Exploring the Boundaries of Diaphragm Pumps and Dry Runs

At PumpWorks, ‘dry runs’ are an unfortunate situation that we frequently encounter when providing pump maintenance and repair to industries across New Zealand. This blog answers any questions you may have about dry runs, and specifically, the degree to which a diaphragm pump – which is a notoriously durable type of pump, often used for corrosive substances – handles these dry runs before the issue can be rectified.

Read on for more.

How do diaphragm pumps work?

Before we explore the ‘dry run’ phenomenon, we must discuss how diaphragm pumps work.

Simply put, they use a flexible diaphragm to create a pumping action. This diaphragm component is pushed backwards and forwards, creating a variable chamber volume that easily shifts fluid from one pump to another.

Because of their design, diaphragm pumps are able to handle a range of abrasive, viscous and corrosive substances – something other pumps, such as the drum pump, may be unable to do. Their durability and reliability is well-known across multiple industries, from agriculture to wastewater treatment.

What does a ‘dry run’ actually mean?

A ‘dry run’ refers to a pump that is operating without sufficient fluid.

A pump working without fluid in its system is prone to multiple issues, including overheating and excessive wear – which can damage pump components beyond repair. For most pumps, remaining operational during a dry run would be unthinkable, but diaphragm pumps are slightly different; their design is highly resistant.

Why are diaphragm pumps particularly resistant, and at what point are they unable to handle dry runs?

Diaphragm pumps are resistant to dry runs because they do not have rotating parts that rely on fluid circulation for lubrication and cooling. They are also designed to be self-priming, which allows a diaphragm pump to start pumping fluid even if there is none in the pump chamber.

If you require a pump system for an industry where the fluid levels may fluctuate often, such as wastewater treatment, diaphragm pumps are perfect – they are wholly prepared to handle occasional dry runs.

The boundary between a diaphragm pump and a dry run only becomes clear when this situation happens too frequently for the pump to handle.

Repeated dry running will cause excessive material wear and heat buildup in your pump, reducing operational efficiency and performance. The more dry runs are carried out, the likelier it is that your pump will eventually shut off, which leaves your operations in the lurch!

It’s best to be conservative with the number of dry runs that occur in your diaphragm pumps, so that you prolong the lifespan of your pump technologies in the long-term. We recommend incorporating shutoff systems that actually stop your diaphragm pump when no fluid is detected, avoiding this phenomenon entirely.

Here at PumpWorks, we offer an extensive range of high-quality diaphragm pumps to eager customers across New Zealand. As a result of our over two decades of experience in the field, and a glowing reputation amongst leading pump brands such as GRACO, our customers are guaranteed to get the best in products and services – including expert pump repair and maintenance – from our company.

Contact us to find out more, today.