5 Common AODD Pump Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

　　5 Common AODD Pump Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

　　At Crest Pumps, we know that Air Operated Double Diaphragm (AODD) pumps are among the most versatile and dependable solutions for handling a wide variety of fluids. However, even the most robust pump can suffer reduced performance or premature failure if it is not used correctly.

　　Drawing on our years of experience supporting customers in the chemical, water treatment, and manufacturing industries, here are five common AODD pump mistakes we frequently encounter—and how to avoid them.

　　1. Running the Pump Dry for Too Long

　　Although AODD pumps are designed to run dry without immediate damage, extended dry running places unnecessary wear on diaphragms and check valves.

　　Crest Tip: If your process regularly runs dry, monitor cycle frequency and consider fitting an air regulator or timer to prevent excessive operation when no fluid is present.

　　2. Using Incorrect Air Pressure

　　Higher air pressure does not always mean higher flow. Over-pressurising can put stress on diaphragms and waste energy, while under-pressurising reduces performance.

　　Crest Tip: Always operate within the recommended pressure range. A simple air regulator can protect both your pump and your compressed air budget.

　　3. Selecting the Wrong Materials for the Application

　　Material compatibility is one of the most common oversights. Using a diaphragm or body material that is unsuitable for the chemical being handled can lead to swelling, cracking, or complete failure.

　　Crest Tip: If in doubt, speak to our team—we can help you select the right materials for your process to ensure long-term reliability. You can also use our easy-to-use chemical compatibility table, which takes the guesswork out of material selection.

　　4. Incorrect Suction and Discharge Line Sizing

　　Pipework that is too small restricts flow and increases strain on the pump. Oversized or poorly routed pipework can create air pockets and pulsation.

　　Crest Tip: Match your line size to the pump’s ports and keep runs short and direct. The fewer bends, the better the performance.

　　5. Skipping Routine Maintenance

　　AODD pumps are low-maintenance, but they are not maintenance-free. Ignoring diaphragm wear or valve condition can lead to performance drops and leaks.

　　Crest Tip: A quick visual check every few months can make a huge difference. Keep spare diaphragms and valve balls on hand to minimise downtime.

　　AODD pumps are incredibly forgiving, but a few small changes in setup and maintenance can significantly extend their lifespan and efficiency.

　　At Crest, we are here to help you get the very best from your equipment—from material selection to long-term support. If you would like help checking your AODD pump setup or choosing the right model for your process, get in touch with our team today.