Steels vs. Plastics: Which Plastic Pump Head Is Right For You?

  •   When looking for magnetic drive plastic pump head, your needs will vary. Certain materials are better for certain industries, and price point is always a consideration. In the last few months, we’ve given you the background on the variety of materials we use in our magnetic drive pump production: Polypropylene, Ryton, Kynar, and Stainless Steel 316. But how do these materials stack up against each other?

      Let’s compare each type of material in order to help you find the best mag drive pump for your needs.

      Polypropylene

      Polypropylene, also known as PP, is a thermoplastic polymer that is known for its high chemical resistance and strength against deformation. Pumps made with PP may withstand a maximum internal pressure of 50psi and a maximum temperature of 190F. Versions of PP pumps may also be FDA compliant.

      PP pumps tolerate the following types of liquids: Fluosilicic Acid, Hydrochloric Acid (Muriatic), hydrogen peroxide, Nitric Acid, Phosphoric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Potassium Hydroxide, and Sulfuric Acid.

      Polypropylene is the most widely used material for mag drive pumps because it is cost effective to produce. It also features highly effective resistance to a variety of chemicals and is used heavily in the food and medical industries.

      Ryton

      Ryton, also known as PPS (polyphenylene sulfide), is a thermoplastic product known as having the “broadest resistance to chemicals of any high performance plastics.”

      Pumps constructed with Ryton may tolerate a maximum internal pressure of 50psi and a maximum temperature with 190F. Some Ryton pumps are FDA compliant.

      Ryton pumps tolerate the following liquids: Freon 11, Acetone, Benzene Sulfonic Acid, Copper Chloride, Chlorobenzene, Diesel Fuel, Ethyl Chloride, Hexane, Petroleum Ether, and Xylene.

      Ryton is stronger than PP because of the highly stable chemical bonds created between the elements used to make this product. Ryton is also able to tolerate different types of liquids than a polypropylene-made pump.

      Kynar

      Kynar, the trade name for the chemical PVDF (Polyvinylidene Fluoride), is a thermoplastic fluoropolymer that is used in applications that require the highest amount of strength. Mag drive pumps made with Kynar may tolerate a maximum internal pressure between 60 and 75psi. It can operate with a maximum temperature of 200F.

      Kynar pumps are built to withstand high temperatures and a large number of liquids. Kynar pumps are more expensive than the other plastic-made pumps but your investment will operate against harsher conditions.

      Pumps made with PVDF can pump liquids such as Sodium Hypochlorite, Chrome Alum, Chlorine, Dichloroethylene, Ethylene Dichloride, Hydrofluoric Acid, Kerosene, and Phosphorus Trichloride.

      316 Stainless Steel

      Mag drive pumps made with stainless steel are the only models of the four types of pump material that are able to tolerate higher pressures, including city water pressure.

      Stainless steel magnetic drive pumps have a maximum temperature of 250F and can be increased with modification. They can also tolerate temperatures below the freezing point (32F) much more effectively than the plastic pumps listed above. Steel pumps are also FDA compliant.

      While more expensive than plastic, stainless steel can tolerate high temperature or pressure ratings. Hot or high pressure liquids can cause plastic pipes to expand, which can cause leaking. This can be dangerous for your facility and expensive to repair. Stainless steel may be a higher investment, but if you have a highly caustic liquid that requires extra care, it is a wise investment.

      Conclusion

      When choosing your next magnetic drive pump, take into consideration your needs: type of liquid you are working with, operating temperature, level of chemical resistance needed and your budget. Our line of magnetic drive pumps can be constructed based on your unique specifications. To learn more, contact us today.

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