A Beginner’s Guide to AODD Pumps: How They Work and Where to Use Them
If you work in manufacturing, food processing, chemical handling, or wastewater treatment, chances are you’ve heard of AODD pumps — but maybe you’re not entirely sure what they are or how they differ from other pumping systems. This guide breaks it all down in plain language so you can understand what AODD pumps do, how they work, and why so many industries rely on them every day.
At Industrial Air Services, we provide top-quality AODD (Air-Operated Double Diaphragm) pumps to facilities across Nashville, Knoxville, and Chattanooga. Whether you need to move harsh chemicals, thick slurries, or sensitive food products, AODD pumps offer unmatched versatility and durability.
What Is an AODD Pump?
AODD stands for Air-Operated Double Diaphragm. These pumps are pneumatic (air-powered), meaning they don’t rely on electricity or motors to operate. Instead, they use compressed air to move two flexible diaphragms back and forth inside the pump housing.
As the diaphragms move, they create suction and pressure that pulls fluid into the pump and pushes it out the other side. Check valves ensure that fluid only flows in one direction.
The result is a rugged, highly flexible pump that can handle a wide variety of fluids — from thin solvents to abrasive sludge.
How Do AODD Pumps Work?
Here’s a simplified overview of the pumping cycle:
Compressed air enters one side of the pump, pushing a diaphragm outward.
This movement draws fluid into the opposite chamber through an inlet valve.
At the same time, the opposite diaphragm is pulled inward, pushing fluid out of that chamber through an outlet valve.
A valve system redirects the air, reversing the diaphragms and repeating the cycle.
This back-and-forth motion gives the pump a smooth, pulsing flow with no need for complex motor systems or seals.
Why Are AODD Pumps So Popular?
AODD pumps are known for their ability to:
Run dry without damage
Handle solids, slurries, and thick fluids
Operate in explosive or hazardous environments
Tolerate chemical corrosion
Self-prime and lift fluids from below grade
They require no electricity, making them ideal for remote, wet, or hazardous environments where electrical sparks could pose a safety risk.
They’re also simple to install and maintain, with fewer moving parts than most other pump types.
What Fluids Can AODD Pumps Handle?
One of the biggest advantages of AODD pumps is their ability to move virtually any kind of fluid — even those that destroy other pumps.
These include:
Abrasive slurries (like lime, clay, or sand)
Corrosive chemicals (such as acids or solvents)
Oils and greases
Adhesives and resins
Paints and coatings
Beverages and food products
Wastewater and sewage
Powdered or viscous materials
Because AODD pumps are available in a wide range of materials — including stainless steel, polypropylene, PVDF, and aluminum — they can be tailored to resist the specific fluids and conditions of your application.
Where Are AODD Pumps Used?
You’ll find AODD pumps in nearly every industry that requires fluid handling. Some of the most common applications include:
1. Manufacturing and Industrial Processing
Used for pumping oils, lubricants, adhesives, and inks, AODD pumps are often found on production lines, in paint systems, and in chemical transfer processes.
2. Chemical Handling
Because they can be built from highly chemical-resistant materials, AODD pumps are ideal for transferring acids, solvents, and caustics. Their sealless design prevents leaks in corrosive environments.
3. Food and Beverage
Sanitary AODD pumps with FDA-compliant materials are used to move sauces, syrups, fruit purees, and dairy products. Their gentle pumping action helps maintain product integrity.
4. Pharmaceutical and Cosmetics
Used to transfer lotions, gels, and alcohol-based solutions. Easy to clean and capable of sterile operation with the right configuration.
5. Mining and Sludge Removal
AODD pumps are perfect for handling grit, sand, and slurry in demanding environments like mining sites or water treatment facilities.
6. Construction and Dewatering
Often used on job sites to pump out flooded areas or transfer thick, debris-filled liquids from trenches and pits.
Key Advantages of AODD Pumps
If you're still wondering why you might choose an AODD pump over another type, here are the standout benefits:
Run-dry capable – no damage if fluid runs out
Self-priming – great for lifting fluid from below-grade tanks
Explosion-proof – no electricity needed in hazardous areas
Handles solids – can pass particulates without clogging
Adjustable flow rates – simply control the incoming air
Portable – easy to move between applications or worksites
Low maintenance – few wear components and easy to service
Gentle on products – won’t shear delicate fluids like some centrifugal pumps
Things to Consider Before Choosing an AODD Pump
While AODD pumps are versatile, they’re not the perfect fit for every application. Consider the following when selecting a unit:
Air supply availability – they require a steady compressed air source
Pulsing flow – the diaphragm movement creates a pulsating output, which may not be ideal for all processes
Noise – AODD pumps can be louder than electric pumps without sound-dampening accessories
Efficiency – they consume more energy (in the form of compressed air) than electrically driven pumps over long runtimes
That said, the ease of use, durability, and fluid flexibility still make them a go-to choice in thousands of operations.
How Industrial Air Services Can Help
If you're considering an AODD pump for your facility, let our team help you select the right size, material, and configuration for your application.
We offer:
AODD pumps in all standard and specialty materials
Hose and piping accessories
Air supply consultation and system integration
Repair and maintenance services
On-site installation support throughout Nashville, Knoxville, and Chattanooga
📞 Call us at (615) 641-3100 to speak with an expert today. We’ll help you choose the right AODD pump that works seamlessly with your compressed air and fluid handling systems.
Whether you're moving thick sludge or sensitive syrups, AODD pumps offer one of the most flexible solutions on the market — and Industrial Air Services is here to make sure it works for you.
