moving between drums.

3. Construction designed to catch any spillage back into the drum — helps keep work areas clean and safer. 

4. No mechanical seals to wear out — reducing downtime and maintenance.

Customers choose Debem drum pumps from Crest Pumps because they provide reliable performance even when handling corrosive fluids. They are compatible with a wide range of industrial chemicals and are designed for quick disassembly, making servicing and cleaning straightforward. Both electric and pneumatic models deliver solid flow rates, which helps keep processes running smoothly and efficiently with minimal fuss.