Sulfuric Acid | Liquiflo Metering Pumps

Sulfuric acid is the world's most produced chemical, playing a vital role in various industrial processes including fertilizer production, chemical manufacturing, and metal processing. This application delves into the critical considerations for handling sulfuric acid, focusing on the selection of materials of construction to ensure compatibility, durability, and safety. It also highlights why gear pumps are the optimal choice for pumping sulfuric acid, offering precise flow control, resistance to corrosion, and the ability to handle the high viscosity and density of the fluid.

Brand:

Liquiflo

Product:

Gear Pumps: Alloy-C, 316 SS

Pumping Media:

Sulfuric Acid

Industry:

Chemical Production

BACKGROUND

Sulfuric Acid is a harsh chemical with many uses amongst a range of applications. Notable industries that utilize sulfuric acid are water treatment, paper production, ore processing, oil refining, steel production, and battery production. Liquiflo deals with 93-98% concentrated sulfuric acid for the majority of their project applications. As a longtime distributor of Liquiflo equipment, we have a great understanding of the challenges and nuances involved in safely and efficiently pumping sulfuric acid across various applications. Liquiflo's gear pump models' Alloy-C and 316 SS are suitable for pumping harsh chemicals, making both great options for this application.

CHALLENGES

Handling sulfuric acid presents unique challenges due to its highly corrosive nature and varying physical properties across different concentrations and temperatures. Key challenges include:

  • Material Compatibility:
  • Ensuring pump components are resistant to corrosion at specific acid concentrations and operating conditions.
  • Seal Integrity:
  • Preventing leaks and minimizing maintenance costs in systems exposed to harsh chemical environments.
  • Pressure and Temperature Management:
  • Addressing limitations in material strength and performance under high differential pressures and varying temperatures.
  • Operational Safety:
  • Mitigating risks associated with the hygroscopic nature of sulfuric acid, which can lead to concentration shifts and increased corrosivity in open systems.

THE SOLUTION

Liquiflo gear pumps offer a reliable solution for handling sulfuric acid, addressing its varying concentrations and corrosiveness. Material selection is crucial: 316 Stainless Steel is effective for 93-100% concentrations at ambient temperatures, while Alloy-C is recommended for lower concentrations or when humidity exposure is a concern, particularly in the highly corrosive 50-70% range.

For sealing, mag-drive pumps eliminate leaks by removing mechanical seals, while Carbon vs. SiC seals provide durability in sealed applications. Internal components like Kynar idler gears and Carbon-60 bearings enhance reliability under high pressure.

With a 130 PSI differential pressure capacity, Liquiflo pumps ensure precise flow control and safe operation across industries. Partnering with Hagler Process means a tailored approach focused on safety, reliability, and performance.

Have further questions about Liquiflo?
Give us a call!

Are you ready to optimize your system’s performance?

Contact us now and let us help you find the perfect solution for your needs. Whether you have questions about our products, are looking for a custom skid, or have a piece of equipment you need repaired, our team is here to assist you. Your success is our priority, and we're excited to collaborate with you to achieve your industrial goals.

Contact Us