Pump Selection by Application
| Task |
Best Pump Type |
Avoid |
| Waste oil collection |
Vacuum tank system
Gear pump (2nd choice) |
Centrifugal pumps, large diaphragm pumps |
| Oil transfer / batching |
Gear pump |
Centrifugal pumps |
| Centrifuge feeding |
Pneumatic diaphragm pump |
Gear pumps, centrifugal pumps |
Centrifugal pumps will burn out within minutes on any oil application. Never use for oil collection, transfer, or centrifuge feeding.
Gear Pump Selection for Transfer
| Oil Type / Temperature |
Pump Speed |
Motor Speed |
| Thin oil, warm (>80°F) |
High-speed |
3,600 RPM |
| Medium oil, moderate temp |
Medium |
1,800 RPM |
| Thick/cold oil (<50°F) |
Low-speed high-torque |
1,800 RPM |
Diaphragm Pump Specs for Centrifuge Feeding
| Specification |
Detail |
| Flow adjustment |
Vary inlet air pressure — fully controllable |
| Bypass valve required? |
No — output can be shut off without damage |
| Motor burnout risk? |
None — air-powered |
| Emulsification risk? |
Minimal — gentle diaphragm action |
| Diaphragm (mineral oil) |
Nitrile or neoprene |
| Diaphragm (WVO/biodiesel) |
Viton (fluoroelastomer) |
| Typical hose size |
3/8" ID for pump connections |
| Mounting |
Place close to supply tank; push oil with pressure side |
View PDF Manual ↗
