Air Operated Fuel Pumps for Oil and Gas Applications

Wilden Oil and Gas

• Do I need to ground a Wilden ATEX-rated AODD pump when pumping flammable fluids?

  Yes. Wilden makes it easy to identify these compliant pumps with an "X" at the beginning of the pump model string.

  Grounding Locations:

  • Pro-Flo® SHIFT AODD Pumps (ATEX-rated): A green bolt is located on the muffler plate specifically for attaching the grounding wire. A tag on this bolt indicates the correct attachment point out of the box.

  • Conductive Plastic Pumps: A grounding tab with a grounding lug is provided on the liquid chamber to facilitate easy connection of a grounding wire.

  Installation Requirements:

  • Confirm the necessary wire gauge for proper grounding, as this may vary based on local ordinances.

  • Always consult your Wilden manual and safety supplement for comprehensive installation requirements and specific ATEX ratings.

• How does high specific gravity impact AODD pump performance?

  High specific gravity can affect an air-operated double-diaphragm (AODD) pump's suction lift and head performance.

  For flooded suction applications, fluids with a high specific gravity may easily exceed the pump's 10 psig suction limit. In priming applications, an elevated specific gravity could reduce the pump's suction capacity.

  When designing priming conditions for your AODD pump, it is crucial to convert the suction capabilities listed in feet or meters of water in the Wilden manual to account for the actual specific gravity of the fluid being pumped.

• How do I use AODD pumps to handle highly viscous crude oil or lubricants?

  Wilden AODD pumps are engineered to handle fluids with high viscosity, such as lubricants and crude oil encountered in oil and gas processing. They can effectively manage highly viscous fluids, including crude or lube oil, with viscosities reaching up to 25,185 cPs.

  To optimize pump performance in these high-viscosity scenarios, follow these best practices:

  • Minimize Friction Loss: Utilize large suction lines, ideally up to three times the size of the pump ports, to reduce friction.

  • Optimal Positioning: Place the pump as close as possible to, or preferably below, the fluid level.

  • Controlled Start-Up: Initiate fluid movement slowly by using an air line valve.

  • Gradual Air Control: Set the air pressure and slowly "crack" the valve open.

  Keep in mind that high viscosity will impact pump performance. Consult the viscosity correction guide for instructions on how to accurately interpret the performance curve for highly viscous fluids.

  
  

• Are AODD pumps suitable for pumping abrasive drilling mud and slurries?

  Wilden AODD pumps are ideal for abrasive slurry applications commonly found in upstream oil and gas drilling. These pumps are ideal for handling drilling mud and slurries because the thermoplastic elastomers – such as Wil-Flex®, Saniflex™, Bunalast™ and polyurethane – are abrasion resistant. The Chem-Fuse™ Integral Piston Diaphragms (IPDs) further increase the abrasion resistance by eliminating the outer piston wear with an overmolded diaphragm around the outer piston.

• Can Wilden AODD pumps run on natural gas instead of compressed air?

  Some AODD pumps can operate on natural gas instead of air. The Wilden GPS Series pumps, equipped with the Pro-Flo® SHIFT Air Distribution System (ADS) and available in bolted metal construction, are certified by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) to be powered by natural gas and maintain safe, reliable operation. They are ideal for oil and gas operations where compressed air is not readily accessible but natural gas is plentiful.