An air-powered pump, often called an Air-Operated Double Diaphragm (AODD) pump, works by using compressed air to move diaphragms back and forth, which creates suction and pressure to move fluids.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
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Compressed Air Entry: Compressed air enters the pump's air motor.
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Air Motor Operation: The air motor directs the compressed air to one of two diaphragms.
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Diaphragm Movement: The compressed air pushes the diaphragm, forcing it to move. This movement reduces the volume on one side of the diaphragm chamber, pushing the fluid out through an outlet valve.
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Linked Diaphragm Action: Because the diaphragms are connected by a shaft, the movement of the first diaphragm simultaneously pulls the second diaphragm in the opposite direction. This creates a vacuum (negative pressure) on the other side of the pump, drawing fluid into the chamber through an inlet valve.
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Alternating Cycle: The air motor automatically switches the compressed air flow to the second diaphragm once the first one has completed its stroke. This reverses the process: the second diaphragm pushes fluid out, while the first diaphragm draws fluid in. This alternating cycle continues as long as compressed air is supplied.
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Check Valves: Inlet and outlet check valves (typically ball or flap valves) are strategically positioned to ensure one-way flow of the fluid being pumped. These valves open and close based on the pressure differential created by the diaphragm movement.
In summary, an AODD pump uses compressed air to power the reciprocating motion of two interconnected diaphragms. This motion creates alternating suction and pressure that efficiently moves fluids through the pump. This design makes them well-suited for handling a wide range of fluids, including those that are viscous, abrasive, or contain solids.
