Food Grade Side Channel Pumps

Side channel pumps, or liquid ring pumps as they are otherwise known, are somewhat of a hybrid between a positive displacement pump and a centrifugal pump. Upon start up, a side channel pump begins to operate like a positive displacement pump as it self primes, but soon begins to act like a centrifugal pump once the side channels become filled with fluid.

The liquid is drawn in and enters the impeller blades and the side channel which is open at just one point in the casing, rather than the entire circumference. As the star shaped impeller rotates, the pumped fluid moves back and forth several times between the blades of the impeller and the side channel. This creates a strong transfer of energy and results in an increase in pressure up to 10 times greater than that of centrifugal pump rotating at the same speed.

They are usually designed for low flow, high pressure applications involving any low viscosity, clean fluids and chemicals including those at high temperatures with entrained gas or vapour content up to 50%.

Due to their narrow tolerances, side channel pumps are unable to hande solids. All liquids pumped must be clean and free of particles.

Yes! As the fluid collects in the outer area of the side channel and impeller blades, a liquid ring forms to facilite the self-priming process like a positive displacement pump, making it ideal for difficult suction conditions.

Unfortunately not. The high internal velocity/force that is applied upon the fluidlike a centrifugal pump can damage or alter the consistency of a delicate fluid.

The FDA states that in order to be food grade, the food contact surfaces of a food transfer pump need to be smooth, free of cracks and crevices, non-absorbent, cleanable, non-toxic and corrosion resistant to ensure that no food or bacteria can harbour and contaminate the product so that it remains safe for human consumption.

All products that we offer for food are as a minimum constructed of FDA approved materials for human consumption. Where more stringent approval is required, we also offer food industry pumps certified to 3A and EHEDG.