Every drop counts in the beverage industry. Whether it’s soft drinks, juices, teas or energy drinks, manufacturers face constant pressure to keep lines operational, ensure product purity and meet strict hygiene standards. Plus, as operations move toward smaller batches, premium recipes and sustainable practices, efficiency and quality have never been more important.
This blog will explore the limitations of centrifugal pumps when handling challenging products in beverage processing and explain how air-operated double-diaphragm (AODD) pump technology can address these issues.
Why Centrifugal Pumps Fall Short in Beverage Production
As traditional drink options remain popular and demand for healthier choices continues to grow, the U.S. beverage industry is expected to keep producing billions of gallons each year. Every part of this production process – from syrup preparation to bottle filling – depends on effective liquid transfer.
However, any interruption in the pumping process can compromise quality, cause contamination or slow throughput. While centrifugal pumps are widely used in beverage applications, they have several shortcomings:
- Not self-priming and requires manual priming and longer start-ups
- Inefficient with viscous fluids like corn syrup or flavor concentrate
- Deadheading sensitivity, which can lead to mechanical damage
- Seal wear and leakage, which can cause contamination and costly downtime
For beverage applications that demand sanitary performance and minimal maintenance, these challenges can quickly lower efficiency and compromise quality.
How Wilden Saniflo HS and FDA Series Improve Beverage Processing Efficiency
Considering the limitations of centrifugal pumps, Wilden® Saniflo™ Hygienic™ (HS) Series and Saniflo™ FDA Series AODD Pumps are better options for beverage applications, as they are designed to meet the most rigorous standards of beverage processing.
HS Series and FDA Series Pumps feature a straight-through flow design that maintains consistent flow rates while minimizing product entrapment. This allows these AODD pumps to safely and efficiently transfer a wide range of fluids and viscosities, including:
- Corn syrups
- Phosphoric acids
- Concentrates
- Flavorings and additives
- Sweeteners (sucrose, fructose, stevia blends)
- Juices and juice blends
- Dairy products (milk, cream, whey)
- Alcoholic beverages (beer, wine, spirits)
Available in sizes from ½" to 3" (13 to 76 mm), the HS Series and FDA Series deliver the performance and versatility required for a range of beverage processes – from craft bottling lines to large-scale facilities.
Key Performance Advantages of Saniflo HS Series and FDA AODD Pumps
| Feature
| Benefit
|
|---|
| Seal-less design | Eliminates leak points for superior product containment |
| Shear-sensitive operation | Protects delicate flavors and textures |
| Self-priming & dry-run capable | Reduces maintenance and startup delays |
| Wide flow range (15–245 GPM / 57–927 L/min) | Suitable for small and large bottling lines |
| Solids passage up to 3" (76 mm) | Handles pulp and particulates effectively |
| Multiple sanitary elastomers | Matches specific fluid compatibility needs |
| Highest energy efficiency | Optimized air consumption and reduced cost per gallon pumped |
Hygienic Certifications that Ensure Compliance and Product Purity
Built for exceptional sanitary performance, the
HS Series and
FDA Series utilize 316L stainless steel wetted-path components polished for effortless cleaning. With Tri-Clamp® fittings, a free-draining flow path and CIP (clean-in-place) design, these Wilden AODD pumps simplify maintenance and ensure compliance, earning them the following certifications:
- 3A
- EHEDG
- FDA CFR 21.177
- USP Class VI
- EC 1935/2004
Specifically, the HS Series is among the few in the industry to hold 3A certification for both CIP and COP (clean-out-of-place) operations. FDA models are also available in various construction materials to meet FDA compliance requirements across diverse applications.
All of these credentials make the HS Series and FDA Series ideal for hygienic environments across the beverage processing industry.
Inside the Technology: Pro-Flo SHIFT Air Distribution System and Pure-Fuse Diaphragms
To enhance performance, energy efficiency and hygiene of the HS Series and FDA Series, Wilden has integrated two innovative technologies: Pro-Flo® SHIFT Air Distribution System (ADS) and Pure-Fuse Integral Piston Diaphragms (IPD).
The Pro-Flo SHIFT ADS boosts AODD pump efficiency by optimizing air consumption, reducing energy use and extending pump life – all while maintaining top performance and simplifying maintenance.
- Up to 60% air consumption savings than competitive AODD pumps
- Up to 34% more product yield than competitive AODD pumps
- 50% lower operating cost than electronically actuated ADS units
- Submersible, plug-and-play design with fewer moving parts
- Higher flow per SCFM, enabling better throughput and reduced downtime
Pure-Fuse Diaphragms deliver safe, clean and efficient product transfer with a one-piece, food-grade design that eliminates adhesives, fabric layers and contamination risks. They offer superior durability, easy maintenance and enhanced performance without sacrificing flow.
- Up to 50% price reduction compared to PTFE laminate diaphragms
- Up to 100% more flow and suction lift compared to PTFE laminate diaphragms
- No leak points or abrasion for longer life
- Smooth, easy-to-clean, contamination-free surfaces
- Enhanced CIP performance and vacuum efficiency
Together, the Pro-Flo SHIFT ADS and Pure-Fuse Diaphragms make the HS Series and FDA Series among the most energy-efficient and hygienic AODD pumps for beverage processing.
The Bottom Line for Beverage Manufacturers
In beverage production, maintaining product integrity, regulatory compliance and cost efficiency are non-negotiable. That’s why operators turn to Saniflo Hygienic Series and Saniflo FDA Series AODD Pumps for measurable advantages:
- Reduced risk of leaks and contamination
- Faster cleaning and changeovers between products
- Lower energy and maintenance costs
- Longer diaphragm and pump life
- Consistent flow and product quality
As the beverage industry shifts toward smaller batches, premium formulations and sustainability, pump technology that combines hygiene, versatility and efficiency is vital – and Wilden delivers.
For a look into how Wilden AODD Pumps offer efficient performance and maximum hygiene in beverage applications, read the whitepaper: AODD Pumps Can Put the “Pop” in Soda Production.
You can also contact your local distributor or click here to fill out our contact form.