The vacuum-controlled
metal pumps feature the design parameters necessary for sanitary applications
where the passing of large solids is needed, along with the absence of media
degradation. The pumps are ideal for these operations because they do not
employ an air motor, but, rather, utilize a vacuum generator to draw the
product into the wetted housing. Filtered compressed air is then used to push
the product out of the wetted housing and downstream of the pump. This design
capability, which requires the need of very little liquid, makes the pumps the
choice for sanitary applications as diverse as the delicate handling of whole
strawberries and prepared-meal packaging to waste processing. The pumps are
available in 102-mm (4-inch), 152-mm (6-inch) and 203-mm (8-inch) sizes, and constructed
of stainless steel, consisting of only two moving parts and can pass solids as
large as 15.2 cm (6-inches). The pump’s design complies with USDA requirements
concerning the sanitary handling of food products.